Jan's Updates May 21, 2012

Westmoreland Marcellus Citizen's Group

Hyperlinks are in purple. Blue links are cut and paste.

Calendar of Events

*** Ligonier Township Supervisors Meeting-June 12, 7:00, Township Building

*** Stop the Frack Attack, Washington DC July 28,http://www.stopthefrackattack.org/

(Sierra Club, Calvin Tillman, Earthworks)

*** Westmoreland County Commissioner Meeting

Jan Kiefer is coordinating this effort to have representation from the group at the meetings as the discussion of the impact fee evolves. Please email Jan and/or me if you can attend --jkief7@aol.comJan Millburn- janjackmil@yahoo.com

The next meeting date: This Thursday, May 24 at 10:00 AM at the Westmoreland County Court House. This is the time to express our concerns about fracking and the effect on our county as well as impact fee use.

*** Tour de Frack-You Can Participate For Only One Day

The‘Tour de Frack’ promises to be one of the most celebrated local events of this coming summer.Described as ‘activism in motion’, from July 14 to July 28 cyclists may take the whole ride from Butler to Washington DC, or they may enjoy one or two day segments of the journey.

(http://www.tourdefrack.com/)

*** Steering committee Meeting- May 23, Wed, 7:30All are invited to attend. Email Jan for details

For a full calendar of Marcellus events:http://marcellusprotest.org/event_calendar

All Township Residents—Call to Action !!Keep Those Resolutions Coming !!

**Lawsuit Filed --Resolutions ofTownship Support Urged

Attached to this WMCG Update is a resolution supporting the lawsuit against Act 13.Act 13 precludes the use of local zoning to restrict gas operations in residential areas, restricts doctors in sharing important health data, and limits counties in the use of the impact tax (a partial list).

HOW WE CAN HELP: Please print the resolution and take it to your next township supervisors’ meeting to request their support for this lawsuit. Supervisors should return the signed resolution to Brian Coppola and also to your state representatives.

coppola.brian@yahoo.com

Sample Statement: See our Westmoreland Marcellus Citizens’ Group blogspot, for a sample statement to supervisors. (address is listed above)

Good references on Act 13:

Top Ten Myths about Act 13 by Sierra Club- http://www.sierraclub.org/pressroom/downloads/FrackingMythbustersFactSheet.pdf

Handout on Act 13 by Penn Future (short version)-

http://www.pennfuture.org/UserFiles/File/MineDrill/Marcellus/CitizenGuide_Act13_20120410_summary.pdf

Delaware Riverkeepers Basics About Act 13

http://www.gastruth.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Basics-of-Act-13-DRN.pdf

Penn Future on act 13 (detailed version)

http://my.pennfuture.org/site/Survey?ACTION_REQUIRED=URI_ACTION_USER_REQUESTS&SURVEY_ID=9002#top

DEP TO Eliminate Public Comment on Smaller Engine Compressor Pollution—But it All Adds Up

TAKE ACTION NOW!!!—Deadline Wednesday

Link below

From Clean Air Council:

New DEP Permit to Cut All Public Input on Gas Equipment

Pennsylvania’s newly revised General Permit 5 (or GP-5) will continue to prevent public input on smaller engines at natural gas compressor stations, and will also essentially block all commenting and public participation for all compressor stations that are categorized as “minor sources.” The public must show DEP that there is a groundswell of concern about losing their ability to have some input on natural gas equipment proposed and built in their backyards.

This year, residents used their voices to achieve hearings on 10 compressor stations across the state, which has led to stronger air permits and has caused DEP go back to re-evaluate some permits. The proposed GP-5 does not include an individual Best Available Technology Analysis for each station and will likely result in missed opportunities to implement new technologies as they become available. Please tell DEP to stand up for public health and democracy over industry efficiency and profits.

The deadline fro commenting is this coming Wednesday, 5/23/12.

Clean Air Council's Action Link :

http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/1152/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=10267

EPA Hotline-Dumping or Spills, Releases

--The EPA number to call for illegal disposal of wastes or other suspicious activity is

1 877 919 4EPA (toll free) or email:eyesondrilling@epa.gov

Tips can be anonymous

--In the event of an emergency such as a spill or release of hazardous material, call the National Response Center at 1 800 424 8802

Easy to use map of well sites and violations:

http://shale.sites.post-gazette.com/

Fracking Quotes

*** "Really, what our story is … the leak rate (of methane) is twice what the industry thinks it is," she says.Gaby Petron, NOAA atmospheric researcher

*** “PSATS “published a deliberately misleading bulletin” about the legal challenge to act 13. Peters Councilman David Ball on PSATS activities.

1.KUTZTOWN UNANIMOUSLY PASSES RESOLUTION OPPOSING ACT 13!

2. MIDDLESEX SUPERVISORS PASS RESOLUTION OPPOSING ACT 13- VOTE UNAMIMOUS

3. FOREST HILLS PASSES RESOLUTION OPPOSING ACT 13 UNANIMOUSLY

4. WHITEHALL PASSES RESOLUTION

5. PSATS Passes 2 Resolutions Supporting Zoning and in Conflict with Act 13

Representatives from Bucks County introduced 2 measures at the PSATS (PA State Assoc. of Township Supervisors) conference; both were passed on May 8 and both are in direct conflict with Act 13.

12-36 The first resolution states that the association will “oppose any legislation that would remove, reduce, or inhibit local government authority or existing local subdivision, land use, and zoning controls”

12-37 The second resolution states the organization “opposes any legislation that would pre-empt the existing authority of townships to regulate land use through zoning and subdivision and land development ordinances including any amendments to the Coal and NonCoal Surface Mining and Conservation Act and Oil and Gas Act.

PSATS angered some members and citizens for its failure to inform municipalities that Act 13 would destroy their zoning ordinances.David Ball, Peter’s councilman, criticized PSATS for producing at least 2 documents that legislators could use to claim that PSATS endorsed Act 13.

David Ball also sent a scathing letter to the head of PSATS for publishing a “deliberately misleading “bulletin about the legal challenge to Act 13.”

6. Physicians for Social Responsibility Call For A Moratorium On Fracking.

The call for a moratorium is based on concerns that include groundwater contamination by toxic chemicals used, improper wastewater disposal, the causation of small earthquakes, and methane gas leaks. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas more than 20 times more potent than carbon dioxide.

PSR also calls on the industry to fully disclose chemicals used to frack.

(PSAR Reports, spring g 2012)

7. Democratic Caucus Files Amicus Brief in Support of Act 13

This is an excellent document to review as it provides details on how Act 13 violates our constitutional rights including abuse of eminent domain, the wrongful creation of a class for one industry with more rights than any other industry, the improper exercise of police power (meaning government action taken to protect public health, safety, morality, and welfare).The document points out the fact that Act 13 mandates that the DEP grant setback variances to any well operator that applies.

“Act 13 essentially gives the oil and gas industry the unfettered ability to drill in any zoning district, without oversight or regard for the existing local municipalities comprehensive plans, tax bases, need for orderly development or the desires and needs of the citizens of local communities. As such, Act 13 is not in the interests of the health, safety, morals, and public welfare of the commonwealth and is, therefore, an unconstitutional exercise of the commonwealth police power.”

The Democrat’s Legislation includes components to:

-Restore zoning

-Impose a reasonable tax

-Protect natural resources by increasing setbacks and bonding

-Create a public online tracking system for frack wastewater storage and disposal and prohibit drilling in floodplains

-Guarantee rights of patients to full medical disclosure

-Make jobs a priority by establishing a job creation tax credit.

(House democrats unveil Marcellus compact to fix shale-drilling law, latrboe bulletin 5-14-12)

and Brief Amici Curiae , members of the Democratic Caucus of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives)

8. Radio Ad On KDKA—Our Support Needed!!

The Communities United for Rights and Environment has a 60 second spot on KDKA radio in opposition to Gov. Corbett’s Act 13 legislation.To keep the ad running, the group needs donations.

The ad is free to anyone in the state who wants to air it on their own station. For information contact:kenweir629@yahoo.com


 To hear the ad and learn how to contribute for publicity for our side:

http://pajustpowers.org/

The ad is also on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fby5TqYc42c

9. Green Tree Train Has Hazardous Frack-Chemical leak

A chemical odor leaked from a train in Green Tree, Allegheny County, due to a valve breaking and releasing a by-product of fracking fluid into the air.

Neighbors said the trains have been non-stop since fracking began and are concerned about their health. Residents plan to go to their borough officials to see what can be done.

(http://www.wpxi.com/videos/news/train-leaks-marcellus-shale-by-product-into-green/vHLDf/)

10. Clearville Compressor Station-You Tube

Do you want this for a neighbor?

That is not steam. Compressors emit toxic air pollutants harmful to health.

 youtube link

11. Gas Industry Next to Homes

To view what it looks like when the industry invades residential areas-- http://www.marcellus-shale.us/

12. Methane Emissions Are Based on Estimates and They are Too Low

Estimates of methane emission by the EPA are largely based on extrapolation. A measurement is taken in one place or at one source and a complicated calculation is done to assess what the means for an entire region.

NOAA scientists have found these estimates are not a good substitute for real atmospheric measurements. Gaby Petron, atmospheric scientist with NOAA in Colorado said of measurements in Colorado: "Oh, my God, we were looking at something really different than anywhere else where we were taking measurements in this country," Petron recalls. "And at first I didn't know what it was."

Her measurements, were published in the Journal of Geophysical Research. She saw very high levels of methane frequently and when methane was high she saw a consistent mix of other chemicals with it that included propane and pentane in specific proportions.The source was tracked to the gas fields. The industry’s analysis of the mixture of chemicals that come out of the ground with gas matched what she found in the air.

"Really, what our story is telling in our paper is the leak rate is twice what the industry thinks it is," she says. Petron’s research also suggests that the industry is underestimating other chemicals including benzene.

Gaby Petron want to take her van equipped with sensitive instruments to the gas fields in Utah, Texas, and PA.

(frackings methane trail : a detective story by Elizabeth shogren, 5-17-12

http://www.npr.org/2012/05/17/151545578/frackings-methane-trail-a-detective-story?ft=3&f=122101520&sc=nl&cc=sh-20120519 )

13. Some Say Their Health Problems Ignored by PA Dept of Health

People have complained that the PA Dept of Health has not done its job of investigating health problems they feel are caused by gas pollution

The Associated Press found the information about the number of complaints received was confusing. The agency first reported that it received about 30 complaints in total, but then said 30 were received over the past year. Then it said it didn’t even begin recording complaints until 2011.

Some residents say they have complained and not gotten a response.

PA health officials did not receive the funding needed. Gov Corbett and the state senate cut the health appropriations to zero.

(Latrobe bulletin, residents state ignoring their health complaint, 5-14-12, AP)

14. Sen. McIlhinney Erred on Act 13-Didn’t Understand What He was Voting For

300 angry residents attended a meeting in Upper Bucks to say that Act 13 destroys local zoning and will negatively affect their quality of life.

McIlhinney had told residents that the law would have no impact on Bucks County --that the law was for the 40% of PA townships that have no zoning.But now everyone realizes that in Nockamixon where strict zoning was in place, their rules no longer apply.

So now McIlhinney has promised to rally his colleagues in Harrisburg to amend Act 13.

(philly burbs, Mcilhinney promises legislature will fix drilling law, editorial, daily intelligencer, Doylestown 4-26-12)

15. Economic Impact-Property Values $$$$$$$$$

Dr. Barth has reviewed the data on the economic impacts in

Texas, which has the longest history with fracking.”When one considers unemployment rates, the growth of median household income, and the number of people in poverty, it appears that the Barnett Shale counties are not doing better than the rest of the state”

Median household incomes increased by 21% statewide, versus 10 to 16% in the four most heavily drilled counties.

Unemployment rates were slightly higher in the drilled counties.

As for Property Values:A study by Integra Realty Resources that was commissioned by Flower Mound, Texas, concluded, “residential homes over $250,000 that were immediately adjacent to well sites can lose 3% to 14% in value”

Kris Wise a realtor in Flower Mound said, “the true loss is far greater, and nobody wants to buy a home near gas wells, not even for a 10 % price cut. In reality the valuation declines may be much greater since it’s been reported that the Wise County central Appraisal District Appraisal Review Board has “decreased values by 75% when a gas well sits on the land”

Westmoreland Marcellus Citizen’s Group—Mission Statement

To raise the public’s general awareness and understanding of the impacts of Marcellus drilling on the natural environment, health, and long-term economies of local communities.

Officers: President-Jan Milburn

Treasurer-Wanda Guthrie

Secretary-Ron Nordstrom

Facebook Coordinator-Elizabeth Nordstrom

Blogsite –April Jackman

Science Subcommittee-Dr. Cynthia Walter

To receive our updates, please email jan at janjackmil@yahoo.com

Jan's Updates May 14, 2012

 Westmoreland Marcellus Citizens Group Updates

Links in blue: copy and paste

For articles and updates or to just vent, visit us at facebook.

https://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=group_236336726385718

To email your state legislator:http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/home/findyourlegislator/

To discuss candidates:http://www.facebook.com/groups/VoteProEarth/

For information on the state gas legislation and local control: http://pajustpowers.org/aboutthebills.html-

Fracking Quotes

***“It’s my way of showing disdain for the legislation”’, Westmoreland County Commissioner Ted Kopas on Act 13.

***"The sealed court records in this case are part of a widespread pattern of industry secrecy," Mr. Gerhart, Earthjustice attorney . "In the face of a nationwide gas drilling boom and the troubling reports of related health impacts, we cannot afford to let this pattern continue."(on gag orders and nondisclosure)

** “Non disclosure agreement with private landowners and disclosure exemptions are preventing doctors from doing their jobs and protecting the public,” Dr Jerome Paulson, physician and director of Mid Atlantic Center for Children’s; Health and the Environment.

Meetings/Events/Programs

***Protest Act 13 at House Republican Policy Committee hearing in Beaver County on Tuesday, 15th

The PA House Republican Policy Committee is holding a public hearing on “Marcellus Shale Water Safety Issues” on Tuesday in Beaver County.These are the people who brought us Act 13!

Clean Water Action and some Beaver County activists are holding a protest/press conference outside this event to highlight how these legislators made it impossible for Beaver County communities (and others) to protect their local water supplies.

PEOPLE NEEDED TO BE THERE FOR THE PRESS CONFERENCE & TO SUPPORT BOB SCHMETZER(no need to speak... just SHOW UP !)

Tuesday, May 1512:30 pm

Entrance to the Club at Shadow Lakes

2000 Beaver Lakes Blvd. in Hopewell Twp.

15001-6422 • TEL: 724-375-5511

(for directions don’t use google maps, use this link:http://www.clubatshadowlakes.com/directions.html

The ‘public hearing’ is starting at 1:00pm inside the Club.However, there is just a panel of speakers, there is no opportunity for the public to make comment or ask questions.

However, please try to stay and attend after the press conference as one of the speakers, Bob Schmetzer, needs you to show your support.Bob is on South Heights Borough Council and has been very active in fighting fracking in Beaver County.He will be the only good speaker on the panel and he needs your support.

More info on the House Republican event is at this link:http://www.repchristiana.com/NewsItem.aspx?NewsID=14360

There are problems going on right now in Beaver County where public water supplies for several townships are near areas where land has been leased for drilling.Because of Act 13, there is no option for local officials to protect their water supplies.We need to hold the House Republican leadership (and all who supported them) accountable!

Please spread the word and join us!Thanks.

Myron, Clean water Action

*** Marcellus Monitoring Workshop-May 18Murrysville

http://marcellusprotest.org/node/1938

*** Ligonier Township Supervisors Meeting-June 12, 7:00, Township Building

*** Stop the Frack Attack, Washington DC July 28,http://www.stopthefrackattack.org/

(Sierra Club, Calvin Tillman, Earthworks)

*** Westmoreland County Commissioner Meeting

Jan Kiefer is coordinating this effort to have representation from the group at the meetings as the discussion of the impact fee evolves. Please email Jan and/or me if you can attend --jkief7@aol.com Jan Millburn- janjackmil@yahoo.com

The next meeting date: May 24 at 10:00 AM at the Westmoreland County Court House. This is the time to express our concerns about fracking and the effect on our county as well as impact fee use.

*** Tour de Frack-You Can Participate For Only One Day

The‘Tour de Frack’ promises to be one of the most celebrated local events of this coming summer.Described as ‘activism in motion’, from July 14 to July 28 cyclists may take the whole ride from Butler to Washington DC, or they may enjoy one or two day segments of the journey.

(http://www.tourdefrack.com/)

For a full calendar of Marcellus events:http://marcellusprotest.org/event_calendar

All Township Residents—Call to Action !!

**Lawsuit Filed --Resolutions ofTownship Support Urged

Attached to this WMCG Update is a resolution supporting the lawsuit against Act 13.Act 13 precludes the use of local zoning to restrict gas operations in residential areas, restricts doctors in sharing important health data, and limits counties in the use of the impact tax (a partial list).

HOW WE CAN HELP:Please print the resolution and take it to your next township supervisors’ meeting to request their support for this lawsuit. Supervisors should return the signed resolution to Brian Coppola and also to your state representatives.

coppola.brian@yahoo.com

Sample Statement: See our Westmoreland Marcellus Citizens’ Group blogspot, for a sample statement to supervisors. (address is listed above)

Good references:

Top Ten Myths about Act 13 by Sierra Club- http://www.sierraclub.org/pressroom/downloads/FrackingMythbustersFactSheet.pdf

Handout on Act 13 by Penn Future-

http://www.pennfuture.org/UserFiles/File/MineDrill/Marcellus/CitizenGuide_Act13_20120410_summary.pdf

1. Ted Kopas Supports Lawsuit Against Act 13

“It’s my way of showing disdain for the legislation,” Ted Kopas-D, Westmoreland County Commissioner, told the media. “This newly enacted law preempts local zoning authority over natural gas and oil operations in all municipalities. This act is flawed. If the lawsuit helps expose the flaws in this legislation then it is good.”

Commissioners Courtney-R and Anderson-R the other hand do not support action against Act 13.

Thank you to Mr. Kopas from concerned parents and property owners in the county.

2. Romania Declares Moratorium On Fracking

Romania’s new, more progressive, government has pledged a moratorium on shale gas exploration.

3. German Government Puts Brake on Fracking

Due to concerns about environmental damage, the Economy and Environmental ministers have agreed to oppose the process.

(http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/germany-rejects-fracking-to-tap-natural-gas-a-831764.html)

4. David Ball Takes a Stand Against PSATS!!

“David Ball, a Peter’s Township councilman, sent a letter to the head of the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS), criticizing the organization for publishing a "deliberately misleading" bulletin about the legal challenge to the Act 13. The letter also says the organization has "failed miserably" in its duty to protect municipalities from having zoning, planning and other rights stripped.

Representatives from Bucks County introduced two measures that were passed by delegates at the PSATS conference, including calling for the association to "oppose any legislation that would remove, reduce, or inhibit local government authority or existing local subdivision, land use and zoning controls."

A second, resolution calls for the organization to "oppose any legislation that would pre-empt the existing authority of townships to regulate land use through zoning and land development ordinances….”

Executive Director, Sanko, said the group will uphold the resolutions -- which he acknowledged fly in the face of parts of Act 13 -- and said the group has all along supported "local determination and local control."

According to the supervisors association website, 11 of the 17 sponsors for the annual event are energy or Marcellus-related companies or groups, including Range Resources, listed as a top "platinum" sponsor, and Consol Energy as a "silver" sponsor.

Mr. Ball said he was so incensed by the actions of the organization that he would begin lobbying for a change in leadership; barring that, he would advocate that the township rescind its membership and stop paying dues of more than $2,000 a year.”

. (Peters Councilman david ball: state group is failing townships over shale law, Janice Crompton, Pittsburgh Post gazette, 5-10-12)

5.Allegheny National Forest Success-Thanks to all who took action

From David Masur, PennEnvironment

State representatives decided not to vote on the proposal that would threaten PAs only national forest, the Allegheny, from more gas drilling. The fight is not over as the issue could be revisited, but for now, we got a stay.

Drillers already have access to 700, 000 acres of state forests.

6.Lawsuit Against Act 13 Will Be Argued in June

The lawsuit filed against Act 13 will be argued before the state's Commonwealth Court between June 4 and 8.

Also, according to an order issued Wednesday, representatives from the gas trade organizations and companies will be allowed five minutes to state their objections to the suit, which ask that portions of Act 13 be overturned on constitutional grounds.

The industry previously was denied the ability to intervene by Commonwealth Court Judge Keith Quigley.

(By Brad Hundt, Staff writer bhundt@observer-reporter.com)

http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/washingtoncounty11/05-10-2012-Act-13-suit-scheduled

7. DEP Doesn’t Inform Neighbors of Gas Violations-You Tube

The DEP nor gas companies have to notify landowners or neighbors of drilling violations. Some violations can be minor but many are serious including casing problems. It can take weeks to get information about the violations.

Leasers say neighbors should go on-line to investigate violations on their own.

(CNN Money)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WsWcGEDtKYA&feature=youtube_gdata

8. The Mothers Project-Letter to Michelle O’Bama

The New York Times published a letter to Michelle Obama from the Mothers Projects, an organization started by Angel Fox, Josh Fox’s mother, asking her to assist in protecting children.An excerpt from the letter:

“Our appeal is simple and fundamental to our role as mothers. We do not want children drinking milk from cows grazing on chemically contaminated pastures. We do not want children breathing benzene on school playgrounds. We do not want convoys of water and gravel trucks sharing the roadways with school buses. Nor with teenagers learning to drive. Nor with kids on bicycles. We do not want children used as subjects in a reckless experiment whose long-term consequences and cumulative impacts are not yet understood.

We do want to bequeath to our children and grandchildren an unfractured, unpoisoned world.

In December 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. An initiative of former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, this document stands as the most widely recognized statement of the rights to which every person is entitled. These include the right to ensure the safety and health of children and families. More recently, the United Nations has declared safe and potable drinking water a human right. As America’s current First Lady and first mother, you have been outspoken in your commitment to families, children, health, and future generations. We hope that you will now join us in our call to “hit the pause button” on drilling and fracking operations and pursue a new course. Extreme fossil fuel extraction is not the answer to our nation’s energy challenges. Our children’s health and the survival of our planet depend on policymakers and citizens joining together to commit to sustainable, renewable energy. In this, we hope that you will serve as our 21st-century Eleanor.”

(see http://www.mothersforsustainableenergy.com/)

9. It’s really the pits around here…from Bob D.

Imagine if Pennsylvania’s new ‘Act 13’ goes into full effect and these pits can be 300 feet (the length of a football field - goal line to goal line) from the front door of your home… and that includes R1 residential zones! There goes the neighborhood.

Let’s take a closer look at one here in Washington County, Pa:

http://www.marcellus-shale.us/Range-Resources-Pit.htm

(This is an excellent site to see what is going on around us. Jan)

10. Wyoming Persuaded the EPA To Delay Report on Groundwater Contamination

AP investigators forced the EPA to admit it withheld vital information showing ground water contamination was linked to fracking. .

Wyoming governor Matt Mead persuaded Lisa Jackson, the head of the EPA to postpone the announcement linking fracking to groundwater contamination.The purpose was to give state officials time to try to debunk the finding before it affected the oil/gas industry. Mead ordered state officials to take a hard line on the industry’s behalf. The White House pressed the EPA to release the report.

The EPA study was the result of years of complaints from homeowners that their well water smelled of strong chemicals about the time fracking arrived in their neighborhoods 8 years ago.

Monitoring wells revealed the carcinogen benzene was as high as 50 times the EPA limit. High Ph was found along with potassium hydroxide, a basic chemical used in fracking.

Wyoming’s top state regulator for gas development is Tom Doll, a past manager for Williams Production Company.

Tome Fenton, chairman of Pavillion Area Concerned Citizens said, “Those of us living out here, we don’t trust the state.”

(Wyoming got epa to delay frack finding, mead gruver, AP, 5-4-12)

11. EPA’sDr. Armendariz Forced to Resign By Industry

“The gas industry forced the resignation of EPA’s popular environmental enforcement chief for the Gulf region, Dr. Al Armendariz, beloved by environmentalists and civic leaders for his willingness to strictly enforce environmental rules. Sen. Inhofe and Republicans forced his dismissal.

Armenderiz promised to enforce the law in the gas fields and when frightened Dish citizens spoke of the dangerous and illegal practices by gas fracking companies that might jeopardize their property values, water supplies, jobs, local businesses and health, Armenderiz assured them that the EPA would enforce the law strictly.

Armendieriz’s courage won him powerful enemies”

And with Republican backing, they forced him and his enforcement of the law out of the gas fields.

(summary from : Petro Plutocracy, Robert Kennedy, Huffington Post,5-8-12)

Those of us who follow the research on the gas industry have greatly benefitted from the efforts of Dr. Armenderiz.His loss is a loss for the environmental/health community.jan

12. Mortgage Not Available Because---Drilling Next Door

Brain Smiths application for a new mortgage was denied by Quicken Loans because of a gas drilling site next door in Washington County. Two other national lenders also turned down the Smiths’ application.

The loan company stated,“In some cases conditions exist such as gas wells and other structures in nearby lots, that can significantly degrade a property’s value. In these cases we are unable to extend refinancing due to the unknown future marketability of the property.”

Brian Smith commented, “If I can’t refinance could somebody get a loan to purchase my house?...That’s definitely a worry.”

(WTYAE 5-8-12)

13. How the Fracking Industry Keeps Secret

Some leasers have signed non-disclosure agreements with gas companies, some knowingly, other unknowingly, preventing them from participating in studies on health and environmental impacts.

Simona Perry, an applied anthropologist, who has been working with rural families since 2009, said the nondisclosure agreements hamper doctors and researcher from collecting the valuable data they need to assess drilling effects on communities.

The Hallowich family is a well-known case in the western PA area. The Hallowich children began suffering from headaches, nosebleeds, burning eyes and sore throats as drilling operations expanded in their neighborhood. The Hallowichs eventually abandoned their home in a settlement with gas companies. The settlement hearing was closed to the press and gas companies persuaded the judge to permanently seal it from the public, according to the Earthjustice attorney who assumes the settlement includes a nondisclosure agreement.

The Pittsburgh post gazette and observer reporter have sought access to the court records but were denied. Earthjustice , Physicians for Social Responsibility and other groups filed an amicus brief in support of the newspapers arguing that the public needs to have access to the information about impacts on health and environment.

(Silencing communities: how the fracking industry keeps its secrets, mike Ludwig, Truthout, 5-8-12)

14. Multi Billionaire to Sue For the Right To Frack Where It is Banned in Dryden, New York

The Anschutz Exploration Corporation is involved in a suit against Dryden, New York, a little town of about 14,000 people, that has banned fracking. In late February, to the delight of anti-fracking activists, New York Judge Philip Rumsey ruled that the ban was legal. According to several reports, Anschutz's corporation has leases on over 22,000 acres of land in Dryden, investing $5.1 million in drilling operations. The company might pursue a takings claim against the town based on the idea that private property should not be taken without compensation.

In 1999 Philip Anschutz’s worth was 7 billion was labeled the nations greediest executive by Fortune magazine.

(Meet the Christian rights wind multibillionaire out to frack our work, bill berkowitz, 5-13-12)

http://www.alternet.org/story/155381/meet_the_christian_right-wing_multi-billionaire_out_to_frack_our_world

Westmoreland Marcellus Citizen’s Group—Mission Statement

To raise the public’s general awareness and understanding of the impacts of Marcellus drilling on the natural environment, health, and long-term economies of local communities.

Officers: President-Jan Milburn

Treasurer-Wanda Guthrie

Secretary-Ron Nordstrom

Facebook Coordinator-Elizabeth Nordstrom

Science Subcommittee-Dr. Cynthia Walter

To receive our updates, please email jan at janjackmil@yahoo.com

Hope has two daughters, anger and courage; anger at the way things are, and courage to see that they do not remain the way they are. St. Augustine

EARTH QUAKERS WILL BE SPENDING THE NIGHT IN MURRYSVILLE MONDAY, MAY 14. 

We will be having a potluck to welcome and revive them as they prepare to continue their journey into Pittsburgh. 

Host families will be meeting them sometime in the afternoon as the arrive at the Community Center and we will be having a potluck at about 6pm.  

Please come to East Suburban UU Church, 4236 Sardis Road, Murrysville  and bring a covered dish to share. Please RSVP  to Wanda Guthrie  wanda.guthrie@gmail.com or call 724-327-2767.

Update from Westmoreland County Commissioner Meeting

Melissa Troutman, Mountain Watershed Association's Outreach Coordinator has been attending the Westmoreland County Commissioner Meetings trying to get support for the challenge to ACT 13.  Below is her update from the last few meetings:

Westmoreland County Commissioner Ted Kopas has broken ranks with his republican counterparts to sign a letter of support for the lawsuit challenging Act 13’s zoning provisions. Mr. Kopas told Mountain Watershed Association’s Melissa Troutman during the May 10th public meeting that he feels Act 13 falls far short of being adequate. Kopas joins Murrysville council, which passed a resolution to support the Act 13 challenge on May 2.

Westmoreland Commissioner Tyler Courtney stated he is still thinking about whether to sign a letter of support, explaining that the entire law should be amended, not just the zoning portion. Commissioner Charles Anderson stated he does not plan on supporting the challenge.

Jan's Updates May 7, 2012

Westmoreland Marcellus Citizens Group Updates May 7

Links in blue: cut and paste

For articles and updates or to just vent, visit us at facebook.

https://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=group_236336726385718

To email your state legislator: http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/home/findyourlegislator/

To discuss candidates: http://www.facebook.com/groups/VoteProEarth/

For information on the state gas legislation and local control: http://pajustpowers.org/aboutthebills.html-

Events/meetings:

***Stop the Frack Attack,Washington DC July 28, http://www.stopthefrackattack.org/

(Sierra Club, Calvin Tillman, Earthworks)

***Westmoreland County Commissioner Meeting-This Thursday

Jan Kiefer is coordinating this effort to have representation from the group at the meetings as the discussion of the impact fee evolves. Please email Jan and/or me if you can attend -- jkief7@aol.com Jan Millburn- janjackmil@yahoo.com

The next meeting dates: May 10 and May 24 at 10:00 AM at the Westmoreland County Court House. This is the time to express our concerns about fracking and the effect on our county as well as impact fee use.

*** Tour de Frack-You Can Participate For Only One Day

The ‘Tour de Frack’ promises to be one of the most celebrated local events of this coming summer. Described as ‘activism in motion’, from July 14 to July 28 cyclists may take the whole ride from Butler to Washington DC, or they may enjoy one or two day segments of the journey.

(http://www.tourdefrack.com/)

For a full calendar of Marcellus events: http://marcellusprotest.org/event_calendar

President’s Report- Actions I have taken on behalf of the group this month:

-Wrote and submitted to the Allegheny County Visioning Team a statement on issues related to development of the gas industry

-Phone interview with BBC about fracking in our area. Veronica Coptis located a site for the reporter to tour.

-Responded to legislators’ questions about fracking and the Scorecard voting record.

- Submitted a statement to DEP about the lack of regulation on “minor” air pollution sources, the cumulative effect of which is not minor.

Other Activity:

-Group members have attended the Ligonier, Hempfield, Upper Burrell, Murrysville, and Mt Pleasant Township supervisors meetings to present statements urging passage of the resolution supporting the lawsuit against Act 13. (There may be others I am not yet aware of.)

All Township Residents—Call to Action !! Please Continue in your efforts to get resolutions signed!!.

**Lawsuit Filed --Resolutions of Township Support Urged

Attached to this WMCG Update is a resolution supporting the lawsuit against Act 13. Act 13 precludes the use of local zoning to restrict gas operations in residential areas, restricts doctors in sharing important health data, and limits counties in the use of the impact tax (a partial list).

HOW WE CAN HELP: Please print the resolution and take it to your next township supervisors’ meeting to request their support for this lawsuit. Supervisors should return the signed resolution to Brian Coppola and also to your state representatives.

coppola.brian@yahoo.com

Sample Statement: See our Westmoreland Marcellus Citizens’ Group blogspot, for a sample statement to supervisors. (address is listed above)

Good References:

Top Ten Myths about Act 13 by Sierra Club- http://www.sierraclub.org/pressroom/downloads/FrackingMythbustersFactSheet.pdf

Handout on Act 13 by Penn Future-

http://www.pennfuture.org/UserFiles/File/MineDrill/Marcellus/CitizenGuide_Act13_20120410_summary.pdf

TAKE ACTION–LINK to Sierra Club

Please join us to fight back against Act 13!

This law stripped Pennsylvania's local communities of their right to control gas drilling in their townships. Under the new law, a municipality cannot even challenge a permit issued to a driller, even if DEP ignores all the community's concerns.

Let's join together!

In community after community, citizens have been speaking out against this giveaway to the natural gas industry. In Bucks County's Nockamixon Township, a drilling company filed a permit to drill the day Gov. Corbett signed Act 13. Until that day, the township's zoning ordinances prohibited gas drilling in its residential zone. Since all of Bucks County's Republican legislators voted in favor of Act 13, they have become the target of local protests over this preemption of local authority. In response, several legislators have announced plans to introduce legislation to roll back some of Act 13's local preemption language.

We can't back down! Tell your legislators that they must restore ALL local government powers taken away with the passage of Act 13.

The gas drillers thought that the battle was over on the day Governor Corbett signed Act 13. They were wrong! We can build on the momentum of the current outrage and make it clear that the citizens of Pennsylvania will not accept Governor Corbett's giveaway to the drillers.

If the gas industry is allowed to bring their industrial activities into your residential area, other polluting industries will want an exemption from local control, too. Local governance is essential to protecting our health and safety. Make your voice heard!

Link to take action: http://alleghenysc.org/?p=6733

Thomas Au, Conservation Chair, Sierra Club Pennsylvania Chapter

P.S. Share this alert with your social networks:

Fracking Quotes

** “To suggest that the interests of the industry are not represented in this Commonwealth… is like suggesting that Steeler fans aren’t represented at Heinz Field. Industry …was intimately involved in Act 13 within the Commonwealth, and the Commonwealth has come before the court to defend Act 13.” (Statement by Att. Jordan Yeager, court transcript, Commonwealth Court, on gas companies’ request to intervene in the lawsuit against Act 13)

** “PA Independent Oil and Gas Assoc …has a significant stake in the challenge to Act 13 not only because it was instrumental in seeing uniformity and predictability incorporated into it, but it spent a good bit of time, energy, and money in seeking the Act’s approval” (statement from an attorney representing gas industry interests, court transcript, Commonwealth Court, regarding gas companies request to intervene in the lawsuit against Act 13)

** “When man- made fractures intersect with natural faults, contaminants could reach the surface area in tens of years. Or less” from study by Tom Myers (see item #7)

** “While state law doesn’t allow localities to regulate drilling, that doesn’t mean they can’t adopt zoning laws to prevent drilling.” Attorney Linda Shaw in New York State

*******************************************************************************

1. Murrysville Passes Resolution Supporting Lawsuit against Act 13!!

“Murrysville council unanimously approved a resolution Wednesday that shows support for a lawsuit filed against the state in response to oil and gas drilling regulations.

Councilman David Perry read a lengthy document after a short executive session that outlined the municipality's reasoning.

"We are opposed to the allowance of industrial uses in residential areas," Perry said.”

(By Renatta Signorini ,Tribune-Review 5- 2- 12.)

2. Upper Burrell Passes Letter of Support for lawsuit against Act 13!

3. Vermont Bans Fracking !!!

The Vermont House voted 103-36 to give final passage to legislation that will make VT the first state in the nation to ban the practice of hydraulic fracturing for natural gas.

“The VT Legislature deserves tremendous praise for having the courage to stand up to all of the lobbying, the full page ads and the legal threats of the oil and gas industry,” says VPIRG Director, Paul Burns.

(http://www.vpirg.org/news/2471/)

4 New York Still Not Drilling and Bans Are Upheld By Courts

The review of the decision on whether to frack will probably continue through the summer. New York has not issued permits for fracking gas wells since it began the review in 2008.

The Dept. of Environmental Conservation Commissioner, Joe Martens, said a growing number of communities have banned or placed moratorium on drilling. In lawsuits against 2 of the towns, local state judges upheld the bans.

The lower court rulings were seen as victories for local home rule and a blow to the industry and lease- holding landowners. . “If these two rulings stand it’s the kiss of death for gas drilling in New York.” “You could spend $100 million for lease rights only to be at the mercy of a 3-2 town board vote,” said Albany attorney Tom West.

West argued that state environmental law clearly states that local zoning is trumped by state regulations when it comes to oil and gas drilling.

Attorney Linda Shaw, representing the town of Dryden, said the courts agreed that while state law doesn’t allow localities to regulate drilling, that doesn’t mean they can’t adopt zoning laws to prevent drilling.

(NY Official: No date yet for fracking updates, AP, 4-20-12, Latrobe bulletin)

5. PUC’s Request to Take Action on Local Zoning Ordinances Is Denied

Despite the injunction on Act 13, the PUC requested the right to begin examining local ordinances (the PUC now has the power to overturn local ordinances due to Act 13). That request has been denied by the Commonwealth Court.

6. House Democrats Unveil ‘Marcellus Compact’ to Fix Act 13

House Democrats today launched a renewed effort to fix Gov. Tom Corbett’s industry-friendly Act 13, offering a six-point plan – the Marcellus Compact.

Noting that Act 13 provides one of the lowest tax rates in the nation on gas drillers and weak environmental protections, House Democrats unveiled their Marcellus Compact – a promise to put the interests of Pennsylvanians first, rather than the oil and gas industry for whom, and by whom, Act 13 was written.

"House Democrats are committed to a strong Marcellus Shale law that puts Pennsylvania taxpayers, workers and families first, unlike the current law supported by Governor Corbett and his allies, which is a sweetheart deal for the multi-billion-dollar oil and gas industry," said Democratic Leader Frank Dermody, D-Allegheny. "The Marcellus Compact places Pennsylvania’s priorities where they ought to be – with the people who live and work here, not with wealthy, multinational oil and gas corporations."

The Marcellus Compact includes components to:

· restore municipal zoning authority by eliminating Act 13’s override of local zoning provisions;

· ensure tax fairness for Pennsylvanians by imposing a reasonable statewide tax on natural gas drillers for the life of the well;

· protect critical natural resources by increasing environmental setbacks and bonding requirements;

· increase transparency and safety by establishing a public online tracking system for fracking wastewater storage and disposal; prohibiting drilling in floodplains; and placing a moratorium on discharging drilling wastewater into surface waters;

· guarantee the rights of patients to full medical disclosure and transparency when their health might have been affected by fracking chemicals; and

· make jobs a priority by establishing a Marcellus Shale Job Creation Tax Credit to provide incentives for companies to hire Pennsylvania workers.

(From: PA House democratic Caucus)

Excellent resources on Act 13:

Link to the compact: http://www.pahouse.com/Documents/2012/MarcellusCompact-1Pager-FINAL.pdf

Link to comparison of the Compact to Act 13: http://www.pahouse.com/Documents/2012/MarcellusCompact-Act13-Comparison.pdf

7. Gas Industry Explains Its Stake in Act 13—It Spent A Lot Of MoneyTo Get It Enacted

PIOGA (PA Independent Oil and Gas Assoc.), the Marcellus Shale Coalition, and Mark west, Penneco and Chesapeake filed a petition to intervene in the lawsuit against Act 13.

At the hearing, their attorney explained that PIOGA and the Marcellus Shale Coalition supported Act 13.

The following statement was made at the hearing by an industry attorney: “PIOGA …has a significant stake in the challenge to Act 13 not only because it was instrumental in seeing uniformity and predictability incorporated into it, but it spent a good bit of time, energy, and money in seeking the acts approval”

and

“The industry is the player. It is the key player in the oil and gas development in PA. and absent its ability to participate in the very legislation and the very challenge to the legislation that regulates it in its entirely would be nothing other than causing mischief for it”

(Quote from industry attorney, transcript of Commonwealth Court of PA, before Judge Quigley)

The industry was denied the ability to intervene, in part, due to the fact that it is already adequately represented by involvement of the state.

8. PSATS Conference This Week

The Pa Association of Township Supervisors conference is this week. The gas industry is a sponsor of the conference. PSATS supported Act 13 despite the fact that our tax dollars pay for PSATS membership and in violation of their own PSATS policy that dictates that:

“PSATS opposes any legislation that would reduce or eliminate a municipality's authority to make local land use decisions.”

But they did support that legislation anyway.

Supervisors will have the opportunity to speak out against the poor leadership.

9. New Study Finds Frack Chemicals Can Move Within a Year

A major peer- reviewed study, commissioned by Catskill Mountainkeeper, predicts that frack fluids can migrate into aquifers, directly contradicting the claims by the gas industry that these toxic chemicals will stay underground forever.

“The new peer-reviewed study by hydrogeologist and researcher Tom Myers, “Potential Contaminant Pathways from Hydraulically Fractured Shale to Aquifers”, published in the current issue of Ground Water, demonstrates that fluids from fracking activities can migrate from deep layers of shale to shallow aquifers and surface waters, bringing along with them polluting gases, chemicals, and radioactivity. The study, based on computer modeling in natural and induced fissures, offers an explanation for reports of contamination of wells by deep shale methane in many areas of Pennsylvania. According to the study, fracking will dramatically speed up the movement of chemicals injected into the ground. Fluids could move in 100 years what would normally take tens of thousands of years. “When man made fractures intersect with natural faults, contaminants could reach the surface area in tens of years. Or less” Chemicals could reach the surface in as little as just a few years.

“Simply put, rocks are not impermeable.”

Migration of contaminated gas and fluids through rock fissures cannot be controlled, making slow contamination of aquifers and water resources – over time frames as short as one year – extremely likely in areas of intensive drilling activity.

The study also concluded that the force that fracking exerts does not immediately let when the process ends. It can take nearly a year to ease.

This threat from deep level contamination therefore points to risks inherent in high pressure drilling activities beyond the already existing threats to human and animal health posed by poorly drilled wells and dissolving cement sheaths and casings, which are already well-accepted as mechanisms by which drilling activities can ruin water sources.”

Terry Engleder of Penn State, proponent of fracking and gas development in PA, disagreed with Myers study

(Summary from: Catskill Mountainkeeper) and

(a cabot oil and gas hydraulic fracturing site , abrahm lustgarten, propublica 5-1-12)

10. Chesapeake Energy’s CEO, Aubrey McClendon, Bankrolled Corbett Starting in ’04 (http://protectingourwaters.wordpress.com/2011/06/30/chesapeake-energy-ceo-bankrolled-corbett-starting-in-04-mcclendons-contributions-pivotal-for-pa-governor/) by Loretta Gary, 6-30-11

“According to Philadelphia Daily News, Chesapeake Energy’s CEO Aubrey McClendon, has been bankrolling Corbett as far back as 2004.

The natural gas industry gave $7,175,234 to Pennsylvania candidates and Political Action Committees (PACs) from 2000 through the end of 2010, according to a Common Cause/Pennsylvania (CCPA) analysis released today. $3,442,212was donated to elected officials currently in office.

The top recipient remains Governor Tom Corbett, with a total $1,634,096 in contributions from the natural gas industry. Corbett raised $1,083,315of that total in 2009-2010 from 216 donations. He is followed by Senate President Pro Tempore Joseph Scarnati, with $293,333.

In the final weeks of Corbett’s 2004 race for Attorney General, a game -changing donation of $720,000 was received from an obscure campaign committee called the Republican State Leadership Committee-heavily finance by tobacco, insurance and energy companies. $450,000 of the generous donation came from Chesapeake’s, Aubrey McClendon. The money enabled Corbett to launch last minute radio campaigns in York and Lancaster, which helped him win the state by just 110,000 votes.

~~~~~~

*It should be pointed out that Senate President Pro Tempore Joseph Scarnati is the one who sponsored SB1100, which along with HB1950became PA Act 13.

-

11. New Investigation of Chesapeake’s CEO Aubrey McClendon

“U.S. Senator Bill Nelson will ask the Justice Department to investigate Chesapeake Energy for potential fraud and price manipulation

McClendon has received criticism for his personal dealings. The company said he would be stripped of his chairmanship following an earlier report by Reuters that he had taken out as much as $1.1 billion in personal loans on ownership stakes in wells he got through the company.

The disclosure about the loans has led to shareholder lawsuits, and prompted inquiries by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the Internal Revenue Service.

On Wednesday, Reuters published its second investigation, which revealed that McClendon and Chesapeake co-founder Tom Ward ran a hedge fund from at least 2004 through 2008. The hedge fund listed Chesapeake's headquarters as its address and it had at least one Chesapeake employee on its staff. Experts say McClendon's dual role as CEO of the second-largest natural gas producer and sponsor of a hedge fund that traded in the same commodities raises serious concerns about whether he may have violated his duty to Chesapeake shareholders.”

Summary From: (Senator Nelson Seeks Probe into Chesapeake Energy, Reuters, Roberta Rampton and Sarah Lynch, 5-2-12)

12. North Carolina Dept. Of Justice Warns Homeowners about Leasing

(from Marcellus Shale Protest site http://www.marcellusprotest.org/NCDOJ)

“We've heard many informal warnings about the risks which homeowners run when they sign drilling leases. Now the North Carolina Department of Justice has delivered a written (draft) report to the state legislature that puts those warnings on the record. The full document is available. (Go to the Marcellus Protest site, address above).

The following quotes are from coverage by the Associated Press:

...Landowners should be extremely careful when considering ceding drilling rights and legislators should require more information and protections for residents.

...The act of leasing without the lender's prior approval could place the mortgage in default.... Storing "hazardous substances" on the site of the mortgaged land also could be grounds for a breach of contract.

At least two lenders have said they won't make loans for homes where the borrower doesn't own mineral rights or has leased them.

The draft report was presented on April 26 by Assistant Attorney General Lynne Weaver.”

13. Geisinger Using Patient Database to Assess Fracking Harm

“Geisinger Health System, a nonprofit chain of hospitals in eastern Pennsylvania, plans to use its database of patient records to determine whether Marcellus gas drilling is harming PA residents.

The hospital system started mining hundreds of thousands of medical records in recent weeks, David Carey, the director of Geisinger’s Weis Center for Research, said in an interview at a conference in Washington. Pennsylvania-based Geisinger is talking with foundations, the government, and the gas industry about contributing money to expand the project.

TheInstitute of Medicine, advisers to the government on health care, is examining whether fracking poses health risks. Concerns include the potential for water and air pollution, and inhalation of sand dust, according to academics and government officials who spoke at a workshop sponsored by the institute.

“There’s all these concerns about what the health risks are but we’re really limited to anecdotal data,” Carey said. The database can contribute “real hard, rigorous scientific data” to the debate, he said. “

(Alex Wayne 5-1-12,http://us.mc394.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=awayne3@bloomberg.net)

14. Groups Unite in Lawsuit To Fight Industry Imposed Gag Rules

Doctors (including Physicians for Social Responsibility), scientists, Engineers for Healthy Energy, researchers, and advocates, are represented by Earthjustice in the lawsuit fighting for access to information concealed by the industry. . All have filed an amicus brief in support of newspapers leading the fight. “In order to treat patients, doctors need access to a wide range of information’s, said Dr. Jerome Paulson, Children’s’ National Medical center. “The gas industry has information that could prove vital tot our patients health and we are asking the court to make it available “

Stephanie and Chris Hallowich from Mt Pleasant PA signed a non- disclosure agreement as part of her families’ settlement with the gas company in a dispute over the family being sick from emissions. Non- disclosure agreements have come to be the norm in lawsuits against the industry.

The industry benefits by silencing families who have experienced the worst effects of gas drilling.

Other individuals involved in the suit include Dr. Sandra Steingraber, Dr. Bernard Goldstein, Dr. Jerome Paulson, Dr. William Rom, Dr. Mehernosh Khan, Dr. Simona Perry, Dr Robert Oswald , Dr. Michelle Bamberger, Kathryn Venni, and Dr. Walter Tsou

(Contacts: Kathleen Sutcliffe, Earthjustice, (202) 797-5235, (202) 384-7157 (cell)

Susan Dell Muma, Children’s National Medical Center, (301)244-6733, (301) 651-4916 (cell)

Bruce Baizel, Earthworks, (970) 259-3353, ext. 2)

15. Workers exposed to Silica Dust

Exposure of workers to silica dust from silica sand used to prop open fractures in wells was discussed at an Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Science Roundtable on Fracking and Health Impact Assessments.

Monitors on 115 frack site workers showed than 79% of samples had more silica dust than recommended. The highest sample was 137 times NIOSH recommended limit. Even respirators protect only up to 10 times the recommended limit. (beyond that they are not effective) So even with a respirator, nearly a third of workers were breathing silica dust above the NIOSH recommended imit.

These statistics were shocking to the roomful of health professionals.

Current Assistant Secretary of Labor and head of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Dr. David Michaels, who echoed the pervasive concern that health professionals were only now entering the policy discussion.

“We are over five years into the massive shale gas development boom and the top public health officials in the country are still newly learning of astounding risks to human health.”

Questions then rained in: How far is the drift from these plumes? What are the remobilization rates? Could pregnant women or children be exposed?

(Silica dust poses newly revealed health risks from fracking, Posted May 2, 2012 in Curbing Pollution,Environmental Justice, Health and the Environment)

16. Sierra Club Challenges Gas Terminal

Sierra Club says it will block Dominion’s plan to export 1 billion cubic feet per day of gas through a terminal in Maryland. A previous legal settlement gave Sierra Club the right to reject any significant changes to the purpose or footprint of the existing natural gas terminals in Cove Point, Md.

According to Sierra Club, the export project could result in damage to the Chesapeake Bay and Calvery Cliffs State Park in Maryland.

(Sierra Club challenges natural gas terminal, AP, 4-27-12 Latrobe Bulletin)

17. Pittsburgh Air 6^thMost Polluted in US

American Lung Assoc. air statistics show that the air quality in the 8- county Pittsburgh area has improved but not as quickly as other areas. The area ranked as the sixth most polluted area in the US this year for fine, air- borne particles. It ranked sixth in two categories, year round particle pollution and short-term particle pollution.

(Lung group finds Pittsburgh air not rank better, AP 4-26-12, latrboe bull)

{These facts need to be cited repeatedly-- each time the gas industry is permitted for compressor stations, drill pads, pipelines, and processing plants—all adding to the air pollution of the area.}

Westmoreland Marcellus Citizen’s Group—Mission Statement

To raise the public’s general awareness and understanding of the impacts of Marcellus drilling on the natural environment, health, and long-term economies of local communities.

Officers: President-Jan Milburn

Treasurer-Wanda Guthrie

Secretary-Ron Nordstrom

Facebook Coordinator-Elizabeth Nordstrom

Blogsite –April Jackman

Science Subcommittee-Dr. Cynthia Walter

To receive our updates, please email jan at janjackmil@yahoo.com

Hope has two daughters, anger and courage; anger at the way things are, and courage to see that they do not remain the way they are. St. Augustine