According to this announcement received via email, “The Independent Oil & Gas Association of New York invites you to attend the following public information sessions beginning Thursday, September 3, 2009 to present facts and updates regarding natural gas exploration in your region. Other dates and locations: 9-8-09: Bernie’s Restaurant, Rock Hill. 9-10-09. SUNY Oneonta, Hunt Union. 10-1-09. Morrisville State College Theatre. Morrisville, NY.” (Please visit the CottageWorks Community Calendar for event details.)
Interestingly, these meetings are being billed as informational sessions. At an alternative website for The Independent Oil & Gas Association of New York, the Association makes clear their intent in organizing these events, “Thank you for visiting MarcellusFacts.com – your source for information about the benefits of natural gas exploration of the Marcellus Shale…”
These events are being organized in New York State on the heels of Governor Paterson’s announcement that exploitation of the natural gas-rich Marcellus Shale in New York State is part of his energy plan. Yesterday’s Times Herald Record published a story entitled, “Gas Companies Prepare to Drill in Sullivan.”
Steve Israel’s article tells us who The Independent Oil & Gas Association of New York is, what they have planned for New York State, and more particularly, Sullivan County. “After delaying drilling of the gas-rich shale beneath Sullivan for much of the year, the industry is ready to resume leasing land once the state’s new environmental standards are released, perhaps as early as next month. Drilling of the Marcellus shale could start in the spring.”
“We’ll do it and we’re looking to do it, once the regulatory hurdles are cleared. Then the permits will flow,” said Brad Gill, executive director of the Independent Oil and Gas Association of New York.”
Recently, 2,000 pro-drilling advocates rallied in New York with the mantra of “Drill, baby, drill.”
I will be attending the 9-8-09 “session” at Bernie’s Restaurant in Rock Hill, NY and hope to see you there, too.