NY, PA, NJ, OH, WV MD & CT:

"Senate Dems Accuse Cuomo Administration Of Consulting Gas Companies About Fracking Regulations: "...State Senate Democrats remain strongly opposed to a natural gas extraction process known as hydrofracking and they are now raising concerns that the Cuomo administration is being too cozy with the energy industry before potentially issuing permits..." " (Video, NY1) (New York)- http://www.ny1.com/content/news_beats/political_news/164375/senate-dems-accuse-cuomo-administration-of-consulting-gas-companies-about-fracking-regulations

"Senators want an explanation for early release of fracking rules to industry: "...In a letter today to Gov. Andrew Cuomo, the senators chastise the state Department of Environmental Conservation for releasing the regulations privately before making them available to the public. They said the early release "undermined the legitimacy of these regulations, as it has given the natural gas industry an advantage in shaping the proposed regulations to its own benefit."...The DEC maintains that the early release was in compliance with the state Administrative Procedure Act..." " (The Daily Gazette Blog) (New York)- http://www.dailygazette.com/weblogs/capital-region-scene/2012/jul/05/70512_poliblog-2/

"New York considers hydraulic fracking despite widespread concern: "...In New York, Governor Andrew Cuomo recently said the state may soon issue a decision on whether to begin hydraulic fracking, and that the best time to do it is when the legislature isn’t in session because he doesn’t want “a political discussion.” The fracking process involves injecting chemicals deep into the ground to release gas embedded in rock. It’s under fire in several states where opponents are concerned about contaminating water supplies, earthquakes and the toxic waste created during the process. FSRN’s James Krivo spoke to New York State Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton about her response to Cuomo’s statements..." " (Audio, FSRN) (New York)- http://fsrn.org/audio/new-york-considers-hydraulic-fracking-despite-widespread-concern/10548

"Fracking Open: "...The latest battleground in this war is the State University of New York at Buffalo, where upset faculty members say that a report by a new institute hews too close to industry viewpoints. Similar allegations surfaced two years ago at Pennsylvania State University where a dean said that a study crossed the line between research and advocacy, while faculty members at Cornell University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have traded sharp words over studies on natural gas drilling...“Academics who produce research that undermines industry risk their careers, their funding, and their reputations in their field,” Connor said. The gas industry is rushing to drill, and universities that issue bold claims about the safety of fracking such as the recent survey in Buffalo are being extremely irresponsible, he said. “If these findings are wrong, and fracking is not safe, there will be serious, irreversible public health and environmental consequences,” he said..." " (Inside Higher Ed)- http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2012/07/06/gas-drilling-research-stirs-controversies-universities

"Lawsuit Filed Over Water Exports to Gas Industry: "...Painted Post, NY - A lawsuit has been filed against the Village of Painted Post over selling its water supply to the natural gas industry...However, the Sierra Club, People for a Healthy Environment, the Coalition to Protect New York and five individuals filed a lawsuit last week. The suit seeks to annul the water sales agreement and the lease of land for a water loading facility. They want a full environmental review done on the project. The chair of the Finger Lakes group of the Sierra Club says the consequences of removing large quantities of water from the local system were not considered. They also want traffic noise and air quality impacts in the village to be looked into. Village Mayor Roswell Crozier did not want to comment on the lawsuit..." " (Video, WETM) (New York)- http://www.wetmtv.com/news/local/story/Lawsuit-Filed-Over-Water-Exports-to-Gas-Industry/b-hw3f4r2kWaBAtk3on5kg.cspx

"Fracking Resolution in Colesville Sparks Debate: "...Neighbors in Colesville are upset about a fracking resolution they say was passed without their input. The resolution in question doesn't support or denounce hydrofracking in Colesville...What it said is that leaders will not prematurely push for a ban on the practice..." " (Video, WBNG News) (New York)- http://www.wbng.com/news/local/Fracking-Resolution-in-Colesville-Sparks-Debate-161522785.html

"Horizontal oil/gas wells being drilled in Allegany County: "...An Allegany County man has launched a horizontal drilling project for oil and gas. It's the first project of its kind in the county, according to the Wellsville Daily Reporter. “We’re the first one for the county and if it works, it could be the first functioning one in the state for shale oil. It’s working now,” said John Zlomek, owner of Allegany Energy. “It’ll probably take a week after we’re done drilling to know how successful it is.” The company has already drilled down 1,700 feet -- and is now drilling horizontally about 4,100 feet..." " (Buffalo Business First) (New York)- http://www.bizjournals.com/buffalo/blog/morning_roundup/2012/07/horizontal-oilgas-wells-being-drilled.html

"Energy plan draws heat from area gas activists: "...COOPERSTOWN _ The receipt of a $1 million state grant by several local counties to fund a regional "sustainability plan" lauding energy efficiency has quickly become intertwined with the heated debate over natural gas production..." " (The Daily Star) (New York)- http://thedailystar.com/localnews/x1437858900/Energy-plan-draws-heat-from-area-gas-activists

"Guest Viewpoint: Find out if Tier really wants gas drilling: "...New York has taken several years to examine the environmental aspects of this issue. Assessing the will of the people should be done with equal care..." " (Opinion, GANNETT) (New York)- http://www.pressconnects.com/article/20120706/VIEWPOINTS02/207060303/

"Requlators shouldn't get to cozy: "...If the DEC truly had nothing to hide, it owed the people of New York more than just a vague one-sentence statement on its website. It should have been more forthright about the scope of its communications with the gas industry. And, more importantly, it should have found a way to extend the same courtesy to those on the other side of the issue. Strange how no one accuses the DEC of being too "cozy" with environmental groups. It couldn't be because the gas companies are the ones with all the money, could it?..." " (Opinion, The Daily Star)- http://thedailystar.com/opinion/x1437858902/Regulators-shouldnt-get-too-cozy

"Vote on DRBC drilling rules unlikely before November: "...A vote on proposed rules for natural gas drilling in the Delaware River watershed is likely still more than four months away. Carol R. Collier, the executive director of the Delaware River Basin Commission, said Thursday that she "would be surprised" if a vote on the regulations happens before November, a message she shared with leaders of a Wayne County landowners group during a private, informal meeting early last week..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (Delaware River Basin)- http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/gas-drilling/vote-on-drbc-drilling-rules-unlikely-before-november-1.1339919

"Callicoon Comprehensive Plan Generates NIMBY Opposition to Natural Gas: "...The Town Board of the Town of Callicoon, New York, Sullivan County held a public hearing last week on their draft Town of Callicoon Comprehensive Plan. We’ve seen a few comprehensive plans recently that were meant to do little more than lay the groundwork for zoning out natural gas development, leading to unintended consequences, but..." '" (Opinion, Energy In Depth via NorthCentralPA) (New York)- http://www.northcentralpa.com/feeditem/2012-07-05_callicoon-comprehensive-plan-generates-nimby-opposition-natural-gas

"Preaching Down the Spectra Pipeline: "...West 16th Street in Manhattan, among the nightclubs and food purveyors of the Meatpacking District, the Highline Ballroom may seem an unlikely place for a gospel revival. But on Sunday afternoon, Reverend Billy and the Church of Stop Shopping brought their unique liturgy to a standing-room-only crowd. The construction site of the Spectra gas pipeline served as a figurative, and, by the end of the day, literal backdrop for a musical sermon on the evils of high finance, fossil fuel dependence and corporate-mediated culture..." " (Nation of Change)- http://www.nationofchange.org/preaching-down-spectra-gas-pipeline-1341319611

"DEP Investigates Chemical Spill in Bradford County: "...Some acid flowed into a small tributary that runs into Towanda Creek, killing some fish in the tributary. But dams were built before any acid could make in into the creek. Contaminated soil along the roads is also being removed. There were no evacuations, but a secondary road was closed because of the vapors. Crews were at the scene earlier Thursday, collecting soil and water samples. The cause of the spill is still under investigation, but it is believed to have been caused by a disconnected valve on the tractor trailer's acid tanker, which DEP officias said provides the chemical for the hydrofracking process..." " (Video, WBNG News) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.wbng.com/news/local/DEP-Investigates-Chemincal-Spill-in-Bradford-County-161503165.html

"Acid Spill's Burden On Residents: "...Penny Benedict can see the Chief Oil and Gas Yoder well pad from her front porch. It was not the fireworks she was looking at on the fourth of July. "It's interesting, but kinda scary at the same time..cause you really don't know what's going on," said Benedict. Around 4,700 gallons of Hydrochloric Acid spilled from the drilling site..." " (Video, WBNG News) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.wbng.com/news/local/Hydrochloric-Acid-Spills-Toll-On-Residents-161616645.html

"Investigating Acid Spill At Gas Well : "...Even though gas company officials said the majority of that 4,000 gallon-plus hydrochloric acid spill did not reach the tributary to Towanda Creek, some of it did. It was dammed off in this area but you can still see all the scarring left behind..." " (Video, WNEP) (Pennsylvania)- http://bradfordcounty.wnep.com/news/news/94913-investigating-acid-spill-gas-well & http://wnep.com/2012/07/06/acid-spill-at-gas-well/

"Acid spill reported in Leroy Twp.: "...LEROY TWP. - The state Department of Environmental Protection confirmed Thursday it is overseeing the cleanup of a 4,700-gallon hydrochloric acid spill that occurred on Wednesday afternoon at a Chief Oil & Gas well pad in Bradford County. DEP said the incident caused a minor fish kill...A security guard working at the entrance to the well pad Thursday referred all questions to Kristi Gittins, vice president of industry and public affairs for Chief Oil & Gas. When asked for comment, Ms. Gittins provided a prepared response..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (Pennsylvania)- http://thedailyreview.com/news/acid-spill-reported-in-leroy-twp-1.1339771 , http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/acid-spill-reported-in-leroy-twp-1.1339757 & http://citizensvoice.com/news/acid-spills-off-well-pad-1.1339831

"Acid spilled at area gas drilling pad: "...Chief Oil and Gas says most of the substance was contained or captured at the Bradford County location...LEROY TWP. – Approximately 4,700 gallons of acid was spilled Wednesday at a natural gas drilling pad near Towanda Creek in Bradford County..." " (Times Leader) (Pennsylvania)- http://timesleader.com/stories/Acid-spilled-at-area-gas-drilling-pad,172049

"Hydrochloric Acid’s Role In The Fracking Process: "...After news broke that 4,700 gallons of hydrochloric acid spilled at a Chief Oil and Gas drilling pad in Bradford County on Wednesday, several readers emailed StateImpact Pennsylvania to ask why the corrosive agent was being stored at the site..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/07/06/hydrochloric-acids-role-in-the-fracking-process/

"Hydrochloric acid spill reported at drilling pad in Leroy Township" (GANNETT) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.stargazette.com/article/20120706/NEWS01/207060368/

"Easton bill of rights revamped to address fracking: "...A group of Easton residents who drafted a community bill of rights has a new version of the bill for Easton city council's consideration, this time focusing heavily on natural gas drilling. The law was revised from last month's version to say, “It shall be unlawful for any corporation to engage in the extraction of natural gas within the City of Easton.” It is unlikely natural gas drilling would come to Easton. But recent attempts by New Jersey legislators to ban disposal of the wastewater created in the natural gas drilling process within the state’s borders create the threat of drillers looking to cities such as Easton to dispose of the waste..." " (The Express-Times) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/easton/index.ssf/2012/07/easton_bill_of_rights_revamped.html

"More Water Concerns with Drilling : "...That same day, July 3 the American Water Works Association released a statement calling for more regulatory oversight of hydro-fracking operations. They call on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to use the authority of the Safe Drinking Water Act to regulate oil and gas well construction and operation - including hydro-fracking- through the Underground Injection Control (UIC) Program..." " (The Marcellus Effect)- http://marcelluseffect.blogspot.com/2012/07/more-water-concerns-with-drilling.html

"Lawsuit: Cabot, Others Caused Man's Death: "...Negligence and a lack of safety systems of one of the largest natural gas drilling companies in Pennsylvania caused the 2010 death of a man working in Dimock Township. That's according to a wrongful death lawsuit filed this spring in Philadelphia. .." " (Video, WBNG News) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.wbng.com/news/local/New-Lawsuit-Against-Cabot-161513685.html

"Selective Drilling Ban Exposes Hypocrisy in PA Energy Policy: "...More than anything, this is about fairness for all Pennsylvanians. If Act 13 isn’t good enough for some of us, then it isn’t good enough for any of us..." " (Jesse White, State Representative, 46th District of PA) (Pennsylvania)- http://current.com/community/93832488_selective-drilling-ban-exposes-hypocrisy-in-pa-energy-policy.htm & http://www.supportjesse.com/2012/07/selective-drilling-ban-exposes-hypocrisy-in-pa-energy-policy/

"Montgomery & Bucks Get Gas Drilling Moratorium: "...A 6-year unconventional gas drilling moratorium in the little-known South Newark Basin... Few saw it coming. Iris Bloom did. She immediately mobilized Protecting Our Waters and its allies to help stop the measure which was slipped into the Pennsylvania Fiscal Code Bill, HB1263, in the eleventh hour. Laura Olsen reports on Sen. Chuck McIlhinney's [R-10th, Bucks] successful, powder-keg provision in Oil and Gas Permits on Hold in Southeastern Pennsylvania in The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Bloom’s email alert, sent early Saturday afternoon, was the first many had heard of this extraordinary measure. It was extraordinary because McIllhinney is the among the self-same legislators who, only four months ago, crammed The Marcellus Shale Act down the Commonwealth’s collective throat - all in the name of “consistency” and “uniformity.” Now, McIllhinney is seeking exemption from the very zoning restrictions he would impose on the rest of Pennsylvania..." " (Patch) (Pennsylvania)- http://brynmawr.patch.com/blog_posts/montgomery-bucks-get-gas-drilling-moratorium

"MSC’s Klaber to President Obama in the Tribune-Review: “Let’s Continue to Get This Historic Opportunity Right” : "...As President Obama travels the commonwealth this week, we’re reminded of his fact-based remarks about safe natural gas development. In his January State of the Union address, the president underscored the fact that “natural gas will create jobs…proving that we don’t have to choose between our environment and our economy.” The president’s top advisers — both current and former — have underscored these benefits and the imperative for operational transparency, a core commitment of our industry..." " (Marcellus Shale Coalition)- http://www.northcentralpa.com/feeditem/2012-07-06_msc%E2%80%99s-klaber-president-obama-tribune-review-%E2%80%9Clet%E2%80%99s-continue-get-historic-oppor-0 (See also http://triblive.com/opinion/2145693-74/president-gas-natural-benefits-nation-transparency-agree-american-based-continue )

"Pennsylvania energy news update : "...There seems to be news about energy, and more specifically about Marcellus Shale natural gas, every day in Pennsylvania. In large part, Marcellus Shale is shaping the state's energy and economic future...We'll get the background and an update on these stories and more from witf's StateImpactPA reporter Scott Detrow on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk..." " (Audio, WITF) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.witf.org/smart-talk/pennsylvania-energy-news-update

"County asks for new hearing on Tennessee Gas Pipeline route: "...Milford, Pa. — During the June 27 meeting of the Pike County Commissioners, it was stated that application has been filed for a re-hearing regarding the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (FERC) approval on the certificate they issued for the Tennessee Gas Pipeline Northeast Upgrade Project...A group of citizens in the Milford area have also been protesting Tennessee Gas Pipeline’s plan to detour around the Park and FERC’s decison to approve that plan. The County notes that the route chosen by the pipeline company crosses pristine land and private property...“There’s additional elements that FERC didn’t consider and additional information that should be considered as far as environmental impact studies, instead of just an environmental assessment in the impacts of Pike County and the surrounding area,” Caridi says. “We’re hoping they listen to our arguments and give credit to it and also stay the order, so that all the argument and all the information can be brought to the table so they can add further analysis and evaluation to make sure we protect Pike County.”..." " (The News Eagle) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.neagle.com/topstories/x634673588/County-asks-for-new-hearing-on-Tennessee-Gas-Pipeline-route

"Sunoco paints a brighter future: "...But Delaware County officials are clinging to some hope, in the form of a study that suggests the site could be reborn as a multipurpose energy processing facility linked to natural-gas production from the state's booming Marcellus Shale drilling fields..." " (Opinion, The Philadelphia Inquirer) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.philly.com/philly/opinion/inquirer/20120706_Sunoco_paints_a_brighter_future.html

"Southeast Pa. Refineries Look to Marcellus Shale as a Savior: "...Palmer says converting the oil refinery to a natural gas processing facility would be cheaper than building one from scratch. He says the Marcus Hook site offers investors ready-made infrastructure, a dock that can serve large tankers, and good rail and highway connections. Not to mention, a friendly state government. Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Michael Krancer says his agency would do all it can to help entice investors to back the project. “We as the Department of Environmental Protection will work hand in glove, very closely, cooperatively and spiritedly with anyone who would want to participate in activities at this facility,” Krancer told reporters at a news conference last week..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/07/06/southeast-pa-refineries-look-to-marcellus-shale-as-a-savior/

"Health and Environment Fracked in Pennsylvania: "...Politics continues to threaten the health and welfare of Pennsylvanians. The latest is how the Republican-dominated legislature and Gov. Tom Corbett separated one of the wealthiest and more high-tech/industrial areas of the state from the rural areas. Less than a week before the 2011–2012 fiscal year budget was scheduled to expire, June 30, the majority party slipped an amendment into the 2012–2013 proposed budget, (SB1263), to ban natural gas drilling in a portion of southeastern Pennsylvania for up to six years. The South Newark Basin includes portions of Bucks, Montgomery, and Berks counties, and could provide at least 360 billion cubic feet of natural gas, according to estimates by the United States Geologic Survey Only an e-mail blast by anti-fracking activist Iris Marie Bloom and a short AP story the day before the budget was passed alerted Pennsylvanians to the amendment that gives special consideration to the suburban areas of Philadelphia..." " (Opinion, Walter Brasch) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.neagle.com/opinions/columnists/x634674435/WANDERINGS-PA-Politics-continues-to-trump-health-and-the-environment , http://www.pacificfreepress.com/opinion/11986-health-and-environment-fracked-in-pennsylvania.html , http://www.thepennsylvaniaprogressive.com/diary/4224/pennsylvania-politics-continues-to-trump-health-and-the-environment , http://pubrecord.org/nation/10449/pennsylvania-politics-continues-trump/ & http://thedemocraticdaily.com/2012/07/05/pennsylvania-politics-continues-trump-health-environment/

"State authorities say despite the heat, there are no indications of drought in South Central Pennsylvania: "...But so far, there are no indications of a drought in the south central part of the state, according to the criteria used by the state Department of Environmental Protection...Obleski said the river basin commission was suspending some stream withdrawals of water for at least 50 companies that use stream water, mostly those drilling in the Marcellus Shale for natural gas but also some golf courses. That’s not because the water levels are critically low, but more a function of how conservative the organization is in allowing water withdrawals, she said. Most of the companies have other sources of water, she said. .." " (The Patriot-News) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2012/07/state_authorities_say_despite.html

"Mapping Pennsylvania’s Natural Gas Fueling Stations: "...The main benefit of a vehicle fueled by compressed natural gas is the cheap cost of fuel: a gallon of CNG costs less than $2. The downside: there are only 11 public CNG fueling stations in Pennsylvania..." ' (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/maps/mapping-pennsylvanias-natural-gas-fueling-stations/

"County Commissioners approve contracts with Hess, corrections department: "...NORRISTOWN — The Montgomery County Commissioners unanimously approved contracts with the state corrections department as well as authorized a new energy purchasing agreement during Thursday morning’s regular business meeting...“This new contract will allow the county to purchase natural gas in quantities that work for the county,” Starr told the commissioners...This contract is part of the overall strategy to lower energy costs for the county. This is kind of like locking in a mortgage interest rate while it’s historically low. Commissioners’ Chairman Josh Shapiro said called it “a very good deal for the county — one that makes the most sense.” ..." '" (The Times Herald) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.timesherald.com/article/20120705/NEWS/120709751/county-commissioners-approve-contracts-with-hess-corrections-department & http://www.pottsmerc.com/article/20120705/NEWS01/120709684/-1/news/county-commissioners-approve-contracts-with-hess-corrections-department&pager=full_story

"Mansfield University will offer degree in natural gas production: "...MANSFIELD -- Mansfield University will offer two new degree programs in the fall, the associate of applied science in natural gas production and services and the bachelor of science in safety management. The programs were approved recently by the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education board. "These programs will enable Mansfield University to help meet the workforce development needs of our region while expanding career opportunities for our students," MU Interim President Allan Golden said..." " (GANNETT)- http://www.stargazette.com/article/20120705/NEWS01/207050367/

"Gas drilling in McKean Co. slows to near stop: "...Drilling for gas has slowed to a near stop in McKean County, with no permits being issued for new gas wells in June. However, there appears to be a slight increase in oil well drilling in the county. According to information from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, 36 permits were issued for McKean County between May 24 and July 5, all of them for conventional oil wells..." " (The Bradford ERA) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.bradfordera.com/news/local/article_23d078fa-c70c-11e1-a9a8-0019bb2963f4.html?mode=story

"EQT to convert machinery from diesel to natural gas: "...A pilot program recently launched by EQT Corp. saw a piece of equipment at one of its gas-drilling rigs converted from diesel power to liquid natural gas. That's just the starting point -- the Downtown-based gas driller has its eye on eventually displacing about half of the diesel used in the emissions-intensive extraction business. EQT already has converted the stationary engines that power a drilling rig at a producing well in northern West Virginia..." " (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)- http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/business/news/eqt-to-convert-machinery-from-diesel-to-natural-gas-643511/ & http://shale.sites.post-gazette.com/index.php/news/archives/24675-eqt-to-convert-machinery-from-diesel-to-natural-gas ("EQT Launches Pilot Program to Convert Marcellus Drilling Rigs to LNG" (EQT Corporation)- http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20120705005589/en/EQT-Launches-Pilot-Program-Convert-Marcellus-Drilling )

"Attn: Marcellus Shale Gas Workers (Washington, PA): "...Three rooms available to rent at $20.00 per night..." " (Craigslist) (Pennsylvania)- http://pittsburgh.craigslist.org/roo/3121053310.html

"Public hearing on proposed Transco pipeline project will be in Clinton on July 25: "...A public hearing on the proposed Transco pressurized natural gas pipeline called the Stanton Loop is scheduled for July 25 from 7-9 p.m. at the Holiday Inn, 111 W. Main St., in Clinton. The NJ Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is holding the hearing as part of its review process of a flood hazard area permit application the Transco company is making with department. Transco, also known as Transcontinental Gas Pipeline Co., is proposing the new Stanton Loop project, which is part of the company's Northeast Supply Link, to run underground near about 90 homes in Hunterdon County, including several dozen homes in Clinton Township, and other residences in Union, Franklin and Readington townships..." " (Hunterdon County Democrat) (New Jersey)- http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2012/07/transco_public_hearing_is_july.html

"Clarification: Gas Drilling story: "...TRENTON, N.J.—In a story June 21 about legislation to bar hydraulic fracturing byproducts from entering New Jersey, The Associated Press reported that some fracking waste had already entered the state. The story, and previous articles on the bill, should have distinguished between the waste produced during drilling and the waste produced when chemical-laced water is blasted in deep shale deposits to stimulate gas production in a process known as hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection says the waste listed on its website as having already entered New Jersey consisted of fluids and other residue generated prior to fracking, but was not produced by the fracking itself..." " (Associated Press) (New Jersey)- http://www.inyork.com/state/ci_21013537/clarification-gas-drilling-story & http://www.ydr.com/state/ci_21013537/clarification-gas-drilling-story

"Ohio EPA: "Fracking" wastes, streams still cannot mix: "...A recent decision by an Ohio appeals commission does not allow a Lisbon-based company to dump treated fracking wastes into the Mahoning River, state officials said today. The Environmental Review Appeals Commission appeared to hand the company, Patriot Water Treatment, a victory when it ruled that the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency was wrong to expressly bar the city of Warren's sewage treatment plant from taking treated fracking wastes from Patriot or other companies and dumping those wastes into the Mahoning. The commission released its decision Tuesday. Despite that change, Warren still doesn't have the authority to accept fracking wastes from Patriot, said Chris Abbruzzese, an Ohio EPA spokesman. The city must first obtain permission from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, which oversees the disposal of oil and gas field wastes..." " (The Columbus Dispatch) (Ohio)- http://www.dispatch.com/content/blogs/science-environment/2012/07/brine-dumping.html

'"Ruling Puts Patriot Water Plant Back in Business: "...WARREN, Ohio -- A ruling Tuesday by the Environmental Review Appeals Commission is putting Patriot Water Treatment LLC back in business. The commission determined that the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency’s prohibition of the city of Warren from accepting brine water treated by Patriot was unlawful, according to an announcement from the company. The Ohio EPA’s denial of the city's permit to accept the treated water resulted in Patroit Water idling production April 1. The plant treated brine water produced from oil and gas drilling activity and sent it to the city of Warren's wastewater treatment plant. The city's permit renewal from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, which took effect April 1, did not allow the city to accept the water from Patriot..." " (The Business Journal) (Ohio)- http://businessjournaldaily.com/company-news/ruling-puts-patriot-water-plant-back-business-2012-7-4

"Group urges setting precedent in opposing oil, gas drilling: "...Yellow Springs would be the first community in Ohio to ban oil and gas drilling and waste wells within its municipal limits using a rights-based ordinance, if organizers with the local group Gas and Oil Drilling Awareness and Education, or GODAE, have their way...“It’s important to establish this notion that we have a right to be in charge of our own health and welfare,” said drilling awareness group organizer Dimi Reber on the ordinance. In the group’s draft legislation, the extraction of oil and gas or the siting of injection wells within Yellow Springs would constitute a threat to local health and safety and therefore be prohibited. However, the local ordinance may not be enforceable and could be challenged in court since it is preempted by state law, according to Village Solicitor John Chambers..." " (Yellow Springs News) (Ohio)- http://ysnews.com/news/2012/07/group-urges-setting-precedent-in-opposing-oil-gas-drilling

"Salem Council gives go-ahead on drill lease: "...Mayor John Berlin told city council about the final proposal Thursday night, with city council voting to give him the authority to enter an agreement to sell the mineral rights. The agreement will cover about 381 acres of land owned by the city, located outside of the city limits...She said she's open to any comments or requests from city residents, but she also cautioned residents that just because a property doesn't meet their standard of living, that doesn't mean it's in violation of any rules...." " (Salem News) (Ohio)- http://www.salemnews.net/page/content.detail/id/556090/Salem-Council-gives-go-ahead-on-drill-lease.html

"County mulls benefits, implications of fracking: "...Berlin Township Trustee Philip Panzarella urged Delaware County commissioners Thursday, June 28, to prepare for an anticipated onslaught of fracking in the near future. The so-called Utica Shale "play," which first gained a toehold in eastern Ohio, recently has expanded to Knox and Muskingum counties. Government officials in Delaware and Licking counties already have begun to see signs that the boom is heading in their direction as representatives of the oil and gas industry begin to examine property deeds and mineral rights leases, they said...Commissioner Tommy Thompson said his biggest concern moving forward is the safety of county residents. "How do we make it safe for us as well as it being a -- I don't want to use the phrase cash cow, but that type of a deal?" he asked. "How do we do it safely for our citizens, to reduce our costs to our citizens and increase the benefits, but also in a way that we don't endanger them in any way?"..." " (Olentangy Valley News) (Ohio)- http://www.thisweeknews.com/content/stories/olentangy/news/2012/07/02/county-mulls-benefits-implications-of-fracking.html

"A Long Way To Go On Pipes: "...WHEELING - Chesapeake Energy and other companies have a long way to go to install all the pipelines needed to transport natural gas, oil and other valuable commodities from the Marcellus and Utica shale formations. And as Tim Greene emphasized, until there are pipelines connecting the wells in Ohio, Brooke and Hancock counties to transmission lines or processing plants, there will be no production - and no royalty checks for mineral owners..." " (The Intelligencer / Wheeling News-Register) (Ohio & West Virginia)- http://www.theintelligencer.net/page/content.detail/id/571677/A-Long-Way-To-Go-On-Pipes.html

"Morgantown council votes to restrict drilling: (Associated Press) (West Virginia)- http://www.grafwv.com/page/content.detail/id/246667/Morgantown-council-votes-to-restrict-drilling-.html

"Chesapeake buys ESG; natural gas in resort still distant: "...The city’s home gas supply franchise may soon be changing hands, as Chesapeake Utilities is in the process of purchasing the operations of Eastern Shore Gas, the current provider of the island’s propane lines. According to a press release, Chesapeake’s acquisition of ESG is part of its larger plan to expand its service throughout Worcester County. Chesapeake’s subsidiary, Eastern Shore Natural Gas, is currently building a natural gas line from Delaware down through the Maryland shore. “The current line that is being built through our subsidiary is going down through Bishopville, Showell, and ending in Berlin,” said Chesapeake Vice President Jeff Tietbohl of the gas main that extends down Route 113 and along Friendship Road, just east of Berlin..." " (Ocean City Today) (Maryland)- http://www.oceancitytoday.net/news/2012-07-06/Top_News/Chesapeake_buys_ESG_natural_gas_in_resort_still_di.html

"Stamford Energy Company Pays $4 Million To Settle Pricing Allegations: "...Louis Dreyfus Energy Services, a Stamford-based natural gas distributor, agreed to pay $4 million to settle allegations that it misled the federal government about the re-sale of natural gas it bought from the U.S. Department of the Interior. In its bid for the contract, Louis Dreyfus told Interior's Office of Natural Resources Revenue that it had access to a higher-priced market though a pipeline, which set the cost for the natural gas relatively high, said the revenue office. Then, later, the company later told the department that it lost access to the pipeline and would need to sell the fuel in a lower-priced market. By changing the market that it would be selling the natural gas to, the company received the fuel for a lower price...The energy company bought the natural gas from federal leases, managed by the U.S. Department of the Interior, in the Gulf of Mexico between December 2004 and March 2008. The justice department said that the company's actions violated the False Claims Act, a law used to hold persons or companies responsible for defrauding the U.S. government. Louis Dreyfus Energy Services did not respond to numerous attempts for comment. .." " (The Hartford Courant) (Connecticut)- http://www.courant.com/business/hc-louis-dreyfus-settlement-20120705,0,6424996.story

United States & Canada:

"Fracking Debate At Aspen Ideas Fest: Audience Decides That Fracking Does More Harm Than Good : "...ASPEN — After an Oxford-style debate Sunday night, environmental attorneys Deborah Goldberg and Katherine Hudson convinced 15 percent of the audience here to change their minds about hydraulic fracturing. Before the debate, only 38 percent of the audience agreed that the detriments of hydraulic fracturing are greater than its benefits but afterward, 53 percent agreed fracking does more harm than good..." " (The Colorado Independent)- http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/06/fracking-debate-at-aspen-_n_1655051.html & http://coloradoindependent.com/123578/aspen-ideas-fest-audience-decides-natural-gas-boom-doing-more-harm-than-good

"FERC Schedules Conferences On Gas-Electric Coordination : "...The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has announced the dates and locations for five regional technical conferences focusing on better coordination between natural-gas and electricity markets. The conferences will explore gas-electric interdependence as well as ways to improve coordination and communication between the two industries. Public comments filed with the FERC earlier this year identified a wide range of issues related to gas-electric interdependence. Many commenters suggested those issues differ on a regional basis. Discussion at each conference will focus on communications, coordination and information sharing; scheduling; market structures and rules; and reliability concerns. The conferences will be open to the public..." " (Renew Grid)- http://www.renewgridmag.com/e107_plugins/content/content.php?content.8649

"Permitting guidance for oil and gas hydraulic fracturing activities using diesel fuels - Draft" (Environmental Protection Agency)- https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2012/07/09/2012-16694/permitting-guidance-for-oil-and-gas-hydraulic-fracturing-activities-using-diesel-fuels---draft & https://s3.amazonaws.com/public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2012-16694.pdf

"The Wise Way to Regulate Gas Drilling: "...Only a national regulatory system can strike the right balance, simultaneously realizing hydraulic fracturing’s energy promise and minimizing the risks while respecting state authority..." " (Opinion, The New York Times)- http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/06/opinion/the-wise-way-to-regulate-hydraulic-fracturing.html

"Let a Thousand Gas Wells Bloom: How can we assess the consequences of new technologies like fracking when there are billions of dollars at stake?: "...Fox accuses the natural gas industry of concealing some of their own evidence of well casing integrity issues. And he notes the major political donations made to influential politicians by the industry. We can add to this picture the proprietary status of certain fracking chemicals and non-disclosure agreements that prevent landowners sharing information about accidents on their property. This all works against the ideal of objective risk assessment. Concerned parents and neighbors have been scraping together a few thousand dollars to pay for air monitoring studies. The proactionary principle might laud such efforts as part of the learning process. But it is pitted against a Goliath of multi-billion dollar industry research and lobbying. The precautionary principle may be technically naive in hoping that we could factor out all the bad consequences before they even happen. But it is politically naive to think that we can create billions of dollars of vested corporate interests around a new technology and then conduct a rational and fair process of assessing its risks..." " (Slate Magazine)- http://www.slate.com/articles/technology/future_tense/2012/07/proactionary_principle_can_we_assess_fracking_s_consequences_without_being_influenced_by_business_.single.html

"Chesapeake Energy Cheat Sheet: What’s Been Uncovered So Far/Chesapeake Energy Corp.'s price fixing problems: "...The last four months have been rather bumpy for Chesapeake Energy Corp., the nation’s second-largest natural gas company behind Exxon Mobil..." " (Pro Publica)- http://www.propublica.org/article/chesapeake-energy-cheat-sheet-whats-been-uncovered-so-far & http://www.calgaryherald.com/technology/Chesapeake+Energy+cheat+sheet+What+been+uncovered/6896310/story.html

"The Fracking Industry's Dirty Secrets : "...The fracking industry is one of the most secretive and deceptive industries in the country. They've managed to operate with little to no oversight from the federal government, and they've kept their secret fracking formulas from being revealed to the public, even though the chemicals they're using are leaching into groundwater supplies and poisoning men, women, and children. Mike Papantonio talks about how the fracking industry is accomplishing all of this with Mike Ludwig, a reporter for Truthout.org..." " (Video, Truthout)- http://truth-out.org/news/item/10184-the-fracking-industrys-dirty-secrets

"Big overseas investors supply momentum for North American shale growth: "...Entities outside the US and Canada are funding a surprisingly large share of development in unconventional oil and gas plays -- and that trend should continue. Typically these are IOCs (international oil companies), state-backed investment groups or other foreign-based entities investing not only for financial gain but also to acquire technical knowledge about unconventional oil and natural gas development that can be applied in undeveloped shales in their own countries. In return US and Canadian energy companies receive funding to develop important shale plays and establish new reserves. These investments are significant -- in a recent analysis by PricewaterhouseCoopers, 191 M&A deals worth $187 billion were announced in 2011. That was an increase over 2010 which had 196 deals worth $139 billion. The average deal in 2011 was $979 million (up more than 38%, on average over 2010)..." " (Warlick International via OIl & Gas Financial Journal)- http://www.ogfj.com/articles/2012/07/big-overseas-investors-supply-momentum-for-north-american-shale-growth.html

"Clashing views on shale gas exploitation in US: "...As the production of natural gas has rapidly increased, so too have concerns about environmental impacts. This documentary "Gasland" looks at complaints by people living close to fracking sites about the contamination of drinking water from chemicals used in the process. The National Resources Defense Council wants more independent research...Some in Washington worry that if it becomes a big export, then gas prices could rise too quickly. That balance will dominate the debate going forward. Reporter: "But it’s clear that abundance of natural gas, and America’s newly found ability to exploit it has the potential to dramatically increase the nation’s global competitiveness."..." " (Video, CNTV China)- http://english.cntv.cn/program/bizasia/20120706/107380.shtml

"Assessing Strategic Threats to Protect Natural Gas Pipelines in North America : "...The transport of gas by way of interstate, intrastate, and offshore pipelines is a potential target of bad actors, and the strategies and techniques which could be utilized to attack stations, terminals, government and commercial buildings and private homes poses a security threat to North America’s infrastructure and way of life...Integrating data from disparate sources and organizing one operational picture will identify weak points that are susceptible to sabotage and/or attack, improve project management at field offices, and enable real-time decision making while also enhancing the capability to detect vulnerabilities such as leaks and prevent disasters. For example, integrating data collected by field instruments and gathered in Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) will enable analysts to monitor and track the pipeline lifecycle touch points at injection or delivery systems, pump stations (liquid) or compressor stations (gas), and block valve stations. Furthermore, fusing this data with geospatial, relational, and temporal information, including communication systems and/or cellular connections, can provide control of information and assets through one central database and oversight into the methodologies that are being employed to operate and protect natural gas pipelines..." " (Praescient Analytics LLC)- http://praescient.blogspot.com/2012/07/assessing-strategic-threats-to-protect.html

"What Ice Cream and Fracking Have in Common And Why Your Dessert Has Become So Pricey: "...The food industry has for decades leaned on an inexpensive and natural thickening agent: guar gum. It builds viscosity in ice cream, dressing, baked goods, and other foods you've likely eaten it in the past week..." " (Dallas News Blog)- http://blogs.dallasobserver.com/unfairpark/2012/07/what_ice_cream_and_fracking_ha.php

"Groundwater tests under way: "...The U.S. Geological Survey is conducting groundwater testing in Van Buren County...The methane testing was added after Duke University in North Carolina became involved with the USGS testing here...In December 2010 the Van Buren County Quorum Court created a Gas and Oil Advisory board in response to citizen concerns over possible contamination of rivers and streams by gas drilling operations in the county..." " (Van Buren County Democrat) (Arkansas)- http://www.vanburencountydem.com/articles/2012/07/05/news/nws02.txt

"North Carolina politician's button mishap gives fracking green light" (The Guardian) (North Carolina)- http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2012/jul/04/shale-gas-northcarolina

"Wheels begin turning on deals to lease land for drilling : "...Landowners in central North Carolina are beginning to prepare for what some hope, and others doubt, will be a natural gas bonanza, even as countless questions remain especially since Gov. Beverly Perdue vetoed a comprehensive fracking bill only to be overturned by the General Assembly on July 2..." " (Triangle Business Journal (North Carolina)- http://www.bizjournals.com/triangle/print-edition/2012/07/06/wheels-begin-turning-on-deals-to-lease.html

"Officials: Bayou Corne bubbles are natural gas: "...ASCENSION PARISH, LA (WAFB) - Officials watching the Bayou Corne area have determined the bubbling in the area is being caused by a release of natural gas. An investigation into the origin of the gas is ongoing..." " (WAFB) (Louisiana)- http://www.ksla.com/story/18968728/officials-bayou-corne-bubbles-are-natural-gas & http://www.wafb.com/story/18968728/officials-bayou-corne-bubbles-are-natural-gas

"Editorial: Parishes should have say in oil, gas activity: "...Despite each parish’s prosperous bounty, local regulation of the industry is largely determined by state law...Parishes should have a larger say in drilling practices within their borders because any missteps by the oil and gas companies hurts their people. Parishes should have a say in who’s drilling, who’s responsible for the fracking, what chemicals are going to be used at the site or in the ground, where the water would be coming from and what’s going to happen to the produced water after the drilling process is complete...." " (American Press) (Louisiana)- http://www.americanpress.com/AP-Editorial-7-6-12

"Decline in energy taxes slows Okla. growth rate: "...OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma's economy is showing positive signs, but declining revenue from oil and natural gas production continues to place a drag on revenue flowing into state coffers, Treasurer Ken Miller said on Thursday..." " (Associated Press) (Oklahoma)- http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505245_162-57467263/decline-in-energy-taxes-slows-okla-growth-rate/

"Parkway schools eyeing natural-gas schoolbuses: "...“It is a great opportunity for our country,” Taylor said. “This is all domestically produced fuel. We’re not relying on the Middle East. And it is good for our environment because it is clean.”..." " (St. Louis Post Dispatch) (Missouri)- http://www.stltoday.com/news/traffic/along-for-the-ride/parkway-schools-eyeing-natural-gas-schoolbuses/article_835a7598-c6dd-11e1-a679-001a4bcf6878.html

"Important meeting on fracking coming up: "...Murphysboro, Ill. — Fracking has become a hot topic in the last year or two. It's a topic that has now reached Jackson County. Southern Illinoisans Against Fracturing our Environment (S.A.F.E.) are urging residents of Jackson County to attend a meeting of the Jackson County Land Use & Economic Development Committee meeting. .."Creating a safer way is the key,'' she said. "Right now the high volume hydraulic fracturing has no regulations. State's that have had it all have issues. Wherever fracking has been done it has been a big time problem. We're asking Governor Quinn to ban it or regulate it. "Right now there is a strong bill in the Illinois House that has strong regulations. If we have something like that it would be a huge help."..." " (Murphysboro American) (Illinois)- http://www.murphysboroamerican.com/news/x1880835974/Important-meeting-on-fracking-coming-up

"1 dead, 2 hurt in East Texas gas well accident: "...Sheriff Thomas Kerss tells KTRE-TV of Lufkin that the flying cap hit and killed 34-year-old Jeremiah Keith Neeley of Kilgore. The two injured men were taken Nacogdoches Medical Center, where Kerss says one was treated and released. There's no word on the other injured worker..." " (Associated Press) (Texas)- http://www.kplctv.com/story/18960327/1-dead-2-hurt-in-east-texas-gas-well-accident & http://dailysentinel.com/news/texas/article_3fdf6028-eafd-5433-86af-fd5884067c68.html

"Funeral services announced for man who died at natural gas fracking well: "...Funeral services will be held Monday for the man killed in yesterday's accident at a natural gas fracking well in Nacogdoches County. 34-year-old Jeremiah Neely of the Kilgore area died at the scene. We're told funeral services will be held for Neely, Monday at 2:00 at Rader Funeral Home in Kilgore. The Nacogdoches Sheriff's Office says two other men were injured in the accident yesterday. Their names have not been released..." " (KYTX) (Texas)- http://www.12newsnow.com/story/18968493/funeral-services-announced-for-man-who-died-at-natural-gas-fracking-well

"Eagle Ford drilling tearing up DeWitt County roads: "..."Every time you roll a 6 million pound rig assembly into a drilling location, back off the ranch, out the county road, and down to the new location, you ruin whatever road structure is there," said DeWitt County Judge Daryl Fowler. In many cases, both shoulders of county roads are being stripped away, leaving a strip of asphalt, sometimes as narrow as eight feet wide for two-way traffic..." " (Video, KSAT) (Texas)- http://www.ksat.com/news/Eagle-Ford-drilling-tearing-up-DeWitt-County-roads/-/478452/15419888/-/14f8wosz/-/index.html

"Longview firm plans natural gas fueling sites: "...Our newspaper parnter,The Longview News Journal, reports, A group of Longview-area entrepreneurs is working to make natural gas fueling — a lower-cost and cleaner alternative to gasoline and diesel — a reality for local motorists..." " (KETK) (Texas)- http://www.ketknbc.com/local/longview/longview-firm-plans-natural-gas-fueling-sites

"While Profits Are Up in the Eagle Ford Shale, So is Road Damage" (StateImpact Texas)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/texas/2012/07/06/while-profits-are-up-in-the-eagle-ford-shale-so-is-road-damage/

"Another small earthquake shakes Johnson County: "...Scientists have tied the timing and locations of some local earthquakes to waste water injection wells used in the gas-drilling process. The Barnett Shale, which stretches from Dallas County to the west past Fort Worth, has about 100 waste injection wells and nearly 20,000 natural-gas production wells, almost all of them drilled in the past five years. A local seismologist says a series of small temblors near D/FW Airport stopped after injections were suspended in the area..." " (Dallas News Scoop Blog)- http://thescoopblog.dallasnews.com/2012/07/another-small.html/

"Johnson County Landowners Accuse Chesapeake Energy of Skimming Shale Gas Royalties: "...A family of Johnson County landowners is suing Chesapeake, the country's second-largest natural gas company, for allegedly cheating them out of royalties. Their lawyer, Dallas-based attorney James Holmes, says they can thank endlessly indulgent Texas laws and a taxing authority more inclined to look the other way. The complaint filed Tuesday in federal court accuses Chesapeake of using its gas-gathering and purchasing subsidiaries to "suppress the wellhead gas prices on which it pays royalties" to "imbed" post-production costs -- something the landowners say their lease agreement forbids. Under the contract, Holmes says, Chesapeake is required to pay royalties based on the market value of the gas. Instead, he alleges, the company deducted costs for things like gas compression..." " (Dallas News Blog) (Texas)- http://blogs.dallasobserver.com/unfairpark/2012/07/johnson_county_landowners_accu.php

"Man suspected of gas main bombing denied bond " (Associated Press) (Texas)- http://baytownsun.com/texas_ap/article_681e51f6-3f0d-5cfe-8192-495ce955af71.html

"First casualty of greenhouse gas rules may be Texas plant: "...Developers targeted 2013 to begin operating a new power plant fueled by the carbon-rich leftover from nearby oil refining in Corpus Christi. The Las Brisas Energy Center will not be ready by then, however, and there are doubts the project will be built at all, making it the latest flash point in a long fight between Texas and the Environmental Protection Agency. .." " (Houston Chronicle) (Texas)- http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/article/First-casualty-of-greenhouse-gas-rules-may-be-3689643.php

"Colorado Roadless Rule In Effect: Suporters Say It Protects 4.2 Million Acres, Critics Say It Opens Up Backcountry For Drilling And Mining: "...Many residents, however, oppose the Colorado rule, saying it opens too much of the state's best backcountry to mining, drilling, and other large-scale activities. The state rule, they say, is unnecessary after the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the 2001 national roadless rule earlier this year. The national rule, which bans roads on about 30 percent of Forest Service lands, offers more protections, they say..." " (The Colorado Independent) (Colorado)- http://coloradoindependent.com/123588/colorados-backcountry-%E2%80%98roadless-rule%E2%80%99-takes-effect & http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/06/colorado-roadless-rule-in_n_1655028.html

"Guest Commentary: Sierra Club trying to demonize the oil and gas industry" (Opinion from "Howard Boigon of Denver is a lawyer specializing in energy and natural resources issues", The Denver Post) (Colorado)- http://www.denverpost.com/opinion/ci_21014936/sierra-club-trying-demonize-oil-and-gas-industry

"BLM shrinks Willow Creek Unit gas drilling potential: "...THOMPSON DIVIDE, Colorado — Federal land managers have ruled that three gas leases in the Willow Creek Unit, part of the Thompson Divide area, have expired and cannot be drilled by WillSource Enterprise LLC of Denver. The decision, which essentially shrinks the amount of land open to drilling by WillSource, came in response to a lawsuit filed by several environmental organizations, including the Wilderness Workshop of Carbondale. In a letter dated June 22, BLM Senior Land Law Examiner Karen Toth informed WillSource that leases on more than 2,700 acres of Willow Creek land had expired on Nov. 11, 2009, and were being withdrawn from the Willow Creek Unit. In addition, according to the Wilderness Workshop, another 3,800 acres or so in Willow Creek is no longer open to drilling...The BLM agreed, and the result of the decision, according to Toth's letter, is that the Willow Creek Unit has been “contracted” to an area comprising 440 acres. All told, in terms of where drilling can now take place, more than 6,500 acres of land are now outside the Willow Creek Unit, Toth confirmed in a telephone interview with the Post Independent..." " (Gleenwood Springs Post Independent) (Colorado)- http://www.postindependent.com/article/20120706/VALLEYNEWS/120709945/1083

"BLM Pinedale Issues Decision on Longshot Gas Well: "...The Bureau of Land Management Pinedale Field Office (PFO) has issued a finding of no significant impact (FONSI) and decision record (DR) for an environmental assessment (EA) of a natural gas well proposed to be drilled near Miller Mountain, about 14 miles west-southwest of the town of LaBarge in Lincoln County, Wyo..." " (U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT NEWS RELEASE Pinedale Field Office) (Wyoming)- http://www.blm.gov/wy/st/en/info/news_room/2012/july/06_longshot.html

"Over $7B will be spent for hydraulic fracturing in the Bakken : "...US energy investors have been enamored with growing crude and liquids-rich plays with increased drilling and development going forward in both the US and Canada. However, the advent of widespread use of hydraulic fracturing has resulted in great strides for oil completions in the Bakken Shale of North Dakota and Montana..." " (Warlick International) (North Dakota)- http://www.ogfj.com/articles/2012/07/over-billion-will-be-spent-for-hydraulic-fracturing-in-the-bakken.html

"Now PG&E wants to fix its pipes: "...PG&E's newfound - or at least more public - concern for maintaining its natural gas network follows the 2010 San Bruno gas line explosion that killed eight, injured 58 and destroyed 38 homes. Since then we've learned maintenance was not always the utility's top priority - even on lines beneath residential areas - and record-keeping an even lower priority. The upgrades are essential. The work must be done. What's puzzling is why maintenance costs apparently weren't always part of the utility's rate structure..." " (Opinion, Record) (California)- http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120706/A_OPINION01/207060309/-1/A_OPINION

"Fracking causes rumbles in California: "...Last year about a quarter of all the oil and gas wells drilled in California were fracked and with no regulation in place, companies are rushing to dig some more. California is prone to droughts and earthquakes, leaving residents worried about how fracking could affect their water supply and the potential for an earth shaking disaster. Southern California is known for its pristine coastline, but just a few miles away from the ocean lays a one-thousand acre oil field, right in the middle of Los Angeles. “I didn’t buy here thinking this was going to happen in my backyard. I would have had second thoughts about living here,” said Gary Gless, a Los Angeles resident who lives just a few miles from the Inglewood Oil Field..." " (Video, RT) (California)- http://rt.com/usa/news/california-oil-water-gas-516/

"Doubts over PG&E worker's memory of pipeline test: "...Pacific Gas and Electric Co.'s reliance on a retired worker's memory to defend itself against allegations that it never tested the strength of the San Bruno natural-gas transmission line before the pipe exploded in 2010 may prove problematic, as experts say the account raises more questions than it answers. PG&E said last week that the retired employee - identified by The Chronicle as Bob Jefferies - recalled observing a 1956 test of the pipeline using high-pressure water..." ' (San Fransico Chronicle) (California)- http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Doubts-over-PG-E-worker-s-memory-of-pipeline-test-3687349.php

"BLM Takes Comments on Oil & Gas Lease Environmental Assessment: "...The Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Hollister Field Office has completed the environmental assessment (EA) for a proposed oil and gas lease auction scheduled for Dec. 12, 2012. A 30-day public review and comment period runs through Aug. 6. The EA was prepared to analyze the environmental impacts of leasing the mineral estate for oil and gas exploration and development. The lands considered for competitive lease auction are located in Monterey, San Benito and Fresno counties..." " (U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT NEWS RELEASE Central California District) (California)- http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/info/newsroom/2012/july/comments_og_ea.html

"PG&E to test Suisun City gas pipeline: "...SUISUN CITY — Pacific Gas and Electric Company is expected to start routine testing a pipeline that runs along Highway 12 through Suisun City later this month, the utility company announced. PG&E officials will hold an open house on July 12 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Hampton Inn & Suites at 2 Harbor Center to talk with residents about pressure-testing that the company will do starting July 16 to one of the gas pipelines that runs through Suisun City. Residents will have two hours to speak with subject experts, view exhibits on the process the utility company will use for testing and ask questions, according to PG&E spokesman Brandi Ehers..." " (Daily Republic) (California)- http://www.dailyrepublic.com/news/suisuncity/pge-to-test-suisun-city-gas-pipeline/

"FERC accepting comments on proposed Kalama pipeline: "...The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission will accept public comments Tuesday on Williams Northwest Pipeline’s proposal to build a three-mile natural gas line to serve a power plant proposed at the Port of Kalama. The Utah-based company scrapped plans for a 2.3-mile line along Mount Pleasant Road. Its new plan calls for a line along Hale Barber Road that affects fewer land owners. The original route, proposed in October, would have come within 500 feet of 18 homes in the area; the new route passes by seven, according to Williams Northwest. However, residents along the new route say Williams officials could avoid their property as well if the route were moved farther south..." " (The Daily News) (Washington)- http://tdn.com/news/local/ferc-accepting-comments-on-proposed-kalama-pipeline/article_c1d2d266-c7b4-11e1-b297-0019bb2963f4.html

"Falling natural gas prices to put $200-million dent in B.C. revenues" (Vancouver Sun) (Canada)- http://www.globaltvbc.com/falling+natural+gas+prices+to+put+200-million+dent+in+bc+revenues/6442674503/story.html

"City MP rolls out litany of oil pipeline concerns: "...Kinder Morgan's pipeline expansion plan could lead to higher gas prices, land expropriation and the demise of the Chevron refinery, according to Burnaby MP Kennedy Stewart. Kinder Morgan recently filed a commercial tolling application with the National Energy Board, which will decide what the company can charge its customers for using the pipeline. The documents are available on the National Energy Board website..."This pipeline winds through a number of residential properties," Stewart said. "If they couldn't make a deal with a landowner to remove the house, they would have to expropriate." According to Stewart, the National Energy Board gives Kinder Morgan the right to expropriate if need be, so Stewart is encouraging concerned residents to participate in the public consultation process, which should start this fall. "If a bulldozer shows up outside of your house, it's too late to do anything. That's why it's so important to get involved early on," he said..." " (Burnaby Now) (Canada)- http://www.burnabynow.com/business/City+rolls+litany+pipeline+concerns/6892168/story.html

"Q and A: Internal corrosion causes nearly half of pipeline leaks" (Edmonton Journal) (Canada)- http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/Internal+corrosion+causes+nearly+half+pipeline+leaks/6895297/story.html

International:

"07-06-12 Natural Gas Daily Report" (The Carbon Capture Report)- http://gas.carboncapturereport.org/cgi-bin//dailyreport?DATE=2012-07-06

"Interview: ‘It started with nosebleeds’ – what fracking did to one US town: "...Calvin Tillman is the former mayor of Dish, Texas, a small community which was one of the first in the world to encounter ‘fracking’ – extraction of shale gas by hydraulic fracturing – after the technology was finessed in the late 1990s. Early last year he moved his family out of the town, saying that the effects of fracking and industrialisation were causing health problems for his children. He has since become an advocate on the subject. .." " (The Journal Ireland)- http://www.thejournal.ie/readme/interview-%E2%80%98it-started-with-nosebleeds%E2%80%99-%E2%80%93-what-fracking-did-to-one-us-town/

"Fracking in Ireland and Being Dependent on Halliburton's Mud: "...In Ireland, you haven’t even done the studies. The University of Aberdeen study for the Irish Environmental Protection Agency has been played as some kind of endorsement for charging ahead with fracking in Ireland - but this is not the case if you actually read the study. The University study is, in fact, a long series of warnings that proposed drilling methods, the local geology and the potential impacts on water quality all require studies not even begun. It also points to the necessity of creating a regulatory system not now in place which can cope with watching thousands of explosive, toxic well-sites. The Shannon river basin is a truly eyebrow-raising place to blindly drill thousands of wells. It’s located in proximity to one of Irelands few major aquifers (your drinking water supply) and the drilling will be relatively shallow. Where I live in the State of New York, the government, though a major booster of fracking, has banned the fracking of shallow shale deposits and banned the process from all locations near our aquifers. The US experience is not comforting..." ' (Greg Palast via Nation of Change)- http://www.nationofchange.org/fracking-ireland-and-being-dependent-halliburton-s-mud-1341329061

"UK oil industry issues warning over regulation: "...PLANS from Europe for further regulation in the oil and gas industry would hit the UK, a report published yesterday warned. The Oil and Gas UK 2012 economic report claims that production will be hampered by the proposed new measures which will put regulation in the hands of Brussels. EU-wide rules on offshore drilling will involve all 27 governments, even though 90 per cent of all such drilling takes place on the territory of just four member states, including the UK..." " (City A.M.) (United Kingdom)- http://www.cityam.com/latest-news/uk-oil-industry-issues-warning-over-regulation

"Appeal granted over test gas drilling in Vale of Glamorgan : "...The Wales Planning Inspectorate (WPI) has allowed test drilling for shale gas in the Vale of Glamorgan to go ahead on Llandow industrial estate. It follows an appeal by Coastal Oil and Gas, which was refused permission. The Bridgend firm will now be allowed to proceed with exploratory drilling..." " (BBC News) (United Kingdom)- http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-east-wales-18734810 (See also "Appeal granted over test gas drilling at Llandow" (Video, BBC)- http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-18742971 )

"Test-drilling for gas in Llandow given go-ahead by Wales Planning Inspectorate" (Video, ITV News) (United Kingdom)- http://www.itv.com/news/wales/2012-07-06/test-drilling-for-gas-in-llandow-given-go-ahead-by-wales-planning-inspectorate/

"Wales OKs shale gas drilling over local opposition" (Reuters) (United Kingdom)- http://af.reuters.com/article/energyOilNews/idAFL6E8I67SY20120706 & http://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/wales-oks-shale-gas-drilling-125934586.html

"Shale gas drilling given go-ahead in Wales: "...Coastal Oil and Gas has been granted permission by the Welsh government to carry out exploratory drilling for shale gas in southern Wales. The Welsh government’s ruling comes after a local council rejected a bid by the company based on environmental concerns..." " (The Institution of Engineering and Technology) (United kingdom)- http://eandt.theiet.org/news/2012/jul/wales-shale.cfm

"China embraces shale gas boom, but not its regulations: "...The lucrative process of hydraulic fracturing has caused quite a natural gas boom in the United States- but what of it's impact abroad? It seems that one of the United States' primary economic rivals, China, has recently warmed up to the idea of incorporating energy from shale gas into its energy portfolio in the coming years...Moreover, it is apparent that there is neither a stable business model for economic interaction, nor a rigorous framework for environmental regulation in place for the young industry shale gas in China. Without a stable business model, there is no effective growth and without rigorous environmental regulation, there is no protection of what resources the nation already has. Chinese interest in hydraulic fracturing has already produced results here in America- a joint venture between Chesapeake Energy and the Chinese firm CNOOC cemented a Chinese presence in the Eagle Ford Shale in October of 2010. Chesapeake sold one-third of its 600,000 acres of the Eagle Ford Shale to CNOOC for 2.16 billion..." " (Carl Romanos via Pittsburgh Post-Gazette) (China & United States)- http://shale.sites.post-gazette.com/index.php/news/archives/24674-china-embraces-shale-gas-boom-but-not-its-regulations

"Poland sees at least 41 more shale gas wells in 2012: "...(Reuters) - Poland, Europe's shale gas pioneer, expects companies to drill at least 41 more wells this year to shed more light on the country's gas potential. The environment ministry, which has granted 111 rights to drill for shale gas to companies including Chevron and Exxon Mobil, also said on Friday there were "a few tens" of new requests for exploration licences awaiting approval...' " (Reuters) (Poland)- http://in.reuters.com/article/2012/07/06/shale-poland-wells-idINL6E8I65J520120706

"Drilling may harm farm insurance: "...A NORTH Coast landowner has cautioned others to be mindful of the insurance implications of allowing coal-seam gas operators on their land, fearing those activities may not be covered..." " (Northern Star) (Australia)- http://www.northernstar.com.au/story/2012/07/07/drilling-may-harm-farm-insurance-warning/

"James Price Point in the clear for drilling: "...WOODSIDE Petroleum can start drilling at James Price Point on track for a final investment decision next year after the Supreme Court of Western Australia yesterday threw out an application by a Goolarabooloo man questioning the validity of survey work approvals for the $35 billion Browse gas hub plan...Represented by the Environmental Defender's Office of WA, Mr Hunter then launched a further court action, this time against Mr Day, accusing the minister of using his powers under the Planning Act for the improper purpose of thwarting the original court proceedings. EDO lawyer Josie Walker argued the timing of Mr Day's amendment suggested it was intended to destroy the case in which he had become a voluntary party. The minister's comments to a radio station on the amendment were also provided as evidence..." " (WA Today) (Australia)- http://www.watoday.com.au/business/james-price-point-in-the-clear-for-drilling-20120705-21k2w.html (See also "Australian court dismisses challenge to Woodside's Browse LNG access: report" (Platts)- http://www.platts.com/RSSFeedDetailedNews/RSSFeed/NaturalGas/7833972

"Pilliga coal seam gas operator fined for water pollution: "...The Greens NSW spokesperson on mining Jeremy Buckingham has expressed concern at the extremely light fines imposed on Santos for polluting waterways with coal seam gas waste water, after the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) issued two penalty notices for a total fine of only $3,000. The EPA announced two penalty notices to Eastern Star Gas, and issued a formal warning to Santos – http://bit.ly/LZ7by8 “It is good that the EPA has investigated these incidents of coal seam gas pollution, but the penalty is hardly a disincentive to the industry not to pollute,” said Greens MP Jeremy Buckingham..." " (Jeremy Buckingham MLC) (Australia)- http://www.jeremybuckingham.org/?p=1247

"Families sick in Qld gas field: Hutton: "...A number of Queenslanders living near coal seam gas (CSG) wells are reporting symptoms consistent with exposure to gas, the Australian Medical Association (AMA) says...Ms Orr has called for an independent health study and says many are afraid to speak up against a powerful lucrative industry. "There's just too many of us with the same symptoms," she said..." " (AAP via the Australian) (Australia)- http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/breaking-news/families-sick-in-qld-gas-field-hutton/story-fn3dxiwe-1226417667517 (See also "CSG ill-health claims probed in Queensland: "...There's no evidence to support claims of health problems among families living near coal seam gas activities in Queensland's southwest, health authorities say..." " (AAP) (Australia)- http://www.tradingroom.com.au/apps/view_breaking_news_article.ac?page=/data/news_research/published/2012/7/188/catf_120706_152200_8891.html )

"Coal seam gas blamed for health problems: "...Queensland doctors have reported seeing patients with health problems believed to be related to coal seam gas activities..." " (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) (Australia)- http://www.abc.net.au/local/stories/2012/07/06/3540381.htm

"CSG companies 'getting away with blue murder' as more legal breaches exposed: "..."The pattern of environmental damage, blanket denial by gas companies, government inaction and then weak and inadequate penalties that has occurred in the Pilliga is being repeated in coal seam gas operations across the country" said Drew Hutton, President of Lock the Gate Alliance. "This is a classic example of everything that is wrong with coal seam gas regulation in Australia. "Both Eastern Star Gas and Santos have been pinged for polluting creeks in the Pilliga, despite repeated denials on their part, but all they have got for it is a dainty little slap over the wrist. .." " (Lock the Gate Alliance) (Australia)- http://lockthegate.org.au/media/display/8086 & http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/51583