"It’s the law: Woodstock enacts ban on hydrofracking" (Woodstock Times) (New York)- www.woodstockx.com/2012/07/22/its-the-law-woodstock-enacts-ban-on-hydrofracking/

"Estimates of gas yield from fracking differ: "...Natural gas drilling using hydraulic fracturing in New York State may produce far less natural gas -- and thus provide fewer economic benefits than anticipated -- according to a comparison of a state-commissioned study and a recent federal report..The state study, released last summer, estimated that over 60 years hydraulic fracturing could produce as much as 173 trillion cubic feet of natural gas in eight counties that are above the Marcellus and Utica shales. That level of drilling could generate up to $185 million in annual state income tax revenue when production would peak after 30 years, according to the study. But a report by the U.S. Energy Information Agency last month projected that the Marcellus Shale formation contains 40.5 trillion cubic feet of gas that has not been discovered that could be produced in New York. The Utica shale -- which lies below eight states -- contains an estimated 15.7 trillion cubic feet of gas that can be recovered. The study did not isolate the amount of gas that could be produced from the Utica shale in New York. Experts say the amount of gas in the shale can't be known until it has been extracted and the spent wells sealed decades from now. Meanwhile, policy makers are weighing the economic benefits of allowing fracking against the potential environmental costs. "For a shale formation like the Marcellus, there's a lot more that we don't know than what we do know," said Philip Budzik, operations research engineer at the EIA in Washington, D.C..." " (Newsday) (New York)- http://newyork.newsday.com/news/nation/estimates-of-gas-yield-from-fracking-differ-1.3854201

"Abdelazim hammering four key issues in Broome executive race: "...Pressed for specific policy proposals, Abdelazim said they will be rolled out “strategically, and in time.” While he has been critical of shale gas drilling and has spoken at several anti-fracking rallies since announcing his candidacy, Abdelazim said his position as county executive would be to support each municipality in its stance toward drilling, whether for or against. Personally, he has concerns state government has not provided citizens with enough information about fracking, including its potential health impacts. Preston has expressed vocal support for moving forward with drilling once state regulators give it the green light. However, Abdelazim also said he does not support leasing county-owned land for drilling — a move that was proposed under the administration of former Broome County Executive Barbara J. Fiala, a Democrat. “I think that the more people learn, the more they’re educated about the risks and the alleged benefits,” Abdelazim said, “the more they’re very cautious about proceeding with this.”..." " (GANNETT) (New York)- http://www.pressconnects.com/article/20120721/NEWS01/307210026/

"Cornell prof: Natural gas a step forward: "...ITHACA — Burning natural gas could be a smart move in the battle against global climate change and a good transition step toward low-carbon energy from renewable sources, according to a study by a Cornell University professor...In his calculations, Cathles used industry and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency data indicating that leakage rates during drilling — particularly hydraulic fracturing extraction — are around 1.5 percent, rather than the 8 percent some critics have cited. Cathles is a faculty member in the department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences..." " (GANNETT) (New York)- http://www.pressconnects.com/article/20120722/NEWS01/307220031/ & http://www.theithacajournal.com/article/20120722/NEWS01/307220031/

"Faces of Fracking: Meet the Headleys: "...The New York Times reported on some aspects of the Headley family’s pollution problems from gas drilling in June, as did we. Now it’s time to present a fuller picture of the multidimensional devastation this family from Fayette County, in southwestern Pennsylvania, has suffered, and continues to suffer..." " (Protecting Our Waters) (Pennsylvania)- http://protectingourwaters.wordpress.com/2012/07/22/faces-of-fracking-meet-the-headleys/

"Having an impact: "...With the help of Misericordia biology students, Serino will embark on a three-year study to see what impact the forest fragmentation resulting from roads and pipelines has on small mammals. The study will focus on wooded areas of Luzerne and Wyoming counties. Serino has already secured agreements with the Williams Company, which is constructing pipelines, and Chesapeake Energy, to study their sites. He is currently working on obtaining permission from landowners before the work can begin. ..The small mammal study is one of several taking place to determine the impact of gas drilling. According to Thomas Murphy, co-director of the Marcellus Center for Outreach and Research, Penn State Cooperative Extension, there are studies underway focusing on avian species and invasive weed populations related to the impact of gas drilling. .." " (Times Leader) (Pennsylvania)- http://timesleader.com/stories/Having-an-impact,179432

"Derry well sites empty as low gas prices stop Marcellus Shale drillers" (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/local/marcellusshale/derry-well-sites-empty-as-low-gas-prices-stop-marcellus-shale-drillers-645703/ & http://old.post-gazette.com/pg/12204/1248190-503.stm

(Event) "Local Duo Studying Compressed Natural Gas: "...There are several moves afoot to develop a network of compressed natural gas (CNG) filling stations across northern Pennsylvania. If these plans come to fruition, fleet owners and other consumers are expected to convert from burning gasoline to powering their vehicles with CNG, at a considerable cost savings...On Tuesday (July 24), two local representatives will attend a program being sponsored by the respected CNG Focus Group in Corning, N.Y. District Forester Chris Nicholas will attend on behalf of the Susquehannock State Forest, while Curt Weinhold will represent the Potter County Natural Gas Resource Center Advisory Committee. Speakers will include Aron Lantz, an innovation engineer with Larson Design Group; Mike Narcavage from Chesapeake Energy’s Corporate Development Group, and Mike German, president and CEO of Corning Natural Gas. More information is available at the website, cngfocusgroup.com ..." " (Potter County Today) (Pennsylvania & New York)- http://coudynews.com/local-news/local-duo-studying-compressed-natural-gas/

"Innovations, outreach focus of Cabot annual picnic: "...Cabot Oil & Gas Corp. plans to utilize compressed natural gas in the near future - not only in its fleet vehicles but also for some of its drill rigs in Susquehanna County. The natural gas company unveiled its gas transport module at the third annual Cabot Community Picnic, held Saturday, at the Harford Fairgrounds..."The system we're utilizing is unique to Pennsylvania and the Marcellus shale play," Mr. Stark said. "We're happy to pioneer it here in Susquehanna County." Craig Almquist, a Cabot facilities engineer out of Pittsburgh, said the two converted natural gas drills can run about a 50-50 blend of CNG and diesel. Mr. Almquist spoke to those attending the company's outreach effort..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (Pennsylvania)- http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/innovations-outreach-focus-of-cabot-annual-picnic-1.1346791

"Gas well debate spewing in Stow : "...But if the well goes deeper than 4,000 feet, the required footprint for the well grows under state law from 20 acres to 40 acres and minimum setbacks also change. The driller has added the additional acreage with the city adding about a one third of an acre under Ritchie Road to the larger footprint, said Councilman Mike Rasor..." " (Akron Beacon Journal) (Ohio)- http://www.ohio.com/business/gas-well-debate-spewing-in-stow-1.321965

"City may lease mineral rights on land for gas well : "...Stow -- ...According to Marks, the company completed drilling a natural gas well on the Church of New Hope property on Darrow Road in August of 2011, but the extraction of the gas was delayed when the company learned it had to drill farther than originally anticipated to reach the gas. Before the company can activate the well, the company must secure mineral rights leases from surrounding properties. No drilling would take place on the city's land. The city's parcel is the last that the company needs, Marks said. In exchange for the mineral rights, PEP Drilling Co. would give the city an unspecified amount of money. Marks has said that if the city doesn't lease the mineral rights then the state won't allow the company to activate the well. The company would then fill the well with cement and leave, he said..." " (Stow Sentry) (Ohio)- http://www.stowsentry.com/news/article/5204532

"Carroll is exploiting unique opportunity : "...The issue: Future of Atwood Lake resort sOur view: Redevelopment of property will hinge in large part on oil, gas drilling...DRILLING REVENUE isn’t flowing yet, so commissioners will use general-fund money for the resort’s needs in the meantime..." " (CantonRep) (Ohio)- http://www.cantonrep.com/opinion/editorials/x147944307/Carroll-is-exploiting-unique-opportunity

"Healy tweaks drilling proposal: "...CANTON — Legislation that would allow the mayor’s office to explore the possibility of leasing city-owned property for oil and gas drilling is expected to be up for a vote at the next City Council meeting. However, Mayor William J. Healy II said the legislation will be amended to give council the authority to approve or reject any proposed leasing of property for mineral rights...The original ordinance was too brief and vague, acknowledged Healy, who introduced the legislation. “If I was on council, I wouldn’t approve it as written,” he said. At a recent council committee meeting, some members expressed the desire to have the ability to approve or deny any leases..." " (CantonRep) (Ohio)- http://www.cantonrep.com/newsnow/x1400283669/Healy-tweaks-drilling-proposal

"Some facts about fracking: "...In the packet was an overview of the regulations. The summary was prepared by the Ohio Division of Natural Resources. The overview I can understand. It's a little long, but it contained some relevant information when it comes to regulating drilling and the protection of landowners' rights and public safety. I'll share it with you here:.." " (Tribune Chronicle) (Ohio)- http://www.tribtoday.com/page/content.detail/id/574387/Some-facts-about-fracking.html

"U.S. Chamber of Commerce starts shale-energy promotion: "...COLUMBUS -- A big player has arrived in Ohio to promote the benefits of shale energy. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce said last week that it is launching a media campaign in Ohio to show how oil and gas drilling can transform the economy and to act as a counterpoint to environmental advocates who have raised concerns about the process. "Our campaign is focused on advocacy and education," said Christopher Guith, vice president for policy at the chamber's Institute for 21st Century Energy. He declined to give specifics about how much money the national business organization is spending, only that it would be a "multimillion-dollar" effort. The chamber plans to advertise on television, radio, and print, and hold public events across the state. Mr. Guith said the campaign will show how shale energy can help Ohio manufacturing and other industries. Supporters of oil and gas drilling hope to rebut concerns about hydraulic fracturing, or fracking..." " (Toledo Blade) (Ohio)- http://www.toledoblade.com/Energy/2012/07/22/U-S-Chamber-of-Commerce-starts-shale-energy-promotion.html

"Gas company settles with Glouster couple after November pipeline explosion: "...GLOUSTER — A Glouster couple has reached a settlement with Tennessee Gas Pipeline Co. for damages from the November explosion of a gas line that destroyed the couple’s home. The Taylor Road home of John and Kathy Sayers, in Morgan County near Glouster, was reduced to a few bricks and the semblance of a foundation after a 36-inch diameter gas pipeline owned by Tennessee Gas Pipeline Co. exploded about 50 feet behind their house. Kathy Sayers was home at the time, but escaped without injury. The resulting fire reached hundreds of feet into the air and burned 50 acres of land. The explosion could be felt as far as 15 miles from the site, and witnesses said it sounded as though a jet airplane had either crashed or flown too close to the ground. It took more than four hours to extinguish the flames and two homes — including the Sayers’ — were destroyed, along with an unoccupied structure and a barn..." " (The Athens Messenger) (Ohio)- http://www.cleveland.com/newsflash/index.ssf/story/gas-company-settles-with-glouster-couple-after/5aa2d654682e483b82a4e6ac9b0bf7d4 & http://www.athensohiotoday.com/news/gas-company-settles-with-glouster-couple-after-november-pipeline-explosion/article_a76dc2b6-d374-11e1-b9d4-001a4bcf887a.html (See also "Ohio couple, pipeline firm settle over explosion" (Associated Press) (Ohio)- http://www.chron.com/business/article/Ohio-couple-settles-with-Houston-pipeline-company-3726443.php )

"Wells Turned Back On; Chevron Continues To Solidify Marshall County Operations: "...CAMERON - Energy giant Chevron continues to shore up its Marshall County drilling and fracking operations after temporarily halting production earlier this year. s"To date, some wells have recently been returned to production, and we'll continue to do so with the remaining wells only as soon as we are confident that they can be operated safely," said Lee Ann Wainwright, policy, government, and public affairs officer for Chevron...In June 2010, a well in the name of AB Resources exploded near Moundsville when workers hit a "shallow pocket" of methane gas a little more than 1,000 feet below the ground. In addition to injuring several workers, this ignited a large fireball that burned for days. To prevent any such problems from occurring under Chevron's watch, the company ceased operations in Marshall County to make sure the wells it acquired are safe..." " (The Intelligencer / Wheeling News-Register) (West Virginia)- http://www.theintelligencer.net/page/content.detail/id/572217/Wells-Turned-Back-On--Chevron-Continues-To-Solidify-Marshall-County-Operations.html

"Pipeline blast leaves lasting impact on lives: "...Turns out, those minor deviations in the land brought about the destruction of her home. Sayers' home at 9500 Taylor Road was one of three homes destroyed by an explosion at a gas pipeline in Morgan County near the Athens County line on Nov. 16. "It was nothing major, no big soil movement, nothing like that," Sayers said. Officials with Tennessee Gas Pipeline, the company that owns the line, announced earlier this week that landslips and a crack in a weld in the line resulted in the explosion..." " (News and Sentinel) (West Virginia)- http://newsandsentinel.com/page/content.detail/id/563321/Pipeline-blast-leaves-lasting-impact-on-lives.html

"Bongino speaks on the issues: "...U.S. Senate candidate Dan Bongino...Drilling for natural gas in Marcellus shale is “not just a Western Maryland issue,” Bongino said. “I always support state-by-state regulation,” he said, as opposed to federal regulation...Bongino, though, is not opposed to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency developing ideas on best practices and offering information to the states. Bongino supports reasonable environmental protections, but also supports increasing domestic energy production..." " (Cumberland Times-News) (Maryland)- http://times-news.com/local/x1841407614/Bongino-speaks-on-the-issues

"Proposed Natural Gas Pipeline Sparks Controversy In Md.: "...There will be another meeting Wednesday. Kai Jackson reports..." " (Video, CBS Baltimore) (Maryland)- http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/video/7194504-proposed-natural-gas-pipeline-sparks-controversy-in-md/

United States & Canada:

"An Unseen Leak, Then Boom: "...The mysterious disaster claimed national headlines, but there was little public discussion of the fact that it was caused by problems with underground injection wells. Among a small community of geologists and regulators, however, the explosions in Hutchinson — which ranked among the worst injection-related accidents in history — exposed fundamental risks of underground leakage and prompted fresh doubts about the geological science of injection itself. .." " (ProPublica)- http://www.propublica.org/article/an-unseen-leak-then-boom

"American shale conundrum facing China's energy champions : "...Over half of global upstream oil and gas mergers and acquisitions since the start of 2011 targeted U.S. assets, up from an average of 37% in the prior four years, according to consultancy IHS Herold. Besides a relatively open market for energy assets, the shale boom has drawn in companies seeking reserves and know-how. But this shift in the center of gravity for oil M&A poses a quandary for one group of important buyers: China's national oil companies, or NOCs...Yet China's NOCs can't ignore the US Indeed, half their overseas acquisitions of upstream assets this year have been stateside, up from 7.6 per cent last year, according to IHS. Their interests lie primarily in seeking expertise in developing shale resources that they can apply back home. Luckily for the NOCs, this can mostly be achieved with buying non-operating stakes in shale prospects or forming jsoint ventures with US exploration and production companies; CNOOC's deals with Chesapeake Energy in recent years are an example. "You acquire control when you think you can run the assets better," says Trevor Houser, a visiting fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics. Besides politics, the risk with buying a company is that employees leave, taking their expertise elsewhere. Even Exxon Mobil worried about this when it acquired XTO Energy in 2010, one reason it gave the business its own division. That risk would likely be even higher for a Chinese acquirer..." " (The Wall Street Journal)- http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/wall-street-journal/american-shale-conundrum-facing-chinas-energy-champions/story-fnay3x58-1226432534766 & http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10000872396390444097904577539313882482378.html

"Doctors, scientists: Fracking critics misrepresent some facts to make their point/Experts: Some fracking critics use bad science/Some fracking critics are using bad science: "...In the debate over natural gas drilling, the companies are often the ones accused of twisting the facts. But scientists say opponents sometimes mislead the public, too. Critics of fracking often raise alarms about groundwater pollution, air pollution, and cancer risks, and there are still many uncertainties. But some of the claims have little - or nothing- to back them..." " (Associated Press)- http://www.toledoblade.com/Energy/2012/07/23/Doctors-scientists-say-fracking-critics-misrepresent-some-facts-to-make-their-point.html, http://www.timesleader.com/stories/Some-experts-fault-fracking-critics-science,179684 , http://houston.cbslocal.com/2012/07/22/scientists-fracking-critics-often-misleading/ , http://www.philly.com/philly/business/20120722_ap_expertssomefrackingcriticsusebadscience.html?cmpid=138890509 , http://www.wsbradio.com/ap/ap/top-news/experts-some-fracking-critics-use-bad-science/nPzx8/ , http://www.star-telegram.com/2012/07/22/4117468/some-fracking-critics-are-using.html & http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2012/07/22/3397960/experts-some-fracking-critics.html

"Exemptions to Regulations for Oil and Gas Truck Drivers Causing Danger: "...However, exceptions to these guidelines exist. For example, truck drivers in the oil and gas industry can drive after working longer hours than truckers in most other industries. In fact, The New York Times recently reported that oil field truckers are regularly encouraged to drive after a 20-hour shift. The ability to work longer hours may be one reason why approximately 300 truckers in the oil and gas industry have died at the wheel in the last decade, the highest number of fatalities in the trucking industry. Oil and Gas Trucking to Increase..." " (Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Sorrels, Agosto & Friend via Melodika)- http://www.melodika.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=335462&Itemid=54

"We're Headed To $8 Natural Gas: "...There is a glut of natural gas. Everybody knows that. There’s so much of the latest multi stage hydraulic fracturing going on from New York State to Texas and all places in between, prices will be low forever. But just as a full watering hole can deplete quickly the current gas storage glut can recede. If fact it already has been and at an alarmingly brisk pace and there may be a confluence of other events which could hasten the process. .." " (Opinion, Forbes)- http://www.forbes.com/sites/richardfinger/2012/07/22/were-headed-to-8-00-natural-gas/

"Holy Frack: FrackNation filmmaker Ann McElhinney lights up Smart Girl Summit: "...Liberals are “disingenuous liars “ and “disingenuous environmentalists” who are using their so-called concern for the environment to cover up the fact that they are really just “anti-capitalism” and anti-American” conservative documentary maker Ann McElhinney told attendees of the 2012 Smart Girl Summit Friday evening. McElhinney, a producer of the upcoming documentary film FrackNation, made the comments as part of a rousing speech in defense of hydraulic fracturing – aka fracking – at a banquet during Smart Girl Politics Action’s fourth annual Smart Girl Summit..." " (Red Alert Politics)- http://redalertpolitics.com/2012/07/22/holy-frack-frack-nation-filmmaker-ann-mcelhinney-lights-up-smart-girl-summit/

"Jeanne and Vince Rhea: That’s our property: "...In his July 11 Point of View article (“Fracking’s associated opportunities”), Vikram Rao wrote, “The state has a right to know what resources it has, whether it exploits them or not.” The state does not own our property, and the state should have no interest in the resources on our property. This is one of the major problems with the fracking bill. It would allow the oil and gas companies to drill under our property and make profits without our permission. Neither the state nor the oil and gas companies have a right to do this. .." " (Letter to editor, The News & Observer) (North Carolina)- http://www.newsobserver.com/2012/07/22/2210978/jeanne-and-vince-rhea-thats-our.html

"Heidi Zehnal: Leaks and failures: "...The General Assembly voted not to fund all the positions that were supposed to make rules to regulate fracking, showing a lack of commitment to the health and safety of Triangle citizens. Additionally, safe fracking is an oxymoron. “The Sky is Pink” director Josh Fox put together these statistics: Pennsylvania’s Department of Environmental Protection tracked gas leaking from wells across the state and found 7.2 percent of new wells were leaking in 2012. Non-disclosure agreements signed with gas companies hide the health impacts..." " (Letter to editor, The News & Observer) (North Carolina)- http://www.newsobserver.com/2012/07/22/2210981/heidi-zehnal-leaks-and-failures.html

"William J. Rhodes: Fracking pressure’s on: "...The two reasons why the fracking bill is good, as presented by Vikram Rao’s July 10 Point of View article, are easily two good reasons as to why the bill is bad..." " (Letter to editor, The News & Observer) (North Carolina)- http://www.newsobserver.com/2012/07/22/2210979/william-j-rhodes-fracking-pressures.html

"State's 'fracking' plans call for public to pay attention: "...The Tennessee Oil and Gas Board has proposed regulations which, for the first time, recognized “fracking” for natural gas...Unfortunately, the proposed regulations are not protective of surface waters, neighbors to gas wells, or the landscape that may be converted to an industrial wasteland by dozens of well pads, pipelines, tanks, pits for polluted water, and roads. Most important, the regulations are weaker than American Petroleum Institute standards. The Oil and Gas Board has not explained why Tennesseans should not have the protection of nationally recognized standards rather than rules cooked up by a tiny state staff to be adopted by an industry-dominated board..." " (Letter to editor, GANNETT) (Tennessee)- http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120722/OPINION02/120722005/

"Sen. David Vitter wants drilling permits issued faster : "...Continuing the lengthy battle with the Obama administration over complaints it is still taking too long to approve new drilling permits, Sen. David Vitter, R-La., joined an Indiana Republican last week to propose legislation switching permitting decisions from the Interior Department to the Department of Energy. .." " (The Times-Picayune) (Louisiana)- http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2012/07/washington_column.html

"No shale-related deaths in over a year: "...Not long after the frenzied rush began in 2008 to extract natural gas from the Haynesville Shale, so did the frequency of injuries and fatalities at rig drilling sites and pipeline locations. Industry experts were not surprised. With thousands of workers flocking to northwest Louisiana, their sheer numbers coupled with the hazardous nature of the job put the occupation in the high risk category..." " (GANNETT) (Louisiana)- http://www.shreveporttimes.com/article/20120722/NEWS01/120721007/

"Natural-gas jobs no longer solid: "...But after two years with the company, the 62-year-old now will alternate every two weeks between Arkansas and West Virginia, where he will work for another company because he can no longer find enough work in his home state..." " (Arkansas Democrat-Gazette) (Arkansas)- http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2012/jul/22/national-gas-jobs-no-longer-solid-20120722/ & http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2012/jul/22/natural-gas-jobs-no-longer-solid-20120722/?f=news-arkansas

"Oil, gas boom prompt food delivery business: "...Somekinda Catering has become a full-time job for Camala Hinkle, who feeds hungry rig hands throughout Western Oklahoma. Hinkle's catering business is one of the many businesses that have sprung up in western Oklahoma to support the booming oil field. ..“Pressure pumping services require near-continuous oversight and most of our job sites in western Oklahoma are in very rural areas, so bringing food to the location improves efficiency and, because it eliminates distractions, enhances employee performance and safety,” Chesapeake spokesman Jim Gipson said..." " (The Oklahoman) (Oklahoma)- http://newsok.com/oil-gas-boom-prompt-food-delivery-business/article/3694341

"Oil and gas seminar set for Tuesday: "...The Huntsville/Walker County Chamber of Commerce, AgriLand Farm Credit and AgriLife Extension have partnered to bring an oil and gas lease seminar to the public at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the chamber conference room. The night’s speaker will be Dr. Judon Fambrough of Texas A&M University, an attorney specializing in property rights, including oil and gas, wind power, hunting leases and landowner liability. .." " (The Huntsville Item) (Texas)- http://itemonline.com/local/x228005170/Oil-and-gas-seminar-set-for-Tuesday

"Fracking Critics Exposed as Science Dunces: "...Ousted Texas EPA Czar Al Armendariz, an environmental science professor at SMU in Dallas, Tx., often boasts of his scientific expertise when trying “to crucify” oil and gas companies. However, some scientists have recently exposed Armendariz and his fellow fracking critics as deeply flawed scientists..." " (Dallas Blog) (Texas)- http://www.dallasblog.com/201207221009248/dallas-blog/fracking-critics-exposed-as-science-dunces.html

"Wisconsin frac sand sites double/State leads the nation in industrial sand production: "...Frac sand fever has hit much of west-central Wisconsin, catching residents and local governments by surprise. Permit applications have come in faster than residents or officials can process them — or the implications for their communities..." " (The Cap Times/Western Wisconsin News) (Wisconsin)- http://host.madison.com/ct/news/local/wisconsin-frac-sand-sites-double/article_b6ff9eee-d2ba-11e1-a465-001a4bcf887a.html & http://www.piercecountyherald.com/event/article/id/46845/

"Risk of drilling for natural gas is too high: "...Despite principles that show fracking can't endanger aquifers, I remain skeptical...When "Gasland" premiered at Mountainfilm in Telluride in 2010, I had already been wrestling with natural gas issues in Colorado. Driving the once-pastoral county road along Piceance Creek, between Rifle and Meeker, I jostled with trucks as if on a busy street in Denver. Back-country roads lead to industrial sites scraped from the piñon-and-juniper forests. From 35,000 feet, the drilling pads look like exurban housing lots. There's a bunch of them between Salt Lake City and Denver..." " (Opinion, The Denver Post) (Colorado)- http://www.denverpost.com/opinion/ci_21114640/drilling-fields

"Hubbard: Stick to the facts on fracking: "...Earlier this year, the governor appeared in radio and television ads for the Colorado Oil and Gas Association in which he proclaimed that, since passing "tough oil and gas rules" in 2008, Colorado hadn't had "one instance of groundwater contamination associated with drilling and hydraulic fracturing." Environmentalists pounced, pointing out that, in fact, the state data showed nearly 500 spills in each of the last two years. What Hickenlooper meant, and later clarified, was there had been no incidents of contamination as a direct result of the fracturing process itself. Then, interviewed at a Fortune magazine conference in Aspen last week, Hickenlooper said there is "literally no risk" to fracking, if done correctly. Um, governor, what about when it's not done correctly?..." " (Opinion, The Denver Post)- http://www.denverpost.com/opinioncolumnists/ci_21114292/stick-facts-fracking

"Signatures turned in to put anti-fracking measure on Longmont ballot: "...LONGMONT — Supporters of an anti-fracking charter amendment turned in their petitions to the Longmont city clerk Friday, submitting more than 8,200 signatures. If at least 5,704 of those names are ruled valid, the measure would go to the Nov. 6 ballot. Longmont voters would be asked to decide whether hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, should be banned within city limits. .." " (Longmont Times-Call via The Denver Post) (Colorado)- http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_21129386/signatures-turned-put-anti-fracking-measure-longmont-ballot

"State's enterprise zones reward location, not job creation: "...Colorado's enterprise-zone program has granted the majority of its tax credits in recent years to natural-resource companies and utilities operating in rural areas. That has critics asking whether the state is using its limited economic- development ammunition to reward activities that would have happened anyway. "It doesn't seem to be terribly efficient to provide incentives to get people to drill where there is natural gas," said Rich Jones, director of policy and research at the Bell Policy Center, a public-policy group based in Denver. "You could provide them somewhere else." The question is one of several that a recently convened task force will tackle as it studies the state's enterprise-zone program, per legislation that requires a review..." " (The Denver Post) (Colorado)- http://www.denverpost.com/business/ci_21125790/states-enterprise-zones-reward-location-not-job-creation

"Impacts of hydraulic fracturing are alarming: "...I am student at Montana State University, and I recently wrote an in-depth research paper for my environmental history class on hydraulic fracturing. What I found in my research on the impacts of hydraulic fracturing is truly alarming..." " (Letter to editor, Billings Gazette) (Wyoming)- http://billingsgazette.com/news/opinion/mailbag/impacts-of-hydraulic-fracturing-are-alarming/article_427af120-26e4-589a-95ae-75bbecaaec60.html

"New state map shows oil, gas resources: "...A comprehensive new map on oil and natural gas resources in Wyoming covers a range of information -- from the geology to key facilities and production. sThe map released last week by the Wyoming State Geological Survey covers oil and gas extractive activities across the state. It is part of the agency's professional map series..."This map demonstrates our role in mapping energy resources that are used to provide for our state and the nation's energy needs," said Tom Drean, director of the WSGS. "Our scientists and GIS specialists produce these maps so everyone from industry leaders to policy makers can see with one source all the critical information they would need on oil and gas resources and production in Wyoming." Download the free map at http://www.wsgs.uwyo.edu/Research/Energy/MS-55.aspx . Prints and a DVD version are available to buy at the site..." " (The Ranger) (Wyoming)- http://dailyranger.com/story.php?story_id=2604&headline=New-state-map-shows-oil,-gas-resources

"Bureau of Land Management plans Atlantic Rim review meeting: "...The Bureau of Land Management Rawlins Field Office will host an Atlantic Rim Natural Gas Development Review team meeting at 10 a.m. July 31 at the field office. The meeting will give the public an opportunity to hear updates from BLM specialists on wildlife, big game and song birds, as well as mule deer collaring and Greater Sage-Grouse monitoring techniques. Progress reports will be presented by the Muddy Creek monitoring working groups. The Atlantic Rim Review team is composed of federal, state, county and private entities which are charged with monitoring project implementation. The group meets approximately every quarter during the year..." " (Casper Star-Tribune) (Wyoming)- http://trib.com/business/bureau-of-land-management-plans-atlantic-rim-review-meeting/article_a7337e47-323f-5f1d-83b6-30aa8e686524.html

"Fracking operation ready for Hawk Springs oil : "...HAWK SPRINGS, WY - As previously reported, the Samson Oil & Gas Spirit of America #2 well in Hawk Springs will soon be fractured stimulated in hopes of producing more oil. Frac equipment is onsite and pumping operation are expected to begin this evening (7-13-12). According to a media release, the initial frac will stimulate lower sandstone perforations of the well at around 10,000 feet. A second stage frac stimulation will occur at 9,300 feet, and a final third stage at around 9,200 feet..." " (KGOS) (Wyoming)- http://www.kgoskerm.com/news/regional-news/stories/451-fracking-operation-ready-for-hawk-springs-oil-well

"Editorial: Illegal salt waste water disposal despicable: "...The North Dakota Industrial Commission is calling for aggressive enforcement against an oil and gas operator accused of putting salt water in a waste well, a move that threatens area drinking water...The North Dakota Industrial Commission filed the latest civil complaint against Halek in Burleigh County District Court. A criminal complaint filed in Stark County charges Nathan Garber, president of Executive Drilling LLC, with a Class C felony. The case alleges that Garber knowingly violated Industrial Commission rules by directing employees of another company to modify the dump site to deceive inspectors, thus tripling the rise of contaminating a drinking water zone with the well. Executive Drilling is related to Halek, but officials are unclear how, they say..." " (Opinion, The Dickinson Press) (North Dakota)- http://www.thedickinsonpress.com/event/article/id/59910/group/Opinion/

"Clash over Wash. refineries' greenhouse gases : "...In 2009, Gov. Chris Gregoire declared that Washington would treat climate-changing gases as harmful pollutants that must be curbed. So environmental groups were surprised two years later when the Department of Ecology refused to use existing state rules to curb greenhouse gases from Puget Sound's five oil refineries. Refineries, after all, are Washington's second-largest non-vehicle source of emissions. Environmentalists sued the state and won. A federal judge this spring told Ecology it must hunt for ways to reduce refinery emissions. But Ecology, joined by the petroleum industry, has appealed the decision _ and is rewriting the very rules the judge relied upon to reach her conclusion..." " (Associated Press) (Washington)- http://www.dailyastorian.com/news/northwest/clash-over-wash-refineries-greenhouse-gases/article_68ff2ced-e5ef-5018-9700-60489434b435.html

International:

"07-22-12 Natural Gas Daily Report" (The Carbon Capture Report)- http://gas.carboncapturereport.org/cgi-bin//dailyreport?DATE=2012-07-22

"North's environmental institute calls for impact assessments on fracking: "...FULL PUBLIC consultation on “fracking” shale gas is needed so the planning process can “move forward in an open and transparent way”, according to the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health for Northern Ireland. The Northern Ireland Assembly’s Enterprise, Trade and Investment Committee has been briefed by the Fermanagh Fracking Awareness Network on shale gas exploration. Further meetings with prospective developer Tamboran Resources are expected in the coming weeks..." " (Irish Times) (Ireland)- http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2012/0721/1224320529702.html

"Poland dreams of fracking future" (Los Angeles Times)- http://www.philly.com/philly/news/nation_world/163314956.html

"Energy & Water are Closely Related:Water security should receive the same attention if not more than energy security: "...The linkage between energy and water is now well established and water security should receive the same attention if not more than energy security. Energy and water policies and plans should be viewed in an integrated manner to improve the efficiency of use of both. Energy conservation has been a great success in the last 40 years and water conservation is yet to be given equal regard especially with the expected increase of world population and its consequent economic growth..." " (Opinion, Gulf News)- http://gulfnews.com/business/opinion/energy-water-are-closely-related-1.1052063

"Shell ‘must look to Africa’ after walking away from battle for Cove Energy: "...SHELL needs to make an acquisition in east Africa to reduce its reliance on Australian gas after walking away from the takeover battle for Cove Energy, analysts have warned. East Africa is set to become one of the world’s largest gas exporters, supplying energy-hungry Asia with liquefied natural gas (LNG), a market in which Shell is one of the most experienced players. Shell already has direct stakes in six LNG projects in Australia and indirect involvement in a seventh..." " (Opinion, Scotsman)- http://www.scotsman.com/scotland-on-sunday/business/shell-must-look-to-africa-after-walking-away-from-battle-for-cove-energy-1-2425649

"Categorised | Info Hub/Matt Smith – Guest Blog: "...Last week’s print edition of The Economist had a special feature which ran the gamut across the world of natural gas. Seven articles covered wide-ranging topics, from LNG to fracking to the various regional natural gas markets...I have done the hard work and have extracted some of the key points from these seven pieces, and put them into a bite-size format. I hope you enjoy!..." " (Energy Live News Blog)- http://www.energylivenews.com/2012/07/22/matt-smith-guest-blog/

"Bus Eireann introduces first natural gas-powered bus: "...John Barry, managing director of Bord Gáis Networks, said that they believe there is an opportunity for natural gas-powered vehicles in Ireland “and we are working with Bus Éireann and others to facilitate the development of a NGV industry”. After the trial is completed, Bus Éireann will evaluate the performance of the vehicle.If it proves successful, the company will look to purchase more gas-powered vehicles for use – subject to funding being available..." " (The Journal) (Ireland)- http://www.thejournal.ie/bus-powered-by-natural-gas-bus-eireann-523356-Jul2012/

"Greens renew push for ban on fracking: "...The Green Party has reignited its campaign for an urgent nationwide moratorium on fracking, citing documents they say highlight critical oversights in the monitoring of the controversial oil and gas industry technique. Energy spokesman Gareth Hughes provided the Sunday Star-Times with reports he says show the Taranaki Regional Council has "dropped the ball" in its monitoring of fracking. The documents include a paper which shows the council failed to initially identify several historical hydraulic fracturing operations in the region..." " (Sunday Star Times) (New Zealand)- http://www.stuff.co.nz/sunday-star-times/latest-edition/7323917/Greens-renew-push-for-ban-on-fracking

"LNG RECRUITING DRIVE: New energy project set to target local Australian workers for jobs: "...A recruitment drive for thousands of workers is underway to staff up the Wheatstone LNG (Liquified Natural Gas) project in Western Australia. The companies concerned, Chevron and the contractor Bechtel, are expected to employ 5,000 workers. Moreover, as other companies have suffered bad press for importing workers, it appears the companies have not at this stage applied for an Enterprise Migration Agreement and are expecting to source all their workers from within the country...An advertising campaign has been launched on billboards around Perth and on about 100 buses in the metropolitan area. In August the recruitment campaign is expected to be rolled out across the state. Despite these efforts, criticism has still been leveled at the recruitment drive. The Australian Manufacturing Workers Union's Steve McCartney has labelled the recruitment drive a farce..." " (The Global Recruiter) (Australia)- http://www.theglobalrecruiter.com/news/new-energy-project-set-to-target-local-australian-workers-for-new-jobs/3882

"Blazing a trail in a man's world is a gas for Cartwright : "...Australia was one of 12 countries vying for the six available positions on the IGU executive committee, with Cartwright nominated by Australia's IGU charter member, the Australian Gas Industry Trust, of which she is a board member. Australia's involvement in the group is increasing because of the number of multi-billion-dollar liquefied natural gas developments under way in Queensland and WA..."Gas gets a pretty poor rap in Australia. It is not just a case of raising the profile -- it is getting people to understand that it is not a bad fuel. Yes, it is a fossil fuel but it is much cleaner than oil. It is going to be needed in the future as a back-up fuel for renewable energy. So get used to it. And Australia has tremendous reserves. So we need to be better at getting Australians to embrace that we should be moving to a gas-fired economy for our power needs," she says. Australia is not alone..." " (The Australian) (Australia)- http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/mining-energy/blazing-a-trail-in-a-mans-world-is-a-gas-for-cartwright/story-e6frg9ef-1226432236078

"Australian gas rush set to overhaul Qatar’s lead: "...SYDNEY: Australia is set to become the world’s biggest liquefied natural gas producer, with analysts predicting it will overtake Qatar by 2020 as it unlocks reserves that could last more than a century..." " (Agence France-Presse)- http://www.france24.com/en/20120722-australian-gas-rush-set-overhaul-qatars-lead , http://www.perthnow.com.au/business/markets/australian-gas-rush-set-to-overhaul-qatars-lead/story-fn7kjy2l-1226432124541 & http://dawn.com/2012/07/22/australian-gas-rush-set-to-overhaul-qatars-lead/

"Farmers ask premier for CSG help: "...The urgency motion was passed unanimously by hundreds of farmers attending the NSW Farmers annual conference in Sydney, and follows reports that proposed water protection rules would not be binding on most mining and gas developments. A statement released yesterday by the NSW Farmers Association said the government appeared to be "listening to the wishes of miners more than farmers" and "making a mess of implementing the policy". Farmers said the government "had effectively ignored more than 1500 submissions on the policy from concerned citizens across the state"...." " (Northern Star) (Australia)- http://www.northernstar.com.au/story/2012/07/22/farmers-ask-premier-for-csg-help/