DRBC drilling regulations postponed

RIVER VALLEY — The Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) was expected to issue new draft regulations regarding gas drilling in the Delaware River Basin, but that has been postponed. A release issued by the agency on October 15 read, “The draft natural gas regulations are not yet ready for public distribution. The commissioners are working with staff to continue refining the draft regulations to ensure protection of basin waters while minimizing regulatory duplication. The draft regulations will likely be published in November or December 2010, and will be accompanied by a public rulemaking process. This process will entail two public hearings and a written comment period.”

Drilling activists are urging members of the public to press the DRBC to stop the new regulations from being finalized until a cumulative impact study has been completed. The Delaware Riverkeeper Network is inviting residents to go to www.delawareriverkeeper.org/act-now/urgent-details.aspx?Id=52 and send an email via their website.

Farm bureau issues drilling recommendations

WAYNE & PIKE COUNTIES, PA — The Wayne Pike County Farm Bureau (WPCFB) which, according to a press release represents 1,500 families, has approved policy positions that will be sent on to the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau.

Among the 30 policy positions approved were 23 related to natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale. The recommendations included: “that all gas or oil collection lines and pipes be incorporated as part of a lease with compensation and without the right of eminent domain;” “that all moratoriums should be lifted from drilling for gas/oil in the waters of the United States whether deep or shallow and that gas and oil exploration on the mainland of the United States should proceed immediately;” “that wherever gas migration is discovered compromising water sources or personal safety that that gas is immediately scientifically subject to isotope analysis or other testing to determine the source of origin.”

Recommendations formally adopted by WPCFB are forwarded Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, where they will be debated in November. Policies then adopted at the state level will be used to guide state and national legislative efforts.