We are writing on behalf of ourselves and other concerned citizens of Tuscarawas and surrounding counties on the impact horizontal natural gas drilling is going to have on our health and our environment. This horizontal hydrofracking is a means of tapping shale deposits containing natural gas which were previously inaccessible by conventional drilling. This has been demonstrated to be a threat to surface and ground water and has been blamed for fatal explosions, the contamination of drinking water, soil, rivers, and streams. A recent study found at least 73 of the many chemicals used in the fracking had 10 or more adverse effects and should be considered potentially hazardous to humans. Also, VOC’s, volatile organic compounds, are evaporated into the air surrounding the tanks. Chronic exposure to these VOC’s can lead to asthma and lung disease.

There have been documented case after case stretching across the nation of well water contamination, high air pollution, heavy loss of livestock, decline in wildlife, and a trail of serious health effects to the people. Many who have signed leases in other states are now coming public with their stories in hopes of making others aware of the devastating impact this drilling is having, not to mention the serious decrease in property value being documented.

Everyone owes it to themselves to check a little deeper into natural gas drilling using horizontal hydrofracking before they sign a lease. There is no price that can be placed on clean water and air.

Jennifer Rowland RN, New Philadelphia

Kelly Monigold RN, Tuscarawas County