NY, PA, NJ, OH , WV & MD

"Fox’s New Fracking Video: The Sky is Pink: "...This week the debate over hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) intensified in New York State after a proposal to allow fracking on a limited basis was leaked. Now, Gasland director (and Our Hero) Josh Fox has weighed in with a new 18-minute video, The Sky is Pink, addressed directly to Governor Cuomo, who has said he wants his policy decision about hydraulic fracturing to be one “based on science.” Fox gladly runs with that, and argues that “just as there is no safe cigarette, there is no safe drilling.”..." " (ecocentric Blog)- http://www.ecocentricblog.org/2012/06/22/foxs-new-fracking-video-the-sky-is-pink/ (See also "Fracking is hardly leakproof" (Josh Fox & Barbara Arrindell via Albany Times Union)- http://www.timesunion.com/opinion/article/Fracking-is-hardly-leakproof-3646458.php & "The Sky is Pink" (Josh Fox via EcoWatch)- http://ecowatch.org/2012/the-sky-is-pink/ & "VIDEO: Fox Pundits Dismiss Fracking Risks: "...Fox News pundits have repeatedly claimed that fracking poses no risk to water supplies, even though there are several documented cases where extraction of shale gas and activities related to fracking have contaminated water. Watch how their blanket denials of risk contrast with real news reports on the damage natural gas extraction has done to water supplies:..." " (Media Matter for America)- http://mediamatters.org/blog/201206210018 )

"Cuomo: Hydrofracking review 'will be done shortly': "...ALBANY — Gov. Andrew Cuomo signaled Friday that a resolution to the state’s four-year review of hydraulic fracturing for natural gas could come to a conclusion soon. During a radio interview, Cuomo said that while there is no deadline, a decision on hydrofracking is imminent. “We don’t have a hard date, but it will be done shortly,” Cuomo said on Albany’s WGDJ-AM (1300)..." " (Jon Campbell/GANNETT) (New York)- http://www.democratandchronicle.com/article/20120622/NEWS01/306220026/ , http://statepolitics.lohudblogs.com/2012/06/22/cuomo-hydrofracking-review-%E2%80%9Cwill-be-done-shortly/ , http://blogs.democratandchronicle.com/voteup/2012/06/22/cuomo-hydrofracking-review-%E2%80%9Cwill-be-done-shortly/ & http://capitalbusinessblog.bcnys.org/index.php/2012/06/governor-cuomo-to-fred-dicker-hydrofracking-review-will-be-done-shortly/

"Cuomo: Hydrofracking study nearly done: "...The state Department of Environmental Conservation is expected to "shortly" issue a final environmental impact statement on hydrofracking, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said Friday, which would be a critical step toward allowing the controversial gas drilling method to begin..." " (Newsday) (New York)- http://www.newsday.com/long-island/politics/cuomo-hydrofracking-study-nearly-done-1.3799841

"Poll: Vast Majority of New Yorkers Want Cuomo To Wait for More Research Before Opening Empire State to Fracking: "..."Precaution Over Politics" is Common Sense Message From State Residents; Majority of Those in 5 Counties Reportedly Targeted for Fracking Also Want Science Verdict First. More than seven out of 10 New York state voters (72 percent) think that Governor Cuomo should "wait for all the necessary health and environmental studies to be completed first before opening the state to fracking," according to a major new Public Policy Polling (PPP) survey..." " (Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy) (New York)- http://catskillcitizens.org/ , http://www.istockanalyst.com/business/news/5909398/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to-wait-for-more-research-before-opening-empire-state-to-fracking , http://www.istockanalyst.com/business/news/5909398/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to-wait-for-more-research-before-opening-empire-state-to-fracking , http://www.marketwatch.com/story/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to-wait-for-more-research-before-opening-empire-state-to-fracking-2012-06-21& http://www.ibtimes.com/prnews/20120621/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to.htm

"Experts: API/ANGA Fracking "Study" Is "Fatally Flawed": "..."We have analyzed the widely publicized report from the American Petroleum Institute (API) and American Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA) which asserts that methane emissions from the natural gas sector are 50 percent lower than US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates. The study relies on a critically flawed survey design, completely ignores many other recent studies, and would not have passed peer-review in a scientific journal. In contrast to this API/ANGA report, a recent and objective study which measured the entire rate of methane emissions from an unconventional gas field, the first of what should become one of many such studies, demonstrated emissions that were higher than EPA estimates.." " (Physicians Scientists & Engineers for Healthy Energy)- http://www.psehealthyenergy.org/resources/view/198916 , http://www.marketwatch.com/story/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to-wait-for-more-research-before-opening-empire-state-to-fracking-2012-06-21 & http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/experts--apianga-fracking-study-is-fatally-flawed-159565465.html

"Avoca board backs hydrofracking: "...Avoca — The Avoca town board stepped out in support of hydrofracking this week. In a 4-1 vote, the board passed a resolution Wednesday supporting the development of natural gas drilling in the town. The resolution is designed by Clean Growth Now and the New York State Join Land Owners Coalition, and has been sent to other municipalities in the area..." " (The Evening Tribune) (New York)- http://www.eveningtribune.com/topstories/x1543986067/Avoca-board-backs-hydrofracking

"Delaware supports safe, responsible drilling: "...HORTONVILLE — Delaware’s town board voted overwhelmingly Wednesday to move away from its previously-cited neutrality and towards embracing a pro-gas-drilling stance..." " (Sullivan County Democrat) (New York)- http://www.sc-democrat.com/news/2012June/22/news3.htm

"Editorial: Frack New York: "...Natural gas is the future, and they should want to be a part of it. Go for it, New York..." " (Opinion, Houston Chronicle)- http://www.chron.com/opinion/editorials/article/Editorial-Frack-New-York-3653669.php

"Methane, water spout: "...Shell Appalachia subsidiary SWEPI LP suspended operations in Union Township while they contain and investigate methane and water releases around the Guindon K 706 well pad. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is also working in the area. (For multiple photos and an in-depth story, pick up the June 20 edition of the Wellsboro or Mansfield Gazette.)..." " (Photos, The Wellsboro Gazette) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.tiogapublishing.com/news/the_wellsboro_mansfield_gazette/methane-water-spout/article_a9733e36-bb02-11e1-8204-0019bb2963f4.html

"Chesapeake to Pay $1.6 Million for Contaminating Water Wells in Bradford County: "...Chesapeake Energy has agreed to pay $1.6 million in damages to three families in Wyalusing, Bradford County. The case may be the first Marcellus contamination lawsuit to get resolved without a nondisclosure agreement, meaning the parties can speak freely about the case. Todd O’Malley, an attorney for two of the families, says the plaintiffs insisted on not signing a confidentiality agreement. “They wanted the public to know what the settlement was about,” says O’Malley..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/21/chesapeake-to-pay-1-6-million-for-contaminating-water-wells-in-bradford-county/

"As Shell Works To Stop Methane, Neighboring Farmer Worries About His Cows: "...f you go looking for evidence of Shell’s methane migration problem in Tioga County, as StateImpact did today, you won’t be able to see the 30 foot geyser of water and natural gas. First, the flow has been reduced to a few feet over the course of the last week. Second, the company has blocked off access to the site...For farmer Leo Shanlay, who lives a bit more than a mile from where the problems are occurring, evidence that something might be amiss came from his cows. Shanlay’s nine calves won’t drink any water from his drinking well. “Before, when I dumped water in, they drank it right away. Now they wait four or five hours before they drink it,” he said, standing in front of an idling tractor. The calves started losing interest in his well water on Tuesday. They’re happy to drink the water his uncle trucks in from another site, though..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/22/as-shell-works-to-stop-methane-neighboring-farmer-worries-about-his-cows/

"Pa. families settle gas drilling pollution lawsuit with Chesapeake Energy for $1.6 million: "...    But Jared McMicken of Wyalusing said the agreement reached Thursday provides little comfort since his drinking water was ruined by nearby drilling, and his family must move. "We've lost our house, and we're not going to get out of it what we got into it," he said. "We have a bunch of people who have to leave their homes."..." " (Associated Press) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.dailyjournal.net/view/story/ded9783a6af44594a5acf7f627d54f8d/PA--Gas-Drilling-Pollution-Settlement/ & http://newsok.com/1.6m-settlement-in-pa.-gas-drilling-lawsuit/article/feed/396730

"Well Control Teams On The Scene In Tioga County: "...An update on Shell’s potential methane migration problem in Tioga County: company spokeswoman Kelly op de Weegh says a well control team has been called in to help. Here’s her emailed statement: We have both a groundwater protection technical team and a well control team actively working on the origin and cause of the water and methane release. As a precaution, we have suspended our well completion work on the well pads in the area. The release – from and near water wells within a hunting club – is not located on any of our well sites. We are depressurizing gas wells in the larger area in order to reduce pressure subsurface. We’re also working operations around the water wells, including excavation in a secured, control zone..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/21/well-control-teams-on-the-scene-in-tioga-county/

"DEP Investigating Potential Shell Methane Migration: "...As Governor Corbett pushes to give Royal Dutch Shell a $1.65 billion tax credit, the Department of Environmental Protection is investigating a potential methane migration problem in Union Township, Tioga County, involving the company’s natural gas drilling arm..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/21/dep-investigating-potential-methane-migration-by-shell/

"Tioga County Methane Migration: Onetime Geyser Being Brought Under Conrol: "...(Wellsboro, Tioga County) — A geyser of methane-infused water has been reduced to waist-height, as Shell Appalachia works to contain mysterious methane migration near a cluster of three of its natural gas wells in southeastern Tioga County. The geyser was shooting water more than thirty feet into the air at one point, but Tioga County Emergency Services Coordinator Denny Colegrove said it was down to less than two feet by yesterday evening. Shell is flaring off nearby wells in order to reduce underground gas pressure. “We’re seeing that brings down — it depressurzes — the gas that could be contributing to migration in the immediate area,” said Shell spokeswoman Kelly op de Weegh..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/22/tioga-county-methane-migration-onetime-geyser-being-brought-under-conrol/

"Methane migration probed in Tioga County: "...Four residents within a one-mile area had been evacuated as of Thursday. A company spokeswoman said in a statement that the current methane levels indicate "a very low hazard risk to people, vegetation and fish." Dan Spadoni, a spokesman with the Department of Environmental Protection's north-central regional office, said the agency was alerted Sunday that a drinking water well had overflowed inside a hunting cabin near the well pads in Union. Thursday afternoon, regulators had not yet determined the source of the methane, which also was suspected to be causing bubbling in a nearby stream and "additional surface expressions" along a neighboring road..." " (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)( (Pennsylvania)- http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/local/marcellusshale/methane-migration-probed-in-tioga-county-641486/ & http://shale.sites.post-gazette.com/index.php/news/archives/24646-methane-migration-probed-in-tioga-county

"Mahanoy Township oil/natural gas drilling ordinance may need amending: "...MAHANOY CITY - Mahanoy Township may need to amend its zoning ordinance to have permitted use and special exceptions for oil and natural gas exploration, drilling and extraction to conform with new state legislation. The subject was discussed at Thursday's meeting of the Mahanoy Township Board of Supervisors by township solicitor Eric Lieberman. "The township adopted a Marcellus shale drilling ordinance a while ago in case there would be any oil and gas drilling in the area," Lieberman said. "Well, along comes the state Legislature and they adopt something called Act 13, which basically is an all-comprehensive act that deals with the oil and gas industry and how things are going to be handled from a regulation standpoint."..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (Pennsylvania)- http://republicanherald.com/news/mahanoy-township-oil-natural-gas-drilling-ordinance-may-need-amending-1.1333400 & http://refinerynews.com/mahanoy-township-oilnatural-gas-drilling-ordinance-may-need/

"City joins lawsuit opposing unified drilling zone: "...Connellsville City Council adopted a resolution Wednesday night to support a lawsuit opposing Act 13, which amends the Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Act to establish a unified zoning scheme across the state..." " (Trib Total Media, Inc.) (Pennsylvania)- http://triblive.com/news/fayette/2068441-74/act-council-gas-resolution-state-zoning-health-drilling-matthews-program

"Report: 3rd largest natural gas reserves on East Coast are in Bucks, Montgomery counties: "...Bucks and Montgomery counties are sitting on the 3rd largest natural gas reserves on the East Coast, according to a new report by the U.S. Geological Survey. The report now has residents and environmental activists worried what will happen should gas companies start drilling Nancy Alessi, a Nockamixon Township supervisor, said the recent report will be a magnet for drilling companies..." " (WFMZ) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.gadailynews.com/news/local/121873-report-3rd-largest-natural-gas-reserves-on-east-coast-are-in-bucks-montgomery-counties.html

"County joins study of natural gas for use in its fleets: "...Crawford County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Thursday to spend $1,500 to join in a feasibility study on the possibility of compressed natural gas as a fuel source. That study is expected to provide an answer by about Aug. 1. “I think this is appropriate for us to see how this may impact our fueling and transportation,” said Commissioner C. Sherman Allen, noting the county has about 100 vehicles of all types in its fleet. PENNCREST School District is spearheading the effort to look into the possibility. Other organizations involved in the study are Conneaut and Crawford Central school districts, Vantage Health Care Network, Universal Well Services Inc., Crawford Area Transportation Authority, Allegheny College and National Fuel Gas..." " (Meadsville Tribune) (Pennsylvania)- http://meadvilletribune.com/local/x1047716323/County-joins-study-of-natural-gas-for-use-in-its-fleets

"Collection of realty transfer tax breaks a record in Bradford County: "...TOWANDA - As a result of the gas drilling boom, the collection of the realty transfer tax in Bradford County hit a record high for the county in 2011, the register & recorder of deeds said..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (Pennsylania)- http://thedailyreview.com/news/collection-of-realty-transfer-tax-breaks-a-record-in-bradford-county-1.1333299

"Natural gas boom changing demands, opportunities for land development" (Pittsburgh Business Times) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/print-edition/2012/06/22/natural-gas-boom-changing-demands.html

"Montrose Hospital closing in on construction funding goals: "...Endless Mountains Health Systems received almost $200,000 from several donors Thursday, including a $100,000 contribution from Linde Corp. of Honesdale. Cabot Oil & Gas Corp. spokesman George Stark said that with the recent efforts, the $5.6 million project is nearly 90 percent funded. Cabot, based in Houston, Texas, kicked off the fundraising effort in March with a $1 million donation. It also promised to match community contributions up to $1 million, which would provide EMHS with $3 million of the $5.6 million needed to complete the physicians' clinic portion of the new hospital building project. The Cabot-EMHS fundraising effort is set to conclude by July 21, the date of the annual Cabot Picnic. In addition to Linde Corp., other contributions noted Thursday came from natural gas industry companies: Erick Flowback Services donated $30,000; Rain For Rent donated $25,000; and Weir-Seaboard donated $25,000..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (Pennsylvania)- http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/gas-drilling/montrose-hospital-closing-in-on-construction-funding-goals-1.1333471

(Event) "SAE International to Host Symposium that Delves into Impact of Shale Gas on Vehicle Development: "...The SAE 2012 Shale Gas Impact on Vehicle Development Symposium will focus on the impact of natural gas vehicle adoption, shale exploration and natural gas Infrastructure on bi-fuel vehicle production. Co-sponsored by SAE International and energy industry publisher Hart Energy, the event will be held August 28, 2012, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh..." " (SAE International) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.execdigital.com/press_releases/sae-international-to-host-symposium-that-delves-into-impact-of-shale-gas-on-vehicle-development

"To drill or not to drill?: "...Gas may be important for some things, but listen to this, gasbags: Without water there is no life! Therefore, there is also no money. Get it?. The list of distortions and half-truths from the gas companies is as long as my arm. Yet they act as though they are the perfect neighbors, acting like the big, bad New York liberals are the bad guys, smearing their good names and trying to keep them from saving the country just because they’re afraid of a little dish detergent in their water..." " (Opinion, Wayne Independent) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.wayneindependent.com/opinions/columnists/x1660535224/To-drill-or-not-to-drill

"Officials OK deal for aerial images: "...WAYNESBURG – As expected, Greene County commissioners approved an agreement with a photography company to provide aerial images of the county...Photographers from the company will update the image database, and Kelley surmises they will find the county has many more gas drilling rigs than the last time the images were taken. Pictometry has been providing high-resolution images of the county for use in several county departments, including emergency management, assessment and planning. Assessors use the images to calculate property values and detect any violations of the state’s Clean and Green program for agricultural properties. Emergency dispatchers can use it when coordinating a response to a disaster, and planners can study the images to determine the best location for a new building or road..." " (Observer-Reporter) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/greenecounty11/06-22-2012-County-aerials

"Federal agency that approved Spectra pipeline is running 'a rigged game,' Jersey City claims in new filing: "...Jersey City has issued a scathing, 43-page rebuttal to a federal agency’s decision to approve Spectra Energy’s natural-gas pipeline, with a top city attorney claiming the agency is biased toward energy companies and has ignored the city’s concerns about safety along the pipeline route. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the agency that gave the controversial pipeline its approval on May 22, is “running a rigged game,” approving pipeline routes proposed by energy companies while ignoring “viable alternatives” suggested by other parties, the attorney writes. The document is the city’s official request for a rehearing in front of FERC, the first of only two options the city has to stop the pipeline now that it has federal approval. Houston-based Spectra wants to begin constructing the roughly 15 miles of new pipe, which will snake underneath Bayonne, Jersey City and offshore Hoboken, this summer..." " (The Jersey Journal) (New Jersey)- http://www.nj.com/hudson/index.ssf/2012/06/federal_agency_that_approved_s.html

"N.J. OKs bill banning waste from hydraulic fracturing: "...TRENTON, N.J - Lawmakers have approved legislation that bans hydraulic fracturing byproducts created in other states from entering New Jersey. The Assembly voted 56-19 for the bill Thursday...Data on the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection website show some fracking waste has already entered New Jersey..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (New Jersey)- http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/gas-drilling/n-j-oks-bill-banning-waste-from-hydraulic-fracturing-1.1333364

"Jersey City mayor says natural-gas explosion in Nyack is 'perfect example' of dangers of Spectra pipeline: "...Jersey City Mayor Jerramiah Healy is pointing to a natural-gas explosion in Downtown Nyack, NY yesterday as yet another reason why Spectra Energy should not build a gas pipeline here in Hudson County. According to NBC News, no one was hurt in yesterday’s Nyack explosion, which was the result of sparks hit gas in a pipe during a gas main replacement project, according to a utility spokesman..." " (The Jersey Journal) (New Jersey)- http://www.nj.com/hudson/index.ssf/2012/06/jersey_city_says_natural-gas_e.html

"South Jersey power plant scrapping coal burner: "...A power plant in southern New Jersey will scrap a coal-fired burner and use cleaner natural gas to fuel two others as part of an agreement with the state..." " (GANNETT) (New Jersey)- http://www.delawareonline.com/viewart/20120622/NEWS08/120622007/ (See also "Agreement to Drastically Reduce Pollution from Cape May County Power Plant" (New Jersey)- http://www.capemaycountyherald.com/article/government/trenton/84206-christie+administration+announces+agreement+drastically+reduce+pollution+cape+may+county+power+ )

"Methane near Canton under investigation: "...CANTON - Operations at a natural gas well in Union Township near here have been suspended pending the results of an investigation of a methane migration. According to Shell Appalachia spokeswoman Deb Sawyer, during routine operations on the Guindon 706 well pad in Union Township last Friday, well operators were informed that a private landowner in the area was experiencing a change in the functioning of his water well..." " (Williamsport Sun-Gazette) (Ohio)- http://www.sungazette.com/page/content.detail/id/579881/Methane-near-Canton-under-investigation.html

"Commissioners, DPS Penn sign shale gas lease: "...LISBON -Columbiana County commissioners doubled their money under a new shale gas lease that has finally been approved. Commissioner Chairman Mike Halleck reported at this week's meeting he had signed a lease agreement on behalf of the board with DPS Penn for $5,850 an acre, compared to the $2,700 figure they originally agreed to last August...The $5,850 represents the highest lease fee paid to any government body to date by $50..." " (The Salem News) (Ohio)- http://salemnews.net/page/content.detail/id/555651/Commissioners--DPS-Penn-sign-shale-gas-lease.html

"Will Ohio Tax Frackers?: "...Drillers Oppose Higher Taxes..." " (Video, WDTN) (Ohio)- http://www.wdtn.com/dpp/news/will-ohio-tax-frackers

"Oil, gas drilling laws called lax: "...COLUMBUS -- Laws in Ohio and Michigan will not adequately protect the Great Lakes basin from huge water withdrawals to fuel an expected shale oil and natural gas drilling boom, a report from the National Wildlife Federation charged Thursday..." " (Toldedo Blade) (Ohio)- http://www.toledoblade.com/Energy/2012/06/22/Oil-gas-drilling-laws-called-lax.html

"DEP's gas-well rules face secretary of state, public comment: "...June 22--The state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has drafted a new set of rules governing horizontal gas well development and will submit them to the secretary of state for approval. Once approved, the new rules will replace the emergency rules that were adopted at the end of August 2011. DEP Spokesman Tom Aluise said the new legislative rules are similar to the emergency rules, which were set to expire 15 months after they were enacted. The plan is to file the rules with the secretary of state next week, Aluise said. After that there will be a 30-day public comment period, tentatively set to end on July 31. The full Legislature must then OK the rules during the 2013 session..." " (The Dominion Post) (West Virginia)- https://oklahomawelcome.com/state/dep-s-gas-well-rules-face-secretary-of-state-public-comment-the-dominion-post-morgantown-w-va.html

"WVDEP: Trouble hiring, attempting to reduce gas permit backlog: "...More employees are coming, but the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection continues to battle a backlog of horizontal well drilling permits. Randy Huffman, DEP secretary, said the agency continues to struggle with a backlog of more than 250 horizontal well permits. "We're going through the process right now of staffing up," Huffman said. "The permit backlog, the horizontal well permits are stacking up in the queue. They're coming in faster than they're going out."..." " (The State Journal) (West Virginia)- http://www.statejournal.com/story/18582556/wvdep-trouble-hiring-attempting-to-reduce-gas-permit-backlog (See also http://www.dep.wv.gov/news/Pages/OfficeofOilandGasseekingapplicants.aspx & http://www.state.wv.us/admin/personnel/jobs/exam/oilgasstudy/default.htm )

"Carne Course record broken but still not enough to win Corrib Natural Gas Pro-Am: "...For most of the 21.4 miles, the pipeline will follow [an] existing pipeline, however, most of the pipeline being installed in the Fallston area will follow a new direction. This has caused numerous constituents to contact my office...I am limited to what I can do by County Charter and really would appreciate any help you could provide in making sure the Columbia Gas project is completely reviewed and is no danger to the community..." " (Letter from Joseph M. Woods Harford County Council District B, Fallston, Baltomre Sun) (Maryland)- http://www.baltimoresun.com/explore/harford/opinion-talk/letter-editor/ph-ag-letter-woods-0622-20120621,0,5183528.story

"Garrett County Chamber of Commerce supports shale gas development: "..OAKLAND — The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce has adopted a position in support of Marcellus shale gas development and encourages the Maryland Department of the Environment to authorize the process of allowing for the safe extraction in the county, according to a white paper released last month. Gov. Martin O’Malley’s Marcellus Shale Safe Drilling Initiative Advisory Commission’s final report is set to be released in August 2014. .." " (Cumberland Times-News) (Maryland)- http://times-news.com/local/x1254878778/Garrett-County-Chamber-of-Commerce-supports-shale-gas-development

United States & Canada:

"Injection Wells: The Poison Beneath Us/680,000 wells hold waste across US -- with unknown risks: "...But until recently, scientists and environmental officials have assumed that deep layers of rock beneath the earth would safely entomb the waste for millennia. There are growing signs they were mistaken. Records from disparate corners of the United States show that wells drilled to bury this waste deep beneath the ground have repeatedly leaked, sending dangerous chemicals and waste gurgling to the surface or, on occasion, seeping into shallow aquifers that store a significant portion of the nation's drinking water..." " (ProPublica)- http://www.propublica.org/article/injection-wells-the-poison-beneath-us & http://openchannel.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/06/21/12339805-680000-wells-hold-waste-across-us-with-unknown-risks?lite

"Hydraulic Fracturing and Water Resources: Separating the Frack from the Fiction : "...The report Hydraulic Fracturing and Water Resources: Separating the Frack from the Fiction is a detailed assessment and synthesis of existing research on fracking as well as the results of interviews with representatives from state and federal agencies, industry, academia, environmental groups, and community-based organizations from across the United States. ..“Much of what has been written about the interaction of hydraulic fracturing and water resources is either industry or advocacy reports that have not been peer-reviewed, and the discourse around the issue to date has been marked by opinion and obfuscation,” said Cooley. “More and better research is needed to clearly assess the key water-related risks associated with hydraulic fracturing and develop sound policies to minimize those risks.”..." " (Pacific Institute)- http://www.pacinst.org/reports/fracking/index.htm

"White House supportive of US LNG exports: aide: "...The Obama administration supports in principle US exports of liquefied natural gas, though specific new guidelines on exports await completion of a study by the Department of Energy, President Barack Obama's top energy aide said Thursday. "Some amount of LNG export makes sense, from our perspective, and I think you'll see policies to support that," Heather Zichal, a deputy assistant to President Barack Obama for energy and climate change, told the Natural Gas Roundtable in Washington. "As a general rule of principle, the administration is not opposed to LNG exports," she said..." " (Platts)- http://www.platts.com/RSSFeedDetailedNews/RSSFeed/NaturalGas/3167237

"Cabot sells shale assets for $250M : "...Cabot Oil & Gas Corp. (NYSE: COG) said Friday it has sold assets in the Pearsall Shale in Texas to a U.S. subsidiary of Osaka Gas Company Ltd., a Japanese natural gas supplier, for $250 million..." " (Houston Business Journal)- http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/morning_call/2012/06/cabot-sells-shale-assets-for-250m.html

"Osaka Gas to invest in Cabot's Texas shale gas, oil project : "...(Reuters) - Japan's Osaka Gas Co said on Friday it will take a 35 percent stake in a shale gas and oil project in Texas of U.S. firm Cabot Oil & Gas Corp for 20 billion yen ($249 million), as it aims to lower its procurement costs. Faced with inflated prices for liquefied natural gas in Asia, Osaka Gas has been eyeing LNG projects in Australia and non-conventional gas in North America to lower costs..." " (Reuters)- http://uk.reuters.com/article/2012/06/22/cabot-osakagas-shale-idUKT9E8HB04G20120622

"Cabot gets 'robust' price for Pearsall Shale acreage: "...Under the agreement Osaka will pay $125 million in cash to Cabot at closing and will pay an additional $125 million to carry 85% of Cabot's share of future drilling costs in the Pearsall Shale. The drilling carry is expected to be fully utilized by year-end 2013 based on current drilling plans. Initial plans call for two rigs to operate under the JV with drilling commencing in July 2012. A third rig will be added to the drilling program during 2013 and a fourth rig will be added in 2014. Cabot will retain its lease rights above the Pearsall, including the Eagle Ford Shale formation..." " (Oil & Gas Journal)- http://www.ogfj.com/articles/2012/06/cabot-gets-robust-price-for-pearsall-shale-acreage.html

"U.S. Shale Gas and Shale Oil Plays Review of Emerging Resources" (U.S. Department of Energy)- ftp://ftp.eia.doe.gov/natgas/usshaleplays.pdf

"House approves sweeping package of energy bills: "...The US House approved a sweeping energy legislative package that supporters said would facilitate development of more domestic oil and gas, and opponents said would seriously gut environmental protections. HR 4480 passed by 248 to 163 votes, and its sponsor, Rep. Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), urged the US Senate to take it up promptly. “These bipartisan pieces of legislation make sure that we move forward on oil and gas development in the western United States and on federal lands,” Gardner said. The package of seven bills would require the US Department of Energy secretary to develop a plan for more leasing on federal land; streamline the federal drilling permit process; direct the US Interior secretary, when conducting lease sales, to offer previously unavailable acreage as at least 25% of the annually nominated total; and to require analysis of impacts from certain US Environmental Protection Agency rules and actions on gasoline, diesel fuel, and natural gas prices..." " (OIl & Gas Journal)- http://www.ogj.com/articles/2012/06/house-approves-sweeping-package-of-energy-bills.html

"Encana boosts spending on more lucrative gas liquids: "...CALGARY - Canada`s biggest natural gas producer is accelerating its move into the liquids game with a $600-million increase in spending on 10 North American plays where higher-value products like oil, propane and condensate are produced with the gas..." " (The Calgary Herald) (United States & Canada)- http://www.canada.com/business/Encana+boosts+spending+more+lucrative+liquids/6820040/story.html (See also "Encana boosts liquids drilling plans, investments" (Oil & Gas Journal)- http://www.ogj.com/articles/2012/06/encana-boosts-liquids-drilling-plans-investments.html )

"Shale Gas Boom: Hydraulic Fracturing and Potential Legal Claims: "...Plaintiffs have filed approximately forty shale-related lawsuits across the country. These lawsuits include: (1) tort lawsuits; (2) environmental lawsuits; or (3) industry lawsuits. As the shale boom accelerates more suits are anticipated..." " (RIGZONE & Mb50's "Liquid Mud" Blog)- http://www.rigzone.com/news/article.asp?hpf=1&a_id=118802 & http://mb50.wordpress.com/2012/06/22/shale-gas-boom-hydraulic-fracturing-and-potential-legal-claims/

"Howarth and Ingraffea: Gas Industry Fracking Study So Biased it is 'Almost Useless': "...Two of the largest gas industry lobbying bodies in the US, the American Petroleum Institute (API) and American Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA), released a ‘study’ earlier this month claiming methane emissions from natural gas production to be 50 percent lower than the US Environmental Protection Agency’s 2011 estimates. However, according to a joint statement prepared by professors Robert Howarth and Anthony Ingraffea and released by the Physicians Scientists & Engineers for Healthy Energy (PSE) this week, the study is nothing more than industry-purchased propaganda that does not adhere to basic standards for scientific accuracy and consistency..." " (DESMOGBLOG)- http://www.desmogblog.com/howarth-and-ingraffea-gas-industry-fracking-study-so-biased-it-almost-useless (See also "FUGITIVE EMISSIONS FROM OIL ANDNATURAL GAS ACTIVITIES"- http://www.scribd.com/doc/97945796/Fugitive-Emissions-From-Oil-and-Natural-Gas )

"Fracking with Propane Instead of Water: "...A Canadian company has found a method that uses propane instead of water. Gasfrac says the propane technique uses biodegradable chemicals and doesn’t pollute groundwater. But as The Allegheny Front’s Matt Richmond reports, others say propane fracking is risky business..." " (Audio, Living on Earth)- http://www.loe.org/shows/segments.html?programID=12-P13-00025&segmentID=3

"Gas drillers get more time to comment on U.S. fracking rules: "...The Obama administration gave U.S. natural-gas producers more time to comment on draft standards for disclosing chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing, rules an industry group has said are unnecessary. The Interior Department will add 60 days to the comment period, spokesman Adam Fetcher said today in an e-mail. Comments on the fracking-disclosure rules had been due by July 10. “To ensure that the public and key stakeholders, including industry and public-health groups, are able to provide important feedback that will help inform a final rule, Interior has decided to extend the public-comment period,” Fetcher said. “We don’t expect this extension will have an impact on the timing for a final rule later this year.” ..." " (FuelFix/Houston Chronicle)- http://fuelfix.com/blog/2012/06/22/gas-drillers-get-more-time-to-comment-on-u-s-fracking-rules/

"OSHA issues alert related to hydraulic fracturing: "...Crystalline silica is part of sand. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health say workers who regularly breathe it are at greater risk of developing silicosis. They say silica also is linked to lung cancer and tuberculosis. A hazard alert they issued Thursday describes how engineering controls, work practices, protective equipment, worker training and product substitution can protect employees..." " (Associated Press)- http://www.denverpost.com/colorado/ci_20913102/osha-issues-alert-related-hydraulic-fracturing (See also "Worker Exposure to Silica during Hydraulic Fracturing" ( National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health & Occupational Safety and Health Administration)- http://www.osha.gov/dts/hazardalerts/hydraulic_frac_hazard_alert.pdf )

"Pipeline industry opponents will use spills against it: "...Industry figures show at least 3.4 million litres of hydrocarbons have leaked from pipelines in the province every year since 2005. That is likely something that environmental groups trying to stop both projects will latch on to, suggests Doug Bloom, chairman of the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association and president of Spectra Energy. “I think any kind of incident, no matter how small, is going to be picked up by those who are going to oppose any kind of energy development, and they’ll try and use it as a rationale for not doing it,” Bloom said Thursday after attending a Chamber of Commerce luncheon..." " (The Canadian Press)- http://www.reddeeradvocate.com/news/provincial/Pipeline_industry_opponents_will_use_spill_sagainst_it_159967825.html

"Alberta oil and gas still key to U.S. energy security, says consul general: "...CALGARY - Outgoing U.S. consul general Laura Lochman spent much of her final Calgary speaking engagement talking up Alberta’s oil and gas industry and the role she believes it will play in ensuring American energy security..." " (The Calgary Herald) United States & Canada)-- http://www.calgaryherald.com/business/Alberta+still+energy+security+says+consul+general/6821256/story.html

- http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/06/22/canadianpacific-fracsand-ussilica-idUSL3E8HM46Q20120622 (See also

"Natural Gas for Vehicles Could Use U.S. Support: "...The fuel is cheap and plentiful. But there is little infrastructure to deliver it to users, and so there is little demand for equipment to use it. ..So why not have the government, which can borrow money for almost nothing — about three-quarters of 1 percent for five years — put up money to subsidize such stations? Doing so would provide jobs for construction workers, and thus amount to economic stimulus that could really affect a depressed area of the economy..." " (Opinion, The New York Times)- http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/22/business/natural-gas-vehicles-are-a-compelling-target-for-a-federal-program.html?pagewanted=all

"Report: Natural gas trucks look more attractive: "...IHS Cambridge Energy Research Associates said in its report that liquefied natural gas is ideal for companies with heavy-duty trucks that travel long distances over the same routes every day because they're more likely to find refueling stations and be able to take advantage of low prices..." " (Associated Press)- http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505245_162-57458249/report-natural-gas-trucks-look-more-attractive/

"Press Release: Federal Government Proposes Hydraulic Fracturing Regulations: "...The Obama administration has proposed regulations which would require companies that drill oil and natural gas using hydraulic fracturing on public and Indian lands to disclose the chemicals used in the process. The proposal would also set guidelines for wastewater disposal and well construction...If the new regulations go into effect, they will provide a little transparency into the practices of hydraulic fracturing companies, but little protection for the health and safety of residents, workers and the environment. Drilling companies may be held responsible for any illness or injury that may occur due to the chemicals they use in the fracking process. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed by the drilling practices of a fracking company, please contact an experienced personal injury attorney to explore your legal options..." " (McCann Schaible & Wall, LLC)- http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/765198

"Fracking bill goes to Perdue/Controversial N.C. fracking bill heads to governor: "...RALEIGH -- Legislation to legalize a method of natural gas drilling known as fracking is now in the hands of Gov. Bev Perdue...Fracking opponents said if Perdue signs off on the bill, it would contradict her executive order for more study of the issue..." " (Associated Press) (North Carolina)- http://hamptonroads.com/2012/06/controversial-nc-fracking-bill-heads-governor

"NC governor inundated with pleas to veto fracking bill: "...A spokesperson for Perdue told the News & Observer of Raleigh that her office has received 7,641 emails and 2,824 phone calls since the issue began getting attention, and that they are "overwhelmingly opposed to fracking with very few supportive comments." Perdue also heard from Calvin Tillman, the former mayor of Dish, Texas, a town at the center of that state's fracking industry. Now an advocate for communities affected by fracking, Tillman visited Raleigh earlier this month to talk to state lawmakers about the serious environmental health problems the rural community north of Fort Worth has experienced. In a letter sent to Perdue this week, Tillman -- a conservative independent -- detailed concerns about the legal questions around property rights raised by the North Carolina bill. Here is the text of his letter; to view the original signed version click here..." " (Institute for Southern Studies) (North Carolina)- http://www.southernstudies.org/2012/06/nc-governor-inundated-with-pleas-to-veto-fracking-bill.html

"Explaining the Fracking Bill: "...The state Senate voted 29 to 15 Thursday to concur on Senate Bill 820, a bill that would legalize hydraulic fracturing in North Carolina...The Bill’s Path..." " (Raleigh Public Record) (North Carolina)- http://www.raleighpublicrecord.org/fracking-2/2012/06/21/explaining-fracking-bill/

"Fracking Danger: Read It Yourself: "...I am a former resident of Pennsylvania and have family and friends who live in “hotbed” areas of hydraulic fracturing. ..Many states and countries throughout the world have made fracking illegal. Why is North Carolina rushing into something that is only going to bring harm to its citizens, as well as to the animals and environment?..." " (Letter to editor, The Pilot) (North Carolina)- http://www.thepilot.com/news/2012/jun/22/fracking-danger-read-it-yourself/

"Speakers talk about fracturing: "...Oil and gas companies need to do a better job of explaining the scientific evidence that shows hydraulic fracturing doesn’t contaminate drinking water or cause earthquakes, according to speakers at Thursday’s sessions of the LSU Center for Energy Studies Gulf States Energy Retreat. Mike Brownell, director of regulatory affairs for Chesapeake Energy Corp., said part of the problem is that there are so many federal agencies — the Department of Energy, the Bureau of Land Management, the Environmental Protection Agency — taking their own individual look at the process in which water, chemicals and sand are forced into a formation to crack rock and release oil or natural gas. The same thing is going on in states, he said..." " (The Advocate) (Louisiana)- http://theadvocate.com/news/business/3159207-123/speakers-better-explanation-of-fracturing

"Council Digs Thru Drilling Permits : "...(D)uring a workshop on Tuesday, June 12, 2012, beginning at 4:00 p.m., Fairfield Mayor Roy Hill laid out his concerns regarding gas wells being considered for drilling within the City and made a comparison of two types of wells to Fairfield City Council members and attendees. According to Hill, there are two gas well permits that are being considered, one by XTO Energy, Inc. and another by Valence Operating. The XTO well would be slant drilled to a depth of 11,500 with little sour gas content. The Valence well would be drilled straight down to a depth of 13,500 where large quantities of sour gas are present...Mayor Hill indicated that the health, safety, and peace of mind of the citizens should be the main concern. Other things to consider would be future growth of the city and revenues generated by gas wells. There are already several wells within the City that contain less than 8 parts per million of sour gas. The XTO well, that was later approved during the regular City Council meeting, will contain similar levels..." " (Freestone County Times) (Texas)- http://www.freestonecountytimes.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3093

"Judge sets aside federal government's plan allowing oil, gas drilling on Roan Plateau: "...DENVER — The Bureau of Land Management didn't follow protocol when it approved a plan for allowing oil and natural gas development on the biologically rich Roan Plateau in western Colorado, a judge ruled Friday. U.S District Judge Marcia Krieger set aside the plan and ordered the agency to take another look. In the meantime, federal leases that were issued for oil and gas drilling on the soaring plateau will remain in place. Environmental groups had asked Krieger to cancel the leases, but Krieger said it's possible the BLM might stick with the same drilling plan, even after it reconsiders..." " (Associated Press) (Colorado)- http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/9834cf2803d94eff8ed94cdae2c42b6f/CO--Roan-Plateau-Ruling

"Federal judge halts gas drilling plan on Colorado plateau: "...The ruling was a victory, if a temporary one, for environmental and conservations groups who sued to halt the project. The BLM gave the initial green light in 2007 for oil and natural gas development on the plateau near Rifle, Colorado, about 175 miles west of Denver..." " (Reuters) (Colorado)- http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/06/23/usa-colorado-drilling-idUSL2E8HN0IZ20120623

"House passes sweeping energy package brought to you by Colorado Republicans: "...She is one of dozens of farmers in the North Fork Valley concerned about oil and gas drilling encroaching on their lands and fouling the environment. Under pressure from residents and environmental groups, the Bureau of Land Management announced last month that it was deferring all parcels associated with a disputed oil and gas lease sale in the North Fork Valley planned for August. The bill the House passed, HR 4480, would swing the momentum in the other direction, requiring the Department of Interior to open at least a quarter of federal land where there are oil and gas reserves. The bill, sponsored by U.S. Rep. Cory Gardner, R-Colo., absorbed an exhaustive list of other Republican energy goals, including one that blocks proposed pollution standards for gasoline, another to conduct Internet-based auctions for onshore energy leasing and “a $5,000 documentation fee” for anyone from the public who wishes to formally object to a leasing or drilling decision. Many of the measures came from Colorado Republicans Scott Tipton, Doug Lamborn, Mike Coffman and Gardner..." " (The Colorado Independent) (Colorado)- http://coloradoindependent.com/122844/house-passes-sweeping-energy-package-brought-to-you-by-colorado-republicans

"Grassroots Efforts to Stop Fracking Around Front Range Communities: "...Longmont, Colo. — Grassroots organizations in Colorado are fighting the use of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, in residential areas. They're hoping to pass regulations on fracking in order to protect the air, water and land in their towns. The groups' efforts include a rally at a school near a proposed fracking site in Erie and informational meetings in Aurora and Boulder. Sam Schabacker, director of the Mountain West region of Food and Water Watch, has been working with these smaller activist groups to generate awareness about the dangers of fracking..." " (Fowler Tribune) (Colorado)- http://www.fowlertribune.com/news/x1543985229/Grassroots-Efforts-to-Stop-Fracking-Around-Front-Range-Communities

"HOFFMAN: It's not the taxes, stupid!: "...I was encouraged by pro-energy industry types to attend a meeting this week over at Two Rivers Convention Center on the state of the oil and gas industry. Let's see, one researcher, Mark Haggerty, said that Colorado did not tax the industry enough, a whole lot less he said than an industry-friendly state such as Wyoming. “Charlatan!” the local wags proclaimed, surely taxation and regulation are the reason local drilling is less than years past..." " (Opinion, Grand Junction Free Press) (Colorado)- http://www.gjfreepress.com/article/20120622/COMMUNITY_NEWS/120629988/1001

"Drilling worth $1M: "...It’s not a surprise to Windsor residents that oil and gas is a booming industry in town. What might come as a little more of a surprise is how lucrative the industry has proved to be for the town of Windsor in a short time..." " (GANNETT) (Colorado)- http://www.coloradoan.com/article/20120620/WINDSORBEACON01/306200016/

"Texas man accused of trying to blow up pipeline: "...HOUSTON — A man accused of trying to blow up a natural gas pipeline in a Dallas suburb has lashed out against the government in YouTube and Facebook postings and is wanted for a probation violation in California on a concealed weapons conviction. Federal prosecutors have charged Anson Chi with possessing an explosive device after authorities say he detonated a bomb at a natural gas regulator station in the Dallas suburb of Plano late Sunday. Chi was critically..." " (Associated Press) (Texas)- http://www.startribune.com/nation/160048065.html & http://www.huffingtonpost.com/huff-wires/20120622/us-texas-gas-pipeline-bomb/

"Breaking Down the Reclamation Process of an Oil and Gas Company: "...GARFIELD COUNTY, Colo.- Brian Whiteley, an award-winning reclamation construction coordinator for Encana Oil and Gas, loves to talk shop. His job is to make sure lands are returned to better condition than they were before drilling began. "Oil and gas is held to a higher standard than any other industry," said Whiteley..." " (Video, KREX) (Colorado)- http://www.krextv.com/news/around-the-region/Touring-the-Reclamation-Process-of-an-Oil-and-Gas-Company-159957665.html

"PG&E takes to Solano skies, looks at using helicopters to detect leaks: "...VACAVILLE — Pacific, Gas and Electric Co. spent part of this week testing a different way to detect gas pipeline leaks by having two helicopters with lasers fly over rural Solano and Yolo counties..." " (Daily Republic) (California)- http://www.dailyrepublic.com/featured-stories/pge-takes-to-solano-skies-looks-at-using-helicopters-to-detect-leaks/

"Work continues on legacy well issue in Alaska: "...JUNEAU — The U.S. Bureau of Land Management has agreed to plug at least one additional abandoned well in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska provided it receives the money to do so. However, the issue of how or whether to address other so-called legacy well sites in the region remains under discussion between the agency and Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, or AOGCC..." " (Associated Press) (Alaska)- http://juneauempire.com/state/2012-06-22/work-continues-legacy-well-issue-alaska

"ND regulators approve ND to Alberta pipeline: "...North Dakota regulators have approved construction of a pipeline from Tioga into the Canadian province of Alberta. Nova Chemicals Corp. of Calgary wants to build the 430-mile line from Tioga's Hess Corp. natural gas processing plant to the town of Empress, Alberta. The Vantage Pipeline will supply ethane for Alberta's petrochemical industry. Ethane is a component of natural gas. It's used to make plastics and speed up the ripening of fruits..." " (Associated Press) (North Dakota & Canada)- http://www.rdmag.com/News/FeedsAP/2012/06/energy-nd-regulators-approve-nd-to-alberta-pipeline/

"B.C. Liberals declare natural gas a clean energy source" (The Globe and Mail) (Canada)- http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/provincial-liberals-declare-natural-gas-clean-energy-source/article4362331/

"Northern natural gas plants go 'clean': "...Premier Christy Clark has tweaked regulations to ensure her job creation plan that includes building three liquefied natural gas plants in northern British Columbia squares with the government's aggressive plans to cut greenhouse gas emissions..." " (The Canadian Press) (Canada)- http://www.canada.com/Northern+natural+plants+clean/6823675/story.html

International:

"06-22-12 Natural Gas Daily Report" (The Carbon Capture Report)- http://gas.carboncapturereport.org/cgi-bin//dailyreport?DATE=2012-06-22

"Romania to review moratorium on shale gas: "...- Romania will review its stand on shale gas when a drilling moratorium expires in December and align itself with a future joint EU position on the controversial issue, Prime Minister Victor Ponta said Friday. "There is a moratorium (on shale gas) until December," Ponta told foreign media in Bucharest. "After that, we plan to adopt a decision that takes into account both concerns over environment protection and the importance of alternative energy sources for Romania," he added..." " (Agence France-Presse) (Romania)- http://www.france24.com/en/20120622-romania-review-moratorium-shale-gas

"3 Companies Bid for Gas Drilling in Bulgaria: "...SOFIA, Bulgaria (AP) Bulgaria's government says three energy companies have submitted bids for exploration and exploitation of natural gas in the country's Black Sea waters. Energy Minister Delyan Dobrev said Thursday that U.S. Exxon Mobil, France's Total, and Canada's Melrose are bidding and the winner will be announced by the end of the month. Bulgaria, which is almost fully dependent on Russian gas supplies, has been looking for ways to diversify its energy sources. Also on Thursday, Dobrev said that the construction of a 25-kilometer (16-miles) cross-border gas link with Romania will be launched in August. Last year, the EU recommended that each member state should have at least two sources of natural gas by 2014 to avoid a repetition of the Russian-Ukrainian gas crisis..." " (Associated Press) (Bulgaria)- http://www.krgv.com/news/3-companies-bid-for-gas-drilling-in-bulgaria & http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2012/06/21/business/ap-eu-bulgaria-energy.html

"Woodside gas supply deal to Taiwan's CPC expires: "...Woodside Petroleum Ltd and Taiwan's CPC Corp [CHIP.UL} have let lapse a provisional agreement for supply of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to CPC from the Browse plant in Western Australia, in a move that CPC said was prompted by the project's unclear production timeframe. The agreement, signed in 2007 when oil-linked pricing was at its peak, was for 2 to 3 million tonnes of LNG per year for 15 to 20 years and expired on Thursday after several extensions. The development of Woodside's Browse LNG has dragged on for years, in part due to controversy about its proposed location and the company has received extensions to several government deadlines to decide on how to develop the project. The provisional agreement between Woodside and CPC is the second such agreement to expire: in 2009 PetroChina let a similar agreement expire. "It's difficult to see how it's good news unless they have somebody in the wings that wants to take a bigger volume and they need to clear the decks to be able to sell more," Macquarie analyst Adrian Wood said..." " (Reuters) (Australia)- http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/06/22/woodsidepetroleum-brief-idUSL3E8HM0AM20120622

"Marrickville council backs away from allowing a poll on coal seam gas: "...Labor and independent councillors in Marrickville decided on June 19 against holding a poll on coal seam gas at the same time as the local council elections. This is despite the fact that the council has had two unanimous votes against coal seam gas exploration..." " (Green Left) (Australia)- http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/51409

"New chief to rule on coal seam gas issues: "...THE state government will appoint a new special commissioner to oversee coal seam gas exploration on agricultural land and will end the royalty exemptions for gas companies as part of a suite of new policies to be announced today...The commissioner will also oversee the application of new standardised land access agreements for coal seam gas exploration on private land, which will be developed by a working group which will include farmers, irrigators and the gas industry. The five-year royalty-free honeymoon period for CSG companies will also be dropped, and the government will establish new programs to encourage gas companies to feed profits back in to communities...' ' (The Courier) (Australia)- http://www.thecourier.com.au/news/national/national/environment/new-chief-to-rule-on-coal-seam-gas-issues/2600648.aspx

"MP takes drilling concerns to Minister: "...Newcastle Federal MP Sharon Grierson says she has expressed her disappointment to Environment Minister Tony Burke over the approval of coal seam gas drilling at Fullerton Cove. Ms Grierson is supporting residents in their fight against Dart Energy's plan to drill several pilot wells, which recently gained State and Federal Government approval..." " (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) Australia)- http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-06-22/mp-takes-drilling-concerns-to-minister/4085934/?site=newcastle

"Hope QGC ruling will frame further negotiations: "...THE legal team representing an Eidsvold grazier against a State Government compulsory access order which would have forced construction of an LNG pipeline on his land say they hope a landmark ruling handed down in the Brisbane Supreme Court today will lead to resource companies rethinking how they conduct negotiations with landholders..." " (Queensland Country Life) (Australia)- http://qcl.farmonline.com.au/news/state/agribusiness-and-general/general/hope-qgc-ruling-will-frame-further-negotiations/2600216.aspx

"‘David v Goliath' court case: "...MICHAEL Baker fought not just the Queensland Government, but delivered a thorn in the side of a 500km pipeline worth more than $20 billion. In the Supreme Court yesterday, Mr Baker was vindicated. His property in Eidsvold, which sits almost exactly halfway along the pipeline's route from Chinchilla to Gladstone, faced having gas giant QGC and the government using a swathe of his land when he refused to settle on a deal for access..." " (Rockhampton Morning Bulletin) (Australia)- http://www.themorningbulletin.com.au/story/2012/06/23/david-v-goliath-court-case-sees-underdog-on-top/