| See also http://sustainableotsego.org/recent-gas-drilling-news
http://sustainableotsego.org/recent-gas-drilling-news/425-recent-gas-drilling-news-10-18-11-1200am-1130pm-edt
Recent Gas Drilling News (10-18-11 11:30PM EDT)
NY, PA & NJ:
“Washed-out bridge will be inconvenience: “…”A washed-out bridge could create an inconvenience to residents of East Sorber Mountain Road and the Salansky Marcellus Shale Natural gas well on Zosh Road has been plugged, township supervisors said at their meeting Wednesday night…The natural gas well constructed last year on Zosh Road is plugged. Salansky announced the well pad has been removed by Encana Oil and Gas. Since the well did not yield the large quantities of gas, the pipe has been capped and is “4 feet below plow depth,” she said. “The area is now a farm field,” she said…” ” (The Dallas Post) (PA)- http://www.timesleader.com/TheDallasPost/news/Washed-out_bridge_will_be_inconvenience_10-18-2011.html
“Drilling leaves tainted aquifer/Pa. gas drilling town’s water still fouled: “…Some Dimock residents say their water wells were fouled not only with methane that DEP said migrated from improperly cemented Cabot gas wells, but possibly also with toxic chemicals commonly used in the drilling process known as hydraulic fracturing or fracking. Fracking uses high-pressure injection of millions of gallons of water, sand and chemical additives to get gas from shale deposits more than a mile underground. The company denied responsibility, saying it doesn’t use the chemicals that a consultant working for the plaintiffs found in the wells last year. Cabot suggested a nearby auto repair shop was to blame…” ” (AP)- www.timesunion.com/news/article/Drilling-leaves-tainted-aquifer-2220919.php , http://www.delawareonline.com/article/20111018/BUSINESS06/111018048/ & http://online.wsj.com/article/APd6b96a4fbd054e40b163f232dfd1556b.html
“Gas company asks to resume drilling in Dimock, Pa.” (AP)- http://www.centredaily.com/2011/10/18/2954791/gas-company-asks-to-resume-drilling.html
“Defying Open Meeting Law, Town of Sidney OKs Pipeline: “…Then, after calling the meeting to order McCarthy immediately tossed the agenda aside and called for a vote on the pipeline project. The proposal – to provide a 50-year franchise to Leatherstocking Gas Co. for a gas pipeline through Sidney, Coventry, and Bainbridge and eventually connecting with the Millennium pipeline and eastern ports – has been a point of controversy all summer long. Without allowing for any discussion, McCarthy called for a vote…” ” (The Marcellus Effect)- http://www.watershedpost.com/2011/sidney-gives-leatherstocking-pipeline-go-ahead
“Cortland clerk fights abusive gas leasing practices: “…Larkin is Cortland’s county clerk, and like others across the state, is one of the few people who sees the contracts made between drilling companies and landowners. Leases are considered private contracts, and therefore aren’t overseen by any agency at the state level. As a result, Larkin says she sees companies try to record improper documents all the time, including adding five year extensions to leases that explicitly rule them out…” ” (Innovation Trail) (NY)- http://innovationtrail.org/post/cortland-clerk-fights-abusive-gas-leasing-practices
“Council OKs ban on gas drilling: “…ALBANY — City lawmakers brushed aside fears of costly lawsuits from the oil and gas industry Monday night and narrowly approved a ban on gas drilling inside city limits, a move aimed squarely at the controversial drilling technique known as hydrofracking. In doing so, the Common Council joined Buffalo, Cooperstown and what advocates said have been more than 50 other cities, towns and counties in New York that have somehow limited the practice before state environmental regulators can start issuing gas companies permits to start drilling…” ” (Albany Times Union)- http://www.timesunion.com/local/article/Council-OKs-ban-on-gas-drilling-2223550.php & http://www.newsday.com/news/region-state/albany-lawmakers-ban-hydrofracking-1.3255196
“Albany Common Council votes to ban fracking” (FOX23)- http://www.fox23news.com/news/local/story/Albany-Common-Council-votes-to-ban-fracking/PdJyGqwdsEyAWj6f_v5IeA.cspx
“Common councilors consider gas drilling ban: “…Syracuse common councilors are preparing to take new action to ban hydrofracking in the city. They are likely to vote on the bill at a meeting next week…” ” (Video, YNN) (NY)- http://centralny.ynn.com/content/top_stories/560875/common-councilors-consider-gas-drilling-ban/
“River Symposium panel focuses on community effects of gas drilling: “…LEWISBURG, Pa. – Gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale is transforming the region with promises of political and economic gain, but those perceived benefits must be balanced with the “social” effects on communities, a panel of experts agreed this weekend. A group of professors and regional leaders came together Friday at Bucknell University for a panel discussion: “Understanding community impacts of Marcellus Shale development: strategies and questions.”…” ” (Bucknell University)- www.bucknell.edu/x72476.xml
“Ball Wants Cuomo to Get Tough on Fracking” (Scarsdale Patch) (NY)- http://scarsdale.patch.com/articles/ball-wants-cuomo-to-get-tough-on-fracking-baa75348
“NYRAD Member Respond To Senator Libous: “…NYRAD members have responded to Senator Tom Libous’s recent statements about gas drilling. The State Senator has asked lawmakers from downstate to “butt out” of the fracking conversation in the Southern Tier. But a NYRAD Board Member said the Senator is out of touch and needs to understand the concerns of residents…” ” (Video, WICZ FOX40) (NY)- http://www.wicz.com/news2005/viewarticle.asp?a=20642
“Don’t wait to study fracking and health: “…First, if health impacts were “considered” why is there hardly a mention of public health impacts in the 1,500-plus pages of the Cuomo administration’s drilling proposal? Second, it’s irresponsible to assume New York doesn’t need to understand the health impacts of fracking simply because the state’s drilling proposal may be better than those of Texas, Louisiana and other states friendly to the gas industry…” ” (Letter from Executive Director of Environmental Advocates of New York, Gannett) (NY)- http://www.lohud.com/article/20111018/OPINION/110180311/Don-t-wait-study-fracking-health
“Radiation Problems due to Hydrofracking: “…In this interview with Dr. Marvin Resnikoff, the threats of radiation problems due to hydrofracking in the Marcellus Shale are discussed. For more information about Dr. Resnikoff, go to http://rwma.com/ For more information about the problems with hydrofracking in the Marcellus Shale, go to http://newyorkwater.org/ …” ” (Shaleshock Media) (NY)- http://shaleshockmedia.org/2011/10/18/radiation-problems-due-to-hydrofracking/
“Does New York City Really Need a New Natural Gas Pipeline, At the End of The High Line?” (TreeHugger)- http://www.treehugger.com/files/2011/10/does-new-york-need-natural-gas-pipeline-at-the-high-line.php
“Broome executive candidates spar: “…Both candidates said they are in favor of safe natural gas drilling. “The New York State (Department of Environmental Conservation), I believe, will be issuing permits this coming spring. Whether you’re for it or against it — it’s coming,” Brennan said. “I think the DEC has done a good job, a thorough job, of writing 1,000 pages of regulations.” It would give a much-needed economic boost to the area, Preston said…” ” (Gannett) (NY)- http://www.pressconnects.com/article/20111018/NEWS01/110180395/Broome-executive-candidates-spar
“Candidates for County Executive hold debate: “…Despite the differences, the candidates do have a few things in common. Both say they support natural gas drilling that is safe and monitored…” ” (Video, YNN) (NY)- http://centralny.ynn.com/content/top_stories/560896/candidates-for-county-executive-hold-debate/
“Report Says Indian Point is Replaceable: “…A new study released by Riverkeeper, the Hudson River environmental advocacy group, says that power coming from Indian Point could be replaced by 2020, without disrupted energy reliability for the metropolitan area…According to the study by Riverkeeper and the Natural Resources Defense Fund, there is an energy surplus in the metropolitan area, and with energy efficiencies and new energy generators, such as natural gas and wind power, the region won’t need new energy facilities to come online until 2020 to maintain reliability…” ” (The Daily Greenburgh) (NY)- http://www.thedailygreenburgh.com/news/report-says-indian-point-replaceable
“How Essential Is Indian Point?: “…So, what would those alternatives be? New York’s electricity infrastructure resembles its highway system, prone to saturation. Once in a while, though, new transmission capacity does gets added. This month, in a little-noticed development, the Bayonne Energy Center finished a 6.75-mile cable that runs from Bayonne, N.J., under the Kill Van Kull, through Upper New York Bay to Gowanus Bay and then to Con Edison’s Gowanus substation. The company plans to build a 512-megawatt gas-fired power station on the New Jersey side…” ” (The New York Times)- http://green.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/10/18/how-essential-is-indian-point/
“Extension director honored for work on collecting natural gas info: “…NORWICH – Ken Smith, executive director of the Chenango County Cooperative Extension, will be recognized as one of the 2011 David J. Allee and Paul R. Eberts Community and Economic Vitality Award recipients today at Cornell University. According to Cornell’s Community and Regional Development Institute, the award is given in recognition of innovative research and development of creative solutions to community issues. This year, Smith and his colleagues of the Cornell Cooperative Extension Marcellus Shale Team will be awarded for their work in providing accurate, research based information about the process of natural gas drilling and its implications…” ” (The Evening Sun) (NY)- http://www.evesun.com/news/stories/2011-10-18/13352/Extension-director-honored-for-work-on-collecting-natural-gas-info/
“Review of natural gas well failure in Bradford County shows no lasting damage: “…Chesapeake released information late Saturday from SAIC, an Oklahoma consulting company the company hired to review the incident. DEP spokeswoman Katy Gresh was unable to provide a comment late Saturday evening. In the Sunday Times’ initial review of the report, SAIC consultants said heavy rainfall in April diluted the wastewater that spilled into Towanda Creek, resulting in “minimal and short-term impacts.”…” ” (Times-Shamrock Communications)- http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/review-of-natural-gas-well-failure-in-bradford-county-shows-no-lasting-damage-1.1218830 & http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story.asp?storyid=%7B5a5159ed-dc06-495b-b600-8e37ef856617%7D
“Report Details Impact from Gas Well Blowout: “…In the six months since that natural gas well blowout near Canton, many have wondered how bad it was. Did it damage private drinking wells or did drilling fluids harm the Towanda Creek? Now, Chesapeake Energy has released its findings…” ” (WNEP) (PA)- http://www.wnep.com/wnep-report-details-impact-from-gas-well-blowout-20111017,0,6193847.story
“Fracking gets a clean bill of health: “…Chesapeake funded the study, which was conducted according to DEP protocols and accepted by the agency and presents the large set of data and technical tables…” ” (NY Post)- http://www.nypost.com/p/news/opinion/opedcolumnists/fracking_gets_clean_bill_of_health_4fKUCwH7xxh4EjhKrn8HFI
“No Lasting Impacts From Gas Well Blowout: “…Chesapeake now highlights an independent study by SAIC which found none of the nearby private water wells were impacted. Land, small tributaries, and the creek however, were temporarily contaminated…” ” (WBNG News)- http://www.wbng.com/news/local/No-Lasting-Impacts-From-Gas-Well-Blowout-132064998.html
“Hydrofracking threatens Finger Lakes region: “…In the draft impact statement, the state fails to address the huge cumulative environmental impact of a process that is expected to involve the construction of thousands of gas wells, thousands of miles of access roads and pipelines and other associated infrastructure…” ” (Letter to editor from Finger Lakes Land Trust) (NY)- http://blog.syracuse.com/opinion/2011/10/hydrofracking_threatens_finger.html
“Drilling impact would be heavy: “…What’s more, in light of recent budget and staff cuts, the state doesn’t appear to have the necessary enforcement and responses in place to deal with sweeping hydrofracking operations. In fact, an internal report from the state Department of Health says that if high-volume hydrofracking moves forward in New York the agency will need additional funding to address potential health impacts and assist with regulating the industry…” ” (Opinion, The Poughkeepsie Journal) (NY)- http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/article/20111018/OPINION01/110180313/
“National, state Sierra Club may align on fracking: “…On Sunday, Downs told a crowd gathered at Temple B’rith Kodesh that the state chapter has been pressuring the national club to change its position. The national Sierra Club is revisiting its position, Downs said, and has acknowledged that there are huge problems with fracking. Ultimately, Downs wants the state chapter to have the autonomy to push for a statewide ban on fracking…” ” (Rochester City Newspaper) (NY)- http://www.rochestercitynewspaper.com/news/blog/2011/10/National-state-Sierra-Club-may-align-on-fracking/
“South Fayette manager resigns: “…Mike Hoy, the South Fayette manager for nearly 11 years, announced Monday night that he is resigning from the township and taking a job at MarkWest, the natural gas processing firm…The departure comes amid the township’s battle over Marcellus Shale development and the legal challenge by gas firm Range Resources of the municipality’s natural gas drilling regulations. MarkWest is a strategic partner with Range Resources…” ” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)- http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11291/1183003-100.stm
“South Fayette manager cites natural gas fight as reason for leaving: “…He wouldn’t say where he might go to work, because he hasn’t formally accepted a job offer…Texas-based Range Resources with offices in Cecil, one of the biggest drillers of the Marcellus shale, has asked the township’s zoning hearing board to overturn the ordinance, calling it a de facto ban on drilling…Commissioner Cindy Cox echoed Sray’s praise for Hoy. “He’s been a very good employee. He’s been very dedicated to the township and always put the township’s need first,” Cox said. Sray, a member of the board for 18 years, said Hoy’s concerns about divisions among people in the township are well-founded…” ” (Pittsburgh Tribune-Review) (PA)- http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/s_762550.html
“Drilling foes blocked from seeking donors at two shopping websites: “…Two national retailers said they will not help a South Fayette community group raise money to fight natural gas drilling. Minneapolis-based electronics and appliance seller Best Buy Co. Inc. barred the Friends of South Fayette from its online purchasing program in June. Finish Line, an Indianapolis-based seller of athletic shoes and gear, said it plans to do the same. Such programs allow people to shop online and donate a portion of sales to groups such as Friends of South Fayette. “We always retain the right to revoke affiliate status at any time to any site,” Finish Line spokesman Alex Yovanovich said. “In the case of the Friends of South Fayette, because it is based on a political platform, this site would not have met our general guidelines.”…” ” (Pittsburgh Tribune-Review) (PA)- http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/s_762551.html
“Many officials hold leases with shale drillers: “…During a contentious meeting in South Fayette last week, the township’s zoning hearing board delayed a decision about a challenge mounted by gas driller Range Resources after calls for several members of the board to recuse themselves from discussions because they have signed gas leases with the Texas-based driller. “It cannot be more clear to me that it’s a conflict of interest,” said South Fayette solicitor Jonathan Kamin, who wants zoning board members to recuse themselves so supervisors can appoint alternate members to hear Range’s response to a recently approved gas well drilling ordinance…” ” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette) (PA)- http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11289/1182296-503.stm
“Opponents of gas metering station continue to air concerns: “…Opponents of a proposed natural gas metering station continued to testify at a Dallas Township Zoning Board hearing Monday evening. Chief Gathering LLC has submitted an application to build a natural gas metering facility off Hildebrandt Road, about 1,300 feet from the Dallas School District campus. The meter would measure gas flowing through a gathering line from wells in Susquehanna and Wyoming counties to the Transco interstate pipeline…” ” (The Dallas Post) (PA)- http://www.timesleader.com/TheDallasPost/news/Opponents_of_gas_metering_station_continue_to_air_concerns_10-18-2011.html
“Senate Dems call for shale training $: “…”There’s no question that a lot of people remain out of work,” said Sen. Wayne Fontana, D-Brookline. “We have to encourage re-training, matching them up with openings.”…The proposal on more job training for the natural-gas industry suggests that the first $5 million raised from an impact fee each year should be set aside for preparing workers. That measure, sponsored by Sen. Tina Tartaglione, D-Philadelphia, also calls for creating a call center to connect potential workers with training programs, with a preference to disabled Pennsylvanians in filling those call-center openings. Fontana said he expects that job-training assistance will be among a multitude of amendments to be offered to the eventual drilling fee legislation…” ” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette) (PA)- http://earlyreturns.sites.post-gazette.com/index.php/early-returns-20/53-post-gazette-staff/3475-senate-dems-call-for-shale-training-
“State: Marcellus gas drilling jobs increase in Pa” (AP) (PA)- http://www.nola.com/newsflash/index.ssf/story/state-marcellus-gas-drilling-jobs-increase-in/db14196ff12c4b7c8b8a24ed6017b5ed & http://www.poconorecord.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20111018/NEWS90/111019719
“New Pa. Govt. Data Demonstrates Powerful Job Creation Impact of Marcellus Shale” (Marcellus Shale Coalition)- http://www.northcentralpa.com/feeditem/2011-10-18_new-pa-govt-data-demonstrates-powerful-job-creation-impact-marcellus-shale
“Pitts: Leave natural gas drilling regs to states: “…U.S. Rep. Joe Pitts and a dozen other members of the state’s congressional delegation are urging President Barack Obama to leave regulation of the booming natural-gas drilling industry to individual states…Pitts spokesman Andrew Wimer said the congressman signed the letter to impress upon the Obama administration the positive impact the industry is having on the nation’s fragile economic recovery and to discourage any new federal regulations that might dampen further job-creation. Pitts, a Republican from Chester County, represents Lancaster County in the 16th Congressional District…The lawmakers, in making their case for no federal regulations, cite a July report prepared by Penn State and University of Wyoming researchers and paid for by the Marcellus Shale Coalition, a trade association for the gas companies…” ” (Lancaster Online) (PA)- http://lancasteronline.com/article/local/481362_Pitts–Leave-natural-gas-drilling-regs-to-states.html
“Pennsylvanians overwhelmingly oppose drilling in parks; clear majority opposes drilling in state forests: “…The first statewide poll by the nonpartisan Mercyhurst College Center for Applied Politics (MCAP), taken between September 19 and October 7, has found that a clear majority – 57 percent – of Pennsylvanians oppose ANY drilling for natural gas in state forests, and that two thirds of Pennsylvanians – 67 percent – oppose drilling within state parks…A clear majority of Pennsylvanians (60 percent) say that they don’t believe corporations extracting gas from the Marcellus Shale formation “truly care about protecting the environment”. The industry could go a long way in demonstrating their environmental sensibilities by respecting the moratorium on further leasing of the state forest and by taking the pledge to stay out of state parks…” ” (PennFuture)- http://pennfuture.blogspot.com/2011/10/pennsylvanians-overwhelmingly-oppose.html
“North East supervisors approve restrictions on natural gas drilling: “…NORTH EAST — North East Township supervisors on Monday unanimously approved regulations they call a “start” toward controlling oil and natural gas development in the township. The new regulations require a conditional use permit plus planning commission and supervisors’ approval to drill a commercial gas well in a residential neighborhood. Energy companies also would need a permit and approval to locate a gas compressor or processing plant in a residential, commercial or agricultural zone…” ” (Erie Times-News) (PA)- http://www.goerie.com/article/20111018/NEWS02/310189956/North-East-supervisors-approve-restrictions-on-natural-gas-drilling
& http://www.istockanalyst.com/business/news/5483024/north-east-supervisors-approve-restrictions-on-natural-gas-drilling
“Shale-related plant coming to Tipton: “…The Altoona area will share in the growth from the Marcellus Shale natural gas boom with Gardner Denver’s construction this winter of a 70,000-square-foot manufacturing plant near Tipton…” ” (The Altoona Mirror) (PA)- http://www.altoonamirror.com/page/content.detail/id/554580/Shale-related-plant-coming-to-Tipton.html?nav=742
“Corbett: Gardner Denver to Create 40 Jobs in Blair County: “…Gov. Tom Corbett has announced that Gardner Denver Inc.’s Engineered Products Group will locate a new Aftermarket Service Center in Antis Township, creating at least 40 new jobs…The project was coordinated by the Governor’s Action Team, or GAT, a group of economic development professionals who work directly with businesses that are considering locating or expanding in Pennsylvania. GAT provides site selection assistance, coordinates the involvement of other state agencies as needed, and packages the appropriate economic development funding for the project…” ” (PA Office of the Govener Press Release)- http://gantdaily.com/2011/10/18/corbett-gardner-denver-to-create-40-jobs-in-blair-county/ & http://www.pa.gov/portal/server.pt/document/1204556/governor_corbett_says_gardner_denver_to_create_40_jobs_in_blair_county (See also http://www.gardnerdenver.com/Industries/Oil_and_Gas.aspx )
“Mayor Ravenstahl pushes trash trucks that run on natural gas: “…Although Shields agreed that natural-gas-powered trucks are more fuel-efficient and produce less pollution, he said processes used to extract natural gas — particularly from drilling in Marcellus shale — harm the environment. Industry advocates argue that drillers are regulated and take steps to protect the environment…” ” (Pittsburgh Tribune-Review) (PA)- http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/s_762339.html
(Event) “Webinar Oct. 20 to look at natural-gas compression in pipeline systems: “…Penn State Extension will sponsor a Web-based seminar at 1 p.m. Thursday that will examine the need for and performance of compressor stations in natural-gas pipeline delivery systems. The 75-minute session will feature a presentation by Glenn Wininger, project engineer with Englobal Engineering Inc., titled “Compressor Stations: the Necessity and Expectations.” In the last few years, a pipeline system to transport gas from the thousands of wells drilled into the mile-deep Marcellus Shale formation has expanded rapidly in states such as Pennsylvania. “It is necessary for the gas industry to compress gas for transport in pipelines,” Wininger said. “In my talk, I will try to offer a basic understanding of gas compression and the different types of compression units.” Wininger said his presentation will cover the factors that necessitate gas compression and the requirements for increased compression throughout the lifetime of a gas well…” ” (Pennsylvania Business Central)- http://www.pabusinesscentral.com/2011/10/webinar-oct-20-to-look-at-natural-gas-compression-in-pipeline-systems/
“Clearfield County commissioner candidates take part in forum: “…PHILIPSBURG – The four Clearfield County commissioner candidates were on hand yesterday at Windy Hill Village in Philipsburg to take part in a forum hosted by the Moshannon Valley Economic Development Partnership…For the Marcellus shale issue, Sobel said the industry is here to stay and people will be forced to get used to it in coming years. Sobel said it has good economical potential, however, he voiced his concerned with the use of frack water. “I think we need to learn to deal with it, learn to live with it and reap the advantages it brings,” said Sobel. “However, we also have to keep an eye on the environment.” McCracken said the industry is great in creating jobs but said he has the same environmental concerns. McCracken said he supports treating and rehabilitating frack water, but is strongly objected to storing frack water underground. He also said by rehabilitating the frack water, plants would be built and therefore more jobs would be created by the process. Monella and McMillen were given a minute for a rebuttal on the matter. Monella said he feels some areas need to be preserved from the process. He agreed that while it creates jobs, the environment needs to be protected. McMillen said she feels if the companies follow the best practices, then gas drilling can be done safely…” ” (The Progress News) (PA)- http://www.theprogressnews.com/default.asp?read=28635
“Corbett should be commended for his fee plan” (Letter from Research Fellow for Commonwealth Foundation, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette) (PA)- http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11291/1182847-110-0.stm
“Commissioner concerned about impact fee regulation: “…Lycoming County Commissioner Jeff C. Wheeland on Monday predicted a flurry of activity focused on getting legislation enacted that would authorize the imposition of a gas industry impact fee…” ” (Williamsport Sun-Gazette) (PA)- http://www.sungazette.com/page/content.detail/id/569914/Commissioner-concerned-about-impact-fee-regulation.html
“The Hunt For The Orphan, Abandoned, Plugged and Un-Plugged Oil and Gas Wells in Pennsylvania: “…THE HUNT KICKS OFF November 1st, 2011! The hunt will end when every abandoned well is properly plugged in Pennsylvania! Join us to help locate and photograph these wells!…” ” (ScavengerHuntPA)- http://scavengerhuntpa.tripod.com/
“Jack Hanna supports fracking: “…”I have no problem with Marcellus Shale,” Hanna said. “We need the resource, and we can’t be captives to our environment.” He plans to incorporate the fracking sites near his conservation center into his tours…” ” (The Altoona Mirror) (PA)- http://www.altoonamirror.com/page/content.detail/id/554622/Jack-Hanna-supports-fracking.html
“Coffeetown Releases Gas Drilling and the Fracking of a Marriage by Stephanie Hamel: “…Gas Drilling and the Fracking of a Marriage, by Stephanie C. Hamel, is a memoir about an environmental scientist who is tempted to betray her ideals by the promise of extravagant royalties…” ” (BriefingWire.com)- http://www.briefingwire.com/pr/coffeetown-releases-gas-drilling-and-the-fracking-of-a-marriage-by-stephanie-hamel
(Events) “Public hearing on proposed Spectra Energy natural-gas pipeline tonight in Bayonne: “…Bayonne officials have been muted in their response to the Houston energy giant’s plan, in contrast to the vociferous opposition shown by Jersey City officials. In December, Spectra revised its original plan to run the 30-inch pipeline along residential streets in Bergen Point, and moved the pipe under the Kill Van Kull instead. The meeting will start at 7 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 669 Ave. C. FERC will meet in Jersey City tomorrow at 7 p.m. at Ferris High School, 35 Colgate St…” ” (New Jersey)- http://www.nj.com/bayonne/index.ssf/2011/10/public_hearing_on_proposed_spe.html (See also http://www.ferc.gov/EventCalendar/EventDetails.aspx?ID=6029&CalType=%20&CalendarID=119&Date=&View=Listview )
National & International:
“10/18/2011 Natural Gas Daily Report” (The Carbon Capture Report)- http://gas.carboncapturereport.org/cgi-bin//dailyreport?DATE=2011-10-18
“Boom Town: What Brings Thousands of Jobs to One Ohio Town?: “…”I just want to work. That’s about it. … I want to work.” …” ” (ABC News)- http://abcnews.go.com/US/boom-town-ohio-town-sees-thousands-jobs/story?id=14761821
“Unemployed Turn to Natural Gas Industry for Employment Opportunities: “…“There is some danger in young people getting trained in the area, when maybe five or ten years from now other factors will keep them from taking advantage of it any further,” said Chuck Wyrostock, who is an outreach organizer for the Sierra Club of West Virginia’s natural gas campaign. According to Wyrostock, it is possible that a push for alternative energy may ultimately wean the country off fossil fuels, which would leave those who have been trained in the natural gas industry in a precarious position. While most experts feel shale-related jobs will remain available for the next 30 to 50 years, they do concede that workers may have to migrate as they follow drilling rigs from one place to the next…” ” (Allvoices)- http://www.allvoices.com/contributed-news/10643607-unemployed-turn-to-natural-gas-industry-for-employment-opportunities
“Rapid expansion of natural gas development poses a threat to surface waters: “…Extraction of natural gas from hard-to-reach reservoirs has expanded around the world and poses multiple environmental threats to surface waters. Improved drilling and extraction technology used to access low permeability natural gas requires millions of liters of water and a suite of chemicals that may be toxic to aquatic biota. There is growing concern among the scientific community and the general public that rapid and extensive natural gas development in the US could lead to degradation of natural resources. Gas wells are often close to surface waters that could be impacted by elevated sediment runoff from pipelines and roads, alteration of streamflow as a result of water extraction, and contamination from introduced chemicals or the resulting wastewater. However, the data required to fully understand these potential threats are currently lacking. Scientists therefore need to study the changes in ecosystem structure and function caused by natural gas extraction and to use such data to inform sound environmental policy…” ” (Ecological Society of America)- http://www.esajournals.org/doi/abs/10.1890/110053 (See also “How close is too close? Hydrofracking to access natural gas reservoirs poses risks to surface water”- http://www.physorg.com/news/2011-10-hydrofracking-access-natural-gas-reservoirs.html )
“It’s Official: ‘Age Of Shale’ Has Arrived” (The Wall Street Journal)- http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203658804576637392455424656.html , http://www.thegwpf.org/international-news/4135-its-official-age-of-shale-has-arrived.html & http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/10/18-8 (See also “The ‘Age of Shale’ and America’s Energy Future”- http://www.energyindepth.org/2011/10/the-age-of-shale-and-americas-energy-future/
“Deal gives nod to gas despite political uncertainty: “…But Kinder Morgan’s deal reflects its confidence that natural gas will power the U.S. for decades to come – trumping renewables such as solar and wind – and that power plants increasingly will switch from dirtier burning coal to natural gas. As long as energy producers keep extracting natural gas from shale formations throughout the U.S., Kinder Morgan is betting that they will need a vast pipeline network to transport the fossil fuel…” ” (Houston Chronicle)- http://www.chron.com/business/article/Deal-gives-nod-to-gas-despite-political-2225161.php
“Battles Over the Federal Policies Regulating Hydraulic Fracturing: “…These developments leave much uncertainty about the development of hydraulic fracturing operations. While calls for overly stringent federal controls on hydraulic fracturing are not likely to prevail, it is also unlikely that these issues will be left solely to state regulation. The stringency, scope and of combination of federal and state regulation in this area will be resolved through the political and regulatory processes. For now, there remains a window of opportunity for companies involved in natural gas development to help shape the regulatory future…” ” (K&L Gates)- http://www.klgates.com/files/Publication/1b96728f-2745-423a-9944-ea82131351e2/Presentation/PublicationAttachment/58b4e457-473d-425d-92ce-eca65337dafa/alert_public_policy_101711.pdf , http://tinyurl.com/3v52rkn & http://www.viewdocsonline.com/document/22cgfz
“Harry Reid to force Tuesday vote on Obama commerce secretary: “…Bryson was also a co-founder of the National Resources Defense Council, a left-leaning environmentalist organization. “He isn’t just a supporter of it,” Inhofe emphasized. “He helped found it.” Inhofe also said Bryson could not possibly affect the economy in a positive way as Commerce Secretary. “Why have a guy as Secretary of Commerce who’s against commerce?” Inhofe asked. Bryson opposes drilling for fossil fuels and hydrofracking natural gas deposits, the senator said, and wants to rely “solely on green energy where the technology does not exist yet.”…” ” (The Daily Caller)- http://dailycaller.com/2011/10/18/harry-reid-to-force-tuesday-vote-on-obama-commerce-secretary/
“US Senate approves pipeline safety bill: “…The U.S. Senate unanimously approved a pipeline safety bill on Monday that would require strength-testing of old pipes and hike fines for safety violations after a series of accidents and explosions. The legislation was sparked by an explosion a year ago in San Bruno, California, on a line owned by Pacific Gas & Electric Co . The explosion destroyed a neighborhood and killed eight people…” (Reuters)- http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/10/18/usa-pipeline-safety-idUSN1E79G1ZS20111018
“Petronet eyes capacity at LNG terminals in US, Australia: “…New Delhi: Petronet LNG Ltd, India’s largest liquefied natural gas importer, is in talks to acquire capacity at proposed LNG terminals in the US and Australia with a view to tie up long-term gas supplies. “Five projects (in the US) have applied to US authorities for approval to export gas,” Petronet CEO and Managing Director A K Balyan told reporters here. “We are talking to some of them with an aim to tie up long-term volumes.” He refused to give details. With domestic gas output falling, companies are looking at new LNG contracts to meet the growing energy demand. Besides Petronet, state-owned gas utility GAIL India, too, is looking to acquire capacity at proposed LNG terminals on the US Gulf Coast. So far, Cheniere’s Sabine Pass, Freeport LNG and Southern Union’s Lake Charles are the three projects that have applied to export LNG…” ” (India)- http://zeenews.india.com/business/companies/petronet-eyes-capacity-at-lng-terminals-in-us-australia_32459.html
“Eminent Domain Fight Has a Canadian Twist: “…A Canadian company has been threatening to confiscate private land from South Dakota to the Gulf of Mexico, and is already suing many who have refused to allow the Keystone XL pipeline on their property even though the controversial project has yet to receive federal approval…” ” (The New York Times)- http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/18/us/transcanada-in-eminent-domain-fight-over-pipeline.html & http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20111017/ZNYT02/110173043/-1/news38?Title=Eminent-Domain-Fight-Has-a-Canadian-Twist
“Kinder Morgan: Meet the next fossil-fuel giant: “…Kinder Morgan made a $22 billion bid for El Paso Corp to form a pipeline conglomerate that will dominate the business of sending fossil fuels from place to place. You might not know it, but this is a very big deal for your ability to drive your car, heat your house, and turn on your lights. Suddenly, Kinder Morgan would be the fourth-largest energy company in America…” ” (Grist)- http://www.grist.org/fossil-fuels/2011-10-18-kinder-morgan-meet-the-next-fossil-fuel-giant
“Kinder Morgan Accelerates Growth With El Paso Purchase: “…The company will be expanding its role as part of a growing network of pipeline and storage assets bringing domestic natural gas from new fields to power plants and, potentially, even export terminals…” ” (AOL Energy)- http://energy.aol.com/2011/10/18/kinder-morgan-accelerates-growth-with-el-paso-purchase/
“Enron castoffs became pipeline empire: “…The deal may be the pinnacle of a 15-year journey that saw Kinder take a handful of unwanted pipelines from Enron and build them into a booming energy empire…” ” (Houston Chronicle)- http://www.chron.com/business/energy/article/Enron-castoffs-became-pipeline-empire-2223435.php & http://fuelfix.com/blog/2011/10/18/enron-castoffs-became-pipeline-terminal-empire/
“More Mergers Likely in Booming Shale Production Business: “…The more than $25 billion in energy deals this week suggest there could be a lot more merger activity among companies looking to gain a foot hold in the oil and gas shale boom that is transforming the American energy business…” ” (CNBC)- http://www.cnbc.com/id/44937731 & http://loga.la/haynesville-shale-news/?p=863
“Natural gas expansion fuels $21B pipeline deal: “…Kinder Morgan’s pipelines in the Rocky Mountains, the Midwest and Texas will merge with El Paso’s network that spreads from the Gulf Coast to New England, as well as to the west through New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada and California. The pipeline system connects to many important natural gas shale plays, including the Marcellus Shale, which lies beneath much of Pennsylvania, and the Utica Shale in New York and Ohio. “Major acquisitions like this underscore the critical and expanding role America’s abundant natural gas reserves, particularly right here from the Marcellus and Utica shale formations, will continue to play in fueling our nation for decades to come,” said Kathryn Klaber, president of the Marcellus Shale Coalition, an industry trade group…” ” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)- http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11290/1182766-84-0.stm
“US natural gas giant Kinder Morgan expands empire in US$20.7 bil. deal: “…Kinder Morgan plans to buy El Paso Corp. in a US$20.7 billion deal that’s expected to create America’s largest natural gas pipeline operator…” ” (Associated Press)- http://www.chinapost.com.tw/business/americas/2011/10/18/320153/US-natural.htm
“Kinder-El Paso Merger to Face Antitrust Scrutiny: “…To get the deal done, they say, the companies will likely have to sell significant assets, especially in regions where they overlap. But it is unlikely the deal would be blocked outright, the lawyers said…” ” (The Wall Street Journal)- http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203658804576639361756249384.html
“Kinder Morgan Bondholders Face El Paso Risk: Corporate Finance: “…Kinder Morgan said in an investor presentation on Oct. 16 it will borrow $11.5 billion, before lowering its obligations within two years by selling some of El Paso’s assets and transferring others to affiliated partnerships. While the takeover announcement bolstered the Houston-based company’s stock, the cost to protect its bonds from default with credit derivatives soared by the most since 2006. Chief Executive Officer Richard Kinder will be seeking to repay the loans from Barclays Plc as the economy slows and corporate borrowing costs hover near the highest since 2009. Moody’s Investors Service put Kinder Morgan on review for a downgrade today, citing “significant market risk” from the deleveraging plan…” ” (Bloomberg)- http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2011/10/18/bloomberg_articlesLT9SN91A1I4H.DTL
“El Paso’s ‘Juicy’ Shale Assets May Attract Reliance, Statoil/El Paso’s ‘Juicy’ U.S. Shale Gas Assets May Attract Reliance, Occidental: “…India’s Reliance Industries Ltd., Norway’s Statoil ASA and Occidental Petroleum Corp. may be among bidders for El Paso Corp.’s oil and natural-gas unit as the companies seek to expand their stakes in U.S. shale fields. Kinder Morgan Inc. is seeking a buyer for El Paso’s exploration business to help pay off debt from this week’s $21.1 billion takeover of the rival pipeline company, which creates the biggest gas pipeline network in the U.S…Among Chinese companies, state-controlled Cnooc Ltd. would be the most likely bidder because it already holds stakes in Texas shale-gas assets, Neil Beveridge, a Hong Kong-based senior analyst at Sanford C. Bernstein & Co., said by telephone today. The El Paso assets “are reasonably priced” and “well within” Cnooc’s financing capabilities, he said…” ” (Bloomberg)- http://www.businessweek.com/news/2011-10-18/el-paso-s-juicy-shale-assets-may-attract-reliance-statoil.html & http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-10-18/el-paso-s-juicy-u-s-shale-gas-assets-may-attract-reliance-occidental.html
“New Natural Gas Business Gives Gas Midstream Sector Renaissance: “…Natural gas’ midstream business is seeing a new direction and growth as natural gas from shale reservoirs continues to grow and expand. Usually in the gas business, midstream activities are seen as a part of the downstream – the marketing, distribution and consumption – ends of the business. Now, with so much activity in the areas of gathering, storage, treating and processing, and pipelines at the intra and interstate levels for natural gas and natural gas liquids (NGLs), it is coming into its own…” ” (Pipeline & Gas Journal)- http://www.pipelineandgasjournal.com/new-natural-gas-business-gives-gas-midstream-sector-renaissance?page=show
“Pipeline MLPs May Start To Consolidate After Kinder Morgan’s Acquisition Of El Paso: “…On Sunday, October 16, Kinder Morgan (KMI) announced plans to acquire El Paso Corporation (EP). In May, El Paso announced its own plans to spilt itself into two companies: a pipeline company and an exploration and production company. Kinder Morgan has also stated it plans to sell El Paso’s exploration and production division. Kinder Morgan will gain approximately 43,000 miles of gas pipelines from El Paso, increasing its gas pipelines to about 67,000 miles. This deal is being seen as a possible starting salvo for a coming barrage of consolidation among pipeline companies that distribute oil and gas within the United States…” ” (Seeking Alpha)- http://seekingalpha.com/article/300293-pipeline-mlps-may-start-to-consolidate-after-kinder-morgan-s-acquisition-of-el-paso
“Williams Cheap Target for Pipeline After El Paso Deal: Real M&A” (Bloomberg)- http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2011/10/18/bloomberg_articlesLT9MK61A74E9.DTL&ao=all
“What Is The Future Of Natural Gas Use In The U.S.?: “…The Kinder Morgan deal will likely make the company the largest natural gas pipeline operator in North America. This comes at a time when more people in the U.S. are becoming reliant on the fuel. For more, Robert Siegel speaks with Daniel Yergin, chairman of IHS Cambridge Energy Associates and author of The Quest: Energy, Security, and the Remaking of the Modern World…” ” (Audio, NPR)- http://www.npr.org/2011/10/17/141434059/what-is-the-future-of-natural-gas-use?ft=1&f=1007
“Statoil Buys Brigham for $4.4 Billion to Get Bakken Shale: “…Statoil ASA, Norway’s biggest oil company, agreed to buy Brigham Exploration Co. for about $4.4 billion in cash, expanding in unconventional U.S. assets …” ” (Bloomberg)- http://news.businessweek.com/article.asp?documentKey=1376-LT7ETW6JTSEB01-5M4N1SAN5PFMM4HTDKM4V5EI2C
“Norway’s Statoil to buy Austin exploration company: “…The move marks the latest effort by Statoil, majority owned by Norway’s government, to become a significant player in North America’s thriving business of drilling in complex shale rock, which has rejuvenated domestic oil and gas production in recent years…” ” (HOUSTON CHRONICLE)- http://www.chron.com/business/article/Norway-s-Statoil-to-buy-Austin-exploration-company-2223449.php
“Statoil enters Bakken Shale with $4.4B purchase of Brigham Exploration: “…The Brigham transaction provides Statoil with around 430 miles (690 kilometers) of oil, natural gas, and water transportation systems in the Williston Basin. Maloney said this will not only secure offtake, but it will also significantly limit the environmental footprint and allow Statoil to continue to implement industry leading HSE standards. Statoil says it plans to expand transportation infrastructure in the area, including pipelines, as it has done in the Marcellus Shale play in eastern North America…” ” (Oil & Gas Financial Journal)- http://www.ogfj.com/index/article-display/5967494859/articles/oil-gas-financial-journal/mergers-acquisitions/statoil-enters_bakken.html
“Ex-Goldman partner’s boutique cheers rankings boost with Statoil win: “…Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co, the energy-focused investment bank set up by a former Goldman Sachs partner, has moved back into the top 10 rankings for US oil and gas advisory after winning a role alongside its founder’s former employer on a $4.7bn deal in the sector…The deal is Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co’s third biggest on record, behind the $12bn restructuring of the partnership between natural gas transportation companies Williams and Williams Partners in January last year, and the $6.4bn July spin-off by US company Questar of its natural gas and oil exploration and production business. It also represents the biggest deal on which the independent investment bank has acted for a non-US acquiror, having previously advised India’s Reliance Industries on its $1.4bn acquisition of the Eagle Ford shale gas field in the US…” ” (Financial News)- http://www.efinancialnews.com/story/2011-10-18/ex-goldman-sachs-partner-boutique-win-role
“Latest Statoil deal sparks protests: “…Environmentalists were quick to criticize Norwegian oil company Statoil’s latest overseas venture. Its bid to take over Brigham Exploration Co, which runs oil exploration and extraction operations on the US prairie, is among the largest acquisitions in Norwegian history…” ” (Norway)- http://www.newsinenglish.no/2011/10/18/latest-statoil-deal-sparks-protests/
“Enterprise Products to sell Mississippi gas storage facilities: “…Enterprise Products Partners L.P. said it will sell its Mississippi natural gas storage facilities to Boardwalk HP Storage Company LLC for $550 million to partly fund the construction of its midstream energy projects…” ” (Reuters)- http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/10/17/enterpriseproductspartners-idUSL3E7LH2EC20111017
“Anadarko’s $4 Billion BP Settlement Will Let Company Focus on Africa, U.S./Anadarko Ends Standoff, Settles With BP on Gulf Spill Costs: “…Anadarko Petroleum Corp. (APC), which last year blamed BP Plc (BP/) for a record Gulf of Mexico crude spill, changed course when it reached a $4 billion settlement that will allow the U.S. oil and natural-gas producer to focus on projects in Africa and the U.S…” ” (Bloomberg)- http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-10-17/anadarko-s-bp-settlement-will-let-company-focus-on-africa-u-s-.html
“Halliburton’s profit jumps 25 percent: “…Halliburton posted a 25 percent increase in its third-quarter profit, riding the active North American market of drilling in unconventional oil and natural gas fields, the company reported Monday…” ” (HOUSTON CHRONICLE)- http://www.chron.com/business/energy/article/Halliburton-s-profit-jumps-25-percent-2223450.php
“Majoring in Shale: Colleges respond to natural gas boom” (Associated Press)- http://itemonline.com/local/x1372399587/Majoring-in-Shale-Colleges-respond-to-natural-gas-boom
“European fracking boom ‘doubtful’: “…But, speaking at a press event in Amsterdam, van Beurden said that the chances of Europe embracing shale gas were slim because of a fundamental difference between the US and Europe. ‘It works a whole lot better if the mineral rights to the gas actually belong to the land owners,’ he said. ‘In places like North America, the land owners love to see a drilling rig because it means money in the pocket. But in places like northwestern Europe, mineral rights are being held by the state so the only thing as a land owner you have is inconvenience. And therefore I think it will be more difficult to get these things permitted in places like Holland, Germany, France.’ Van Beurden added: ‘It may happen in places that are more at the economic periphery, like Poland.’…” ” (Royal Society of Chemistry)- http://www.rsc.org/chemistryworld/News/2011/October/18101102.asp
“Reorganization of Title 30: Bureaus of Safety and Environmental Enforcement and Ocean Energy Management: “…This rule contains regulations that will be under the authority of two newly formed Bureaus, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), both within the Department of the Interior. On May 19, 2010, the Secretary of the Interior announced the separation of the responsibilities performed by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement (BOEMRE) (formerly the Minerals Management Service) into three new separate organizations: Office of Natural Resources Revenue (ONRR), Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), and Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE). Those regulations that will apply to the authority of BSEE organization will remain in 30 CFR chapter II, but be retitled “Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement.” This rule removes from chapter II those regulations that will apply to the authority of BOEM and recodifies them into a new 30 CFR chapter V entitled “Bureau of Ocean Energy Management.”…” ” (Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation, and Enforcement and the Interior Department via Federal Register)- http://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2011/10/18/2011-22675/reorganization-of-title-30-bureaus-of-safety-and-environmental-enforcement-and-ocean-energy
“Judge Can Sentence But Not Silence Tim DeChristopher: “…Tim DeChristopher is the only person to have been named an Utne Reader visionary while in prison: He’s serving a two-year sentence for disrupting a federal oil and gas lease auction in Utah in an act of environmental protest…” ” (Utne Reader)- http://www.utne.com/Wild-Green/Judge-Can-Sentence-But-Not-Silence-Tim-DeChristopher.aspx
“Tell EPA to cover ‘pre-existing’ cases of fracking air pollution that impact our communities every day!: “…EPA recently proposed new rules to reduce air pollution from NEW hydraulically fractured gas wells. And they’re a big step in the right direction. But what about the people that live next to EXISTING wells? THE WELLS THAT ALREADY FOUL OUR AIR AND CAUSE HEALTH PROBLEMS? Well, the proposed rule doesn’t cover “pre-existing conditions”…” ” (TXSHARON)- http://www.texassharon.com/2011/10/18/tell-epa-to-cover-pre-existing-cases-of-fracking-air-pollution-that-impact-our-communities-every-day/
(Event) “Pulitzer Prize Winning Author Daniel Yergin to Keynote 8th Annual Clean-Tech Investor Summit: “…The Clean-Tech Investor Summit, chaired by Technology Partners’ Ira Ehrenpreis, and co-produced by International Business Forum and Clean Edge, is the premier clean-tech investment and innovation event. Held each winter in Palm Springs, CA, the event brings together leading investors, Fortune 500 executives, entrepreneurs, and others for two days of high-level presentations, conversations, and networking. The 8th Annual Clean-Tech Investor Summit is scheduled for February 1-2, 2012. To learn more go to: http://www.cleantechsummit.com. ..” ” (BusinessWire)- http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20111018005520/en/Pulitzer-Prize-Winning-Author-Daniel-Yergin-Keynote
“Acclaimed author, energy expert to speak in Midland: “…Acclaimed author and energy expert Dr. Daniel Yergin will speak Tuesday, Oct. 25, at Chaparral Center on the Midland College campus beginning at 7 p.m. His speech is sponsored by Midland College’s Petroleum Professional Development Center and Pioneer Natural Resources…But, he cautioned, that drilling activity has spread into communities unfamiliar with the oil and gas industry and said the industry must work hard to reassure those communities it is developing those much-needed resources in an environmentally sound manner to ease concern about the impact on air and water. Addressing community impact must become, he said, a part of the fabric of public trust toward the industry. While Washington does not truly appreciate the industry’s contributions, he said, he predicted “in coming weeks you’ll see a lot more discussion about the jobs created by the shale development.”…” ” (Texas)- http://www.mywesttexas.com/entertainment/pulse/article_8c151afd-a8d8-5b0e-985e-554eb006f44d.html
“Getting the right information on Marcellus Shale: “…West Virginia’s political leadership and much of the media continue their push to show how great Marcellus Shale drilling is going to be for our state, and to dispel any notion that the state’s tax structure and regulatory requirements are not tough enough on the industry…” ” (West Virginia)- http://blogs.wvgazette.com/watchdog/2011/10/18/getting-the-right-information-on-marcellus-shale/
“EPA Reaches for the Air Emissions of Hydraulically Fractured Wells and Beyond: “…In particular, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently issued a proposed rule that would subject several parts of the oil and natural gas production, transmission and storage processes to air emission limitations. If you are engaged in any aspect of the oil and gas industry, you should take notice – EPA’s proposal extends to sources of emissions not previously regulated, including fractured and refractured wells…” ” (Dinsmore & Shohl LLP via JDSupra)- http://www.jdsupra.com/post/documentViewer.aspx?fid=3de96746-b347-49c3-936f-9de00695a925
“EPA: Air Quality Fine During Fracturing at Morgantown Gas Well” (West Virginia)- http://www.wboytv.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=110394 & http://www.wtrf.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=110394
“Group Seeking County Support: “…Most notably, however, they discussed the condition of roads in rural areas of the county, which Toland said has gotten worse. She said despite some work being done by Marcellus Shale drilling companies over the past few weeks, she anticipates their condition will deteriorate over the winter months…” ” (West Virginia)- www.news-register.net/page/content.detail/id/560795/Group-Seeking-County-Support.html
“Report warns of state’s gas fees: “…The report warned that gas producers might pick states with lower fees…” ” (West Virginia)- http://www.dailymail.com/News/statenews/201110170215
“Dominion East Ohio officials respond to Fairport Harbor residents at meeting: “…On Friday, Dominion East Ohio filed a report citing “pipeline fluids and gas temperature drop across the regulators” as the cause of the over-pressurization that resulted in the Jan. 24 fires throughout Fairport Harbor…” ” (Ohio)- http://news-herald.com/articles/2011/10/19/news/nh4642830.txt?viewmode=fullstory
“Wise: Ohio natural gas boom sparks cautious OFU policy for now: “…One of the issues sure to be on the radar of the Ohio Farmers Union for some time to come is the Ohio’s natural gas boom…Wise believes that several items in Ohio Senate Bill 212 could go a long way toward Ohio moving into this new gas economy responsibly…” ” (Ohio Farmers Union)- http://ohfarmersunion.org/2011/10/wiseohio-natural-gas-boom-sparks-cautious-ofu-policy-for-now/
“Baard Energy drops coal for natural gas at its proposed Ohio refinery producing jet and diesel fuel: “…Baard Energy, a Vancouver energy development company, is proposing to build a $3.5 billion refinery in Columbiana County south of Youngstown to manufacture jet and diesel fuel from natural gas…” ” (Ohio)- http://www.cleveland.com/business/index.ssf/2011/10/baard_energy_drops_coal_for_na.html
(Event) “Final Schedule Announced for Shale Event: “…The day-long event, Ohio’s first Utica shale play conference, will take place Nov. 30 at the Covelli Centre, and is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. During that time, attendees may view all of the exhibits, as well as learn about job opportunities, the science of hydrofracking and essential tips for landowners…” ” (Ohio)- http://business-journal.com/final-schedule-announced-for-shale-event-p20208-1.htm
“Area native set to appear on ‘World News’: “…STEUBENVILLE, Ohio — As the city manager of Steubenville, Ohio, Cathy Davison often appears in local news spots. But getting featured on ABC World News with Diane Sawyer? Well, that’s a first. Tonight’s broadcast at 6:30 p.m. will include a taped interview with the 1988 Durand High School graduate. The topic: Steubenville’s economy, which is on the rise, thanks to its proximity to the natural gas-rich Marcellus Shale…” ” (Ohio)- http://www.argus-press.com/news/news_local/article_19b18c08-f997-11e0-825c-001cc4c002e0.html
“Reasonable fees OK to deduct from gas royalty payments: “…JACKSON, Miss. (Legal Newsline) – The Mississippi Supreme Court ruled last week that an oil company can deduct reasonable processing and investment costs from payments to royalty owners…” ” (Legal Newsline) (Mississippi)- http://www.legalnewsline.com/news/234153-reasonable-fees-ok-to-deduct-from-gas-royalty-payments
“Frack Water Recycling To Begin In Karnes County: “…Roman said it is a two-step process. He said clarification separates any solids using chemicals already in use at municipal water treatment plants. Roman said the clean salt water eventually goes into a distillation unit where it is boiled, the steam condensed, releasing distilled water for re-use…” ” (Texas)- http://www.ksat.com/news/29512531/detail.html
“Fort Worth City Council has two big issues on tonight’s agenda: “…Proposed changes to the gas drilling ordinance include a recommendation to require a special permit — and more for waivers from surrounding property owners — for multiwell pad sites. Waivers would also be required from all affected parties — or 75 percent with council approval — for any pad site within designated buffer zones…The city is also considering lifting its moratorium on saltwater injection wells in the city. While some city officials have said it would ease truck traffic on Fort Worth roads since all of that wastewater must now be trucked out of the city, some groups remain firmly against lifting the moratorium…” ” (Texas)- http://www.star-telegram.com/2011/10/17/3451633/fort-worth-city-council-has-two.html
“Fort Worth activists and gas companies oppose new drilling rules: “…Revisions to current rules touch on everything from setbacks -meaning how far the wells will need to be placed from homes and schools – to emissions and waste disposal. It looks like activists and gas companies can agree on one thing, neither likes the new rules…” ” (Video, WFAA) (Texas)- http://www.wfaa.com/news/local/Activists-and-Gas-Companies-oppose-new-drilling-rules-132083253.html
“Drilling concerns: “…It was only a matter of time until the ugly side of natural gas finally reared its head in my neighborhood. Just when I was getting used to the natural gas wells dotting the landscape, now the lords of natural gas want to put a compressor station several hundred feet from my front door along a bucolic stretch of Randol Mill Road in east Fort Worth. You might not think much about the barnlike structure if you saw it. But the fact that this compressor station requires a zoning exception should tell you a lot. Not only is there the potential for a lot of noise, but these installations also emit benzene and formaldehyde, two compounds sure to dampen interest in buying a house in my neighborhood. It’s my understanding that ZC-11-098 is still under review. But if this is approved, it leads to one conclusion: The powers that be have decided a little collateral damage for the greater good is perfectly acceptable. That’s all fine and good — until you’re the collateral damage…” ” (Letter to editor) (Texas)- http://www.star-telegram.com/2011/10/18/3454441/texas-rangers-natural-gas-drilling.html
“Belfield puts natural gas facility on hold: “…A proposed $10 million natural gas loading facility brought up quite a few questions during a Zoning Board meeting Monday night, so members decided it was a decision best be left to the public…” ” (North Dakota)- http://www.thedickinsonpress.com/event/article/id/52181/group/News/
“BLM finalizes plan for northwest Colorado lands: “…A new plan for 2.3 million acres BLM lands in northwestern Colorado protects some of the region’s natural resources but still leaves 90 percent of the land open to potential oil and gas drilling…” ” (Colorado)- http://summitcountyvoice.com/2011/10/18/blm-finalizes-plan-for-northwest-colorado-lands/
“BLM opens scenic NW Colorado land to drilling” (AP)- http://washingtonexaminer.com/news/2011/10/blm-opens-scenic-nw-colorado-land-drilling& http://www.aspentimes.com/article/20111018/NEWS/111019840/1077
“Vermillion closed to drilling: “…Conservation groups on Monday praised the decision to keep drilling out of the Vermillion Basin, but contended the plan otherwise remains too industry-friendly, with 90 percent of the land and minerals covered by the plan still open to drilling. “The last administration set the bar so low that, although this final plan is a vast improvement, it still does not do enough to protect the amazingly unique natural resources of northwest Colorado,” Soren Jespersen, Northwest Colorado wildlands coordinator with The Wilderness Society in Craig, said in a news release…Gray said local comments were ignored with regard to the Vermillion Basin and the Yampa River. Property owners and water rights holders raised concerns about possible adverse impacts of a Wild & Scenic suitability finding for the Yampa. “So much for local input,” Gray said. Any Wild & Scenic designation for river stretches found to be suitable is up to Congress…” ” (Colorado)- http://www.gjsentinel.com/news/articles/vermillion_closed_to_drilling/
“Drilling industry in Colorado hopes voluntary testing will ease groundwater fears: “…“Colorado oil and gas companies are preparing for a Nov. 1 rollout of the nation’s first statewide voluntary groundwater monitoring program for their industry. The Colorado Oil and Gas Association is launching a baseline testing program that it hopes will show the public that oil and gas operations don’t foul groundwater…” ” (Colorado)- http://www.gjsentinel.com/news/articles/drilling_industry_in_colorado & http://www.niobraranews.net/archives/1097 (See also http://www.coga.org/index.php/BaselineWaterSampling )
“Wyoming Regulators, Industry Examine Gas Flaring Rules: “…The owner of the well was asking permission to flare 850,000 cubic feet a day of gas for up to six months. At current prices, that would mean the state, which gets a cut of the value of gas taken from state resources, could stand to lose more than $104,000 in value from the flared gas over the six-month period…” ” (Wyoming)- http://billingsgazette.com/news/state-and-regional/wyoming/article_ddba5d0a-b631-5eb6-ae5a-1209d4fbbaf5.html
“Natural gas fueling station draws crowd: “…RIVERTON, Wyo. — About 200 people came out to see the opening of the first natural gas fueling station in Wyoming Monday morning at The Pit Stop in Riverton. The ground-breaking moment was made possible through a partnership with the natural gas giant EnCana and Bailey Enterprises…” ” (Wyoming)- http://rivertonradio.com/index.php/2011/10/18/crowd-gathers-at-new-natural-gas-fueling-station/
“Gaz Metro: LNG Fueling Station Pens in Canada: “…Today, in the presence of Clément Gignac, the Quebec Minister of Natural Resources and Wildlife and Minister responsible for the Northern Plan, Pierre Moreau, the Quebec Minister of Transport and Nicole Ménard, the Quebec Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible of the Montérégie region, Claude Robert, President and CEO of Robert Transport, and Sophie Brochu, President and CEO of Gaz Métro, announced the inauguration of the first commercial liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuelling station in Canada along the “Blue Road.” This station is an integral part of the LNG pilot project designed to fuel a fleet of heavy-duty trucks…” ” (LNG World News) (Canada)- http://www.lngworldnews.com/gaz-metro-lng-fuelling-station-opens-in-canada/ (See also “Going down the ‘blue road’”- http://www.montrealgazette.com/news/montreal/Going+down+blue+road/5564378/story.html )
“Canada: Kitimat LNG Wins Export License: “…Kitimat LNG partners Apache Canada Ltd., EOG Resources Canada Inc. and Encana Corporation has announced that the National Energy Board (NEB) has granted Kitimat LNG a 20-year export licence to ship liquefied natural gas from Canada to international markets…” ” (LNG World News) (Canada)- http://www.lngworldnews.com/canada-kitimat-lng-wins-export-licence/
“Natural gas processing plant expansion in west central Alberta: “…“Over the next number of years, we expect our NGLs (natural gas liquids) extraction to triple from about 10,000 barrels per day to about 30,000 barrels per day following investment by industry-leading third-party midstream companies at three Alberta Deep Basin plants.” The latest step in Encana’s plan to increase natural gas production in Alberta’s Deep Basin is a project with Pembina to modify and expand the Resthaven gas plant. The Resthaven area, located in west central Alberta, is known for supplying natural gas that is rich in other liquids…” ” (Canada)- http://www.joconl.com/article/id47159
“Oilsite protestor appears in Alberta court, says Constitution is her defence: “…The Blood Tribe’s resources company granted Murphy Oil permission to drill wells and at sites on their reserve south of Calgary. But Frank and the other two women say the band council did not consult with band members before granting that permission. Frank has said she is concerned about the effects of hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking, which involves a injecting a mixture of chemicals, water and sand into the ground to help release gas and oil…” ” (Canada)- http://www.oilweek.com/news.asp?ID=35598 & http://www.globallethbridge.com/oilsite+protestor+appears+in+alberta+court+says+constitution+is+her+defence/6442503112/story.html
“Appeal heard against pipeline: “…Legal counsels have stated their cases in the court of appeal, and now the stakeholders in the Sullivan Field pipeline are waiting for an outcome. It has been a case of the ranchers and first nations against the oil and gas industry…” ” (Canada)- http://www.nantonnews.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3336410
“Eni CEO: Europe Must Do More To Develop Shale Gas: “…”Gas consumption will be in excess of oil consumption in Europe simply because the best way to meet CO2 targets is to replace coal with gas,” he said. “If some countries really want to get out of nuclear, I don’t see any other way to provide electricity,” than natural gas. Greater reliance on gas means Europe needs to improve cross-border pipeline connections, he said. “Creating a network of pipes which connect the different countries of Europe is essential to give security of supply,” he said, adding that this could require the creation of a single European pipeline authority…” ” (Dow Jones Newswires/The Wall Street Journal)- http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20111018-705588.html & http://www.londonstockexchange.com/exchange/news/dow-jones/news-detail.html?newsId=20111018DN005918
“Earthquakes along Lancashire coast WERE caused by drilling for gas, experts warn as energy operation is threatened with closure” (United Kingdom)- http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2050025/Earthquakes-Lancashire-coast-WERE-caused-drilling-gas-experts-warn-energy-operation-threatened-closure.html
“Drilling did cause ‘earthquake’” (United Kingdom)- http://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/news/local/drilling_did_cause_earthquake_1_3876146
“US company to recycle CSG water: “…The 15 million dollar project, operated by Fountain Quail management and NAC trucking services, will transport the chemical-laden water to the recycling sites and implement a purifying process.Coal Seam Gas production has been criticised for pollution of the water table. Jaime Roman from Fountain Quail water management told CNN, “It’s distilled water, it is super clean, it meets and exceeds drinking water standards.”…” ” (Australia)- http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/1597733/US-company-to-recycle-CSG-water |