Tell the EPA: Don’t frack with New York’s Water!

The debate over hydraulic fracturing has gained the attention of Capitol Hill. In response to concerns raised about the safety of hydrofracking, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will conduct a scientific study to determine the impact of natural gas drilling on drinking water and the environment. Among the major causes for alarm are the massive amounts of water necessary for the drilling process, the disposal of contaminated water, and the potential of wastewater to pollute the drinking water supply.

The EPA has held several public information sessions to solicit feedback from experts and concerned citizens in regions of the country most likely to be affected by fracking. New York State residents and anyone with a stake in the preservation of clean water can make their voices heard at the next session, which will take place at Binghamton University in Binghamton, New York on August 12, 2010.  The EPA’s Office of Research and Development (ORD) will use input from the meetings to help complete the study design by September 2010. The study is scheduled to start in January 2011 with initial results expected by late 2012. Interested participants may register for the August meeting online or via toll-free number 1-866-477-3635. Email comments may be sent to the EPA at [email protected]. Whether it’s by email, snail mail, smartphone, or in person, let the EPA know Don’t Frack with NY Water!