U.S. Dept. Of Energy Gets Earful On Fracking
WASHINGTON (KDKA) -- More than 130 people signed up to speak at a U.S. Department of Energy hearing on fracking, a process used in the Marcellus Shale gas drilling industry at Washington and Jefferson College in Washington, Pa.
People on both sides of issue had a chance to share their beliefs with the Secretary of Energy Advisory Board, but shouting started outside the building before the meeting even began.
"My children and I have to wear respirators because the air is contaminated," said Marilyn Hunt of West Virginia.
Supporters of fracking say it creates jobs and that people who fear water will be contaminated don't understand all the safety precautions that are taken.
Opponents of drilling accuse most members of the Advisory Board of having financial ties to the natural gas industry, but board members did not address that accusation at the meeting. It was, however, brought up numerous times by speakers.
RELATED LINKS
More Marcellus Shale News
