The fallout from Governor Cuomo’s decision to ban fracking in New York continues. Numerous reports contain complaints from property owners in the Southern Tier and rural upstate New York about the ban. Many residents across the Pennsylvania boarder were holding gas leases for years similar to those held by their Pennsylvania neighbors. Many were hoping for, and counting on the royalties from the natural gas drilling producers. None of that will occur at any time in the near future.
Citing health concerns the Governor erred on the side of caution. Many commentators note that he erred on the correct side of the political spectrum. The decision to ban fracking resonates with the liberal base living in New York City. This base had become increasingly concerned and upset about potential drinking water pollution caused by fracking near the Delaware River basin. The Governor was aware of these increasing concerns and acted boldly.
Of course the water concerns were heightened by the poor drilling practices utilized in Northeast Pennsylvania in the early stages of fracking. Pollution of aquifers in Susquehanna County caused widespread environmental and water fears and eventually led to a ban on fracking in Wayne County and the Delaware River Basis. The Delaware River supplies the majority of drinking water to New York City. These problems could have easily been avoided with proper drilling. Unfortunately the damage was done and was spurred on by media reports, lawsuits and anti- industry films.
Industry leaders are now looking at their potential options for moving fracking forward somehow in New York. As we write this note, the options are truly limited.
