By Eileen Buckley
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-930176.mp3
Buffalo, NY – A conversation on natural gas drilling -- known as hydraulic fracturing --was held in Buffalo Tuesday night.
The Sierra Club Niagara Group hosted Chris Burger from Binghamton. He's member of the gas task force for the Sierra Club in New York State. WBFO'S Eileen Buckley talked to Burger will about Hydro-fracturing and drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus Shale.
Chris Burger said the fracting method containments clean water with a number of chemicals. But Governor Paterson has placed a moratorium on the drilling process to allow the Department of Environmental Conservation to conduct an in-depth study.
There are two types of gas drilling. The conventional method -- the drilling is conducted into pockets or reservoirs to pull out natural gas. Or the new technology that drills into tight shale deposits -- horizontally fracturing to release trapped gas.
The new drilling method has a bigger impact on the environment. The fracking method containments clean water with chemicals and carcinogens released from the shale.
Burger said it disrupts many natural and toxic compounds, including heavy metals and radio active materials.
In speaking to the public Burger also work to educate landowners, many who are struggling farmers in the state. He said while they could earn a great deal of money by allowing drilling on their property, but may not be aware of the risks.