Gas extraction by high-volume, slickwater, hydraulic fracturing is a heavily industrialized process that in other states has caused significant water, air, and noise pollution, severely snarled traffic and damaged roads; and increased accidents and crime rates.
If pursued in this area, it would harm tourism, hunting, fishing, agriculture, and our local economy.
Gas companies can force unleased neighbors to allow drilling under their land through compulsory integration. Instead, we should pursue energy conservation and sustainable sources of energy. We also should support community and state initiatives to help local farmers pursue sustainable farming methods that are economically viable.
Neither the Federal nor the New York State government has stepped forward to protect residents from this harmful gas-extraction practice, so local people and their governments must lead the way.
We, the undersigned residents of the Town of Skaneateles petition the Town and Village Boards to ban gas extraction using high-volume, slickwater, hydraulic fracturing in the Town of Skaneateles.
The methods used and the intensity of industrial development threaten our clean air, clean water, soil, rural landscapes, and health, as well as our social and economic well-being.
