Syracuse Ban on Hydraulic Fracturing Misguided

HAMBURG, NY (10/24/2011)(readMedia)-- "The city of Syracuse's ban on hydraulic fracture stimulation does not consider the safe history of natural gas exploration in New York, the strict regulatory structure of local, state and federal governmental bodies that regulate our industry, and the 60-year record of success in this country.

Natural gas drilling and hydraulic fracturing are proven, trusted and highly scientific technologies.

The issues surrounding the development of the Marcellus Shale in New York have been the subject of exhaustive analysis, scrutiny and discussion by Governor Cuomo's administration and numerous state agencies. This process is ongoing, with a public comment period now underway to elicit input on a voluminous proposed permit and regulatory process.

It is our strong opinion that neither the city of Syracuse – nor any other locality in the state – has the legal authority to enact such measures. There are several localities that have approved similar ordinances in recent weeks and now find that these actions are being challenged in lawsuits against those local governments."

IOGA of NY, representing nearly 400 individuals and companies engaged in the oil and natural gas industry, promotes the common interests of its members who represent all industry sectors. IOGA of NY members are committed to operating safely, efficiently and with great care and stewardship on behalf of the state's natural resources. IOGA of NY and its members strive to educate the public about the positive impacts the oil and gas industry has had – and will continue to have – on New York's economy and quality of life.

Posted Monday October 24, 2011 at 02:58 pm by Independent Oil and Gas Association of New York