3/8 Hydrofracking Forum in Geneva

The Geneva League of Women Voters and Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association will co-sponsor an educational forum on Hydrofracking the Marcellus Shale in the Finger Lakes on Monday, March 8th from 7 – 9 pm at the Finger Lakes Institute at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, 601 South Main Street, Geneva.    The speakers are Dr. Tony Ingraffea, Dwight C. Baum Professor of Engineering, Cornell University; Marion Balyszak, director of Finger Lakes Institute; and  Philip Cianciotto, president of SLPWA.

Dr. Ingraffea will discuss the current state of technology and the environmental impact of horizontal natural gas drilling and hydraulic fracturing or “hydrofracking” in the Marcellus Shale.  Ms. Balyszak and Mr. Cianciotto will each present a summary of their respective organization’s concerns and recommendations for fiscally and environmentally responsible hydrofracking for natural gas in the Finger Lakes region of Marcellus Shale.  Both FLI and SLPWA have submitted comments on the draft supplemental generic environmental impact statement now being considered by DEC in order to adopt regulations to permit the hydraulic drilling process.

Gas drilling in the Finger Lakes has existed for many years, but hydrofracking technology makes it possible for areas to be drilled in a more heightened concentration not previously
undertaken in New York State.   Significant hydrofracking is currently underway in Pennsylvania as well as in several other states, including Texas.  The issues associated with the drilling are complex and controversial, and while the potential economic benefits may be great, many question whether the benefits outweigh the risks to our watershed, lakes, and natural environment.

The public is invited to attend to learn more and ask questions.  Refreshments will be served.

Contact:  Kim
Reisch  (315) 789-7104