With all of the attacks on hydraulic fracturing heard in the news, and the recent proposal for potentially strict rules on hydraulic fracturing and shale gas drilling in New York, a recent poll shows a slight edge for support of shale gas development in New York.
The poll as reported by Reuters indicates 47% of those polled support shale gas development that uses hydraulic fracturing to complete the gas wells. Those opposed to the process were at 42%. The slight edge to support comes after sigificant criticism by the New York times and a temorary moratorium imposed the by state government.
Recent announcements of planned regulation by the New York Department of Environmental Conservation. Tne NYDEC plans to allow hydraulic fracturing, but with significant limitations. Hydraulic fracturing would not be permitted in watersheds that supply drinking water to the City of New York or the City of Syracuse. It would also be prohibited over primary aquifers and on state-owned lands. Regulations governing the drilling where permitted may be fairly strict.
The support by a significant portion of the public may help in the argument for reasonable regulation of what is such a huge energy resource for the country and the State of New York.
