ALBANY, NY (02/22/2012)– In response to the ruling by state Supreme Court Justice Phillip Rumsey, the New York Water Rangers released the following statement:
“The New York Water Rangers applaud the citizens of Dryden, NY, whose dedication to protecting their community from the dangers of industrial gas drilling resulted in a zoning amendment prohibiting gas development that was upheld in the Court’s decision. In particular, the Water Rangers applaud the Dryden Resources Awareness Coalition, Helen and David Slottje of the Community Defense Council, Inc., and our water ranger partner, Earthjustice. We also commend the Town Board for listening to the people of Dryden and standing firm in defense of local zoning power in the face of a major industry attack.
The Town of Dryden has proven in court that ordinary people–not multinational energy companies–have power over the character of local communities. ”
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The New York Water Rangers campaign is supported by a network of organizations working to protect the rights and health of New Yorkers and one of our most precious environmental resources-water-from the dangers of irresponsible, poorly regulated and under-inspected natural gas exploration and development. The campaign is supported by Catskill Mountainkeeper, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Earthjustice, EARTHWORKS Oil & Gas Accountability Project, Environmental Advocates of New York, Environment New York, Fleased, Natural Resources Defense Council, Otsego 2000, and Riverkeeper. Visit www.CleanWaterNotDirtyDrilling.org to learn more.