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Fw: Vote in MTR poll
by Frank Young 09 Aug '11

09 Aug '11

Currently showing 63 percent "No". Let's make it 90 percent! ----- Original Message ----- From: Vernon Haltom To: FOM, List ; MJSlist, MJSlist Sent: Tuesday, August 09, 2011 10:59 PM Subject: [fom] Vote in poll "Should surface mining be allowed on Coal River Mountain?" Vote NO at http://wowktv.com/ -- Vernon Haltom Executive Director, Coal River Mountain Watch 304-854-2182 www.crmw.net

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Fwd: We. Must. Stop. This.
by James Kotcon 08 Aug '11

08 Aug '11

Long, but interesting call to action. "Essentially game over" for the climate. That's what climate scientist James Hanson calls the proposed Keystone XL pipeline -- which would carry oil out of Canada's vast tar sands oil fields to Texas, where it will be refined, then burned across the globe, dealing a catastrophic blow to our chance of returning earth to a stable climate. See the rest below. JBK >>> "Elijah Zarlin, CREDO Action" <act(a)credoaction.com> 8/6/2011 10:19 AM >>> Tell President Obama: Stop the Keystone XL pipeline. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230956&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=20 Pres. Obama alone has the power to stop this massive blow to our climate. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230956&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=21 Clicking here will automatically add your name to this petition to President Obama: "The tar sands represent a catastrophic threat to our communities, our climate, and our planet. President Obama, you have the final word. You do not have to negotiate with Congress or industry. We urge you to demonstrate real climate leadership by rejecting the requested permit for the Keystone XL pipeline." http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230957&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=23 Automatically add your name: http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230957&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=24 Learn more about this campaign http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230956&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=26 Dear James, "Essentially game over" for the climate. That's what climate scientist James Hanson calls the proposed Keystone XL pipeline -- which would carry oil out of Canada's vast tar sands oil fields to Texas, where it will be refined, then burned across the globe, dealing a catastrophic blow to our chance of returning earth to a stable climate. This project requires a presidential permit to start building -- and it is President Obama's decision alone to grant or deny that permit. He will make the decision as soon as September. Tell President Obama: Stop the Keystone XL pipeline. Click here to automatically sign the petition. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230957&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=27 The Alberta tar sands are a carbon bomb. The 3rd largest oil field in the world, the difficult extraction and transportation of the tar sands oil ultimately produces up to three times the carbon emissions of traditional oil. (And extreme environmental devastation along the way.)1 The Keystone XL pipeline is the fuse to this bomb -- a highway to swift consumption of this dirty, dangerous crude. As if that wasn't enough, it poses a massive spill risk in the six states along the pipeline route, including over the Ogallala Aquifer which provides up to 30% of our nation's agricultural water. We. Must. Stop. This. Tell President Obama: Stop the Keystone XL pipeline. Click here to automatically sign the petition. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230957&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=28 Twenty leading climate scientists have just sent a letter to President Obama urging him to deny the permit. And from August 20th to September 3rd, there will be a massive, historic, daily sit-in outside the White House where more than 1500 people, including CREDO staff, have already signed up to risk arrest in peaceful protest. (For more about the sit-in, see below.) The administration's previous decisions on climate do not inspire confidence that they will deny the permit. Just this week, the administration approved offshore oil drilling in the Arctic. They have opened vast new areas to coal mining, and late last year, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton even said that she was "inclined" to approve Keystone XL. But President Obama still has the final word. He does not have to negotiate with Congress or industry. As his State Department reviews the permit, the decision -- which could have a devastating impact on the livability of our nation, and our world -- is entirely in his hands. We've lost too many climate fights already. We need a massive, historic show of pressure to make sure we don't lose this one. Please sign the petition and read below for other ways to get involved. Tell President Obama: Stop the Keystone XL pipeline. Click here to automatically sign the petition. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230957&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=29 Thank you for fighting for an oil-free future. Elijah Zarlin, Campaign Manager CREDO Action from Working Assets http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=11&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=30 1. "Keystone XL Pipeline http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230958&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=31 ," Friends of the Earth -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Because this fight is so important, leading climate activists including Bill McKibben, Naomi Klein and climate scientist James Hansen are organizing a historic, daily series of peaceful protests between August 20th and Sept. 3rd. The CEOs and Directors of nearly 30 leading Environmental Organizations, including CREDO's Michael Kieschnick and Laura Scher, are urging people to participate http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230959&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=32 .. More than 1500 people from across the country, including CREDO staff, have already signed up to join the sit-in outside the White House and risk arrest. Please read the invitation letter below for more information. If you would like to sign up to join the protest, and possibly be arrested, click here to sign up. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230961&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=33 Dear Friends, This will be a slightly longer letter than common for the internet age -- it's serious stuff. The short version is we want you to consider doing something hard: coming to Washington in the hottest and stickiest weeks of the summer and engaging in civil disobedience that will quite possibly get you arrested. The full version goes like this: As you know, the planet is steadily warming: 2010 was the warmest year on record, and we've seen the resulting chaos in almost every corner of the earth. And as you also know, our democracy is increasingly controlled by special interests interested only in their short-term profit. These two trends collide this summer in Washington, where the State Department and the White House have to decide whether to grant a certificate of 'national interest' to some of the biggest fossil fuel players on earth. These corporations want to build the so-called 'Keystone XL Pipeline' from Canada's tar sands to Texas refineries. To call this project a horror is serious understatement. The tar sands have wrecked huge parts of Alberta, disrupting ways of life in indigenous communities -- First Nations communities in Canada, and tribes along the pipeline route in the U.S. have demanded the destruction cease. The pipeline crosses crucial areas like the Ogallala Aquifer where a spill would be disastrous -- and though the pipeline companies insist they are using 'state of the art' technologies that should leak only once every 7 years, the precursor pipeline and its pumping stations have leaked a dozen times in the past year. These local impacts alone would be cause enough to block such a plan. But the Keystone Pipeline would also be a fifteen hundred mile fuse to the biggest carbon bomb on the continent, a way to make it easier and faster to trigger the final overheating of our planet, the one place to which we are all indigenous. As the climatologist Jim Hansen (one of the signatories to this letter) explained, if we have any chance of getting back to a stable climate "the principal requirement is that coal emissions must be phased out by 2030 and unconventional fossil fuels, such as tar sands, must be left in the ground." In other words, he added, "if the tar sands are thrown into the mix it is essentially game over." The Keystone pipeline is an essential part of the game. "Unless we get increased market access, like with Keystone XL, we're going to be stuck," said Ralph Glass, an economist and vice-president at AJM Petroleum Consultants in Calgary, told a Canadian newspaper last week. Given all that, you'd suspect that there's no way the Obama administration would ever permit this pipeline. But in the last few months the administration has signed pieces of paper opening much of Alaska to oil drilling, and permitting coal-mining on federal land in Wyoming that will produce as much CO2 as 300 powerplants operating at full bore. And Secretary of State Clinton has already said she's 'inclined' to recommend the pipeline go forward. Partly it's because of the political commotion over high gas prices, though more tar sands oil would do nothing to change that picture. But it's also because of intense pressure from industry. The US Chamber of Commerce -- a bigger funder of political campaigns than the RNC and DNC combined -- has demanded that the administration "move quickly to approve the Keystone XL pipeline," which is not so surprising -- they've also told the U.S. EPA that if the planet warms that will be okay because humans can 'adapt their physiology' to cope. The Koch Brothers, needless to say, are also backing the plan, and may reap huge profits from it. So we're pretty sure that without serious pressure the Keystone Pipeline will get its permit from Washington. A wonderful coalition of environmental groups has built a strong campaign across the continent -- from Cree and Dene indigenous leaders to Nebraska farmers, they've spoken out strongly against the destruction of their land. We need to join them, and to say even if our own homes won't be crossed by this pipeline, our joint home -- the earth -- will be wrecked by the carbon that pours down it. And we need to say something else, too: it's time to stop letting corporate power make the most important decisions our planet faces. We don't have the money to compete with those corporations, but we do have our bodies, and beginning in mid August many of us will use them. We will, each day, march on the White House, risking arrest with our trespass. We will do it in dignified fashion, demonstrating that in this case we are the conservatives, and that our foes -- who would change the composition of the atmosphere are dangerous radicals. Come dressed as if for a business meeting -- this is, in fact, serious business. And another sartorial tip -- if you wore an Obama button during the 2008 campaign, why not wear it again? We very much still want to believe in the promise of that young Senator who told us that with his election the 'rise of the oceans would begin to slow and the planet start to heal.' We don't understand what combination of bureaucratic obstinacy and insider dealing has derailed those efforts, but we remember his request that his supporters continue on after the election to pressure his government for change. We'll do what we can. And one more thing: we don't just want college kids to be the participants in this fight. They've led the way so far on climate change -- 10,000 came to DC for the Powershift gathering earlier this spring. They've marched this month in West Virginia to protest mountaintop removal; a young man named Tim DeChristopher faces sentencing this summer in Utah for his creative protest. Now it's time for people who've spent their lives pouring carbon into the atmosphere to step up too, just as many of us did in earlier battles for civil rights or for peace. Most of us signing this letter are veterans of this work, and we think it's past time for elders to behave like elders. One thing we don't want is a smash up: if you can't control your passions, this action is not for you. This won't be a one-shot day of action. We plan for it to continue for several weeks, till the administration understands we won't go away. Not all of us can actually get arrested -- half the signatories to this letter live in Canada, and might well find our entry into the U.S. barred. But we will be making plans for sympathy demonstrations outside Canadian consulates in the U.S., and U.S. consulates in Canada -- the decision-makers need to know they're being watched. Twenty years of patiently explaining the climate crisis to our leaders hasn't worked. Maybe moral witness will help. You have to start somewhere, and we choose here and now. If you think you might want to be a part of this action, we need you to sign up here. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230961&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=34 As plans solidify in the next few weeks we'll be in touch with you to arrange nonviolence training; our colleagues at a variety of environmental and democracy campaigns will be coordinating the actual arrangements. We know we're asking a lot. You should think long and hard on it, and pray if you're the praying type. But to us, it's as much privilege as burden to get to join this fight in the most serious possible way. We hope you'll join us. Maude Barlow -- Chair, Council of Canadians Wendell Berry -- Author and Farmer Tom Goldtooth -- Director, Indigenous Environmental Network Danny Glover -- Actor James Hansen -- Climate Scientist Wes Jackson -- Agronomist, President of the Land Insitute Naomi Klein -- Author and Journalist Bill McKibben -- Writer and Environmentalist George Poitras -- Mikisew Cree Indigenous First Nation Gus Speth -- Environmental Lawyer and Activist David Suzuki -- Scientist, Environmentalist and Broadcaster Joseph B. Uehlein -- Labor organizer and environmentalist -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Share on Facebook Post to your wall http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230962&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=36 Tweet this Post to Twitter http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230967&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=38 References Visible links .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230956&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=20 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230956&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=21 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230956&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=22 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230957&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=23 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230957&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=24 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230957&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=25 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230956&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=26 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230957&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=27 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230957&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=28 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230957&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=29 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=11&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=30 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230958&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=31 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230959&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=32 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230961&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=33 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230961&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=34 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230962&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=35 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230962&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=36 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230967&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=37 .. http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=230967&id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx&t=38 ________________ To remove yourself (James Kotcon) from this list, please visit our subscription management page at: http://act.credoaction.com/s?i=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx To change your email address or update your contact info, please visit: http://act.credoaction.com/subscrip/coa.html?id=25349-2577149-5IfUfNx

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WSJ.com - Gas Drilling Bringing Jobs to Pennsylvania, but How Many?
by diapalino 02 Aug '11

02 Aug '11

You have received the following link from diapalino(a)gmail.com ******************** If you are having trouble with any of the links in this message, or if the URL's are not appearing as links, please follow the instructions at the bottom of this email. Title: WSJ.com - Gas Drilling Bringing Jobs to Pennsylvania, but How Many? This article will be available to non-subscribers of the Online Journal for up to seven days after it is e-mailed. Copy and paste the following into your Web browser to access the sent link: http://www.emailthis.clickability.com/et/emailThis?clickMap=viewThis&etMail… Copy and paste the following into your Web browser to SAVE THIS link: http://www.savethis.clickability.com/st/saveThisPopupApp?clickMap=saveFromE… Copy and paste the following into your Web browser to forward this link: http://www.emailthis.clickability.com/et/emailThis?clickMap=forward&etMailT… ******************** Email pages from any Web site you visit - add the EMAIL THIS button to your browser, copy and paste the following into your Web browser: http://www.emailthis.clickability.com/et/emailThis?clickMap=browserButtons&…" ********************* Instructions: ----------------------------------------- If your e-mail program doesn't recognize Web addresses: 1. With your mouse, highlight the Web Address above. Be sure to highlight the entire Web address, even if it spans more than one line in your email. 2. Select Copy from the Edit menu at the top of your screen. 3. Launch your Web browser. 4. Paste the address into your Web browser by selecting Paste from the Edit menu. 5. Click Go or press Enter or Return on your keyboard. ********************

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WSJ.com - Left for Extinct, a Steel Plant Rises in Ohio
by diapalino 02 Aug '11

02 Aug '11

You have received the following link from diapalino(a)gmail.com ******************** If you are having trouble with any of the links in this message, or if the URL's are not appearing as links, please follow the instructions at the bottom of this email. Title: WSJ.com - Left for Extinct, a Steel Plant Rises in Ohio This article will be available to non-subscribers of the Online Journal for up to seven days after it is e-mailed. Copy and paste the following into your Web browser to access the sent link: http://www.emailthis.clickability.com/et/emailThis?clickMap=viewThis&etMail… Copy and paste the following into your Web browser to SAVE THIS link: http://www.savethis.clickability.com/st/saveThisPopupApp?clickMap=saveFromE… Copy and paste the following into your Web browser to forward this link: http://www.emailthis.clickability.com/et/emailThis?clickMap=forward&etMailT… ******************** Email pages from any Web site you visit - add the EMAIL THIS button to your browser, copy and paste the following into your Web browser: http://www.emailthis.clickability.com/et/emailThis?clickMap=browserButtons&…" ********************* Instructions: ----------------------------------------- If your e-mail program doesn't recognize Web addresses: 1. With your mouse, highlight the Web Address above. Be sure to highlight the entire Web address, even if it spans more than one line in your email. 2. Select Copy from the Edit menu at the top of your screen. 3. Launch your Web browser. 4. Paste the address into your Web browser by selecting Paste from the Edit menu. 5. Click Go or press Enter or Return on your keyboard. ********************

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Fwd: EPA REFUSES TO STUDY RISKS OF COAL ASH USES IT ENDORSES
by Jim Sconyers 02 Aug '11

02 Aug '11

coal ash in cattle feed? Eeeeewww! ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Russ Maddox <russmaddox(a)yahoo.com> Date: Mon, Aug 1, 2011 at 3:29 PM Subject: EPA REFUSES TO STUDY RISKS OF COAL ASH USES IT ENDORSES To: COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE(a)lists.sierraclub.org http://www.peer.org/news/news_id.php?row_id=1499 For Immediate Release: July 18, 2011 Contact: Kirsten Stade (202) 265-7337 *EPA REFUSES TO STUDY RISKS OF COAL ASH USES IT ENDORSES * — Scientists Told Agency Does Not Want Safety Concerns Raised about Coal Ash Washington, DC — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency prevents its scientists from examining health risks of coal combustion wastes being added to consumer, agricultural and commercial products even though the agency promotes these practices as safe, according to documents released today by Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER). Despite a scathing Office of Inspector General (IG) report earlier this year taking the agency to task for failing to complete a single safety review on the 60 million tons of coal ash and other combustion wastes entering the U.S. marketplace each year, EPA indicates that it has no intention of doing any risk assessments in the near future. In a June 16, 2011 reply to the IG, EPA Assistant Administrator Mathy Stanislaus stated that while “protection of human health and the environment is a critical prerequisite to promoting the beneficial use of coal combustion residuals…we do not yet have a timeline for developing the evaluation process regarding the beneficial use” of coal wastes. He indicated EPA will wait until it finalizes regulations governing coal ash (2013, at the earliest) before considering dangers of how coal ash is actually used. “EPA just gave its IG the middle finger,” said PEER Executive Director Jeff Ruch, noting that most all of the safety information on coal ash in products comes from the industry. “Thanks to EPA, Congress and the public have no idea which, if any, applications of coal ash are safe or environmentally benign.” Compounding this data gap, IG investigative materials PEER obtained under the Freedom of Information Act show EPA scientists’ safety concerns about coal ash are routinely “steamrolled” and ignored. Scientists could not even get the answer to the basic question of “What’s in this stuff?” For example – - EPA gave an award to a company that sold coal ash in cement “by putting the mixture into plastic bags and selling it to customers at Home Depot” despite knowing of a prominent study finding that particulate matter in these wastes “caused a morbidity and mortality spike in humans”; - Some coal combustion wastes have radiation levels comparable to those at Superfund sites but no warnings are issued for people living close to where these wastes are stored or used; and - Officials downplayed scientific recommendations against including combustion wastes in agricultural products, such as livestock feeders and soil treatments. “It is disturbing that EPA applauds consumers being sold bags of toxic waste,” added Ruch, noting that although EPA shut down its formal partnership with industry to promote coal ash reuse in mid-2010 under pressure from both PEER and the IG, it continues to push coal ash as a “beneficial use” through other programs. “EPA claims to be a science-based agency but it is bending over backward to ensure that its decisions about coal ash occur in a science-free zone.” ### Read the EPA response to the IG<http://peer.org/docs/epa/7_18_11_EPA_reply_IG.pdf> Look at the IG report and how EPA continues to promote coal ash <http://www.peer.org/news/news_id.php?row_id=1469> See how EPA prevents scientists from asking or answering questions <http://peer.org/docs/epa/7_18_11_EPA_sci_suppression.pdf> View the array of products containing coal ash<http://www.peer.org/campaigns/publichealth/coalash/everywhere.php> Examine push to use coal ash in agricultural products despite questions<http://www.peer.org/news/news_id.php?row_id=1266> <http://www.peer.org/news/news_id.php?row_id=1499#top> Contact PEER <http://www.peer.org/about/contact.php> Tell-a-Friend<http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/823/t/3694/tellafriend.jsp?tell_a_frie…> Your Privacy <http://www.peer.org/about/privacy.php> Ph: (202) 265-7337 • Fax: (202) 265-4192 • email: info[at]peer.org all content © peer.org 2011 website by puffinworks <http://www.puffinworks.com/> - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE list, send any message to: COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp -- Jim Sconyers jimscon(a)gmail.com 304.698.9628 Remember, Mother Nature bats last.

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Fwd: 8 coal-burners closed Fwd: Ontario Waves Bye-Bye To Coal Fired Power Generation
by James Kotcon 28 Jul '11

28 Jul '11

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Jane Feldman <feldman.jane(a)gmail.com> Date: Tue, Jul 26, 2011 at 11:19 AM Subject: 8 coal-burners closed Fwd: Ontario Waves Bye-Bye To Coal Fired Power Generation To: COAL-CAMPAIGN-ALERTS(a)lists.sierraclub.org Hi,all - THIS is what today's technology and today's grid can do. It looks like a feed-in-tariff led the way. Jane --- Ontario Waves Bye-Bye To Coal Fired Power Generation by Energy Matters [image: Coal fired power generation phaseout - Ontario Canada] Ontario, Canada's most populated province, has seen a boom in renewable energy jobs, with 20,000 employed in the sector. It's not such a rosy picture for the coal industry though, with coal fired power generation in Ontario slated to go the way of the dodo by 2014. Ontario's Ministry of Energy says the province's Green Energy Act is on track to create 50,000 clean energy jobs by 2012 and coal usage for the first six months of 2011 was 94 per cent lower than for the same period in 2003. According to Ontario's recently released 2011 Progress Report<http://www.ontario.ca/en/initiatives/progressreport2011/index.htm>, eight coal fired power generation units have been closed already and two more will close later in 2011. Thanks to initiatives such as feed-in tariffs, renewable energy is rapidly replacing fossil fuels. To date, over 2,000 medium and large-scale feed in tariff projects have been announced, representing enough electricity each year to provide the power requirements for around 900,000 homes. Ontario's government says it will be one of the first places in the world and the first in North America to cease coal-fired power generation totally. It has set a goal of eliminating coal entirely by 2014. It believes shutting down coal will save Ontario's health care system CAD$3 billion annually and in relation to emissions, will be the equivalent of taking up to 7 million cars off the roads. The Ministry predicts that by 2018, 10.7 gigawatts of clean renewable electricity from wind<http://www.energymatters.com.au/renewable-energy/wind-energy/> , solar <http://www.energymatters.com.au/renewable-energy/solar-power/> and bio-energy will be operational; producing enough electricity for 2 million households. Residents of Ontario are also becoming more energy efficient, saving 1,700 megawatts of electricity through conservation - which is the equivalent of taking half a million homes off the grid. Ontario's clean energy economy has generated more than $20 billion in new private-sector investment. The province's energy plan will rebuild 70 per cent of its electricity infrastructure over the next 2 decades. While Ontario's commitment to renewables and the end of coal is admirable; its continuing love affair with nuclear power has been criticised. Nuclear power has been part of Ontario's energy mix since the 1960's and currently provides more than half of the power used by Ontarians every day. ### - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the TOIYABE-ENERGY-TF list, send any message to: TOIYABE-ENERGY-TF-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp Sign up to receive Sierra Club Insider, the flagship e-newsletter. Sent out twice a month, it features the Club's latest news and activities. Subscribe and view recent editions at http://www.sierraclub.org/insider/ -- Jane Conservation Chair, Southern Nevada Group of the Sierra Club Energy Chair, Toiyabe Chapter of the Sierra Club - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the COAL-CAMPAIGN-ALERTS list, send any message to: COAL-CAMPAIGN-ALERTS-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp

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Public hearing report from Clarksburg
by James Kotcon 28 Jul '11

28 Jul '11

It was standing room only, with over 800 in attendance. 115 people spoke with comments limited to 90 seconds, so it was 11:30 PM before we finished. Several other area Delegates attended, but again, no one from the State Senate. Del. Tim Manchin chaired and indicated the Senate was tied up in re-districting meetings, but was there "in spirit" Industry did pull out the stops, as a lot of people had the "Natural Gas" stickers on their shirts. They got in early, and 22 of the first 24 speakers were from industry. But they also mostly left early, which prompted some complaints from those landowners speaking near the end, but a number from the pro-regulation side also left early, so I am not sure that was a valid complaint. The pro-regulation side ended up with 64 speakers, the industry reps had 49, and 2 were so unclear, convoluted and confused that I could not tell which side they were on. My final count for the three hearings is 74 pro-industry, 136 pro-regulation, 10 unclear. The tally should probably be even higher because most of the pro-industry reps said they supported a clean environment and "reasonable" regulations, but always emphasized jobs, which I interpret as code for "No More Regs" because they always insisted they were already doing a great job. JBK

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Gazettee discovers Tomblin weakened Executive Order
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 28 Jul '11

28 Jul '11

http://wv4mom.org/content/charleston-gazette-discovers-tomblin-weakened-exe… -Jonathan

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Fwd: FW: [fom] Manchin's millions from coal
by Jim Sconyers 26 Jul '11

26 Jul '11

Read it and weep. In the U. S. Senate, this is not a conflict of interest! ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Vivian Stockman <vivian(a)ohvec.org> Date: Tue, Jul 26, 2011 at 1:12 PM Subject: FW: [fom] Manchin's millions from coal To: Jim Sconyers <jimscon(a)gmail.com> Great quote!**** ** ** *From:* fom-owner(a)lists.riseup.net [mailto:fom-owner@lists.riseup.net] *On Behalf Of *Vernon Haltom *Sent:* Tuesday, July 26, 2011 1:01 PM *To:* FOM, List *Subject:* [fom] Manchin's millions from coal**** ** ** Just in case anybody had any doubts about why Manchin doesn't mind MTR killing us: http://www.nytimes.com/gwire/2011/07/26/26greenwire-sen-manchin-maintains-l… -- Vernon Haltom Executive Director, Coal River Mountain Watch 304-854-2182 www.crmw.net**** ** ** -- Jim Sconyers jimscon(a)gmail.com 304.698.9628 Remember, Mother Nature bats last.

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Re: [EC] In Beckley paper: Money to Sierra Club prompts boos
by Jim Sconyers 26 Jul '11

26 Jul '11

Translation: "Coal now, coal forever! And to hell with the consequences!" On Sat, Jul 23, 2011 at 8:29 AM, Vivian Stockman <vivian(a)ohvec.org> wrote: > July 22, 2011 **** > Money to Sierra Club prompts boos<http://www.register-herald.com/local/x202401951/Money-to-Sierra-Club-prompt…> > **** > > By Mannix Porterfield Register-Herald Reporter<http://www.register-herald.com> > **** > > > http://www.register-herald.com/local/x202401951/Money-to-Sierra-Club-prompt… > **** > > ** ** > > ** ** > > An industry leader joined a union chief and political luminaries in West > Virginia in a sustained chorus of boos directed Thursday at billionaire New > York Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s hefty gift to an environmental group bent on > wiping out the coal industry. > > Bloomberg disclosed he handed a $50 million donation to the Sierra Club > from his own pocket for use in the group’s quest to shut down coal mining > the two consider an environmental hazard. > > His action triggered a swift and predictable response in coal-rich West > Virginia. > > “The next time the lights go out, the people in New York City will all know > exactly whom to blame — their mayor, Michael Bloomberg,” Rep. Nick Rahall, > D-W.Va., said from his Capitol office. > > Bloomberg said his gift would enable the Sierra Club to close as many as > one-third of America’s oldest coal-fired power plants by 2020. > > Acting Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin weighed in on the latest controversy involving > the industry, calling coal “the most stable, cost-effective means of meeting > the energy demands of our country and the world.” > > “With the use of our natural resources here in West Virginia, our country > becomes more energy-independent,” Tomblin said. > > Tomblin helped break ground on the new Willow Island hydro-electric project > near Saint Marys. > > “The fact, however, that we are looking for other sources of energy — and > developing clean coal technologies — does not mean that our country can > afford to no longer use coal,” the governor said. “Coal must be a part of > any realistic solution to meet our growing demand for energy.” > > Given the size of the charitable gift that could be spent on hiring lawyers > to challenge coal production and power plants alike, Bill Raney, president > of the West Virginia Coal Association, said the industry must view > Bloomberg’s threat seriously. > > “It sends a terrible message to coal miners and families that depend on > coal, not only in West Virginia but across this country,” Raney said. “It > has provided energy to make steel and power throughout the history of this > country. Now, all of a sudden, he’s made a lot of money doing something, and > he wants to put it into something that sounds pretty shallow, pretty > selfish.” > > Raney noted the mercury hovered at 100 degrees in both New York and > Washington, D.C., and was 97 in Charleston, and questioned how Bloomberg > would act if the electricity suddenly stop-ped with a lack of coal. > > “Let’s assume he takes all the coal generation off the grid,” he said. “If > he accomplishes quickly what he wants to do, I’m wondering what he’s going > to do?” > > The industry has been in a roiling feud with the Obama administration over > its Environmental Protection Agency’s approach to mining permits, and Raney > said coal operators must brace themselves for a well-heeled assault by the > Sierra Club in a bid to stop coal plants and force others to retreat from > remodeling plans. > > “They’ll just be flinging grenades, is what I think,” he said. “It’s simply > not fair to the people who have made a living trying to provide energy in > this country. It’s just like he thumbed his nose at it. It doesn’t make a > lick of sense.” > > Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., found it disappointing that Bloomberg launched > an attack on coal, rather than work to achieve a balance between production > and environmental concerns. > > “Coal not only built this country, but it built the skyscrapers of New York > City, and, without coal, the lights of that city would be dark and its > economy would be devastated,” the senator said. > > “I have said from day one, and will say until my last breath, that there > has to be a balance in our country between the environment as well as our > economic and national security, which are threatened by this country’s > addiction to foreign oil.” > > Sen. Richard Browning, D-Wyoming, pointed to a time when the lights indeed > went out in the Big Apple, in a major blackout that crippled much of the > eastern seaboard. > > And with one of the worst heat waves to ever paralyze much of that region > now in sway, Browning said coal takes on an even more critical role in > supplying the energy to keep the air conditioners humming. > > “Can you imagine what it would be like today without electricity right now, > as far as air conditioners go?” > > If coal weren’t being burn-ed to supply energy needs, he said, those swept > up in the heat would be at nature’s mercy without benefit of relief. > > “That’s not the kind of leadership that I would want to set for the people > I represent, to advocate something that’s going to be detrimental to their > way of life,” Browning said. > > Browning said he considers himself both an environmentalist and a realist. > > “In today’s life, we need to make electricity, and the only feasible way to > do that at this point is with coal,” the senator said. “There will come a > day we can do better with coal. We’re all trying to achieve that today.” > > Browning pointed to research in progress in both Pittsburgh and West > Virginia University aimed at cleaning up the use of coal. > > “We all want to have cleaner coal, and we’re getting there,” he said. “In > the meantime, we can’t stop using it until we get an alternative.” > > The Sierra Club says it has applied the brakes to more than 150 new > coal-fired power plants in recent years through the use of the courts and > local action. > > “If we are going to get serious about reducing our carbon footprint in the > United States, we have to get serious about coal,” Bloomberg said in making > his announcement. > > “Coal is a self-inflicted public health risk, polluting the air we breathe, > adding mercury to our water and the leading cause of climate disruption.” > > Republican gubernatorial nominee Bill Maloney vowed to take on Bloomberg, > the Sierra Club, President Obama “and anybody else who attacks one of the > pillars of our state’s economy.” > > “I’m convinced that when you get elected to office, there must be some > magic potion they feed you that causes you to become completely detached > from reality and lose touch with regular people,” he said of Bloomberg. > > “This is just another example of career politicians with half-baked ideas > that would devastate our economy.” > > United Mine Workers President Cecil Roberts likewise decried Bloomberg’s > gift, saying that it would throw miners out of work and plunge them deeper > into the throes of a recession. > > In some parts of Appala-chia, the union executive said, mining jobs provide > the only decent incomes that allow workers to sustain a solid, middle-class > lifestyle. > > Moreover, he suggested, there is a measure of hypo-crisy to the > environmental cause trumpeted by groups such as the Sierra Club. > > “I suspect that many of their members and supporters spend thousands of > dollars every year on automobiles, computers, smart phones and other goods > made in China, India and other countries, which are rapidly building > economies more robust than ours by using more and more coal as their chief > source of energy,” he said. > > “I would also point out that China is swiftly becoming the world’s leader > in developing carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology, which will meet > the goal of reducing and eventually eliminating greenhouse gas emissions > when commercially applied to coal-fired power plants.” > > Delegate Randy Swartz-miller, D-Hancock, suggested Bloomberg not try to run > for office in West Virginia because his vote total would be scant. > > “That is, if he didn’t get run out of the state first,” Swartzmiller said. > > “Just have to wonder if someone that rich is smart enough to know what > truly powers that little switch that makes the lights come on.” > > — E-mail: mannix(a)register-herald.com**** > > [image: http://w.sharethis.com/chicklets/email.gif]**** > > ** ** > -- Jim Sconyers jimscon(a)gmail.com 304.698.9628 Remember, Mother Nature bats last.

2 1

Re: [EC] In Beckley paper: Money to Sierra Club prompts boos
by James Kotcon 25 Jul '11

25 Jul '11

I think we need to attack the short-sighted leaders who think of coal first, and deny the reality of global warming, especially during this year of unprecedented weather. Manchin ran his campaign by literally shooting at the Cap-And-Trade bill, which would have included the subsidies for Clean Coal and the economic incentives needed for CCS. West Virginia's political leaders do not have any plans for developing a transition to a post-coal future, and are therefore blind to the possibilities and are locking us into ever-increasing dependence on an industry doomed to run out, and sooner than they imagine. Projections show a 40 % decline ion coal produciton in WV within 5 years, yet they continue to talk as if coal is the future of West Virginia's economic development. I believe we need to respond soon. It will expose us to a lot of attacks, but it will also position us as credible leaders on the issues. I think we need a press release, or even a press conference by Monday. Whaddya Tink? JBK >>> Jim Sconyers 07/23/11 8:43 AM >>> Translation: "Coal now, coal forever! And to hell with the consequences!" On Sat, Jul 23, 2011 at 8:29 AM, Vivian Stockman <vivian(a)ohvec.org> wrote: July 22, 2011 Money to Sierra Club prompts boos By Mannix Porterfield Register-Herald Reporter http://www.register-herald.com/local/x202401951/Money-to-Sierra-Club-prompt… An industry leader joined a union chief and political luminaries in West Virginia in a sustained chorus of boos directed Thursday at billionaire New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s hefty gift to an environmental group bent on wiping out the coal industry. Bloomberg disclosed he handed a $50 million donation to the Sierra Club from his own pocket for use in the group’s quest to shut down coal mining the two consider an environmental hazard. His action triggered a swift and predictable response in coal-rich West Virginia. “The next time the lights go out, the people in New York City will all know exactly whom to blame * their mayor, Michael Bloomberg,” Rep. Nick Rahall, D-W.Va., said from his Capitol office. Bloomberg said his gift would enable the Sierra Club to close as many as one-third of America’s oldest coal-fired power plants by 2020. Acting Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin weighed in on the latest controversy involving the industry, calling coal “the most stable, cost-effective means of meeting the energy demands of our country and the world.” “With the use of our natural resources here in West Virginia, our country becomes more energy-independent,” Tomblin said. Tomblin helped break ground on the new Willow Island hydro-electric project near Saint Marys. “The fact, however, that we are looking for other sources of energy * and developing clean coal technologies * does not mean that our country can afford to no longer use coal,” the governor said. “Coal must be a part of any realistic solution to meet our growing demand for energy.” Given the size of the charitable gift that could be spent on hiring lawyers to challenge coal production and power plants alike, Bill Raney, president of the West Virginia Coal Association, said the industry must view Bloomberg’s threat seriously. “It sends a terrible message to coal miners and families that depend on coal, not only in West Virginia but across this country,” Raney said. “It has provided energy to make steel and power throughout the history of this country. Now, all of a sudden, he’s made a lot of money doing something, and he wants to put it into something that sounds pretty shallow, pretty selfish.” Raney noted the mercury hovered at 100 degrees in both New York and Washington, D.C., and was 97 in Charleston, and questioned how Bloomberg would act if the electricity suddenly stop-ped with a lack of coal. “Let’s assume he takes all the coal generation off the grid,” he said. “If he accomplishes quickly what he wants to do, I’m wondering what he’s going to do?” The industry has been in a roiling feud with the Obama administration over its Environmental Protection Agency’s approach to mining permits, and Raney said coal operators must brace themselves for a well-heeled assault by the Sierra Club in a bid to stop coal plants and force others to retreat from remodeling plans. “They’ll just be flinging grenades, is what I think,” he said. “It’s simply not fair to the people who have made a living trying to provide energy in this country. It’s just like he thumbed his nose at it. It doesn’t make a lick of sense.” Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., found it disappointing that Bloomberg launched an attack on coal, rather than work to achieve a balance between production and environmental concerns. “Coal not only built this country, but it built the skyscrapers of New York City, and, without coal, the lights of that city would be dark and its economy would be devastated,” the senator said. “I have said from day one, and will say until my last breath, that there has to be a balance in our country between the environment as well as our economic and national security, which are threatened by this country’s addiction to foreign oil.” Sen. Richard Browning, D-Wyoming, pointed to a time when the lights indeed went out in the Big Apple, in a major blackout that crippled much of the eastern seaboard. And with one of the worst heat waves to ever paralyze much of that region now in sway, Browning said coal takes on an even more critical role in supplying the energy to keep the air conditioners humming. “Can you imagine what it would be like today without electricity right now, as far as air conditioners go?” If coal weren’t being burn-ed to supply energy needs, he said, those swept up in the heat would be at nature’s mercy without benefit of relief. “That’s not the kind of leadership that I would want to set for the people I represent, to advocate something that’s going to be detrimental to their way of life,” Browning said. Browning said he considers himself both an environmentalist and a realist. “In today’s life, we need to make electricity, and the only feasible way to do that at this point is with coal,” the senator said. “There will come a day we can do better with coal. We’re all trying to achieve that today.” Browning pointed to research in progress in both Pittsburgh and West Virginia University aimed at cleaning up the use of coal. “We all want to have cleaner coal, and we’re getting there,” he said. “In the meantime, we can’t stop using it until we get an alternative.” The Sierra Club says it has applied the brakes to more than 150 new coal-fired power plants in recent years through the use of the courts and local action. “If we are going to get serious about reducing our carbon footprint in the United States, we have to get serious about coal,” Bloomberg said in making his announcement. “Coal is a self-inflicted public health risk, polluting the air we breathe, adding mercury to our water and the leading cause of climate disruption.” Republican gubernatorial nominee Bill Maloney vowed to take on Bloomberg, the Sierra Club, President Obama “and anybody else who attacks one of the pillars of our state’s economy.” “I’m convinced that when you get elected to office, there must be some magic potion they feed you that causes you to become completely detached from reality and lose touch with regular people,” he said of Bloomberg. “This is just another example of career politicians with half-baked ideas that would devastate our economy.” United Mine Workers President Cecil Roberts likewise decried Bloomberg’s gift, saying that it would throw miners out of work and plunge them deeper into the throes of a recession. In some parts of Appala-chia, the union executive said, mining jobs provide the only decent incomes that allow workers to sustain a solid, middle-class lifestyle. Moreover, he suggested, there is a measure of hypo-crisy to the environmental cause trumpeted by groups such as the Sierra Club. “I suspect that many of their members and supporters spend thousands of dollars every year on automobiles, computers, smart phones and other goods made in China, India and other countries, which are rapidly building economies more robust than ours by using more and more coal as their chief source of energy,” he said. “I would also point out that China is swiftly becoming the world’s leader in developing carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology, which will meet the goal of reducing and eventually eliminating greenhouse gas emissions when commercially applied to coal-fired power plants.” Delegate Randy Swartz-miller, D-Hancock, suggested Bloomberg not try to run for office in West Virginia because his vote total would be scant. “That is, if he didn’t get run out of the state first,” Swartzmiller said. “Just have to wonder if someone that rich is smart enough to know what truly powers that little switch that makes the lights come on.” * E-mail: mannix(a)register-herald.com -- Jim Sconyers jimscon(a)gmail.com 304.698.9628 Remember, Mother Nature bats last.

6 5

Re: [EC] Delegates Schedule Public Hearings on Gas Drilling
by James Kotcon 23 Jul '11

23 Jul '11

I suggested this to a Committee staffer last Thursday night, and he implied that just was not realistic. We will need more than one person saying it Monday nioght to have an impact. I think I will make the point that the landscape has changed since March. At the end of the regular session, the issue being debated was whether or not to regulate. Now, the issue is whether the regulate, or ban Marcelus fracking. And the momentum for a ban will increase if there is not comprehensive regulation imposed before more fracking gets done. Unless the Legislature gets serious about comprehensive rules, the controversy will continue to grow, as will demands for a permanent ban. A moratorium on new permits and a comprehensive bill imposing emergency rules on existing permits are the only way to demonstrate that the Legislature is serious and is proceeding in a logical manner to develop the industry responsibly. JBK >>> Jim Sconyers 07/22/11 11:57 PM >>> I agree - the more the delay, the more drilling gets done fast before regulation, and their mess becomes a fait accompli. On Fri, Jul 22, 2011 at 8:54 PM, John Garlow <ecomodjag(a)gmail.com> wrote: The problem with Earl Ray's emergency is that it really must not be an emergency since even if the DEP does come up with any meaningful regulation and enforcement system, and even if the house comes up with 2 million to pay for monitoring and inspections, it will take about a year to get "ramped up" according to DEP. So, the drilling and fracking will continue on for at least another year with the blessing of the state and the who knows what might happen to the environment attitude. This is similar to the days when anyone could dig a hole in their bank for coal that left us with lots of yellow boy streams and clean up costs. I want to keep pushing hard for a moratorium since the lack of control of this industry has already been called an emergency. Since this is a valuable national resource, it should be regulated in terms of how it is used. Companies should disclose their end consumer. Perhaps this should be coupled with conversion programs from gasoline to compressed gas vehicles. Why should we risk our environment so that a few people can make money selling our gas to China? I want to keep pushing the word "emergency" as used by the gov. He needs to take action and be a leader. He is already being attacked by Mahoney for lack of leadership saying something should have been done years ago. Is he going to stand up for WV's environment or bend to China's desire for our gas? John Garlow On Sat, Jul 16, 2011 at 12:03 PM, James Kotcon <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu> wrote: The WV4MoM discussed this last night, and we agree that it needs to have a good turnout, preferably at all three hearings. Chuck, can you start contacting folks in the Northern Panhandle and Clarksburg areas? The Upshur County group should also get out, as Clarksburg is pretty close. I have a call in to get more details as to the format, but this is a great opportunity, and we need to start preparing ASAP. I suspect that there will be an opportunity for a few invited speakers, but whether this will be an open opportunity for everyone to speak is not clear. Two key themes will be: 1) Follow the Money. If industry says they support "Responsible Regulation" does that mean they will withhold campaign contributions from legislators that block "Responsible Regulation"? I suspect that the Doug Facemire's of the Committee will change their tune pretty quickly if industry says they will, but I also suspect that "Responsible Regulation" will turn out to be code words for "Do Nothing". If we can demonstrate to the Legislature that the industry propaganda actually means "Continue poisoning the water", we may sway a few votes, in spite of the industry campaign contributions. And when the industry says they want decisions based on facts and not "emotionalism", we need to point out that it is the industry "experts" that have let their pursuit of profits blind them to real science, and their greed that creates the emotional disconnect with reality. 2) Discredit the claims that fracking is safe and has never contaminated ground water. I am putting together news accounts of well contamination, spills, and violations to demonstrate that the industry claims that they are clean do not match reality. For example, PA-DEP identified seven cases of gas migrating into ground water for every 1000 wells in 2010. They issued over 1000 citations for violations of environmental protection rules between 2008 and August 2010. But WV-DEP has only 15 inspectors for 59,000 wells, so drillers here know they are unlikely to ever get an inspection. It is certainly true that some wells can be drilled without problems, and that some companies are doing a better job than others. That is why we need real regulations, to rein in the rogue operators and put everyone on a level playing field. If we can couple this demonstration that real problems exist, that industry experts are distorting the facts, and that the industry is in denial, with an assertion that strong regulations mean we can have both gas drilling and clean water, we will win. JBK >>> "Chuck Wyrostok" <wyro(a)appalight.com> 7/16/2011 9:57 AM >>> FYI, folks.c Chuck Wyrostok Sierra Club Outreach Organizer Toll free 877 252 0257 E: outreach(a)marcellus-wv.com www.marcellus-wv.com _____ From: Julie Archer [mailto:julie@wvsoro.org] Sent: Saturday, July 16, 2011 9:31 AM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: WV-SORO Update: Delegates Schedule Public Hearings on Gas Drilling Delegates Schedule Public Hearings on Marcellus Drilling The House members of the legislature's Select <http://www.legis.state.wv.us/committees/interims/committee.cfm?abb=marcellu s> Committee on Marcellus Shale have announced they will hold three public hearings on drilling issues to get input on how problems and concerns related to natural gas drilling should be addressed. In media reports, Delegate Tim Manchin, House chairman of the committee said, "The committee members have heard much about both the potential benefits and problems associated with the Marcellus Shale development - what we are now looking for are suggestions on measures that should be included in a new state law that encourages efficient development of the resource while addresses local and environmental concerns." The hearings are set for Wheeling on July 21, Morgantown on July 25, and Clarksburg on July 27. The times and locations will be announced early next week. We'll send out more details once they become available. They will also be posted on the Legislature's website, www.legis.state.wv.us. The entire Select Committee met earlier this week, and heard presentations from a variety of experts and interest groups including WV-SORO. The full committee plans to reconvene and hold three working meetings during the August interim meetings of the legislature (August 1-3). Also this week, Senator President Earl Ray Tomblin, acting as Governor, signed an executive <http://www.governor.wv.gov/Documents/20110713150559476.pdf> order directing the Department of Environmental Protection to develop rules to regulate Marcellus Shale gas drilling. The plan is a positive first step, but is no substitute for legislative action which is needed to address the problems surface face in their dealings with the drillers. You can read Tomblin's press release and the executive order here <http://www.governor.wv.gov/newsroom/pressreleases/Pages/GovernorAnnouncesMa rcellusShaleRegulation.aspx> . We have posted links to a number of news stories related to the Select Committee meetings and Tomblin's announcement at www.wvsoro.org. -- Julie Archer WV Surface Owners' Rights Organization 1500 Dixie Street Charleston, WV 25311 (304) 346-5891 (304) 346-8981 FAX www.wvsoro.org _______________________________________________ EC mailing list EC(a)osenergy.org http://osenergy.org/mailman/listinfo/ec -- Jim Sconyers jimscon(a)gmail.com 304.698.9628 Remember, Mother Nature bats last.

1 0

Re: [EC] Delegates Schedule Public Hearings on Gas Drilling
by James Kotcon 22 Jul '11

22 Jul '11

The WV4MoM discussed this last night, and we agree that it needs to have a good turnout, preferably at all three hearings. Chuck, can you start contacting folks in the Northern Panhandle and Clarksburg areas? The Upshur County group should also get out, as Clarksburg is pretty close. I have a call in to get more details as to the format, but this is a great opportunity, and we need to start preparing ASAP. I suspect that there will be an opportunity for a few invited speakers, but whether this will be an open opportunity for everyone to speak is not clear. Two key themes will be: 1) Follow the Money. If industry says they support "Responsible Regulation" does that mean they will withhold campaign contributions from legislators that block "Responsible Regulation"? I suspect that the Doug Facemire's of the Committee will change their tune pretty quickly if industry says they will, but I also suspect that "Responsible Regulation" will turn out to be code words for "Do Nothing". If we can demonstrate to the Legislature that the industry propaganda actually means "Continue poisoning the water", we may sway a few votes, in spite of the industry campaign contributions. And when the industry says they want decisions based on facts and not "emotionalism", we need to point out that it is the industry "experts" that have let their pursuit of profits blind them to real science, and their greed that creates the emotional disconnect with reality. 2) Discredit the claims that fracking is safe and has never contaminated ground water. I am putting together news accounts of well contamination, spills, and violations to demonstrate that the industry claims that they are clean do not match reality. For example, PA-DEP identified seven cases of gas migrating into ground water for every 1000 wells in 2010. They issued over 1000 citations for violations of environmental protection rules between 2008 and August 2010. But WV-DEP has only 15 inspectors for 59,000 wells, so drillers here know they are unlikely to ever get an inspection. It is certainly true that some wells can be drilled without problems, and that some companies are doing a better job than others. That is why we need real regulations, to rein in the rogue operators and put everyone on a level playing field. If we can couple this demonstration that real problems exist, that industry experts are distorting the facts, and that the industry is in denial, with an assertion that strong regulations mean we can have both gas drilling and clean water, we will win. JBK >>> "Chuck Wyrostok" <wyro(a)appalight.com> 7/16/2011 9:57 AM >>> FYI, folks.c Chuck Wyrostok Sierra Club Outreach Organizer Toll free 877 252 0257 E: outreach(a)marcellus-wv.com www.marcellus-wv.com _____ From: Julie Archer [mailto:julie@wvsoro.org] Sent: Saturday, July 16, 2011 9:31 AM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: WV-SORO Update: Delegates Schedule Public Hearings on Gas Drilling Delegates Schedule Public Hearings on Marcellus Drilling The House members of the legislature's Select <http://www.legis.state.wv.us/committees/interims/committee.cfm?abb=marcellu s> Committee on Marcellus Shale have announced they will hold three public hearings on drilling issues to get input on how problems and concerns related to natural gas drilling should be addressed. In media reports, Delegate Tim Manchin, House chairman of the committee said, "The committee members have heard much about both the potential benefits and problems associated with the Marcellus Shale development - what we are now looking for are suggestions on measures that should be included in a new state law that encourages efficient development of the resource while addresses local and environmental concerns." The hearings are set for Wheeling on July 21, Morgantown on July 25, and Clarksburg on July 27. The times and locations will be announced early next week. We'll send out more details once they become available. They will also be posted on the Legislature's website, www.legis.state.wv.us. The entire Select Committee met earlier this week, and heard presentations from a variety of experts and interest groups including WV-SORO. The full committee plans to reconvene and hold three working meetings during the August interim meetings of the legislature (August 1-3). Also this week, Senator President Earl Ray Tomblin, acting as Governor, signed an executive <http://www.governor.wv.gov/Documents/20110713150559476.pdf> order directing the Department of Environmental Protection to develop rules to regulate Marcellus Shale gas drilling. The plan is a positive first step, but is no substitute for legislative action which is needed to address the problems surface face in their dealings with the drillers. You can read Tomblin's press release and the executive order here <http://www.governor.wv.gov/newsroom/pressreleases/Pages/GovernorAnnouncesMa rcellusShaleRegulation.aspx> . We have posted links to a number of news stories related to the Select Committee meetings and Tomblin's announcement at www.wvsoro.org. -- Julie Archer WV Surface Owners' Rights Organization 1500 Dixie Street Charleston, WV 25311 (304) 346-5891 (304) 346-8981 FAX www.wvsoro.org

4 3

Report from Wheeling Marcellus hearing
by James Kotcon 22 Jul '11

22 Jul '11

The Select Committee on Marcellus held their first public hearing in Wheeling last night. About 150-200 attended, and 34 people spoke. Attending were at least four House members of the Committee, as well as one State Senator. Also attending were about 4-5 other legislators from the northern panhandle region. Industry reps got there early and were 9 of the first 12 speakers. Almost all spoke mostly about jobs and economic development, very few raised specific suggestions for legislation, or even stated they opposed regulation. ALL of the last 20 speakers supported stronger regulations, and had numerous suggestions for specific issues that need to be addressed. I mention this because the tv cameras left after the first half and probably did not convey that calls for regulations outnumbered industry people by over 2-to-1. Two people (of the 34 who spoke) gave statements so convoluted and confusing that I could not figure out what side they were on, or what they wanted. So my count is 10 pro-industry, 22 pro-regulation, and two unclear. The only substantive comment from industry was when Mike McCowan of IOGA said they "would SUPPORT reasonable INCREASES in fees". (Perhaps the key word there is "reasonable"). Lots of concerns were expressed about water and air pollution, several people objected to forced pooling, a couple raised safety issues, explosions, property rights issues, or concerns about foreign exports of gas. Recommendations for future hearings next week. 1) Keep your points focused. The chair allowed only 2 minute per person, and everyone almost always ran out of time to say very much. I recommend writing out some key points and do a practice with a stop watch to make sure you get in the key statements. ( I hate it when I have a really powerful finish planned and never get to use it because I run out of time, it just leaves the whole presentation with a weak, dangling end.) If the Morgantown crowd is even bigger, the time allowed will likely be cut proportionately. 2) Show up early. I recommend at least one hour before the start if you want to speak early. We were there 40 minutes early, and there were already 18 speakers signed up ahead of me. 3) Coordinate who says what. With only 120 seconds to speak, it is important to avoid wasting valuable seconds repeating a point that has already been made a dozen times. Practice your statement with a stop watch. 4) Write out specific suggestions for rules, as this is more likely to get included into a bill than vague statements of support or opposition to drilling generally. Even if you don't have time to say everything, written comments are more easily incorporated into a bill by Committee staff. 5) Practice your statement with a stop watch. Jim Kotcon

1 0

Bloomberg gives $50 M to SC
by Jim Sconyers 21 Jul '11

21 Jul '11

Awesome! ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Michael Brune and Robin Mann, Sierra Club < membership.services(a)sierraclub.org> Date: Thu, Jul 21, 2011 at 10:53 AM Subject: Congratulations! You're Making History! To: jimscon(a)gmail.com View a web version of this email.<http://action.sierraclub.org/site/R?i=Rnl09JkC9Y-xR7WfqVVU5A..> [image: The Sierra Club] Dear Jim, As the Sierra Club's Executive Director and President, we've had many opportunities to communicate with you about the work we all do together as America's largest grassroots environmental organization. Today we're thrilled to announce that New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg's Bloomberg Philanthropies, in recognition of our efforts nationwide, has provided a donation of $50 million to accelerate the Sierra Club's history-making fight against coal and to support America's clean energy future<http://action.sierraclub.org/site/R?i=Nqxj0K6CPkVvjWlYceoRag..>. We can all celebrate this as a game-changing new start for the most important environmental campaign of the 21st century and a watershed moment for our Sierra Club. Every one of you -- from those working with the Angeles Chapter on cleaning up ports to those protecting Vermont's beautiful rivers and streams -- can take pride in, and will benefit greatly from, this contribution Bloomberg Philanthropies is giving this major donation to our Beyond Coal campaign because of the Club's remarkable success in working with allies and local communities to stop more than 150 new coal plants. Mayor Bloomberg believes that people coming together in communities across the country to end America's use of this dirty, 19th-century fuel is the single biggest step we can take to improve public health, combat the pollution of our water and air, and address climate disruption. Those of you who have worked tirelessly for years to confront the fossil fuel industry can rest assured that this investment will lead to important new victories. We will quickly build our grassroots activism across the country to retire existing coal plants and confront coal's corrupting influence on American politics. We will rapidly increase our support of the innovative energy technologies that are already generating new jobs and building the foundation for future prosperity. We're confident, too, that this ringing endorsement of our organization will attract new members and supporters and encourage new donations to increase the success of all the critically important work we do in every one of our chapters from Alaska to Florida, and in all of our conservation campaigns, from protecting Arizona's deserts to taking young people hiking on the Appalachian trail. You'll be hearing more about this exciting announcement in the media and in an upcoming call. We look forward to answering your questions and hearing your thoughts about how we can build on this moment to become bigger, stronger, and more successful in our mission to explore, enjoy, and protect the planet. Thank you again for helping to make this incredible announcement possible. Today, we encourage everyone to show your appreciation for this donation and support for our united efforts by pledging to end coal and usher in a new clean-energy future<http://action.sierraclub.org/site/R?i=zWqgLT_HFXaCEPoiMWnGvw..>. Onward! Michael Brune, Executive Director Robin Mann, President Sierra Club [image: Share this page on Facebook]<http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?pub=johnmuir&s=facebook&url=http%3A//ac…>[image: Share this page on Twitter]<http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?pub=johnmuir&s=twitter&url=http%3A//act…>[image: Share this page with other services]<http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?pub=johnmuir&url=http%3A//action.sierra…> Update My Profile<http://action.sierraclub.org/site/R?i=hRGunUFTpIIh0d4cbP3QWA..>| Manage My Email Preferences<http://action.sierraclub.org/site/CO?i=AlIAYYLrdMwE-phzBDbwhUMBlZmbGgHO&cid…> | Update My Interests<http://action.sierraclub.org/site/R?i=1xwZBJ4cPF73u6uCfDtkyg..> | Unsubscribe <http://action.sierraclub.org/site/R?i=rxjAtq6MqNy0P5uNM1-HRQ..> Sierra Club 85 Second St. San Francisco, CA 94105 -- Jim Sconyers jimscon(a)gmail.com 304.698.9628 Remember, Mother Nature bats last.

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IS SHALE GAS A PIPE(LINE) DREAM?
by William V. DePaulo, Esq. 21 Jul '11

21 Jul '11

Is Shale Gas a Pipedream? Billions for Infrastructure Needed Ken Silverstein <http://www.energybiz.com/author/ken-silverstein> | Jul 21, 2011 [image: Share/Save]<http://www.addtoany.com/share_save#url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.energybiz.com%2Fart…> <http://www.energybiz.com/article/11/07/shale-gas-pipedream?utm_source=2011_…> Don't get starry-eyed over all that projected shale-gas. It's one thing to dig it out. It's another to transport it. And at least one trade group says that massive amounts of investment must now go into creating the pipelines that would carry that fuel. That's a huge task. But add in the concerns of community organizations that fear such development would not just disrupt their local ecologies but also increase the dangers from pipeline accidents. While that angst is legitimate and must be addressed by pipeline companies, shale-gas has the potential to supply energy here for the next century. "The good news is that the natural gas industry has a proven track record of constructing and financing this level of infrastructure," says Don Santa, chief executive of the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America.<http://www.ingaa.org/15391.aspx> Santa's organization commissioned ICF International<http://www.ingaa.org/Foundation/Studies/7828/9115.aspx?layoutChange=Print&C…>to review the country's anticipated pipeline infrastructure needs in a world where unconventional forms of gas such as shale gas are expected to make up two-thirds of the total natural gas mix by 2035. It makes a few assumptions that range from a price of $4-$7 per million Btus as well as an increase of 1.3 percent in the expected electricity demand per year for at least a decade. To get there, the United States and Canada will require an average yearly investment of $8.2 billion, or $205 billion over the next quarter century. Santa notes that the industry has invested $8 billion during a three year period from 2006 to 2010 -- a "strong indication" that it will continue to make the necessary capital allocations if the regulatory environment permits. By 2030, the U.S. and Canada will need approximately 29,000 to 62,000 miles of additional natural gas pipelines as well as 370 billion to 600 billion cubic feet of additional storage capacity, says the study. If the country does not to rise to the challenge, it would create supply disruptions and price volatility would increase. But developers are hard-pressed to invest if the impediments to construction are too onerous and there is not enough gas to keep the new lines filled to capacity. Developers also want to make it easier for gas distributors to enter into long-term contracts that help pay for the lines. Regulators are, largely, sympathetic. They are concerned about potential energy shortages and any subsequent rolling blackouts. To cope, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission<http://www.ferc.gov/industries/gas/indus-act/pipelines.asp>is trying to get all regulatory agencies to coordinate their schedules and reviews. The goal is not to subvert the permitting process but rather, to streamline it. "To meet the growing demand for natural gas, the Commission must continue to respond quickly when companies propose to expand and construct needed pipelines and related facilities," says FERC. "The Commission has expedited the certification of natural gas pipelines by having Commission staff actively participate in projects (that pre-file)." More conciliation The first step for developers is to determine whether new pipelines are needed and whether the price of natural gas supports construction such that companies can obtain firm contracts to finance them. The next step is to propose a route the line will take. Overall, there still must not be any significant affect on either the natural habitat or the landowners who lease their rights-of-way. Those precautions will inevitably lead to the rerouting of any pipeline system, although in some cases the federal government may exercise its right of eminent domain. Under the best of circumstances, the opposition to new construction is intense. The process to get the permits and to overcome the environmental and zoning questions is lengthy and expensive. And in the aftermath of a gas pipeline explosion that killed 7 people in Northern California a couple years ago, the outcry for reforms has magnified. "The American public is apprehensive about natural gas pipelines - and understandably so," says Santo, with the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America. "One accident is too many. Still, despite recent accidents, pipelines are the safest way to transport energy -- safer than rails or roads -- according to the U.S. Department of Transportation." Generally, the need for new gas supplies and the infrastructure to carry the gas remains a top priority. Achieving a consensus among stakeholders is key. Shale-gas producers are at the heart of this debate and have been asked to be more conciliatory and share the chemicals they are using to drill. Likewise, the pipeline developers that will transport the fuel must acquiesce to safety and environmental concerns. Only then can the natural gas sector fulfill its promise. EnergyBiz Insider has been named Honorable Mention for Best Online Column by Media Industry News, MIN. Ken Silverstein has also been named one of the Top Economics Journalists by Wall Street Economists. Follow Ken on www.twitter.com/ken_silverstein energybizinsider(a)energycentral.com. -- William V. DePaulo, Esq. 179 Summers Street, Suite 232 Charleston, WV 25301-2163 Tel 304-342-5588 Fax 304-342-5505 william.depaulo(a)gmail.com www.passeggiata.com

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Fwd: E&E Daily: Industry showers members of Congress with contributions
by Jim Sconyers 20 Jul '11

20 Jul '11

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Lisa Evans <levans(a)earthjustice.org> Date: Wed, Jul 20, 2011 at 9:01 AM Subject: E&E Daily: Industry showers members of Congress with contributions To: COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE(a)lists.sierraclub.org Environment and Energy Daily story on political contributions from the coal industry, highlighting McKinley- author of the House coal ash bill. COAL: Industry showers members of Congress with contributions (07/20/2011) Manuel Quinones, E&E reporter Coal-related companies have spent tens of millions of dollars in campaign donations and lobbying to push back against what many industry leaders and lawmakers call the Obama administration's war on coal. The industry's allies in Congress are fighting back -- with rhetoric and legislative attempts to handcuff environmental regulations. In a recent hearing on legislation to regulate the disposal of coal ash and pre-empt U.S. EPA rulemaking, Rep. David McKinley (R-W.Va.) spoke about the economic benefits of the American coal industry and warned against "further attacks in this war on coal." "It's gotta stop," he said. McKinley is not only one of coal's most ardent and vocal supporters, he has also emerged as one of the top recipients of industry donations. The congressman has received more than $200,000 in electricity and coal-related contributions so far this year, according to figures compiled by the Environmental Integrity Project. McKinley's take, EIP says, is much higher than other heavy hitters on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, including Chairman Fred Upton (R-Mich.) with $96,650 and Rep. Ed Whitfield (R-Ky.) with $51,250 in electricity- and coal-related contributions. McKinley raised a total of $300,455 in the second quarter of 2011 and more than twice that so far this year, with the help of donations from the political action committees of energy giants Koch Industries Inc., Arch Coal Co., Consol Energy Inc. and Alpha Natural Resources Inc. Alpha CEO Kevin Crutchfield, who recently led his company's purchase of Massey Energy Co., gave McKinley $1,000 in April. "I'm going to defend the coal industry all across America," McKinley said. "Twenty-five of our states make coal, mine it and ship it to the 48 that burn it. And I think it's time we stand up for those jobs." Rep. Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.) has also been a top coal industry supporter, ushering legislation through the House this month to undercut EPA's crackdown of mountaintop removal mining pollution in Appalachia. This year, he has received $2,000 from the National Mining Association's COALPAC, $7,500 from the United Mine Workers' Coal Miners PAC and and $2,500 from Arch's ARCHPAC. Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) is touting his support for coal as part of his campaign to secure re-election in 2012. Like Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-W.Va.), Manchin has become one of coal's top backers in the upper chamber of Congress. And the industry is rewarding him handsomely this year -- he received $5,000 from the NMA's COALPAC, $3,500 from the UMW and $2,500 from Peabody Energy Corp.'s PEABODY PAC. Like Rahall and McKinley, Manchin has received plenty of donations from coal burning utility PACs. Dominion Resources Inc. has poured $3,500 into the senator's coffers, American Electric Power Co. Inc. has provided $5,000, and the Edison Electric Institute has chipped in $2,500. Manchin is the only Democratic senator to have received money this year -- $5,000 -- from Koch Industries' KOCHPAC, which tends to favor conservative contenders. The National Mining Association has also been generous with Ohio Republican Reps. Bob Gibbs and Bill Johnson, two freshmen from coal country who have blasted EPA's Clean Water Act oversight of coal mining operations. Both lawmakers have received several thousand dollars from the NMA's COALPAC and MINEPAC. Mining PAC dollars have flowed as well to McKinley, Upton, House Appropriations Chairman Hal Rogers (R-Ky.) and Rep. John Shimkus (R-Ill.). Shimkus -- who this month helped broker a bipartisan agreement on coal-ash disposal, which the industry supports and EPA opposes -- received $3,500 from ARCHPAC and $5,000 from Exelon Corp. Watchdogs cry foul Overall, between January and May of this year, Alpha's ALPHAPAC doled out $120,500, the NMA's COALPAC and MINEPAC $143,000 combined and the Edison Electric Institute $217,000. While lawmakers insist campaign donations do not influence their vote, watchdog groups like EIP see a direct correlation between campaign donations and the hostility many lawmakers show for increased regulation. "No doubt the Congressmen receiving these large sums are sincere in their support for legislation that coal interests want so badly," the EIP said in its report. "But are politicians who raise such large sums of money from coal the best qualified to rewrite regulations that affect the industry?" In another new report, Polluting Democracy: Coal Plays Dirty on the Hill, Greenpeace listed 15 lawmakers -- including House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-Va.), Rep. Jason Altmire (D-Pa.) and Rep. Michelle Bachmann (R-Minn.), a presidential candidate -- who are in particular supporters of the fossil fuel energy industry. Almost all of them have also been top recipients of industry dollars, the report said. "We must urge our representatives to let EPA do its job," said Greenpeace senior legislative representative Kyle Ash, "by protecting us from dangerous toxins produced by coal-fired power plants." Lobbying dollars flow For the industry and its supporters, EPA is going beyond its mandate by working on numerous, burdensome regulations that will cost thousands of American jobs. As a result, companies and associations are spending big dollars to make sure lawmakers know what's at stake. When it comes to lobbying Congress, the National Mining Association has spent more than $1 million this year, AEP more than $5 million and Edison Electric Institute roughly $4 million, according to the latest numbers, which are sure to increase when new quarterly lobbying disclosure reports come due today. Lisa Evans Senior Administrative Counsel Earthjustice 21 Ocean Ave. Marblehead, MA 01945 T: (781) 631-4119 F: (212) 918-1556 www.earthjustice.org *please consider the environment before printing The information contained in this email message may be privileged, confidential and protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, any dissemination, distribution or copying is strictly prohibited. If you think that you have received this email message in error, please notify the sender by reply email and delete the message and any attachments. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE list, send any message to: COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp -- Jim Sconyers jimscon(a)gmail.com 304.698.9628 Remember, Mother Nature bats last.

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Fwd: FYI - PJM Reform and Coal Retirements in your state
by James Kotcon 16 Jul '11

16 Jul '11

Attached is a report on reforms to the regional planning process used by PJM to predict electricity demand. The report discusses issues related to energy efficiency, renewables, and the shut down of old coal-fired plants to illustrate the need for reform of the planning process used to determine the need for transmission lines like PATH. I recommend reading this report, it is long but worthwhile, as we will need to understand some of these issues as we move forward with plans for our overall energy campaigns. One aspect I found most striking was the concept of "Reliability Must Run" contracts. For example, several old dirty plants like Albright or that must install scrubbers or shut down (under the new rules EPA finalized last week). These would normally be shut down as it is not cost effective to install scrubbers on such old plants. But PJM could order them to stay open under an RMR contract and install scrubbers at ratepayer expense if PJM determines that they are needed for reliability purposes. Such RMR contracts would keep old dirty plants on line longer, raise consumer costs, reduce the incentives for renewables, and distort the market signal that utilities need to plan properly. So including energy efficiency and renewables in the PJM planning model is important to avoid the needless expense of installing scrubbers on plants that are not cost-effective. I am not sure we need to go to this level of detail for our public meetings, but we certainly need more people who understand the implications of this as we develop energy campaigns. Enjoy! Jim Kotcon >>> Jim Sconyers <jimscon(a)gmail.com> 7/16/2011 10:08 AM >>> ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Craig Segall <Craig.Segall(a)sierraclub.org> Date: Thu, Jul 14, 2011 at 4:56 PM Subject: FYI - PJM Reform and Coal Retirements in your state To: nancymoore.desierra(a)gmail.com, gwynjones(a)aol.com, jack.darin(a)sierraclub.org, dmaidenberg(a)gmail.com, alicehowell(a)insightbb.com, ron.henry(a)mdsierra.org, awoiwodesc(a)earthlink.net, jeff.tittel(a)verizon.net, vkloepfer(a)suddenlink.net, sierrabob(a)oh.rr.com, jeff.schmidt(a)dejazzd.com, kdpendleton1(a)aol.com, glenbesa(a)gmail.com, jimscon(a)gmail.com Cc: Mark Kresowik <Mark.Kresowik(a)sierraclub.org>, Josh Stebbins <Josh.Stebbins(a)sierraclub.org> Hi all, For those of you I haven't yet had the chance to work with, let me introduce myself: I'm one of the attorneys on the national law staff, where I work mostly on greenhouse gas and regulatory issues. As part of that work, I've been focused lately on PJM (www.pjm.com) which, as you likely know, is the regional transmission grid operator for much of the mid-Atlantic and midwest. I'm writing because PJM is working on reforming its processes to allow it to better handle both the ramp-up of clean energy measures and the retirement of a large chunk of old coal generation. Because PJM covers your states, I want to make sure that you know what Mark Kresowik, of the coal campaign, Josh Stebbins, in the law program, and I are up to as we work on these issues. Basically, PJM's existing transmission planning process does not allow it to react nimbly to coal plant retirements or to new clean energy opportunities -- which could delay both of them, and add to ratepayer costs. PJM has launched a reform process, through its Regional Planning Process Task Force (the RPPTF) -- see http://pjm.com/committees-and-groups/task-forces/rpptf.aspx for more -- that would help fix many of these problems. To succeed, PJM must move its reforms through a series of internal committees this fall, which are dominated by generation interests, and then file its proposed changes with FERC this December. We're closely monitoring the process, and are working with national allies, including the Project for a Sustainable FERC, NRDC, Earthjustice, Audubon, and the Piedmont Environmental Council, to advocate for useful reforms. As part of that work, we commissioned an expert report on transmission reform, which we've shared with each of the PJM state's utility commissions and ratepayer advocates. I'm attaching that report and a short memo summarizing its recommendations. We'd, of course, appreciate any help you can offer in generating positive state pressure on PJM to keep moving down the path to reform. I will certainly keep you informed as PJM moves forward, and can schedule a call to discuss possible grasstops organizing options if you are interested -- just drop me a line. Chees, Craig Craig Holt Segall Associate Attorney Sierra Club Environmental Law Program 50 F St NW, Eighth Floor Washington, DC, 20001 (202)-548-4597 (202)-547-6009 (fax) Craig.Segall(a)sierraclub.org CONFIDENTIAL LEGAL COMMUNICATION/WORK PRODUCT This e-mail, and its attachments, may contain privileged and confidential attorney-client communications and confidential attorney work product. If you received this e-mail inadvertently, please notify me and delete all versions on your system. Thank you. -- Jim Sconyers jimscon(a)gmail.com 304.698.9628 Remember, Mother Nature bats last.

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FW: [ACTNET-FRAC-NEWS] Fw: Agenda Item 5: Energy Policy Documents for Board
by Grubb, Karen 15 Jul '11

15 Jul '11

From: National Hydrofracking Team [mailto:ACTNET-FRAC-NEWS@LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG] On Behalf Of Jessica Helm Sent: Friday, July 15, 2011 12:36 PM To: ACTNET-FRAC-NEWS(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Subject: [ACTNET-FRAC-NEWS] Fw: Agenda Item 5: Energy Policy Documents for Board Jessica Helm 631 219 6449 helm_jessica(a)yahoo.com ~~Growth for the sake of growth is the ideology of the cancer cell~~ - Edward Abbey ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: David Scott <david.scott(a)SIERRACLUB.ORG> To: BOD-OPEN(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Sent: Thu, July 14, 2011 7:44:32 PM Subject: Agenda Item 5: Energy Policy Documents for Board Colleagues, I will be offering the following motion on the July 25 board call: “The board of directors adopts the proposed revisions to the Energy Resources Policy. The following policies are sunsetted because they have been superseded by the new comprehensive policy: Energy Promotion – May 2-3, 1970; Energy Conservation – January 20-21, 1973; Energy Research & Development – January 12-13, 1974; Solar Energy – April 1-2, 1976 [which itself superseded an earlier policy on this subject of Dec. 13-14, 1975; Solar Energy – February 3-4, 1979; Energy Conservation & Research – July 21-22, 1979; Building Energy Conservation – July 21-22, 1979; Global Warming – May 7-8, 1988” I am attaching the following documents with this message, which is also attached: • Energy Policy Rewrite (sent June 29th) • Cover letter for energy policy, sent June 29th • “The BoD sunsets the following policies…” • ECL-Bioenergy explanation for the Board These documents will all be posted on the Board documents site. Regarding the policies to be sunsetted, Gene Coan pointed out that these are now redundant and were superseded by the 2006 Energy Resources Policy – this is really just a housekeeping measure. Regarding the new, revised policy, a great deal of work has gone into these proposed amendments. I urge you to read them over so that you can raise any questions or concerns before the July 25th call. The comments we received fill nearly 100 pages. If anyone wants that entire file, you’re welcome to read them – just contact either Bruce Hamilton or me and we’ll get them to you. But it’s a big file. The June 29th cover letter briefly explains the rationale for the proposed revisions. The board has received two recent messages about the proposed revisions. One message concerns the forest bioenergy language. Some activists would like less restrictive language to allow for ecological restoration projects. The attached “ECL-Bioenergy memo” responds to this concern, which gets into our member-adopted policy opposing commercial logging on federal lands. A second message, from Alan Carlton, Ed Mainland and Jim Stewart, requests an additional comment period. I will be sending you a response to that message in the next few days. The many comments we received were read thoughtfully and closely. This revision process began last year, and revisions have already been discussed by the board once. Both Mike and Bruce Hamilton have been involved, along with two volunteer campaign leaders and other Club energy experts. The most substantial changes are in the transitional fuels section. Again, if you have questions or concerns, please email them to the board list or feel free to contact any members of the drafting team, who are listed on the June 29th cover letter. I look forward to our discussion on the 25th. Dave - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the BOD-OPEN list, send any message to: BOD-OPEN-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - This email list is associated with the Hydrofracking Team on the Sierra Club's Activist Network. Join the Hydrofracking Team at http://sc.org/frac. This list is open to the public and subscribers are not moderated. Please be aware that information you share may be forwarded to or read by others beyond this list. To unsubscribe from the ACTNET-FRAC-NEWS list, send any message to: ACTNET-FRAC-NEWS-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp To view the Sierra Club List Terms & Conditions, see: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/terms.asp

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Tomblin's Executive Order
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 14 Jul '11

14 Jul '11

Attached is Tomblin's executive order concerning gas drilling. -Jonathan

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Robert Kennedy, Jr. Accepts Post on DEC Fracking Panel
by Frank Young 14 Jul '11

14 Jul '11

"Because of the reckless conduct of the industry over the past several years, as well as my growing concerns about the greenhouse gas impacts associated with shale gas extraction and about the potential for the investment and infrastructure required by aggressive natural gas exploitation to divert resources away from the development of alternative fuels, I have changed my thinking and have asked members of the industry to stop using any statements I may have made in the past in support of natural gas. My position now is that I oppose moving forward with permitting of all new horizontal hydrofracking activities until more responsible leadership emerges within the industry, best practices are required by law, and state and federal regulatory agencies have the staff and resources to provide reliable oversight."- Robert F. Kennedy (underlined emphasis added- F.Y.) ----- Original Message ----- From: Judith Cartisano To: ACTNET-FRAC-NEWS(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Sent: Thursday, July 14, 2011 11:01 AM Subject: [ACTNET-FRAC-NEWS] Robert Kennedy Jr. Robert Kennedy, Jr. Accepts Post on DEC Fracking Panel View more images on our Flickr site Will advocate for rigorous environmental protections On Friday, July 1, 2011, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation announced its new recommendations regarding limits to be placed on high-volume hydraulic fracturing in New York State, including a ban on hydrofracking in the New York City and Syracuse watersheds, over primary aquifers and on state lands. In addition, DEC Commissioner Joe Martens announced the formation of an Hydraulic Fracturing Advisory Panel charged with developing recommendations to ensure proper oversight and enforcement with respect to hydraulic fracturing activities and mitigation of impacts to local governments and communities. Commissioner Martens asked Robert Kennedy, Jr., as the President of Waterkeeper Alliance, to be a member of the panel, along with several industry representatives, as well as representatives from other environmental organizations including NRDC and the Environmental Defense Fund. Governor Cuomo has assured Kennedy that his goal is to have DEC put in place the most rigorous regulations in the 50 states governing shale gas extraction activities in New York. In addition, the Governor and Commissioner Martens want to make certain that oversight and enforcement is adequately funded by the industry itself. Having been invited to play an inside role in guiding the State's efforts to put adequate protections in place to ensure that hydraulic fracturing will be done safely and responsibly in New York, Kennedy decided that he would be in the strongest position to negotiate on behalf of protecting the environment as a member of the panel. "I felt that it would be counter-productive and chicken-hearted for the Waterkeeper Alliance to sit on the sidelines and allow an industry-dominated panel attempt to influence the development of a less than fully protective regulatory framework, and then lob bombs at the final work product." Kennedy is committed to playing an active and forceful role on the panel to make certain that voices speaking for the environment and in particular, for our precious water resources, are heard, and to ensure that the best possible regulations and financial assurances are part of the regulatory protocols. This role is consistent with the position on the natural gas industry that Kennedy has taken since this spring, when he re-examined his support for natural gas as a reasonable substitute for the destructive practice of mountain top coal mining. "Because of the reckless conduct of the industry over the past several years, as well as my growing concerns about the greenhouse gas impacts associated with shale gas extraction and about the potential for the investment and infrastructure required by aggressive natural gas exploitation to divert resources away from the development of alternative fuels, I have changed my thinking and have asked members of the industry to stop using any statements I may have made in the past in support of natural gas. My position now is that I oppose moving forward with permitting of all new horizontal hydrofracking activities until more responsible leadership emerges within the industry, best practices are required by law, and state and federal regulatory agencies have the staff and resources to provide reliable oversight." - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - This email list is associated with the Hydrofracking Team on the Sierra Club's Activist Network. Join the Hydrofracking Team at http://sc.org/frac. This list is open to the public and subscribers are not moderated. Please be aware that information you share may be forwarded to or read by others beyond this list. To unsubscribe from the ACTNET-FRAC-NEWS list, send any message to: ACTNET-FRAC-NEWS-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp

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Re: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order
by DSGJr＠aol.com 14 Jul '11

14 Jul '11

Maloney fired the first salvo with his interview with Ry Rivard in the Daily Mail. The acting governor fired back with his executive order. I see the press conference as the third salvo. He began by blasting the EPA (again) over the Spruce permit, and blasted them again later in responding to a reporter's question. And he assembled a bunch of legislators and industry officials to surround him at the podium. Maloney has fired back, charging the acting governor is not showing leadership. This will probably escalate by itself. But Chuck's idea of providing Maloney with the Sierra Club position paper is not a bad one. In the interview Maloney gave to Ry, he has already come close to supporting some of it. don In a message dated 7/13/2011 9:47:27 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, fyoung(a)mountain.net writes: Is there a way to bait them into engaging in a political game of "out Marcellus" one another? ----- Original Message ----- From: "Chuck Wyrostok" <wyro(a)appalight.com> To: "'Jim Sconyers'" <jimscon(a)gmail.com>; "'James Kotcon'" <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu> Cc: <DSGJr(a)aol.com>; <ec(a)osenergy.org>; <jbc329(a)earthlink.net> Sent: Wednesday, July 13, 2011 10:41 PM Subject: Re: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order I'm thinking we should send our position paper to Maloney to give him an complete picture of what's needed...c Chuck Wyrostok Sierra Club Outreach Organizer Toll free 877 252 0257 E: outreach(a)marcellus-wv.com www.marcellus-wv.com -----Original Message----- From: Jim Sconyers [mailto:jimscon@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, July 13, 2011 12:13 AM To: James Kotcon Cc: ec(a)osenergy.org; wyro(a)appalight.com; DSGJr(a)aol.com; jbc329(a)earthlink.net Subject: Re: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order I'd say this is classic co-opting. On Tue, Jul 12, 2011 at 5:12 PM, James Kotcon <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu> wrote: > Thank you Jonathon. Not sure how you got this, but it makes interesting reading. > > At first glance this seems like a major step forward, but the cynic in me read it again. > > * Nothing in here requires permits for or limits air emissions. > > * Nothing requires a permit for water withdrawals. This order give the operator the authority to submit a plan, and as long as the plan meets the methods approved by DEP, DEP can not deny or reject a plan submitted by the operator. > > * Nothing prohibits on-site burial of pit wastes. It says pits can be "managed on site in a manner otherwise approved by the Secretary of the WVDEP", and DEP currently approves on-site burial? > > So I am wondering if it is time to blast this proposal as too little, too late, and a prescription for continued outrage among citizens and uncertainty for industry. It is a classic example of Tomblin's continuing failure to provide leadership. > > JBK > >>>> Jonathan Rosenbaum <freesource(a)cheat.org> 7/12/2011 4:10 PM >>> > Attached is Tomblin's executive order concerning gas drilling. > > -Jonathan > > > _______________________________________________ > EC mailing list > EC(a)osenergy.org > http://osenergy.org/mailman/listinfo/ec > -- Jim Sconyers jimscon(a)gmail.com 304.698.9628 Remember, Mother Nature bats last. _______________________________________________ EC mailing list EC(a)osenergy.org http://osenergy.org/mailman/listinfo/ec

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Re: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order
by John Christensen 13 Jul '11

13 Jul '11

Sounds like a plan....see how strict they will go to get elected and how much they will attempt to protect our water and air as an afterthought -----Original Message----- >From: Frank Young <fyoung(a)mountain.net> >Sent: Jul 13, 2011 9:47 PM >To: Chuck Wyrostok <wyro(a)appalight.com>, 'Jim Sconyers' <jimscon(a)gmail.com>, 'James Kotcon' <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu> >Cc: DSGJr(a)aol.com, ec(a)osenergy.org, jbc329(a)earthlink.net >Subject: Re: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order > >Is there a way to bait them into engaging in a political game of "out >Marcellus" one another? > >----- Original Message ----- >From: "Chuck Wyrostok" <wyro(a)appalight.com> >To: "'Jim Sconyers'" <jimscon(a)gmail.com>; "'James Kotcon'" <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu> >Cc: <DSGJr(a)aol.com>; <ec(a)osenergy.org>; <jbc329(a)earthlink.net> >Sent: Wednesday, July 13, 2011 10:41 PM >Subject: Re: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order > > >I'm thinking we should send our position paper to Maloney to give him an >complete picture of what's needed...c > >Chuck Wyrostok >Sierra Club Outreach Organizer >Toll free 877 252 0257 >E: outreach(a)marcellus-wv.com >www.marcellus-wv.com > > >-----Original Message----- >From: Jim Sconyers [mailto:jimscon@gmail.com] >Sent: Wednesday, July 13, 2011 12:13 AM >To: James Kotcon >Cc: ec(a)osenergy.org; wyro(a)appalight.com; DSGJr(a)aol.com; jbc329(a)earthlink.net >Subject: Re: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order > >I'd say this is classic co-opting. > >On Tue, Jul 12, 2011 at 5:12 PM, James Kotcon <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu> wrote: >> Thank you Jonathon. Not sure how you got this, but it makes interesting >reading. >> >> At first glance this seems like a major step forward, but the cynic in me >read it again. >> >> * Nothing in here requires permits for or limits air emissions. >> >> * Nothing requires a permit for water withdrawals. This order give the >operator the authority to submit a plan, and as long as the plan meets the >methods approved by DEP, DEP can not deny or reject a plan submitted by the >operator. >> >> * Nothing prohibits on-site burial of pit wastes. It says pits can be >"managed on site in a manner otherwise approved by the Secretary of the >WVDEP", and DEP currently approves on-site burial? >> >> So I am wondering if it is time to blast this proposal as too little, too >late, and a prescription for continued outrage among citizens and >uncertainty for industry. It is a classic example of Tomblin's continuing >failure to provide leadership. >> >> JBK >> >>>>> Jonathan Rosenbaum <freesource(a)cheat.org> 7/12/2011 4:10 PM >>> >> Attached is Tomblin's executive order concerning gas drilling. >> >> -Jonathan >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> EC mailing list >> EC(a)osenergy.org >> http://osenergy.org/mailman/listinfo/ec >> > > > >-- >Jim Sconyers >jimscon(a)gmail.com >304.698.9628 > >Remember, Mother Nature bats last. > > >_______________________________________________ >EC mailing list >EC(a)osenergy.org >http://osenergy.org/mailman/listinfo/ec > > John Christensen Mountain View Solar and Wind LLC 410-499-4873 cell 304-258-4733 office

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Re: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order
by John Christensen 13 Jul '11

13 Jul '11

As a certified garbage crazy this thread is exciting to me and I have forwarded most of this to Clint Hogbin who is also very interested. In Berkeley County we have a project to change the local waste stream to a waste to fuel facility and we are working hard to get our siting plan update approved, I am on that board with Clint. My fear is that with less than normal supply coming in to LCS they will solicit this type of business to make up the difference and more, trouble for our aquifer will result, I'm afraid. I included Clint on this reply and hope we add him to the discussion from now on. JB -----Original Message----- >From: Beth Little <blittle(a)citynet.net> >Sent: Jul 13, 2011 8:14 AM >To: 'Frank Young' <fyoung(a)mountain.net>, ec(a)osenergy.org >Cc: wyro(a)appalight.com, DSGJr(a)aol.com, jbc329(a)earthlink.net >Subject: RE: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order > >Frank, I don't doubt that they have not been classified as hazardous, >because of all the exemptions gas development has from federal laws. That's >the problem. And I seriously doubt that a regular landfill has the >capability of testing for some of the nasties they contain, especially the >NORMs. Granted, a landfill is better than buried on site, but the landfill >in Greenbrier Co has leachate that goes into the Greenbrier River. > >-----Original Message----- >From: ec-bounces(a)osenergy.org [mailto:ec-bounces@osenergy.org] On Behalf Of >Frank Young >Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2011 10:20 PM >To: ec(a)osenergy.org >Cc: wyro(a)appalight.com; DSGJr(a)aol.com; jbc329(a)earthlink.net >Subject: Re: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order > be >Beth, > >By what legal determination are these drilling cuttings "hazardous >materials"? Somehow I doubt that they have been legally determined to be >hazardous materials. > >I think I'd rather see them taken to a legal landfill than disposed of on >site by the usual "fold the liner into the hole and bury" method. > >Frank > >----- Original Message ----- >From: "Beth Little" <blittle(a)citynet.net> >To: "'James Kotcon'" <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu>; <ec(a)osenergy.org> >Cc: <wyro(a)appalight.com>; <DSGJr(a)aol.com>; <jbc329(a)earthlink.net> >Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2011 8:29 PM >Subject: Re: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order > > >> Furthermore, Leslee and I are trying to track down the facts behind >> hearing >> that the Greenbrier landfill is taking cuttings from wells in Greenbrier >> Co. >> Leslee said she heard they have a permit. If it's a permit from the DEP, >> then they are allowing hazardous materials in regular landfills. >> >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: ec-bounces(a)osenergy.org [mailto:ec-bounces@osenergy.org] On Behalf >> Of >> James Kotcon >> Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2011 5:12 PM >> To: ec(a)osenergy.org >> Cc: wyro(a)appalight.com; DSGJr(a)aol.com; jbc329(a)earthlink.net >> Subject: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order >> >> Thank you Jonathon. Not sure how you got this, but it makes interesting >> reading. >> >> At first glance this seems like a major step forward, but the cynic in me >> read it again. >> >> * Nothing in here requires permits for or limits air emissions. >> >> * Nothing requires a permit for water withdrawals. This order give the >> operator the authority to submit a plan, and as long as the plan meets the >> methods approved by DEP, DEP can not deny or reject a plan submitted by >> the >> operator. >> >> * Nothing prohibits on-site burial of pit wastes. It says pits can be >> "managed on site in a manner otherwise approved by the Secretary of the >> WVDEP", and DEP currently approves on-site burial? >> >> So I am wondering if it is time to blast this proposal as too little, too >> late, and a prescription for continued outrage among citizens and >> uncertainty for industry. It is a classic example of Tomblin's continuing >> failure to provide leadership. >> >> JBK >> >>>>> Jonathan Rosenbaum <freesource(a)cheat.org> 7/12/2011 4:10 PM >>> >> Attached is Tomblin's executive order concerning gas drilling. >> >> -Jonathan >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> EC mailing list >> EC(a)osenergy.org >> http://osenergy.org/mailman/listinfo/ec > > > >_______________________________________________ >EC mailing list >EC(a)osenergy.org >http://osenergy.org/mailman/listinfo/ec > > >----- >No virus found in this message. >Checked by AVG - www.avg.com >Version: 10.0.1390 / Virus Database: 1516/3760 - Release Date: 07/12/11 > John Christensen Mountain View Solar and Wind LLC 410-499-4873 cell 304-258-4733 office

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Re: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order
by John Christensen 12 Jul '11

12 Jul '11

I always thought that it was considered haz mat by what was in it or potentially in it, no requirement to test the flowback or cuttings to determine the toxicity before disposing... -----Original Message----- >From: Frank Young <fyoung(a)mountain.net> >Sent: Jul 12, 2011 9:19 PM >To: ec(a)osenergy.org >Cc: wyro(a)appalight.com, DSGJr(a)aol.com, jbc329(a)earthlink.net >Subject: Re: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order > >Beth, > >By what legal determination are these drilling cuttings "hazardous >materials"? Somehow I doubt that they have been legally determined to be >hazardous materials. > >I think I'd rather see them taken to a legal landfill than disposed of on >site by the usual "fold the liner into the hole and bury" method. > >Frank > >----- Original Message ----- >From: "Beth Little" <blittle(a)citynet.net> >To: "'James Kotcon'" <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu>; <ec(a)osenergy.org> >Cc: <wyro(a)appalight.com>; <DSGJr(a)aol.com>; <jbc329(a)earthlink.net> >Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2011 8:29 PM >Subject: Re: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order > > >> Furthermore, Leslee and I are trying to track down the facts behind >> hearing >> that the Greenbrier landfill is taking cuttings from wells in Greenbrier >> Co. >> Leslee said she heard they have a permit. If it's a permit from the DEP, >> then they are allowing hazardous materials in regular landfills. >> >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: ec-bounces(a)osenergy.org [mailto:ec-bounces@osenergy.org] On Behalf >> Of >> James Kotcon >> Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2011 5:12 PM >> To: ec(a)osenergy.org >> Cc: wyro(a)appalight.com; DSGJr(a)aol.com; jbc329(a)earthlink.net >> Subject: [EC] Fwd: Tomblin's Executive Order >> >> Thank you Jonathon. Not sure how you got this, but it makes interesting >> reading. >> >> At first glance this seems like a major step forward, but the cynic in me >> read it again. >> >> * Nothing in here requires permits for or limits air emissions. >> >> * Nothing requires a permit for water withdrawals. This order give the >> operator the authority to submit a plan, and as long as the plan meets the >> methods approved by DEP, DEP can not deny or reject a plan submitted by >> the >> operator. >> >> * Nothing prohibits on-site burial of pit wastes. It says pits can be >> "managed on site in a manner otherwise approved by the Secretary of the >> WVDEP", and DEP currently approves on-site burial? >> >> So I am wondering if it is time to blast this proposal as too little, too >> late, and a prescription for continued outrage among citizens and >> uncertainty for industry. It is a classic example of Tomblin's continuing >> failure to provide leadership. >> >> JBK >> >>>>> Jonathan Rosenbaum <freesource(a)cheat.org> 7/12/2011 4:10 PM >>> >> Attached is Tomblin's executive order concerning gas drilling. >> >> -Jonathan >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> EC mailing list >> EC(a)osenergy.org >> http://osenergy.org/mailman/listinfo/ec > > John Christensen Mountain View Solar and Wind LLC 410-499-4873 cell 304-258-4733 office

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New Report Reveals Toxic Air Near Natural Gas Operations
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 12 Jul '11

12 Jul '11

http://wv4mom.org/content/new-report-reveals-toxic-air-near-natural-gas-ope… -Jonathan

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Fwd: FW: Teleconference - Drilling in an Abandoned Field: Hydrofracking in the Absence of Federal Regulation, Thurs. July 14
by Paul Wilson 12 Jul '11

12 Jul '11

fyi, paul ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: DAVID E ORTMAN <deortman(a)msn.com> Date: Tue, Jul 12, 2011 at 12:40 AM Subject: FW: Teleconference - Drilling in an Abandoned Field: Hydrofracking in the Absence of Federal Regulation, Thurs. July 14 To: COAL-CAMPAIGN-ALERTS(a)lists.sierraclub.org FR: David E. Ortman, Seattle, WA While NG fracking is not exactly coal, members on this listserve or others may be interested in this ABA program on Thursday. It doesn't specifically say you have to be an attorney or a member of the ABA to listen in. ------------------------------ To: deortman(a)MSN.COM Date: Mon, 11 Jul 2011 17:30:00 -0500 From: irr(a)americanbar.org Subject: Teleconference - Drilling in an Abandoned Field: Hydrofracking in the Absence of Federal Regulation, Thurs. July 14 - Section Home <http://www.americanbar.org/groups/individual_rights.html> • - Contact Us<http://www.americanbar.org/groups/individual_rights/contact_us.html> Drilling in an Abandoned Field: Hydrofracking in the Absence of Federal Regulation This panel will consider the legal landscape and environmental impacts of hydraulic fracturing ("hydrofracking"), the use of horizontal drilling and high-volume fluid injection to free up natural gas found in shale and other deposits. The process makes drilling in places such as the Marcellus shale region feasible but introduces a number of regulatory challenges. For the process to work, millions of gallons of water must be piped or transported to well sites. Similar amounts of wastewater, containing hydrocarbons and proprietary chemicals, must be handled. Much of the wastewater remains below the surface where it can migrate into aquifers. Residents must endure noise, vibrations, lower property values, and air pollution from gas leaks, flaring, and truck exhaust. Hydrofracking is largely exempt from federal environmental laws, leaving the states to fend for themselves. This panel, composed of experts with many years of experience regulating and litigating hydrofracking-related issues, will discuss the New York and Pennsylvania experiences with this form of natural gas extraction. We will draw lessons from their struggles with environmental review, zoning, preemption, enforcement, and other practices. Their experience will be of use to environmental attorneys working in any of a growing number of states that has decided to consider or approve the use of hydrofracking in local communities. Speakers include: - *Al Appleton<http://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/events/individual_rights/appleto…> *, Senior Advisor, The Cooper Union<http://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/events/individual_rights/appleto…> - *Kate Hudson<http://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/events/individual_rights/hudson_…> *, Watershed Program Director, Riverkeeper, Inc.<http://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/events/individual_rights/hudson_…> - *Gregg Macey<http://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/events/individual_rights/macey_b…> *, Brooklyn Law School<http://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/events/individual_rights/macey_b…> - *Jeff Zimmerman<http://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/events/individual_rights/zimmerm…> *, Zimmerman & Associates<http://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/events/individual_rights/zimmerm…> THURSDAY, JULY 14, 2011 2:00 P.M. Eastern ** To join the 90 minute call please dial 1-877-317-0419 and reference the "Hydraulic Fracturing Call" or "Conference ID 80530313" ** The ABA is not seeking CLE credit for this program, you will not receive CLE credit for listening to this program. This message was sent to deortman(a)msn.com. Your e-mail address will only be used within the ABA and its entities. We do not sell or rent e-mail addresses to anyone outside the ABA. Update your profile<http://apps.americanbar.org/abanet/common/MyABA/home.cfm>| Unsubscribe<http://apps.americanbar.org/unsubscribe.shtml?email=deortman@msn.com>| Privacy Policy <http://www.americanbar.org/utility/privacy.html> American Bar Association | 321 N Clark | Chicago, IL 60654 | 1-800-285-2221 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the COAL-CAMPAIGN-ALERTS list, send any message to: COAL-CAMPAIGN-ALERTS-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp -- Paul Wilson Sierra Club 504 Jefferson Ave Charles Town, WV 25414-1130 Phone: 304-725-4360 Cell: 304-279-1361 "There is no forward until you have gone back" ~Buddha "In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous" ~ Aristotle

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Re: [EC] Interim Committee meetings
by DSGJr＠aol.com 09 Jul '11

09 Jul '11

Here is the agenda as I know it from staff. Meeting begins Tuesday evening at 6 PM and will go as long as they can. Then will continue on Wednesday at noon. 1. Presentation on tax revenues from Marcellus by Mark Muchow of Dept. of Revenue 2. Presentation on economic benefits of a cracker plant by Keith Buredette of Econ Development Office 3. Standard presentation on horizontal drilling and fracking by someone from WVU 4. Presentation by Don Garvin (whoever he is) 5. Presentation by two Morgantown city council members 6. Presentation by Dave McMahon And, yes, Sconyers, you are always paranoid. But that's not a bad thing! don garvin In a message dated 7/9/2011 3:22:33 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, jimscon(a)gmail.com writes: Am I paranoid? Neither meeting of the Marcellus select committee has an agenda posted. On Sat, Jul 9, 2011 at 1:21 PM, James Kotcon <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu> wrote: > The Interim Committee schedule is out. Looks like some meetings start as early as 9 AM Monday. > > The Select Committee on Marcellus is scheduled to meet Tuesday at 6 PM, and again Wednesday at noon. > > Others of interest include > > Monday > 10 AM. Joint Commission on Economic Development. Update on Marcellus gas "cracker" plants. House Gov Org. Room 215 E > > 11 AM. Joint Commission on Water Resources. Senate Judiciary Room. 208 W. The agenda posted is from 2010, but I expect it may be worth covering. > > 2 PM. Finance Sub Committee B. Senate Finance room. Funding Issues Regarding Marcellus Shale. > > 3 PM. Judiciary Subcommittee C. Senate Judiciary Room Revision of rule-making procedures. > > Tuesday > 6 PM. Select Committee on Marcellus. Senate Judiciary > > Wednesday > 10 AM Legislative Rule-Making Review. Senate Judiciary. No on-line agenda yet, the posted one is from January. > 11 AM. Joint Judiciary Committee. House Chamber. Review of Supreme Court election finance decision. > 12:00 Noon. elect Committee on Marcellus. Senate Judiciary > > There may be other interesting things happening, but these ought to be a good start. > > JBK > > > > > _______________________________________________ > EC mailing list > EC(a)osenergy.org > http://osenergy.org/mailman/listinfo/ec > -- Jim Sconyers jimscon(a)gmail.com 304.698.9628 Remember, Mother Nature bats last.

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Interim Committee meetings
by James Kotcon 09 Jul '11

09 Jul '11

The Interim Committee schedule is out. Looks like some meetings start as early as 9 AM Monday. The Select Committee on Marcellus is scheduled to meet Tuesday at 6 PM, and again Wednesday at noon. Others of interest include Monday 10 AM. Joint Commission on Economic Development. Update on Marcellus gas "cracker" plants. House Gov Org. Room 215 E 11 AM. Joint Commission on Water Resources. Senate Judiciary Room. 208 W. The agenda posted is from 2010, but I expect it may be worth covering. 2 PM. Finance Sub Committee B. Senate Finance room. Funding Issues Regarding Marcellus Shale. 3 PM. Judiciary Subcommittee C. Senate Judiciary Room Revision of rule-making procedures. Tuesday 6 PM. Select Committee on Marcellus. Senate Judiciary Wednesday 10 AM Legislative Rule-Making Review. Senate Judiciary. No on-line agenda yet, the posted one is from January. 11 AM. Joint Judiciary Committee. House Chamber. Review of Supreme Court election finance decision. 12:00 Noon. elect Committee on Marcellus. Senate Judiciary There may be other interesting things happening, but these ought to be a good start. JBK

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Re: [EC] Interim Committee meetings
by DSGJr＠aol.com 09 Jul '11

09 Jul '11

Don't forget the air rules, Jim. "The public hearing for all air quality rules will take place at 6 p.m. on July 11 in the Dolly Sods Room at DEP’s Charleston headquarters, 601 57th Street S.E., Charleston, WV 25304. The comment period will begin on June 10 and end at the conclusion of the hearing." don In a message dated 7/9/2011 12:21:35 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, jkotcon(a)wvu.edu writes: The Interim Committee schedule is out. Looks like some meetings start as early as 9 AM Monday. The Select Committee on Marcellus is scheduled to meet Tuesday at 6 PM, and again Wednesday at noon. Others of interest include Monday 10 AM. Joint Commission on Economic Development. Update on Marcellus gas "cracker" plants. House Gov Org. Room 215 E 11 AM. Joint Commission on Water Resources. Senate Judiciary Room. 208 W. The agenda posted is from 2010, but I expect it may be worth covering. 2 PM. Finance Sub Committee B. Senate Finance room. Funding Issues Regarding Marcellus Shale. 3 PM. Judiciary Subcommittee C. Senate Judiciary Room Revision of rule-making procedures. Tuesday 6 PM. Select Committee on Marcellus. Senate Judiciary Wednesday 10 AM Legislative Rule-Making Review. Senate Judiciary. No on-line agenda yet, the posted one is from January. 11 AM. Joint Judiciary Committee. House Chamber. Review of Supreme Court election finance decision. 12:00 Noon. elect Committee on Marcellus. Senate Judiciary There may be other interesting things happening, but these ought to be a good start. JBK

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Re: [EC] Interim Committee meetings
by DSGJr＠aol.com 09 Jul '11

09 Jul '11

I always attend the Forest Management Review meeting -- it's Monday at 9 AM. The Water Resources Meeting at 11 AM Monday has been canceled and rolled into the Select Committee meetings. don In a message dated 7/9/2011 12:21:35 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, jkotcon(a)wvu.edu writes: The Interim Committee schedule is out. Looks like some meetings start as early as 9 AM Monday. The Select Committee on Marcellus is scheduled to meet Tuesday at 6 PM, and again Wednesday at noon. Others of interest include Monday 10 AM. Joint Commission on Economic Development. Update on Marcellus gas "cracker" plants. House Gov Org. Room 215 E 11 AM. Joint Commission on Water Resources. Senate Judiciary Room. 208 W. The agenda posted is from 2010, but I expect it may be worth covering. 2 PM. Finance Sub Committee B. Senate Finance room. Funding Issues Regarding Marcellus Shale. 3 PM. Judiciary Subcommittee C. Senate Judiciary Room Revision of rule-making procedures. Tuesday 6 PM. Select Committee on Marcellus. Senate Judiciary Wednesday 10 AM Legislative Rule-Making Review. Senate Judiciary. No on-line agenda yet, the posted one is from January. 11 AM. Joint Judiciary Committee. House Chamber. Review of Supreme Court election finance decision. 12:00 Noon. elect Committee on Marcellus. Senate Judiciary There may be other interesting things happening, but these ought to be a good start. JBK

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Fwd: The Pulse: Global warming worsens asthma and respiratory illnesses
by James Kotcon 08 Jul '11

08 Jul '11

Some fascinating tidbits from The Union of Concerned Scientists. I am especially intrigued by their approach to the questions of whether the floods, tornados and other severe storms are caused by Global Warming. While one can never ascribe single weather events, or even a single year of weather, to "climate" change, the models all predict, and the weather trends all show, that increasingly severe storms are coming. The powerful storms of 2011 are "the new normal", and it is going to keep getting worse. JBK >>> Union of Concerned Scientists <action(a)ucsusa.org> 7/7/2011 6:33 PM >>> ***************************** Union of Concerned Scientists The Pulse: Facts You Need from Experts You Trust http://action.ucsusa.org/site/R?i=0GQWYnO4d3TK4Nu6BRZ0_g.. ***************************** Dear James, A new UCS report reveals that global warming threatens public health and increases health care costs by exacerbating ground-level ozone--the primary component of smog. "Climate Change and Your Health: Rising Temperatures, Worsening Ozone Pollution," explains how climate change-induced ozone increases are likely to result in millions of additional respiratory illnesses and thousands of more hospitalizations due to serious breathing problems in 2020. And what will all these health-related impacts cost? Approximately $5.4 billion. The good news is that both ozone pollution and climate change are fundamentally caused by the same activities--human beings burning fossil fuels--and we have ready-to-roll solutions for this problem. To check out our new report online, visit: http://action.ucsusa.org/site/R?i=jSKHvaaOe4IV5Z54-Ee3wA.. -Karla SCIENCE IN ACTION Tell Congress: Global warming could take our breath away. Unchecked global warming could lead to more serious respiratory illnesses like asthma and cost us billions in health costs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is working right now to draft new regulations that would help protect us from the dangerous effects of global warming. Send a message to your members of Congress today urging them to let the EPA protect our health and save us money by reducing global warming emissions. Click Here to Take Action: http://action.ucsusa.org/site/R?i=GWvmnyyVs21uz9lafdi9GQ.. LINKS FOR YOU: :: UCS ticker shows the enormous amount of money the Clean Air Act has saved the country from 1970 through today. http://action.ucsusa.org/site/R?i=3ggdhWSDKi8tDUTDqYMz2w.. :: USA today: UCS warns climate change could increase breathing problems and health costs. http://action.ucsusa.org/site/R?i=sK-Pk6aQr8oVo3vOyzXWog.. :: New Climate Hot Map shows effects of global warming around the world. http://action.ucsusa.org/site/R?i=dNQ9d7U9xDDkCvSsq3lq-A.. :: Don't miss your chance to win a carbon-neutral trip for two to research climate change in Brazil! Embark on our Climate Hot Map Scavenger Hunt today. http://action.ucsusa.org/site/R?i=n-f4DpSedy8G8liT_eGo4A.. ASK THE SCIENTIST: How much ozone depletion has occurred over the past two decades, and to what degree are more harmful UV rays now reaching Earth? --K. Roumph, Fremont, NE. Answered by Peter Frumhoff, Ph.D., Director of Science & Policy Earth's ozone layer, high in the atmosphere, which had thinned significantly by the 1980s and early 1990s, has actually stabilized over the past two decades. Its recovery is uneven and complicated by global warming, but overall, a scientific and political success story averted a much more serious threat from ultraviolet radiation, or UV rays. When ozone is created near Earth's surface, however, it's called ground-level ozone and this type of ozone is a human health irritant and component of smog. Unfortunately, warmer temperatures increase ground-level ozone. 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Fwd: Fracking fluids foul national forest
by Paul Wilson 07 Jul '11

07 Jul '11

fyi, paul ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Bruce Hamilton <Bruce.Hamilton(a)sierraclub.org> Date: Thu, Jul 7, 2011 at 12:14 PM Subject: Fracking fluids foul national forest To: CONS-AWL-RESILIENT-HABITATS(a)lists.sierraclub.org *Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility News Release (** www.peer.org* <http://www.peer.org/>*)* For Immediate Release: July 6, 2011 Contact: Kirsten Stade (202) 265-7337 *FRACKING FLUIDS POISON A NATIONAL FOREST *— New Study Details Changes in Soil Chemistry and Devastation of Trees and Plants Washington, DC — A new study has found that wastewater from natural gas hydrofracturing in a West Virginia national forest quickly wiped out all ground plants, killed more than half of the trees and caused radical changes in soil chemistry. These results argue for much tighter control over disposal of these “fracking fluids,” contends Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER). The new study by Mary Beth Adams, a U.S. Forest Service researcher, appears in the July-August issue of the peer-reviewed Journal of Environmental Quality. She looked at the effects of land application of fracking fluids on a quarter-acre section of the Fernow Experimental Forest within the Monongahela National Forest. More than 75,000 gallons of fracking fluids, which are injected deep underground to free shale gas and then return to the surface, were applied to the assigned plot over a two day period during June 2008. The following effects were reported in the study: - Within two days all ground plants were dead; - Within 10 days, leaves of trees began to turn brown. Within two years more than half of the approximately 150 trees were dead; and - “Surface soil concentrations of sodium and chloride increased 50-fold as a result of the land application of hydrofracturing fluids…” These elevated levels eventually declined as chemical leached off-site. The exact chemical composition of these fluids is not known because the chemical formula is classified as confidential proprietary information. “The explosion of shale gas drilling in the East has the potential to turn large stretches of public lands into lifeless moonscapes,” stated PEER Executive Director Jeff Ruch, noting that land disposal of fracking fluids is common and in the case of the Fernow was done pursuant to a state permit. “This study suggests that these fluids should be treated as toxic waste.” For the past twenty-five years, the Forest Service has not applied any environmental restrictions on private extraction efforts, even in wilderness areas. As a result, forests, like the Monongahela, which sits astride the huge Marcellus Shale gas formation, have struggled with many adverse impacts of widespread drilling. By contrast, the nearby George Washington National Forest (NF) has recently proposed to ban horizontal drilling, a practice associated with hydrofracking, due to concern about both the ecosystem damage and also the huge amount of water required for the fracking process. Two subcommittees of the House of Representatives will hold a joint hearing this Friday to examine the George Washington NF’s singular pro-conservation stance. “Unfortunately, the Forest Service has drilled its head deeply into the sand on oil and gas operations harming forest assets,” Ruch added, noting the National Wildlife Refuges also lack regulations to minimize drilling impacts. “The Forest Service needs to develop a broader approach than asking each forest supervisor to cast a lone profile in courage or cowardice.” -- Paul Wilson Sierra Club 504 Jefferson Ave Charles Town, WV 25414-1130 Phone: 304-725-4360 Cell: 304-279-1361 "There is no forward until you have gone back" ~Buddha "In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous" ~ Aristotle

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Oil and Hydraulic Fracking
by William V. DePaulo, Esq. 05 Jul '11

05 Jul '11

Argentina Hopes for a Big Payoff in Its Shale Oil Field Discovery By CLIFFORD KRAUSS<http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/k/clifford_kraus…> Published: July 4, 2011 Just east of Argentina’s Andean foothills, an oil<http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/business/energy-environment/oil-petroleu…>field called the Vaca Muerta — “dead cow” in English — has finally come to life. Michael Stravato for The New York Times Extracting oil from shale formations in South Texas. Enlarge This Image An oil field called Vaca Muerta came to life. In May, the Argentine oil company YPF announced that it had found 150 million barrels of oil in the Patagonian field, and President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner rushed onto national television to praise the discovery as something that could give new impetus to the country’s long-stagnant economy. “The importance of this discovery goes well beyond the volume,” said Sebastián Eskenazi, YPF’s chief executive, as he announced the find. “The important thing is it is something new: new energy, a new future, new expectations.” Although there are significant hurdles, geologists say that the Vaca Muerta is a harbinger of a possible major expansion of global petroleum supplies over the next two decades as the industry uses advanced techniques to extract oil from shale and other tightly packed rocks. Exploration of similar shale fields has already begun in Australia, Canada, Poland and France. Indian and Chinese oil companies are investing in pilot projects that, if successful, could make their countries significant oil producers, possibly reshaping energy geopolitics and stemming future price rises. Ukraine and Russia are also thought to have sizable shale fields of oil and gas, as do many North African and Middle Eastern countries. “The potential is huge, on the order of hundreds of billions of barrels of recoverable reserves,” said Michael C. Lynch, president of Strategic Energy and Economic Research, a consulting firm, who is preparing a report on global shale oil. Similar fields in North Dakota and Texas are already beginning to gush oil. The techniques used to extract it include hydraulic fracturing, in which high-pressure fluids are used to break up shale rock to release the oil, and horizontal drilling, which allows drillers to tap thin layers of oil-filled shale that are sandwiched between layers of other rock. Oil experts caution that geologists have only just begun to study shale fields in much of the world, and thus can only guess at their potential. Little seismic work has been completed, and core samples need to be retrieved from thousands of feet below the surface to judge how much oil or gas can be retrieved. Skeptics also say that even if oil is found in many of these fields, some may not be recoverable using current technology. Hydraulic fracturing, known as fracking, has drawn significant opposition in the United States and France because of concerns that the fluids used can pollute groundwater. Also, the process requires vast amounts of water, a problem since many of the fields are in dry regions. Another barrier to widespread exploitation of oil shale is that few companies have the expertise and experience to do the work. Chinese and Indian oil companies are investing in joint shale ventures in the United States and other countries in part so they can learn the new exploration and drilling techniques. The search for oil in tight rocks began in the United States about three years ago, and the potential for oil has been found from Texas to Michigan, California to Ohio. Domestic oil production from shale has grown to more than half a million barrels a day since 2009 and could reach three million barrels a day by 2020. Oil companies are speculating that the early successes in the United States can be duplicated around the world. Exploration for gas from shale began a couple of years ago in China and around Europe, particularly Poland, and experts say some of those fields have oil potential as well. “It could potentially be a game changer,” said Fadel Gheit, a managing director and senior oil analyst at Oppenheimer & Company. “We are going to see much wider distribution of oil reserves, to the benefit of the whole world. It could rerank countries, in which the very needy might become self-sufficient. Countries like Canada and Australia could potentially become the new Saudi Arabia for energy.” Argentina certainly has high hopes for shale oil from the southern Patagonian province of Neuquén. The 150 million barrels of recoverable shale oil found in the Vaca Muerta represents an increase of 8 percent in Argentina’s reserves, and the find was the biggest discovery of oil in the country since the late 1980s. Oil experts say the Vaca Muerta is probably just a start for Argentina, long a middle-ranked oil producer. Mr. Lynch noted that YPF had explored only 100 square miles out of 5,000 square miles in the whole shale deposit, and other oil companies working in the area had not announced any discoveries yet. Argentina has long struggled to meet its own oil and gas needs, and energy price controls and other economic policies have dissuaded oil companies from making major investments there. That is now changing, with the French oil company Total and the American companies Apache, Exxon Mobil and EOG Resources making major investments in Argentine shale fields. “Argentina certainly has the chance of becoming a significant oil exporter,” said Mark G. Papa, chief executive of EOG, which pioneered oil shale drilling in the United States and recently acquired access to 100,000 acres of Argentine shale. So far, nearly all of the oil exploration in the shale fields in Argentina and elsewhere has been pursued with traditional vertical wells. Plans are just beginning for horizontal drilling. Some experts caution that the fast advance of oil production from shale in the United States is no guarantee of similar successes abroad, at least not in the near future. Aubrey K. McClendon, chief executive of Chesapeake Energy, a major domestic shale oil and gas producer, said that production would be constrained by the small number of companies with shale expertise and limits on access imposed by some countries. “I am pretty confident that during the next 10 years the best oil volume growth story in the world will be the U.S.,” he said in an e-mail message. But he added, “I believe there’s shale oil and tight sand oil to be found all over the world.” One of the big potential winners is China, which has at least two shale pilot projects exploring for oil and gas. BP and Royal Dutch Shell are already working with the Chinese, and several other international companies are seeking shale opportunities in the country. The Chinese are working alone on some projects. “China will probably be able to grow fast because of the single ownership of the resources,” said Bob Fryklund, vice president for global exploration and production analysis at IHS Cera, an energy consultant firm. Mr. Fryklund said it was still early to know how big global oil production from shale would become. But he noted that oil companies had already taken the potential seriously enough to invest billions of dollars in initial exploration projects. “Tight oil is the new revolution in oil production, and it’s not just the U.S.,” Mr. Fryklund said. “It’s worldwide.” -- William V. DePaulo, Esq. 179 Summers Street, Suite 232 Charleston, WV 25301-2163 Tel 304-342-5588 Fax 304-342-5505 william.depaulo(a)gmail.com www.passeggiata.com

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Is gas the new "Nuclear"?
by James Kotcon 05 Jul '11

05 Jul '11

>>> Betty Wiley <betty.w304(a)gmail.com> 6/25/2011 9:47 PM >>> Web pressure on gas By Mike Benard (guest columnist) Published: June 24, 2011 Mike Benard, founder of Spectra Energy Watch, is a former gas leaseholder in Bedford County. Technology and the Internet are doing to the energy industry what they did to the music and photo industries. They are collapsing the status quo and the industry is rattled by what it understands is a shift in power. At a natural gas industry symposium, GasMart 2011, worried voices were reported by an industry publication, NGI's Shale Daily. David Ciarlone of Alcoa said: "I clearly remember how a promising energy technology, the nuclear industry, lost the confidence of the public and billions of dollars that had been invested were abandoned. Without significant changes, shale gas, like nuclear power, could be more remembered for promises made than hopes realized." Three indicators characterize this shift: n Rise of public opinion via a global "neighborhood watch" - It isn't just the energy industry that is global. Property owners and citizens worldwide know about "gaz de schiste" in France and the National Assembly vote there to prohibit hydraulic fracturing. Australia's Frackman has his own Facebook page. n Rise of the transparent culture - It is increasingly damaging to corporate brands for gas/oil companies to pretend the industry's drilling, storage and pipeline practices have no adverse affects on health, environment and the communities in which they operate. n It's personal - Every student of social media knows that "authenticity" is the watchword. Today's global, wired challenge to the energy industry is motivated by personal testimony. The Times-Tribune account of Bradford County resident Crystal Stroud's compelling testimony about the adverse health effects of drilling is but the latest example. And such personal testimony is much more credible than slick TV ads sponsored by the industry. While the energy industry ramps up spending for more lobbying and legal firewalls, it struggles to understand why the status quo is collapsing. There are three reasons: n The energy industry speaks in absolutes that were not seriously challenged until recently. n The industry characterizes citizen opposition as left-wing environmental wackos and even extremists. It ignores its trampling on property rights, which offends conservatives. n The industry demonstrates it is not capable of living up to its own published principles such as environmental protection, accountability and transparency. (After seven months, the Marcellus Shale Coalition cannot explain what its second guiding principle means it will do at the well site.) Even Texas is no longer a sanctuary for the energy industry. The Dallas Morning News recently editorialized: "Local governments across North Texas are sounding alarms about the possibility of increased air pollution, groundwater contamination, noise and declining property values coinciding with drilling companies' push into urban areas. "These concerns are not overblown. ... But the industry's tendency has too often been to deny, deflect and use judicial bullying to get its way." To return to the comparison with the nuclear industry, the shale gas fracking industry is radioactive in terms of public trust. And it achieved this distinction the old fashioned way - it "earned" it. Read more: http://thetimes-tribune.com/opinion/editorials-columns/guest-columnists/web…

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Fwd: Republican Bill Maloney urges Marcellus shale regulations - Charleston Daily Mail
by James Kotcon 04 Jul '11

04 Jul '11

>>> Mark Blumenstein <markb(a)mountain.net> 7/4/2011 8:26 AM >>> July 4, 2011 8:23:53 AM EDT - Republican Bill Maloney urges Marcellus shale regulations by Ry Rivard Daily Mail Capitol Reporter CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Republican gubernatorial candidate Bill Maloney said West Virginia's leaders need to pass new Marcellus shale regulations to protect communities, state roads and the environment and to give legal certainty to the industry. "We need to come up with the exact rules and do it because there's a lot of investment being held back right now," Maloney said in a Friday telephone interview. He provided his first extensive comments on one of the state's most pressing issues. Maloney said he supports raising permit fees for Marcellus well sites so the Department of Environmental Protection has enough money to hire the oil and gas inspectors it needs. He also said the state can do more to make sure communities near gas wells benefit from severance taxes, something he feels has not happened enough in the coalfields. State lawmakers have tried and failed to come up with regulations for what many expect will be a natural gas boom in West Virginia. Maloney wasn't too critical of the Legislature, although he said it might have lost an opportunity to pass regulations sooner because of "the inactivity of all parties involved." He said there was a lack of leadership by acting Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin, the Democrat Maloney faces in the Oct. 4 general election. "I got to give Joe Manchin credit, at least he would lead on something like this," Maloney said. Tomblin began acting as governor by virtue of being president of the state Senate in mid-November, following former Gov. Manchin's departure for the U.S. Senate. Maloney said there's already a "great blueprint" for a new law in a recent deal that gas company Northeast Energy struck with the Morgantown Utility Board. City officials were concerned because Northeast's well is near a public water supply. To get gas from the Marcellus, companies use a water-intensive technique known as hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking," to free gas from shale rocks. In a three-page memo to assuage the city's worries, Northeast promised to pressure-test wells to prevent blowouts and to take extra steps to prevent spills of frack water, which is laced with chemicals. The company also promised to detail how it disposed of the frack fluid that returns to the surface after it has been shot deep into the earth. But the City Council remained concerned and - mostly because officials in Charleston had repeatedly failed to act - voted last month to ban fracking in and around Morgantown. Maloney said the city's total ban was "driving him crazy." "People are afraid to work with anybody from Morgantown because of that deal," he said. Maloney earned his fortune in the coal mineshaft drilling business. He also has drilled water wells and invests in oil and gas interests. He said he is not invested in Marcellus shale wells. "We need to protect property owners, we need to protect residents, we need to protect health and safety, we need to protect communities - but you need to do it in a logical manner," Maloney said. He said there are valid concerns about dangers to the environment, but "if the well is constructed properly, there's never been a case of contamination." "The real environmental concern is when you pump in all this frack fluid and they then flow back like two-thirds of that, and when they're flowing back, you've just got to avoid spills and make sure it's contained," Maloney said. "You've got to have controls in place to make sure that water wasn't dumped in a creek or isn't being taken somewhere it's not supposed to be taken." He also said any rules should make sure gas rigs or trucks hauling water aren't allowed to tear up state roads without the state being reimbursed. He said there could be some limits on how loud operations can be within earshot of communities. "You don't want to see roads ruined by all the truck traffic, the dust, the noise," Maloney said. He said it's probably not wise to burden Marcellus shale regulations with anything about the controversial practice known as "forced pooling," which lets companies extract gas from beneath a large tract of land even if they can't agree to a lease with all of the mineral rights owners. Wrangling over a forced pooling provision stalled gas regulations earlier this year in the state House of Delegates. More Articles in State News 1 | 2 | Next Page »

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Fwd: NEWS ADVISORY: Milestone Passed - Renewable Energy Overtakes Nuclear Power
by James Kotcon 04 Jul '11

04 Jul '11

This is great news! JBK >>> Kenneth Bossong <sustainableenergy_news(a)yahoo.com> 7/3/2011 10:38 AM >>> SUN DAY CAMPAIGN 6930 Carroll Avenue, Suite #340; Takoma Park, MD 20912 301-270-6477 x.11 sun-day-campaign(a)hotmail.com News Advisory RENEWABLE ENERGY REACHES MILESTONE DOMESTIC PRODUCTION SURPASSES NUCLEAR AND CLOSES IN ON OIL RENEWABLE ELECTRICITY EXPANDS BY 26% REACHES 13% OF NET U.S. ELECTRICAL GENERATION For Immediate Release: Tuesday - July 5, 2011 Contact: Ken Bossong, 301-270-6477 x.11 Washington DC – According to the most recent issue of the "Monthly Energy Review" by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), renewable energy has passed a milestone as domestic production is now greater than that of nuclear power and is closing in on oil. During the first quarter of 2011, renewable energy sources (biomass/biofuels, geothermal, solar, water, wind) provided 2.245 quadrillion Btus of energy or 11.73% of U.S. energy production. More significantly, energy production from renewable energy sources in 2011 was 5.65% more than that from nuclear power, which provided 2.125 quadrillion Btus and has remained largely unchanged in recent years. Energy from renewable sources is now 77.15% of that from domestic crude oil production, with the gap closing rapidly. Looking at all energy sectors (e.g., electricity, transportation, thermal), production of renewable energy, including hydropower, has increased by 15.07% compared to the first quarter of 2010, and by 25.07% when compared to the first quarter of 2009. Among the renewable energy sources, biomass/biofuels accounted for 48.06%, hydropower for 35.41%, wind for 12.87%, geothermal for 2.45%, and solar for 1.16%. Looking at just the electricity sector, according to the latest issue of EIA’s "Electric Power Monthly," for the first quarter of 2011, renewable energy sources (biomass, geothermal, solar, water, wind) accounted for 12.94% of net U.S. electrical generation - up from 10.31% during the same period in 2010. Non-hydro renewables accounted for 4.74% of net U.S. electrical generation. In terms of actual production, renewable electrical output increased by 25.82% in the first three months of 2011 compared to the first quarter of 2010. Solar-generated electricity increased by 104.8%, wind-generated electricity rose by 40.3%, hydropower output expanded by 28.7%, and geothermal electrical generation rose by 5.8%. Only electricity from biomass sources dropped - by 4.8%. By comparison, natural gas electrical output rose by 1.8% and nuclear-generated electricity increased by only 0.4% while coal-generated electricity dropped by 5.7%. “Notwithstanding the recent nuclear accident in Japan, among many others, and the rapid growth in energy and electricity from renewable sources, congressional Republicans continue to press for more nuclear energy funding while seeking deep cuts in renewable energy investments,” said Ken Bossong, Executive Director of the SUN DAY Campaign. “One has to wonder ‘what are these people thinking?’” # # # # # # # # The U.S. Energy Information Administration released its most recent "Monthly Energy Review" on June 28, 2011. It can be found at: http://www.eia.gov/totalenergy/data/monthly. The relevant charts from which the data above are extrapolated are Tables 1.2 and 10.1. EIA released its most recent "Electric Power Monthly" on June 9, 2011; see: http://www.eia.gov/cneaf/electricity/epm/epm_sum.html. The relevant charts are Tables ES1.B, and 1.1.A. ======================= The SUN DAY Campaign is a non-profit research and educational organization founded in 1993 to promote sustainable energy technologies as cost-effective alternatives to nuclear power and fossil fuels.

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Natural gas prices set to jump with exports
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 04 Jul '11

04 Jul '11

Interesting article. http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/s_741745.html

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Fwd: Statewide Antifracking rally--July 11, Charleston
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 02 Jul '11

02 Jul '11

Everyone from around the state is invited to attend this event. Goal is 1000 people strong. Mt Party candidate Bob Baber will be attending. FB event page: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=250055288343466 -Jonathan -------- Original Message -------- Subject: Statewide Antifracking rally--July 11, Charleston Date: Fri, 1 Jul 2011 22:53:42 -0400 From: Nancy Ganz <suncrestna(a)gmail.com> To: nbandana(a)aol.com ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: *South Park Association of Neighbors MorgantownWV* <spanwv(a)yahoo.com <mailto:spanwv@yahoo.com>> Date: Thu, Jun 30, 2011 at 4:29 PM Subject: Fw: Statewide Antifracking rally--July 11, Charleston To: spanwv(a)yahoo.com <mailto:spanwv@yahoo.com> FYI --- On *Wed, 6/29/11, Candace Jordan /<44ace(a)live.com <mailto:44ace@live.com>>/* wrote: From: Candace Jordan <44ace(a)live.com <mailto:44ace@live.com>> Subject: Statewide Antifracking rally--July 11, Charleston To: "Candace" <44ace(a)live.com <mailto:44ace@live.com>> Cc: cashkathy(a)gmail.com <mailto:cashkathy@gmail.com> Date: Wednesday, June 29, 2011, 7:46 PM Hello. I am writing on behalf of WV4MoM (West Virginia for a Moratorium on Marcellus). We are having a statewide rally in Charleston on July 11 around the topic of Marcellus Shale drilling and fracking in West Virginia. We hope that in addition to sending representatives to this very important demonstration, your organization will spread the word to your community members and encourage them to attend. We are at a crucial turning point in the battle against Marcellus, and your presence on July 11 is critical, as the interim legislature will meet that day. We need to send them a strong message that this a statewide concern. Please share the information below with all of your contacts and your social media pages. I have attached a Word document that can be printed and used as a flyer. We will be sending further information regarding speakers, agenda, and transportation over the next few days. If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at frackinquestions(a)gmail.com <mailto:frackinquestions@gmail.com> We also have a Facebook group called Stop the Fracking in Morgantown Industrial Park. Please address questions about carpooling to wv4momcarpool(a)gmail.com <mailto:wv4momcarpool@gmail.com> Thank you in advance for your support, and we hope to see you at the Capitol! Best, Candace Jordan WV4MoM Morgantown IT’S TIME TO STAND TOGETHER AND LET OUR VOICES BE HEARD! COME TO A STATEWIDE RALLY TO SUPPORT *MORATORIUM ON MARCELLUS (MOM)* Date: Monday, July 11, 2011 Time: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Where: Charleston, West Virginia, State Capitol Building Why: We are at a crucial turning point in the battle against Marcellus. Our presence on July 11 is critical, as the interim legislature will meet that day. If you can do only one thing to stop the Marcellus madness, show up at this rally. Contact your representatives and make appointments to see them that day, and make July 11 a day to lobby againstMarcellus. *EVERYONE IS WELCOME! HELP MOM!* We’ll have speakers, music, and a chance to meet others throughout West Virginia who want to stop Marcellus drilling and fracking. *SPEAK UP FOR MOM!* *This event is sponsored by WV4MOM (West Virginia for a Moratorium on Marcellus). *More messages about an agenda, speakers, transportation, and parking will follow this one. For more information contact frackinquestions(a)gmail.com <http://us.mc1616.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=frackinquestions@gmail.com>

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FW: [MarcellusGasInfo] NJ Assembly and Senate ban fracking
by Beth Little 30 Jun '11

30 Jun '11

Easy for them to do - they don't have any Marcellus shale. From: marcellusgasinfo(a)googlegroups.com [mailto:marcellusgasinfo@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Kim Knight Sent: Wednesday, June 29, 2011 10:45 PM To: ShaleShock; shaleshockcny CNY; marcellusgasinfo(a)googlegroups.com Subject: [MarcellusGasInfo] NJ Assembly and Senate ban fracking The NJ Senate banned fracking with a vote of 33-1 and the NJ Assembly banned it with a vote of 58-11. It is now down to whether the governor, Chris Christie, will sign it. Article: http://www.newsday.com/news/region-state/nj-lawmakers-pass-ban-on-gas-drilli ng-technique-1.2994891 Kim -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "MarcellusGasInfo" group. To post to this group, send email to marcellusgasinfo(a)googlegroups.com To unsubscribe from this group, send email to marcellusgasinfo+unsubscribe(a)googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/marcellusgasinfo?hl=en This listserv is managed and owned by the Binghamton Regional Sustainabiliy Coalition (BRSC) For our email list policy, visit For BRSC email list policy, visit http://groups.google.com/group/marcellusgasinfo/files _____ No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1388 / Virus Database: 1516/3735 - Release Date: 06/30/11

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Re: [EC] [wvec-board] E-Council Green Jam-Tues. Oct. 4th
by Frank Young 30 Jun '11

30 Jun '11

Thank you for the notice, Greg. That is the evening of special election day- October 4th. We could look at it as a victory party, or as an occasion to cry in our beer- whichever the election returns indicate. Frank ----- Original Message ----- From: Carroll, Greg B To: dsgjr(a)aol.com ; clrank2(a)gmail.com ; fyoung(a)mountain.net Cc: wvec-board(a)yahoogroups.com ; ec(a)osenergy.org ; wyro(a)appalight.com ; djsoeder(a)yahoo.com Sent: Thursday, June 30, 2011 10:55 AM Subject: [wvec-board] E-Council Green Jam-Tues. Oct. 4th Dear Folks , I wanted to make sure I got the right date out. NOT the 2nd but the 4th of Oct. That’s a Tuesday evening. The benefit will be at the Empty Glass in Charleston, Food –Music-Fun…after work from 6 to 10…..many local musicians! Please pass the word. Long time away but good to start in advance. Greg From: wvec-board(a)yahoogroups.com [mailto:wvec-board@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of dsgjr(a)aol.com Sent: Friday, June 24, 2011 3:10 PM To: clrank2(a)gmail.com; fyoung(a)mountain.net Cc: wvec-board(a)yahoogroups.com; ec(a)osenergy.org; wyro(a)appalight.com; djsoeder(a)yahoo.com Subject: Re: [wvec-board] Gas drilling hazardous waste landfill in Preston County? Actually, I have heard rumors that the other landfills in the area that DEP has authorized to receive this waste are none to happy about this new proposed landfill -- They don't want the competition! Like everything else in this world, it's all about the money. Don Garvin In a message dated 6/24/2011 12:15:35 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, clrank2(a)gmail.com writes: Yes, Frank. This has been and is a hot button issue for Friends of Cheat, the PA-WV watershed COMPACT, Upper Mon River Assoc. and all the Dunkard Creek, Sierra and other folks in northern WV where the bulk of the horizontal marcellus drilling is happening -- especially the two in Morgantown near the water intake... and the two in the Dunkard Creek watershed.... Chesapeake and others have already reduced or eliminated entirely the drilling pits and have been catching the drilling muds, etc in open truck beds (don't know the official terminology for them) and taking them to other already existing landfills ----- ... Dan may be aware of the attitudes of these landfill operators, but with the growing amount of waste generated by the drilling in these northern WV Counties i'm sure they can see their projected capacity quickly being stressed or stretched to the limits and welcome this new project to relieve pressure on their limits. .... Needless to say others in the communities are none too happy... Cindy ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ On Fri, Jun 24, 2011 at 12:36 PM, Frank Young <fyoung(a)mountain.net> wrote: This would seem to indicate public acknowledgement of serious waste disposal issues related to the by-products of shale gas drilling. ----- Original Message ----- From: Rick Buckley To: Frank Young ; Gordon Jones ; gary singleton ; John Gorrell ; Mike Reese Cc: Rick Buckley Sent: Friday, June 24, 2011 11:30 AM Subject: Landfill in Preston County I guess this issue did not go away. This is what I had mentioned last evening regarding creating a landfill in Preston County related to Marcellus drilling. (see attached) __._,_.___ Reply to sender | Reply to group | Reply via web post | Start a New Topic Messages in this topic (1) Recent Activity: Visit Your Group MARKETPLACE Stay on top of your group activity without leaving the page you're on - Get the Yahoo! Toolbar now. Switch to: Text-Only, Daily Digest • Unsubscribe • Terms of Use. __,_._,___

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Re: [EC] ash for Thursday
by Jim Sconyers 28 Jun '11

28 Jun '11

OK - How about instead I make up a handout: Coal Ash Top Ten Toxics Arsenic Selenium Cadmium Lead Mercury Jim et al - next five please. We have that for the media and to present to McKinley, along with a statement of our concerns...? Also - I'll have several signs for folks - unless you want to make your own. On Tue, Jun 21, 2011 at 10:18 AM, Petra&John Wood <pbjmwood(a)gmail.com> wrote: > Hi Jim - as I said in my earlier email, I have no access to getting fly > ash. sorry - petra > > > On Tue, Jun 21, 2011 at 10:09 AM, Jim Sconyers <jimscon(a)gmail.com> wrote: >> >> Hi Petra - can you get some actual ash for the Thursday event please? >> >> >> ---------- Forwarded message ---------- >> From: Jim Sconyers <jimscon(a)gmail.com> >> Date: Tue, Jun 21, 2011 at 10:07 AM >> Subject: Re: [EC] Fwd: Tr-Ash Talk: W.V. Rep. McKinley Sells Out >> Constituents >> To: Jim Sconyers <jim_scon(a)yahoo.com> >> Cc: James Kotcon <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu>, ec(a)osenergy.org, Nicole Good >> <nicolegood.wv(a)gmail.com>, Gwen Jones <gwenjones23(a)yahoo.com>, >> Petra&John Wood <pbjmwood(a)gmail.com> >> >> >> Folks - >> >> We're on for Thursday at 11:00 AM. >> Basic outline: >> Picket on sidewalk in front of the building, work with media if they >> come, then go inside to give our gifts of real coal ash to Congressman >> McKinley. We'll be sending a media alert later today - it is attached. >> >> Come on down - it'll be fun! >> >> <Sally - the time is now definite, so please send the request to Mon >> Group for folks to participate whenever you're ready - thanks.> >> >> On Mon, Jun 20, 2011 at 7:40 PM, Jim Sconyers <jim_scon(a)yahoo.com> wrote: >> > Can you join us for this on Thursday? We need numbers - you can speak if >> > you >> > like, but that is not required. Hold a sign, be one of the number >> > distressed >> > about McKinley on coal ash protection. >> > >> > Jim Sconyers >> > jim_scon(a)yahoo.com >> > 304.698.9628 >> > >> > Remember: Mother Nature bats last. >> > >> > ________________________________ >> > From: Jim Sconyers <jimscon(a)gmail.com> >> > To: James Kotcon <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu> >> > Cc: ec(a)osenergy.org; Nicole Good <nicolegood.wv(a)gmail.com>; Gwen Jones >> > <gwenjones23(a)yahoo.com>; Petra&John Wood <pbjmwood(a)gmail.com> >> > Sent: Mon, June 20, 2011 4:56:57 PM >> > Subject: Re: [EC] Fwd: Tr-Ash Talk: W.V. Rep. McKinley Sells Out >> > Constituents >> > >> > Does 11:00 Tursday work? Or do we need to move to 10:00? >> > >> > On Mon, Jun 20, 2011 at 4:23 PM, James Kotcon <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu> wrote: >> >> I agree tomorrow is too short notice. I have one meeting Thursday >> >> afternoon, but could possibly do things in the morning or at noon. >> >> >> >> JBK >> >> >> >>>>> Jim Sconyers <jimscon(a)gmail.com> 6/20/2011 4:15 PM >>> >> >> Folks - I don't see how we can do this tomorrow - haven't sent >> >> anything to media yet, they need at least 24 hours. >> >> >> >> How about we set it for Thurs 11:00? I know the mark-up may have >> >> already happened by then - or it may not. If not, we're fine. If it >> >> has, we blast him for what he did, not for what he's about to do. >> >> >> >> Feedback? >> >> >> >> On Mon, Jun 20, 2011 at 3:50 PM, Jim Sconyers <jimscon(a)gmail.com> >> >> wrote: >> >>> Here's what I think we need if we want to make this happen. >> >>> People - critical mass would be 4 - 5, more is good. >> >>> Signs - I can make 2 - "McKinley to Citizens: Kiss My Ash" "Coal Ash >> >>> in Our Air and Water - What the Health?" >> >>> Baggie of coal ash for each person >> >>> >> >>> A "plan" >> >>> The Morgantown office is staffed 9 - 5 M - F. >> >>> We go there, picket in front of the building (can anyone describe >> >> it, >> >>> location, sidewalk, etc.?) >> >>> Meet media in front if they show. I would say 11 AM - -? >> >>> Talk to media - what happened (is about to happen), why we're >> >>> concerned, story line being northern WV is epicenter of massive ash >> >>> dumping, yet McKinley wants to stop the EPA from protecting or >> >> health >> >>> through commonsense - or ANY - regulation of toxic coal ash. Who is >> >>> McKinley serving in Washington? Sure isn't the people of his >> >> district. >> >>> >> >>> Media alert - needs to go out within an hour or two of now. >> >>> >> >>> Can at least 4 - 5 commit to doing this? >> >>> >> >>> I can. >> >>> >> >>> Please use reply all..... >> >>> >> >>> Sally = please forward to Mon Group. >> >>> >> >>> 709 Beechurst Ave., Suite 14B >> >>> Morgantown, WV 26505 >> >>> Phone: 304.284.8506 >> >>> Hours: M-F: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m >> >>> >> >>> On Mon, Jun 20, 2011 at 3:31 PM, James Kotcon <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu> >> >> wrote: >> >>>> Note: The markup (on McKinley's bill) was rescheduled for next >> >> Tuesday, >> >>>> June 21 at 4 p.m. Actions Tuesday morning? >> >>>> >> >>>> JBK >> >>>> >> >>>>>>> Jim Sconyers <jimscon(a)gmail.com> 6/17/2011 3:24 PM >>> >> >>>> Jim - >> >>>> I think we need to do something. This worthless SOB needs some >> >>>> consequences. What can we do? How about picketing his Morgantown >> >>>> office and getting media there? Or.......? >> >>>> >> >>>> >> >>>> >> >>>> ---------- Forwarded message ---------- >> >>>> From: Raviya Ismail <rismail(a)earthjustice.org> >> >>>> Date: Fri, Jun 17, 2011 at 9:13 AM >> >>>> Subject: Tr-Ash Talk: W.V. Rep. McKinley Sells Out Constituents >> >>>> To: COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE(a)lists.sierraclub.org >> >>>> >> >>>> >> >>>> Here is our latest Tr-Ash Talk blog: >> >>>> >> >> >> >> >> >> http://earthjustice.org/blog/2011-june/tr-ash-talk-w-v-rep-mckinley-sells-o… >> >> >> >>>> >> >>>> >> >>>> Emily Enderle >> >>>> Tr-Ash Talk: W.V. Rep. McKinley Sells Out Constituents >> >>>> Congressman’s district is home to largest coal ash pond >> >>>> >> >>>> Here we go again. >> >>>> >> >>>> Some of our elected leaders are once more maneuvering to block >> >>>> much-needed health protections against coal ash. Rep. David >> >> McKinley >> >>>> (R-WV) has sponsored a bill that would broadly remove federal >> >>>> authority for any regulation of coal ash ever. This bill, if >> >> enacted, >> >>>> also would conveniently protect his business interests. In April, >> >>>> Politico exposed Rep. McKinley’s business interest in ensuring >> >> that >> >>>> coal ash is not regulated. Rep McKinley owns the largest >> >> engineering >> >>>> firm in West Virginia and his company uses coal ash in concrete, as >> >>>> fill for roads and other uses. >> >>>> >> >>>> Rep. McKinley also represents a district that has the largest coal >> >> ash >> >>>> pond in the nation, and his bill goes against what he promised West >> >>>> Virginian Curt Havens, veteran and constituent. Havens was at the >> >>>> Energy and Commerce hearing in April, when Rep. McKinley said, >> >> about >> >>>> prior coal ash threats, "I want to make sure that never happens >> >> again >> >>>> to another family in America." (Those comments start at minute >> >> marker >> >>>> 2:26:26.) Again, business interests are coming before the interest >> >> of >> >>>> protecting public health. >> >>>> >> >>>> During the House budget negotiations February frenzy, Rep. McKinley >> >>>> sponsored amendment 217 that would have prohibited the EPA from >> >> using >> >>>> any of their funds to move forward with the health protective >> >> Subtitle >> >>>> C regulation. Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-FL) introduced amendment 10, >> >>>> trying to achieve the same thing. It’s no surprise that both >> >>>> congressmen are heavily supported by the energy sector. >> >>>> >> >>>> During his 2010 campaign Rep. McKinley received $43,300 from energy >> >>>> companies, and $22,751 of that came from mining interests, >> >> according >> >>>> to the Center for Responsive Politics. >> >>>> Rep. McKinley’s current effort to stop the regulation of this >> >> potent >> >>>> waste, H.R. 1391, would “amend the Solid Waste Disposal Act to >> >>>> exempt >> >>>> fly ash waste, bottom ash waste, slag waste and flue gas emission >> >>>> control waste generated primarily from the combustion of coal or >> >> other >> >>>> fossil fuels from regulation as hazardous waste under such Act.” >> >>>> >> >>>> H.R. 1391 was scheduled to be marked up in the Environment and >> >> Economy >> >>>> subcommittee of Energy and Commerce this morning. The markup had to >> >> be >> >>>> rescheduled for next Tuesday, June 21 at 4 p.m. due to a drafting >> >>>> error. The bill, as written, couldn’t have been much worse and >> >>>> it’s >> >>>> doubtful there will be any improvements as they fix the drafting >> >>>> error. >> >>>> >> >>>> Rep. McKinley and the bill supporters will continue to put public >> >>>> health at risk. Further, they will undermine the public coal ash >> >>>> rulemaking currently underway that generated a record-breaking >> >> 450,000 >> >>>> comments. This is a tragic example of how some elected officials >> >> bow >> >>>> to dirty polluters rather than heeding the concerns of their >> >>>> constituents. >> >>>> >> >>>> - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To >> >>>> unsubscribe from the COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE list, send any message >> >> to: >> >>>> COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check >> >> out >> >>>> our Listserv Lists support site for more information: >> >>>> http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp >> >>>> >> >>>> >> >>>> -- >> >>>> Jim Sconyers >> >>>> jimscon(a)gmail.com >> >>>> 304.698.9628 >> >>>> >> >>>> _______________________________________________ >> >>>> EC mailing list >> >>>> EC(a)osenergy.org >> >>>> http://osenergy.org/mailman/listinfo/ec >> >>> >> >>> >> >>> >> >>> -- >> >>> Jim Sconyers >> >>> jimscon(a)gmail.com >> >>> 304.698.9628 >> >>> >> >>> Remember, Mother Nature bats last. >> >>> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> -- >> >> Jim Sconyers >> >> jimscon(a)gmail.com >> >> 304.698.9628 >> >> >> >> Remember, Mother Nature bats last. >> >> >> > >> > >> > >> > -- >> > Jim Sconyers >> > jimscon(a)gmail.com >> > 304.698.9628 >> > >> > Remember, Mother Nature bats last. >> > >> > _______________________________________________ >> > EC mailing list >> > EC(a)osenergy.org >> > http://osenergy.org/mailman/listinfo/ec >> > >> >> >> >> -- >> Jim Sconyers >> jimscon(a)gmail.com >> 304.698.9628 >> >> Remember, Mother Nature bats last. >> >> >> >> -- >> Jim Sconyers >> jimscon(a)gmail.com >> 304.698.9628 >> >> Remember, Mother Nature bats last. > > -- Jim Sconyers jimscon(a)gmail.com 304.698.9628 Remember, Mother Nature bats last.

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Fwd: Hydrofracked: One man's quest for answers about natural gas drilling
by Paul Wilson 28 Jun '11

28 Jun '11

fyi, paul ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: High Country News <enewsletter(a)hcn.org> Date: Tue, Jun 28, 2011 at 4:29 PM Subject: Hydrofracked: One man's quest for answers about natural gas drilling To: pjgrunt(a)gmail.com View in a browser window<http://whatcounts.com/dm?id=E61606FADDB7639A154B815D5C014BF6B42BD6281DE2FE61> [image: High Country News Commons] Subscribe to the Magazine<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FED:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Renew<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FEE:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Donate Now<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FEF:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Feedback<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FF0:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> [image: Better World Club - Get 6 Months Membership FREE]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FF1:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…><http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FED:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> The Magazine<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FF2:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Topics<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FF3:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Blogs & Opinion<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FF4:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Jobs & Classifieds<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FF5:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Conferences<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FF6:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Hydrofracked: One man seeks answers [image: Hydrofracked: One man's quest for answers about natural gas drilling and water contamination]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FF7:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> In many ways, it's a sad story: The groundwater a Wyoming couple relies on to sustain their little farm suddenly turns foul. So landowner Louis Meeks embarks on a six-year crusade to discover how it happened, suspecting that nearby natural gas wells are somehow involved. He battles corporations and federal and local governments and alienates many of his neighbors, yet today his water is still contaminated. There's no justice in sight. But Meeks has accomplished something important: He and other activists have drawn attention to the possible risks of hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking." When a gas or oil well is fracked, chemicals and water are injected deep underground to fracture rock formations and release gas and oil. The industry insists that fracking is safe. But some of the chemicals used in the process are carcinogenic. And though fracking is used in many thousands of gas and oil wells from the Southwest to New York state, there's never been a comprehensive scientific study of its possible impacts on drinking water. That is now changing, thanks to people like Meeks and determined staffers within the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA is finally launching the first real study of the risks posed by fracking. So the saga of Louis Meeks is not just sad; it also offers hope. Determined citizens can make a difference. Read about Meeks' quest for justice<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FF7:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…>in a *High Country News* collaboration with the nonprofit news organization * ProPublica*<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FF8:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> . *FEATURES* [image: Encountering a California condor takes one writer back in time]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FF9:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Encountering a California condor takes one writer back in time<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FF9:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> An interaction with a rare vulture sparks reflections on dinosaurs and extinction. [image: States work conservation into trust lands management]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FFA:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> States work conservation into trust lands management <http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FFA:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Urban sprawl helps spur new efforts at compromise in managing state trust lands. View the latest issue »<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FFB:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> [image: RSS]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FFC:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> RSS »<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FFC:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> <http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FFD:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Listen to* ProPublica* reporter Abrahm Lustgarten discuss new research into the relationship between fracking and water contamination in our latest *High Country Views*<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FFE:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…>podcast . [image: High Country Views]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FFE:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Also available via our RSS feed<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FFF:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…>and through iTunes<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778000:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> . *WRITERS ON THE RANGE* [image: Why the Southwest is burning]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778001:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Why the Southwest is burning<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778001:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> This season's wildfires are caused by three things: Climate change-induced drought, bureaucratic blindness and old-fashioned human folly. [image: Subscribers only]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778001:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> [image: ORV riding needs on-the-ground enforcement]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778002:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> ORV riding needs on-the-ground enforcement<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778002:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Reckless, illegal off-road vehicle riding is a serious problem, but better law enforcement -- rather than road closures -- is the way to solve it. [image: Monster wildfires have become the new normal]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778003:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Monster wildfires have become the new normal<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778003:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Wildfires cannot be entirely prevented by logging or anything else, but small-scale prescribed burns can help make them less destructive. [image: Subscribers only]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778003:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> More Writers on the Range »<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778004:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> [image: Blog RSS]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778005:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> RSS »<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778005:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> *BOOK REVIEWS* [image: A review of Permanent Vacation]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778006:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> It's not just a job, it's an adventure: A review of *Permanent Vacation*<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778007:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> The 20 essays in this collection take us into the wacky and wonderful lives of some of the many people who work in the country's national parks. [image: A land of subtle beauty: A review of Llano Estacado] <http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778006:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> A land of subtle beauty: A review of *Llano Estacado*<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778006:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> The photos and essays gathered in this collection of photographs and essays celebrate the austere beauty of a vast dry landscape. More Book Reviews »<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778008:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> *FROM THE BLOGS* The GOAT Blog The wacky world of immigration<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778009:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Reform still distant but the debate seems at least a little more human The Range Blog Throw away the old playbook<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=377800A:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Tribes and counties are better off working together as neighbors. The GOAT Blog Spotties get a new plan<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=377800B:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> The feds draft a new recovery plan for the Mexican spotted owl. The Range Blog To Drill or Not to Drill is Not the Only Question<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=377800C:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> We may worship the derrick less than polls and reporting suggest More from the blogs »<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=377800D:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> [image: Blog RSS]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=377800E:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> RSS »<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=377800E:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> [image: Follow us on Tumblr]<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=377800F:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Follow *High Country News *images and musings on Tumblr<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=377800F:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> . *Comment of the week* Big surprise. This guy makes money as a consultant from dam owners and those proposing new dams. More dams are not the answer, at least not main stem dams. *Matt S.* on Siltation expert: we need more dams<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778010:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> *FEATURED SPONSORS* San Francisco Herb and Natural Food Co.<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778011:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> Herbs, spices and tea blends both bulk and packaged www,herbsspicetea.com.com<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3778011:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…> High Country News 119 Grand Avenue PO Box 1090 Paonia, CO 81428 We appreciate your feedback! Please, send us your comments and suggestions<http://wc4.net/t?r=1873&c=2631826&l=58707&ctl=3777FF0:E61606FADDB7639A154B8…>. Want off the list? remove me from the list<http://wc4.net/u?id=E61606FADDB7639A154B815D5C014BF6B42BD6281DE2FE61> This email was sent to: pjgrunt(a)gmail.com ©2011 High Country News. Feel free to forward this newsletter. -- Paul Wilson Sierra Club 504 Jefferson Ave Charles Town, WV 25414-1130 Phone: 304-725-4360 Cell: 304-279-1361 "There is no forward until you have gone back" ~Buddha "In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous" ~ Aristotle

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LOE: Natural Gas and Greenhouse Gasses
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 27 Jun '11

27 Jun '11

The quick: http://www.loe.org/shows/segments.html?programID=11-P13-00025&segmentID=4 <http://www.loe.org/shows/segments.html?programID=11-P13-00025&segmentID=4> The long ..... In the Stop the Fracking in Morgantown Industrial Park Facebook Group Jeff Young initiated a discussion about the recent MIT report, http://web.mit.edu/mitei/research/studies/natural-gas-2011.shtml . He said, This is important reading for anyone who wants a serious, broader view of the environmental implications of the gas boom. Key findings are that we could cut the country's greenhouse gas emissions from the power sector by 20% simply by switching from coal to existing natural gas plants. There would also be enormous benefits in reducing mercury, SOx, NOx and other pollutants. As one could easily predict, the discussion became very long, and Jeff recently deleted it. Early in the discussion I introduced him to the Tyndall Study, http://www.tyndall.ac.uk/shalegasreport to provide another perspective. And this is the result: http://www.loe.org/shows/segments.html?programID=11-P13-00025&segmentID=5 <http://www.loe.org/shows/segments.html?programID=11-P13-00025&segmentID=5> On a side note: Some of you probably remember how in the past I have spoken about the MIT report, John Deutch, the DOE, and Cheniere. :) Note: In the same LOE show there is also a discussion about injection induced earthquakes: http://www.loe.org/shows/segments.html?programID=11-P13-00025&segmentID=4 <http://www.loe.org/shows/segments.html?programID=11-P13-00025&segmentID=4> -Jonathan

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Low hanging fruit in energy conservation = to all electric use of state of MD for one year.....year in and year out
by William V. DePaulo, Esq. 26 Jun '11

26 Jun '11

Atop TV Sets, a Power Drain That Runs Nonstop By ELISABETH ROSENTHAL<http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/r/elisabeth_rose…> Published: June 25, 2011 Those little boxes that usher cable signals and digital recording capacity into televisions have become the single largest electricity drain in many American homes, with some typical home entertainment configurations eating more power than a new refrigerator and even some central air-conditioning systems. Todd Heisler/The New York Times A new study has found that some home entertainment systems eat more energy than refrigerators or central air-conditioning systems. Multimedia Comparing Energy Use - Green: A Blog About Energy and the Environment<http://green.blogs.nytimes.com/?ref=us> There are 160 million so-called set-top boxes in the United States, one for every two people, and that number is rising. Many homes now have one or more basic cable boxes as well as add-on DVRs, or digital video recorders, which use 40 percent more power than the set-top box. One high-definition DVR and one high-definition cable box use an average of 446 kilowatt hours a year, about 10 percent more than a 21-cubic-foot energy-efficient refrigerator, a recent study found. These set-top boxes are energy hogs mostly because their drives, tuners and other components are generally running full tilt, or nearly so, 24 hours a day, even when not in active use. The recent study, by the Natural Resources Defense Council <http://www.nrdc.org/energy/files/settopboxes.pdf>, concluded that the boxes consumed $3 billion in electricity per year in the United States — and that 66 percent of that power is wasted when no one is watching and shows are not being recorded. That is more power than the state of Maryland uses over 12 months. “People in the energy efficiency community worry a lot about these boxes, since they will make it more difficult to lower home energy use,” said John Wilson, a former member of the California Energy Commission who is now with the San Francisco-based Energy Foundation. “Companies say it can’t be done or it’s too expensive. But in my experience, neither one is true. It can be done, and it often doesn’t cost much, if anything.” The perpetually “powered on” state is largely a function of design and programming choices made by electronics companies and cable and Internet providers, which are related to the way cable networks function in the United States. Fixes exist, but they are not currently being mandated or deployed in the United States, critics say. Similar devices in some European countries, for example, can automatically go into standby mode when not in use, cutting power drawn by half. They can also go into an optional “deep sleep,” which can reduce energy consumption by about 95 percent compared with when the machine is active. One British company, Pace <http://www.pace.com/global/>, sells such boxes to American providers, who do not take advantage of the reduced energy options because of worries that the lowest energy states could disrupt service. Cable companies say customers will not tolerate the time it takes to reboot the system once the system has been shut down or put to sleep. “The issue of having more efficient equipment is of interest to us,” said Justin Venech, a spokesman for Time Warner Cable. But, he added, “when we purchase the equipment, functionality and cost are the primary considerations.” But energy efficiency experts say that technical fixes could eliminate or minimize the waiting time and inconvenience, some at little expense. Low-energy European systems reboot from deep sleep in one to two minutes. Alan Meier, a scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, said of the industry in the United States, “I don’t want to use the word ‘lazy,’ but they have had different priorities, and saving energy is not one of them.” The Environmental Protection Agency has established Energy Star standards<http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=find_a_product.showProductGr…>for set-top boxes and has plans to tighten them significantly by 2013, said Ann Bailey, director of Energy Star product labeling, in an e-mail. The voluntary seal indicates products that use energy efficiently. But today, there are many boxes on the list of products that meet the Energy Star standard<http://www.energystar.gov/ia/products/prod_lists/set_top_boxes_prod_list.pdf>that do not offer an automatic standby or sleep mode. “If you hit the on/off button it only dims the clock, it doesn’t significantly reduce power use,” said Noah Horowitz, senior scientist at the natural resources council. Energy efficiency is a function of hardware, software, the cable network and how a customer uses the service, said Robert Turner, an engineer at Pace, which makes set-top boxes that can operate using less power while not in active use. Sometimes energy efficiency can be vastly improved by remotely adjusting software over a cable, Mr. Turner said. In this way, Pace reduced the energy consumption of some of its older boxes by half. Cable boxes are not designed to be turned completely off, and even when in deep sleep mode, it takes time to reconnect and “talk” with their cable or satellite network, though that time is highly variable depending on the technology. Mr. Wilson said he routinely unplugged his set-top boxes at night and waited only 45 seconds for television in the morning. But Dr. Meier said that when he tried to power down his home system at night, it took “hours” to reboot because the provider “downloaded the programming guide in a very inefficient way.” Cable providers and box manufacturers like Cisco Systems, Samsung and Motorola currently do not feel consumer pressure to improve box efficiency. Customers are generally unaware of the problem — they do not know to blame the unobtrusive little device for the rise in their electricity bills, and do not choose their boxes anyway. Those devices may cause an increase of as little as a few dollars a month or well over $10 for a home with many devices. In Europe, electricity rates are often double those in the United States, providing greater financial motivation to conserve. Cisco Systems, one of the largest makers of set-top boxes, said in an e-mail that they would offer some new models this year that would cut consumption by 25 percent “through reduced power used in ‘on’ and standby states.” There will be no deep sleep or fully “off” setting. But Cisco said that taking advantage of the potential energy savings for a box would also depend on “how it is operated by the service provider.” Cable and satellite providers will have to decide whether the boxes can automatically go to standby, for example, and whether customers will be able to adjust their own settings. Currently, providers often do system maintenance and download information at night over the cable, so an ever-at-the ready cable box is more convenient for them. Cable companies can become Energy Star “partners” if they agree to install or upgrade boxes so that 25 percent to 50 percent of the homes they serve have “energy star qualified” equipment. The E.P.A. merely encourages providers to use units that can automatically power down at least partly when not in use. But as of Sept. 1, typical electricity consumption of Energy Star qualified products would drop to 97 kilowatt hours a year from an average of 138; and then by the middle of 2013, they must drop again to 29 kilowatt hours a year. Companies have fought the placement of the “Energy Star” seal on products and the new ambitious requirements, which may still be modified before enacted. Mr. Wilson recalled that when he was on the California Energy Commission, he asked box makers why the hard drives were on all the time, using so much power. The answer: “Nobody asked us to use less.” The biggest challenge in reducing energy use is maintaining the rapid response time now expected of home entertainment systems, Mr. Turner said. “People are used to the idea that computers take some time to boot up,” he said, “but they expect the TV to turn on instantly.” -- William V. DePaulo, Esq. 179 Summers Street, Suite 232 Charleston, WV 25301-2163 Tel 304-342-5588 Fax 304-342-5505 william.depaulo(a)gmail.com www.passeggiata.com

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Natural Gas Industry Doubts About Shale Gas
by William V. DePaulo, Esq. 26 Jun '11

26 Jun '11

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/26/us/26gas.html?partner=rss&emc=rss&gwh=D91… Drilling Down Insiders Sound an Alarm Amid a Natural Gas Rush Jennifer Pitts/The Journal Record, via Associated Press, left; Mark Peristein for The New York Times “It's time to get bullish on natural gas," said Aubrey K. McClendon, left, chief executive of Chesapeake Energy. "This could have profound consequences for our local economy," said Deborah Rogers, a committee member at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. By IAN URBINA<http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/u/ian_urbina/ind…> Published: June 25, 2011 - - Natural gas companies have been placing enormous bets on the wells they are drilling, saying they will deliver big profits and provide a vast new source of energy for the United States. Multimedia Interactive Feature <http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…> Documents: Leaked Industry E-Mails and Reports<http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…> Graphic Overestimating Natural Gas Production Graphic Sweet Spots, but Not Many Drilling Down *Natural Gas Investments* Articles in this series will examine the risks of natural-gas drilling and efforts to regulate this rapidly growing industry. Complete Series »<http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/us/series/drilling_down/index.html> Enlarge This Image Brandon Thibodeaux for The New York Times Ministers, pastors and deacons of Fort Worth churches. Dozens of black churches in Fort Worth signed gas leases. But the gas may not be as easy and cheap to extract from shale formations deep underground as the companies are saying, according to hundreds of industry e-mails and internal documents<http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…>and an analysis of data from thousands of wells. In the e-mails, energy executives, industry lawyers, state geologists and market analysts voice skepticism about lofty forecasts and question whether companies are intentionally, and even illegally, overstating the productivity of their wells and the size of their reserves. Many of these e-mails also suggest a view that is in stark contrast to more bullish public comments made by the industry, in much the same way that insiders have raised doubts about previous financial bubbles. “Money is pouring in” from investors even though shale gas is “inherently unprofitable,” an analyst from PNC Wealth Management, an investment company, wrote to a contractor in a February e-mail<http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…>. “Reminds you of dot-coms.” “The word in the world of independents is that the shale plays are just giant Ponzi schemes and the economics just do not work,” an analyst from IHS Drilling Data, an energy research company, wrote in an e-mail on Aug. 28, 2009<http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…>. Company data for more than 10,000 wells in three major shale gas formations raise further questions about the industry’s prospects. There is undoubtedly a vast amount of gas in the formations. The question remains how affordably it can be extracted. The data show that while there are some very active wells, they are often surrounded by vast zones of less-productive wells that in some cases cost more to drill and operate than the gas they produce is worth. Also, the amount of gas produced by many of the successful wells is falling much faster than initially predicted by energy companies, making it more difficult for them to turn a profit over the long run. If the industry does not live up to expectations, the impact will be felt widely. Federal and state lawmakers are considering drastically increasing subsidies for the natural gas business in the hope that it will provide low-cost energy for decades to come. But if natural gas ultimately proves more expensive to extract from the ground than has been predicted, landowners, investors and lenders could see their investments falter, while consumers will pay a price in higher electricity and home heating bills. There are implications for the environment, too. The technology used to get gas flowing out of the ground — called hydraulic fracturing, or hydrofracking — can require over a million gallons of water per well, and some of that water must be disposed of because it becomes contaminated by the process. If shale gas wells fade faster than expected, energy companies will have to drill more wells or hydrofrack them more often, resulting in more toxic waste. The e-mails were obtained through open-records requests or provided to The New York Times by industry consultants and analysts who say they believe that the public perception of shale gas does not match reality; names and identifying information were redacted to protect these people, who were not authorized to communicate publicly. In the e-mails, some people within the industry voice grave concerns. “And now these corporate giants are having an Enron moment,” a retired geologist from a major oil and gas company wrote in a February e-mail<http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…>about other companies invested in shale gas. “They want to bend light to hide the truth.” Others within the industry remain optimistic. They argue that shale gas economics will improve as the price of gas rises, technology evolves and demand for gas grows with help from increased federal subsidies being considered by Congress. “Shale gas supply is only going to increase,” Steven C. Dixon, executive vice president of Chesapeake Energy, said at an energy industry conference in April in response to skepticism about well performance. *Studying the Data* “I think we have a big problem.” Deborah Rogers, a member of the advisory committee of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, recalled saying that in a May 2010 telephone call to a senior economist at the Reserve, Mine K. Yucel. “We need to take a close look at this right away,” she added. A former stockbroker with Merrill Lynch, Ms. Rogers said she started studying well data from shale companies in October 2009 after attending a speech by the chief executive of Chesapeake, Aubrey K. McClendon. The math was not adding up, Ms. Rogers said. Her research showed that wells were petering out faster than expected. “These wells are depleting so quickly that the operators are in an expensive game of ‘catch-up,’ ” Ms. Rogers wrote in an e-mail on Nov. 17, 2009, to a petroleum geologist in Houston, who wrote back that he agreed. “This could have profound consequences for our local economy,” she explained in the e-mail. Fort Worth residents were already reeling from the sudden reversal of fortune for the natural gas industry. In early 2008, energy companies were scrambling in Fort Worth to get residents to lease their land for drilling as they searched for so-called monster wells. Billboards along the highways stoked the boom-time excitement: “If you don’t have a gas lease, get one!” Oil and gas companies were in a fierce bidding war for drilling rights, offering people bonuses as high as $27,500 per acre for signing leases. The actor Tommy Lee Jones signed on as a pitchman for Chesapeake, one of the largest shale gas companies. “The extremely long-term benefits include new jobs and capital investment and royalties and revenues that pay for public roads, schools and parks,” he said in one television advertisement about drilling in the Barnett shale in and around Fort Worth. To investors, shale companies had a more sophisticated pitch<http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…>. With better technology, they had refined a “manufacturing model,” they said, that would allow them to drop a well virtually anywhere in certain parts of a shale formation and expect long-lasting returns. For Wall Street, this was the holy grail: a low-risk and high-profit proposition. But by late 2008, the recession took hold and the price of natural gas plunged<http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…>by nearly two-thirds, throwing the drilling companies’ business model into a tailspin. In Texas, the advertisements featuring Mr. Jones disappeared. Energy companies rescinded high-priced lease offers to thousands of residents, which prompted class-action lawsuits. Royalty checks dwindled. Tax receipts fell. The impact of the downturn was immediate for many. “Ruinous, that’s how I’d describe it,” said the Rev. Kyev Tatum, president of the Fort Worth chapter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Mr. Tatum explained that dozens of black churches in Fort Worth signed leases on the promise of big money. Instead, some churches were told that their land may no longer be tax exempt even though they had yet to make any royalties on the wells, he said. That boom-and-bust volatility had raised eyebrows among people like Ms. Rogers, as well as energy analysts and geologists, who started looking closely at the data on wells’ performance.* * In May 2010, the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas called a meeting to discuss the matter after prodding from Ms. Rogers. One speaker was Kenneth B. Medlock III, an energy expert at Rice University, who described a promising future for the shale gas industry in the United States. When he was done, Ms. Rogers peppered him with questions. Might growing environmental concerns raise the cost of doing business? If wells were dying off faster than predicted, how many new wells would need to be drilled to meet projections? Mr. Medlock conceded that production in the Barnett shale formation — or “play,” in industry jargon — was indeed flat and would probably soon decline. “Activity will shift toward other plays because the returns there are higher,” he predicted. Ms. Rogers turned to the other commissioners to see if they shared her skepticism, but she said she saw only blank stares. *Bubbling Doubts* Some doubts about the industry are being raised by people who work inside energy companies, too. “Our engineers here project these wells out to 20-30 years of production and in my mind that has yet to be proven as viable,” wrote a geologist at Chesapeake in a March 17 e-mail<http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…>to a federal energy analyst. “In fact I’m quite skeptical of it myself when you see the % decline in the first year of production.” “In these shale gas plays no well is really economic right now,” the geologist said in a previous e-mail to the same official on March 16<http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…>. “They are all losing a little money or only making a little bit of money.” Around the same time the geologist sent the e-mail, Mr. McClendon, Chesapeake’s chief executive, told investors, “It’s time to get bullish on natural gas.” In September 2009, a geologist from ConocoPhillips, one of the largest producers of natural gas in the Barnett shale, warned in an e-mail to a colleague<http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…>that shale gas might end up as “the world’s largest uneconomic field.” About six months later, the company’s chief executive, James J. Mulva, described natural gas as “nature’s gift,” adding that “rather than being expensive, shale gas is often the low-cost source.” Asked about the e-mail, John C. Roper, a spokesman for ConocoPhillips, said he absolutely believed that shale gas is economically viable. A big attraction for investors is the increasing size of the gas reserves that some companies are reporting. Reserves — in effect, the amount of gas that a company says it can feasibly access from its wells — are important because they are a central measure of an oil and gas company’s value. Forecasting these reserves is a tricky science. Early predictions are sometimes lowered because of drops in gas prices, as happened in 2008. Intentionally overbooking reserves, however, is illegal because it misleads investors. Industry e-mails, mostly from 2009 and later, include language from oil and gas executives questioning whether other energy companies are doing just that. The e-mails do not explicitly accuse any companies of breaking the law. But the number of e-mails, the seniority of the people writing them, the variety of positions they hold and the language they use — including comparisons to Ponzi schemes and attempts to “con” Wall Street — suggest that questions about the shale gas industry exist in many corners. “Do you think that there may be something suspicious going with the public companies in regard to booking shale reserves?” a senior official from Ivy Energy, an investment firm specializing in the energy sector, wrote in a2009 e-mail<http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…>. A former Enron executive wrote in 2009<http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…>while working at an energy company: “I wonder when they will start telling people these wells are just not what they thought they were going to be?” He added that the behavior of shale gas companies reminded him of what he saw when he worked at Enron. Production data, provided by companies to state regulators and reviewed by The Times, show that many wells are not performing as the industry expected. In three major shale formations — the Barnett in Texas, the Haynesville in East Texas and Louisiana and the Fayetteville, across Arkansas — less than 20 percent of the area heralded by companies as productive is emerging as likely to be profitable under current market conditions, according to the data and industry analysts. Richard K. Stoneburner, president and chief operating officer of Petrohawk Energy, said that looking at entire shale formations was misleading because some companies drilled only in the best areas or had lower costs. “Outside those areas, you can drill a lot of wells that will never live up to expectations,” he added. Although energy companies routinely project that shale gas wells will produce gas at a reasonable rate for anywhere from 20 to 65 years, these companies have been making such predictions based on limited data and a certain amount of guesswork, since shale drilling is a relatively new practice. Most gas companies claim that production will drop sharply after the first few years but then level off, allowing most wells to produce gas for decades. Gas production data reviewed by The Times suggest that many wells in shale gas fields do not level off the way many companies predict but instead decline steadily. “This kind of data is making it harder and harder to deny that the shale gas revolution is being oversold,” said Art Berman, a Houston-based geologist who worked for two decades at Amoco and has been one of the most vocal skeptics of shale gas economics. The Barnett shale, which has the longest production history, provides the most reliable case study for predicting future shale gas potential. The data suggest that if the wells’ production continues to decline in the current manner, many will become financially unviable within 10 to 15 years. A review of more than 9,000 wells, using data from 2003 to 2009, shows that — based on widely used industry assumptions about the market price of gas and the cost of drilling and operating a well — less than 10 percent of the wells had recouped their estimated costs by the time they were seven years old. Terry Engelder, a professor of geosciences at Pennsylvania State University, said the debate over long-term well performance was far from resolved. The Haynesville shale has not lived up to early expectations, he said, but industry projections have become more accurate and some wells in the Marcellus shale, which stretches from Virginia to New York, are outperforming expectations. *A Sense of Confidence* Many people within the industry remain confident. “I wouldn’t worry about these shale companies,” said T. Boone Pickens, the oil and gas industry executive, adding that he believes that if prices rise, shale gas companies will make good money. Mr. Pickens said that technological improvements — including hydrofracking wells more than once — are already making production more cost-effective, which is why some major companies like ExxonMobil have recently bought into shale gas. Shale companies are also adjusting their strategies to make money by focusing on shale wells that produce lucrative liquids, like propane and butane, in addition to natural gas. Asked about the e-mails from the Chesapeake geologist casting doubt on company projections, a Chesapeake spokesman, Jim Gipson, said the company was fully confident that a majority of wells would be productive for 30 years or more. David Pendery, a spokesman for IHS, added that though shale gas prospects had previously been debated by many analysts, in more recent years costs had fallen and technology had improved. Still, in private exchanges, many industry insiders are skeptical, even cynical, about the industry’s pronouncements. “All about making money,” an official from Schlumberger, an oil and gas services company, wrote in aJuly 2010 e-mail<http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…>to a former federal regulator about drilling a well in Europe, where some United States shale companies are hunting for better market opportunities. “Looks like crap,” the Schlumberger official wrote about the well’s performance, according to the regulator, “but operator will flip it based on ‘potential’ and make some money on it.” “Always a greater sucker,” the e-mail<http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/natural-gas-drilling-down-documents-4…>concluded. Robbie Brown contributed reporting from Atlanta. A version of this article appeared in print on June 26, 2011, on page A1 of the New York edition with the headline: Insiders Sound an Alarm Amid a Natural Gas Rush. -- William V. DePaulo, Esq. 179 Summers Street, Suite 232 Charleston, WV 25301-2163 Tel 304-342-5588 Fax 304-342-5505 william.depaulo(a)gmail.com www.passeggiata.com

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Conrad Volz on the problems of extraction for energy
by Beth Little 25 Jun '11

25 Jun '11

This starts out as an exposure of contamination of water with drilling waste, but toward the end, he indicts mtr and talks about environmental justice and how WV is paying the cost of providing energy for everyone else. It is long, but extremely moving in its depth. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWwjWFcCIgY <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWwjWFcCIgY&feature=youtube_gdata_player> &feature=youtube_gdata_player

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FYI - China blends Imported coal to meet local environmental standards....A Green Solution, or the Dark Side to Cleaner Coal?
by William V. DePaulo, Esq. 25 Jun '11

25 Jun '11

[image: The New York Times] June 14, 2011 A Green Solution, or the Dark Side to Cleaner Coal? By KEITH BRADSHER<http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/b/keith_bradsher…> LIANYUNGANG, CHINA — The six massive silos standing beside this industrial port in northeastern China hold seemingly contradictory promises: They could help improve the quality of China’s polluted air, but they might also contribute to faster global warming<http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/science/topics/globalwarming/index.html?…>. The silos, which are scheduled to start operation in July, are designed to blend cleaner-burning imported coal<http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/subjects/c/coal/index.h…>with China’s own high-polluting domestic coal, which is contaminated with sulfur and dust. Coal blending will produce a mixture that will help electric utilities meet China’s steadily tightening environmental regulations. It will also increase the efficiency of coal-fired plants by slightly reducing the quantity of coal needed. Burning less coal means less greenhouse gases emitted. But critics argue there is a darker side to cleaner coal. “Anything that makes coal more cost effective, like blending, which is only enabling China to burn more coal, is bad news for the global struggle against carbon emissions,” said Orville Schell, the Arthur Ross director of the Center on U.S.-China Relations at the Asia Society in New York. The Chinese government’s decision this month to import more coal in order to lessen power outages — and control rising coal prices — ensures that blending will increase rapidly. Industry executives are quick to tout the practice’s environmental benefits. Blending “is a sound solution to reducing greenhouse gas and pollutants emissions from coal-fired power plants,” said Howard Au, the director and chairman of Petrocom Energy Ltd., which owns the blending facility here. But environmentalists worry that by reducing the amount of sulfur and dust emitted from burning coal, blending makes coal more acceptable in the short-term and stalls the conversion to cleaner or renewable fuels. They say coal blending strengthens the case for companies — and countries — that want to continue to rely on coal for decades. “Does it help with acid rain? Yes,” said Allen Hershkowitz, a specialist in Appalachian coal fields at the Natural Resources Defense Council, an environmental group based in New York. “It hurts us when it comes to global warming.” Coal remains a particularly dirty form of electricity generation when it comes to producing climate-changing gases. The global warming calculus for coal blending is less clear. Blending makes it easier to feed a power plant with exactly the right coal mixture at which its boilers work most efficiently. This means the plant can burn less coal and emit less greenhouse gas. How much less — and how does that improvement compare with switching to other fuels — varies a lot depending on the power plant and the coal it burns without blending. Better operating efficiency at the power plant helps offset the cost of blending, which can add up to 4 percent to the price tag of the coal. China does not just have an ancient civilization, it also has a lot of very old coal. Much of it has been tightly compressed over millions of years. That has pluses and minuses. Chinese coal releases a lot of heat when burned and has very little moisture left, two very desirable features, according to coal traders. But Chinese coal deposits also contain a lot of sulfur as well as so-called fly ash — dust that is not combustible and contributes to particulate air pollution. China also has some deposits of young coal which has fairly low heat content and requires blending before it can be burned. China has the third-largest coal reserves, after the United States and Russia, and consumes more coal than any other country. It accounted for nearly half the 7.3 billion metric tons burned around the world last year. Four-fifths of China’s reserves, however, do not comply with the country’s standards for industrial use, according to the government-run China Coal Research Institute. Complicating matters, the China’s environmental regulators have signaled plans to reduce further the allowable levels of sulfur. China led the world last year in clean energy investments, with $54.4 billion, according to a study by the Pew Charitable Trusts. But coal is still China’s dominant energy source, accounting for 73 percent of electricity capacity. Because coal-fired plants run day and night — while alternatives like wind turbines<http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/subjects/w/wind_power/i…>and hydroelectric<http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/subjects/h/hydroelectri…>dams only run when enough wind or water is available — coal accounted for 83 percent of electricity generation last year. China has led the world in recent years in the construction of high-efficiency coal-fired power plants. These plants heat water to higher temperatures and pressures than earlier designs, so that less coal is burned to produce the same kilowatt-hours of electricity. But the newer power plants need coal of a precise makeup, making it even harder for China to rely exclusively on domestic coal fields. To meet the needs of the new plants, China has gone on a twin binge of importing coal and buying coal mines abroad. Wood Mackenzie, the global energy consulting company, predicts that Indonesia will be the world’s fastest-growing exporter of coal in the next five years because of Chinese demand. While coal blending facilities may provide a short-term environmental benefit, they also make it possible for countries like China to plan on consuming a lot more coal for decades into the future. People have been blending coal for more than a century, often in surprisingly simple ways. Richard Elman, the chairman of the Noble Group, one of the world’s largest commodity companies, is skeptical of newer blending technologies. He says bulldozers have been roughly mixing different grades of coal at power plants and mines for years. A single coal mine may have different qualities of coal in different seams, and will often stir them together with bulldozers before shipment so as to provide a mixture that better meets the customer’s specifications, he said. In the United States, big engineering companies like Bechtel and the Roberts & Schaefer subsidiary of KBR have been designing elaborate systems of conveyer belts that take coal arriving by rail and barge and distribute it to various stockpiles, blending it along the way. The most elaborate approach, developed in Europe and put into effect here, is to build a series of silos, each containing a different grade of coal. A large conveyor belt and scales are mounted underneath the silos. Coal from each silo is sprinkled onto the conveyor belt, then the mixture is dropped into rail cars, ships or a storage yard. “It’s not easy for this new technology to be accepted, so I’m using my network because I believe this would be good for the country,” said Li Anqing, the retired top administrator of Lianyungang’s big coal port, who is now the general manager of the operation here. Bob Williams Jr., the vice president for sales and marketing at Roberts & Schaefer, said that using specially built silos for blending coal is an unusually expensive approach, and would barely be considered except at large coal ports. But Mr. Au said that the blending cost per ton using silos, about $5, had not changed for the last several years. By contrast, coal prices have doubled in the past five years, to $130 a ton in China for coal with high heat content. So blending costs have halved as a percentage of the overall cost of coal. That reduction in relative costs, combined with tighter regulations in China aimed at reducing acid rain, have increased its attractiveness. “Blending didn’t make sense prior to 2003 as prices of coal were low,” Mr. Au said. But now, Petrocom is making plans for dozens of coal-blending facilities in China, to accommodate a flood of imports that could last for decades.

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Fw: Cumulative impacts, aggregation for Marcellus pipelines
by James Kotcon 25 Jun '11

25 Jun '11

This is a pretty major issue, and I think the Army Corps is on the right track. JBK >>> "Donald C. Strimbeck" <dcsoinks(a)comcast.net> 6/25/2011 4:23 AM >>> Army Corps of Engineers, Marcellus Shale firms spar Marcellus companies worry new permitting rules may delay pipeline projects Premium content from Pittsburgh Business Times - by Anya Litvak Date: Friday, June 24, 2011, 6:00am EDT The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is butting heads with some Marcellus Shale companies who say the agency’s latest permit rules will delay pipeline projects. The federal agency, which regulates construction that involves dredging or filling of U.S. waters, has issued a clarification on how projects, such as pipelines that cross such waters, should be evaluated on their environmental impacts. The Corps says the clarification, which defines what constitutes a single project big enough to require the agency’s approval, won’t have an impact on how the Corps functions and is meant to be a guide to applicants. Yet, some in the Marcellus Shale industry are convinced the agency’s approach will mean more projects will fall under its scope and more of them will be delayed because of it. “Under the new (standard) they’re saying everything from the wellhead to the transmission line is a single project,” said Rob McHale, manager of environmental regulatory affairs at MarkWest Liberty Midstream & Resources LLC, a division of Denver-based MarkWest Energy Partners LP. McHale said the staffing constraints at the Corps and at other agencies required to review pipeline projects, such as the Pennsylvania Historic and Museum Commission, will mean, “the timing (of permits) will slow significantly.” But Wade Chandler, Pennsylvania permits chief for the Corps’ Baltimore District, which processes two-thirds of Marcellus activity applications in the state, cautions that if there are more permits coming his way, it’s because there’s simply more activity in the Marcellus shale. “Our scopes are limited to our permit areas,” which have not changed, Wade said. “We’re not expanding anything else.” WHAT MAKES A PROJECT Since 1988, the Army Corps, which regulates impacts to rivers, streams and wetlands, has allowed the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to unilaterally issue permits for projects whose impact to such waters is limited to less than 250 feet. If the impact is more than that, the application must be sent to the Corps for approval before the DEP can permit it. This program, which is revised every five years, is starting a new iteration July 1, with the definition of what constitutes a single project now spelled out in a newly added definitions section to make sure each permittee and regulatory agency is administering the law the same way. Whether a gas pipe will be judged as a single and complete project depends on the Corps’ new standard of whether it has independent utility: That is, would it be built even if other pipelines around it weren’t? According to Mark Haibach, vice president of ecological services with Civil & Environmental Consultants Inc., some Corps districts considered each stream crossing as a single and complete project, so a pipeline crossing five streams would be counted as five projects, with each one’s impact judged against the 250-foot threshold. Other districts, especially those in the area of the Marcellus within the past year, have treated all five crossings as part of a single project, summing up impacts and thereby making more projects fall under the Corps’ domain. The Army Corps’ new guidance makes it clear that regulators should consider as a single project all stream crossings that fit into a single pipeline project. INDUSTRY CONCERNS Currently, MarkWest’s stream crossing projects that don’t reach the 250-foot threshold get a DEP permit within 45 to 60 days, according to McHale. Those that need Army Corps approval take 60 to 75 days for MarkWest, though McHale said other companies have complained of longer waiting periods. MarkWest has had only a handful of projects go through the Corps review thus far, but McHale expects that number to jump once everything is consistently evaluated as a combined impact. For CONSOL Energy, getting a pipeline permit takes between nine months to a year, according to Katharine Fredriksen, vice president for environmental strategy and regulatory affairs, because many of its projects go through exceptional quality waters and require a more in-depth review. “Right now, pipelines are really the biggest bottleneck to actually getting Marcellus gas to market,” she said. The increased activity in general and what Fredriksen described as the Corps’ “expanded role” in pipeline projects will cause further delays, she said. Last year, testifying before the state’s House Republican Policy Committee, Ted Wurfel, Chief Oil & Gas’ environmental, safety and regulatory affairs manager, spoke on behalf of the industry, saying the “Marcellus Shale Coalition believes the DEP should return to … considering individual stream crossings as single and complete projects consistent with the applicable regulations.” “There’s always some difference in the way individual Corps districts will implement regulations,” Haibach said. But if the new permit program will cause the Corps to review more projects, it will be following a trend already in motion, he said. “For the last year, the Corps kind of reacted to the Marcellus Shale activity and the increase in project activity by increasing their scrutiny of projects,” he said. “Especially on pipeline projects, they’ve been opting to review projects more frequently.” Not everyone is convinced the Corps’ regulation will cause problems. The issue may be less about the actual permitting time lines than a general “sense that this is an attempt to federalize gas collection projects,” said Tom Johnston, assistant VP for environmental services with Harrisburg-based engineering group Skelly and Loy Inc., who dismissed the sentiment. “I don’t know that this is going to add as much burden to the gas companies as the gas companies think it is,” he said.

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Fwd: US House committee delays markup on coal ash bill to seek more support
by Jim Sconyers 24 Jun '11

24 Jun '11

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Blair John <ecoserve1(a)aol.com> Date: Fri, Jun 24, 2011 at 11:37 AM Subject: US House committee delays markup on coal ash bill to seek more support To: COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE(a)lists.sierraclub.org US House committee delays markup on *coal* ash bill to seek more support<http://www.google.com/url?sa=X&q=http://www.platts.com/RSSFeedDetailedNews/…> Platts Introduced by David McKinley, a West Virginia Republican, the bill would require EPA to conform to its 2000 finding that *coal combustion* residuals, commonly called *coal* ash, do not warrant regulation as a hazardous substance under subtitle C of the*...* See all stories on this topic »<http://www.google.com/url?sa=X&q=http://news.google.com/news/story%3Fncl%3D…> Check out the Valley Watch website at: *http://valleywatch.net*<http://valleywatch.net/> *John Blair* "First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win." Mahatma Gandhi *800 Adams Avenue* *Evansville, IN 47713* *812-464-5663* *** In accordance with title 17 U. S. Code, Section 107, this material is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior general interest in receiving similar information for research and educational purposes. * * * - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE list, send any message to: COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp To view the Sierra Club List Terms & Conditions, see: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/terms.asp -- Jim Sconyers jimscon(a)gmail.com 304.698.9628 Remember, Mother Nature bats last.

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Morgantown's Horizontal Fracking Ban
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 24 Jun '11

24 Jun '11

http://www.scribd.com/doc/58653036/Morgantowns-horizontal-fracking-ban Today, the attempt to get a temporary restraining order against the ban failed miserably on the part of the plaintiffs! -Jonathan

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Re: [EC] [wvec-board] Gas drilling hazardous waste landfill in Preston County?
by DSGJr＠aol.com 24 Jun '11

24 Jun '11

Actually, I have heard rumors that the other landfills in the area that DEP has authorized to receive this waste are none to happy about this new proposed landfill -- They don't want the competition! Like everything else in this world, it's all about the money. Don Garvin In a message dated 6/24/2011 12:15:35 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, clrank2(a)gmail.com writes: Yes, Frank. This has been and is a hot button issue for Friends of Cheat, the PA-WV watershed COMPACT, Upper Mon River Assoc. and all the Dunkard Creek, Sierra and other folks in northern WV where the bulk of the horizontal marcellus drilling is happening -- especially the two in Morgantown near the water intake... and the two in the Dunkard Creek watershed.... Chesapeake and others have already reduced or eliminated entirely the drilling pits and have been catching the drilling muds, etc in open truck beds (don't know the official terminology for them) and taking them to other already existing landfills ----- ... Dan may be aware of the attitudes of these landfill operators, but with the growing amount of waste generated by the drilling in these northern WV Counties i'm sure they can see their projected capacity quickly being stressed or stretched to the limits and welcome this new project to relieve pressure on their limits. .... Needless to say others in the communities are none too happy... Cindy ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ On Fri, Jun 24, 2011 at 12:36 PM, Frank Young <_fyoung(a)mountain.net_ (mailto:fyoung@mountain.net) > wrote: This would seem to indicate public acknowledgement of serious waste disposal issues related to the by-products of shale gas drilling. ----- Original Message ----- From: _Rick Buckley_ (mailto:r_w_buckley1@yahoo.com) To: _Frank Young_ (mailto:fyoung@mountain.net) ; _Gordon Jones_ (mailto:gordonjoneswin@gmail.com) ; _gary singleton_ (mailto:gary-singleton@hotmail.com) ; _John Gorrell_ (mailto:john.gorrell@mail.wvu.edu) ; _Mike Reese_ (mailto:mgreese77@gmail.com) Cc: _Rick Buckley_ (mailto:r_w_buckley1@yahoo.com) Sent: Friday, June 24, 2011 11:30 AM Subject: Landfill in Preston County I guess this issue did not go away. This is what I had mentioned last evening regarding creating a landfill in Preston County related to Marcellus drilling. (see attached) __._,_.___ _Reply to sender_ (mailto:clrank2@gmail.com?subject=Re:%20[wvec-board]%20Gas%20drilling%20hazardous%20waste%20landfill%20in%20Preston%20County?) | _Reply to group_ (mailto:wvec-board@yahoogroups.com?subject=Re:%20[wvec-board]%20Gas%20drilling%20hazardous%20waste%20landfill%20in%20Preston%20County?) | _Reply via web post_ (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wvec-board/post;_ylc=X3oDMTJxZ2xwaW1zBF9TAzk3… MgRtc2dJZAMyMjA2BHNlYwNmdHIEc2xrA3JwbHkEc3RpbWUDMTMwODkzNTczMw--?act=reply&m essageNum=2206) | _Start a New Topic_ (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wvec-board/post;_ylc=X3oDMTJmYnUzdTY3BF9TAzk3… SWQDMTcwNTM2NTM5MgRzZWMDZnRyBHNsawNudHBjBHN0aW1lAzEzMDg5MzU3MzM-) _Messages in this topic_ (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wvec-board/message/2205;_ylc=X3oDMTM1Z2hkdW1m… cwNTM2NTM5MgRtc2dJZAMyMjA2BHNlYwNmdHIEc2xrA3Z0cGMEc3RpbWUDMTMwODkzNTczMwR0cG NJZAMyMjA1) (2) Recent Activity: _Visit Your Group_ (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wvec-board;_ylc=X3oDMTJmYmEwNG9pBF9TAzk3MzU5N… nRsBHNsawN2Z2hwBHN0aW1lAzEzMDg5MzU3MzM-) (http://groups.yahoo.com/;_ylc=X3oDMTJlb2xmZ242BF9TAzk3NDc2NTkwBGdycElkAzIxN… Mw--) Switch to: _Text-Only_ (mailto:wvec-board-traditional@yahoogroups.com?subject=Change Delivery Format: Traditional) , _Daily Digest_ (mailto:wvec-board-digest@yahoogroups.com?subject=Email Delivery: Digest) • _Unsubscribe_ (mailto:wvec-board-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com?subject=Unsubscribe) • _Terms of Use_ (http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/) . __,_._,___

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Gas drilling hazardous waste landfill in Preston County?
by Frank Young 24 Jun '11

24 Jun '11

This would seem to indicate public acknowledgement of serious waste disposal issues related to the by-products of shale gas drilling. ----- Original Message ----- From: Rick Buckley To: Frank Young ; Gordon Jones ; gary singleton ; John Gorrell ; Mike Reese Cc: Rick Buckley Sent: Friday, June 24, 2011 11:30 AM Subject: Landfill in Preston County I guess this issue did not go away. This is what I had mentioned last evening regarding creating a landfill in Preston County related to Marcellus drilling. (see attached)

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from ScienceDaily: Large numbers of birth defects seen near mountaintop mining operations
by Paul Wilson 24 Jun '11

24 Jun '11

Large numbers of birth defects seen near mountaintop mining operations<http://feedproxy.google.com/%7Er/sciencedaily/top_news/top_environment/%7E3…> Posted: 23 Jun 2011 06:00 AM PDT Birth defects are significantly more common in areas of mountaintop coal mining and are on the rise as the practice becomes more common, according to a new study. -- Paul Wilson Sierra Club 504 Jefferson Ave Charles Town, WV 25414-1130 Phone: 304-725-4360 Cell: 304-279-1361 "There is no forward until you have gone back" ~Buddha "In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous" ~ Aristotle

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Re: [EC] Press on coal ash picket
by James Kotcon 24 Jun '11

24 Jun '11

Press from yesterday's protest. First, the Charleston Daily Mail had a story announcing the protest: http://dailymail.com/News/statenews/201106230478 I was told WV Public Radio also announced the protest, but I can't find a link. Television: http://www.wboy.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=102028 http://www.wowktv.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=101883 (Charleston-Huntington) http://www.wtrf.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=101883&catid=3&printvi… (Wheeling) News articles: Vicki Smith's AP story http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/W/WV_COAL_ASH_PROTEST_WVOL-?SITE=AP&SE… It got picked up by numerous papers http://washingtonexaminer.com/news/2011/06/wva-sierra-club-fights-mckinleys… http://www.weirtondailytimes.com/page/content.detail/id/140629/W-Va--Sierra… http://timeswv.com/westvirginia/x2099992739/Activists-fight-McKinley-s-coal… (Fairmont) (Capito's District) http://www.wvgazette.com/News/201106230481 (I think the Charleston Gazette got it, but their web page does not load today.) http://www.journal-news.net/page/content.detail/id/563669/W-Va--Sierra-Club… (Martinsburg, WV) The Morgantown paper requires a paid subscription, but here is their story: DOMINION POST page 4A Friday 24 June 2011: http://ee.dominionpost.com/Repository/ml.asp?Ref=RFBvc3QvMjAxMS8wNi8yNCNBcj… Area Sierra Club protests McKinley’s coal ash bill BY DAVID BEARD The Dominion Post One day after a House subcommittee OK’d Rep. David McKinley’s coal ash regulation bill, the Sierra Club West Virginia Chapter picketed his Morgantown office and handed over a letter asking him to withdraw the bill. Club members contend coal ash is toxic and needs Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversight. The Republican’s bill, HR 1391, comes in response to an EPA proposal to reclassify coal ash - a byproduct of coal combustion used in such things as cement and drywall, and on surface mines to mitigate acid drainage - as a hazardous waste. It reinforces states’ powers to enforce their own standards, which may exceed EPA standards. According to the bill memo, the EPA proposes two alternate rules. One would make coal ash a hazardous waste under subtitle C of the Solid Waste Disposal Act (called RCRA), calling for protective measures including landfill liners, groundwater monitoring and fugitive dust controls. The second proposal would keep it nonhazardous under RCRA subtitle D, but calls for the same protective measures. The EPA said neither rule would revise most aspects of “beneficial reuse” in cement, bricks, drywall and such. HR 1391 would preclude the EPA from regulating coal ash in any way under subtitle C. West Virginia Reps. Shelley Moore Capito, a Republican, and Nick Rahall, a Democrat, are among the cosponsors. The House Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Environment and the Economy approved the bill in a voice vote Wednesday. Club members picketed alongside Beechurst Avenue on Thursday morning, bearing such signs as “Coal Ash + Our Water = Toxic Brew.” Then they headed inside the Seneca Center and downstairs to McKinley’s office to present a packet of papers and speak briefly with McKinley’s field representative, Pam Krushansky. In a letter to McKinley, Sierra Club Energy Committee Chairman James Kotcon says, “In essence, your bill blocks EPA from doing its job. ... Dozens of coal ash dumps around the nation are polluting air and water with hazardous materials such as arsenic, cadmium, selenium, mercury and lead.” The Morgantown Energy Associates power plant near the Seneca Center produces coal ash used on area surface mines. After the meeting, members said there are safer alternatives - such as limestone - for treating mine drainage. The letter also notes that West Virginia’s 1st Congressional District has a “high concentration of coal ash disposal facilities,” including the Albright landfill in Preston County. The Sierra Club, the West Virginia Highlands Conservancy and West Virginia Rivers Coalition are suing Mon Power, and its parent company FirstEnergy, over the Albright coal ash landfill for allegedly discharging excessive levels of arsenic into Daugherty Run and the Cheat River. Bill proponents contend coal ash doesn’t meet EPA toxicity standards, while opponents contend EPA has updated its science. Proponents also say the proposed EPA rules could kill hundreds of thousands of jobs and raise utility rates by as much as 25 percent. Subcommittee Chairman John Shimkus said state agencies, including the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, support the bill and say they can regulate this without federal control. McKinley sent this statement to The Dominion Post in response to the protest: “I appreciate the citizens who came to my office today to voice their opinion. While we do disagree on the issue of coal ash, I am glad they are engaging in the debate. “My legislation ... actually strengthens state regulatory authority over these materials. The legislation would prevent the Obama administration’s attempt to reclassify these materials as a hazardous waste - a designation previous administrations have deemed inappropriate. “Even this week during an Energy and Commerce subcommittee, both Democrats and Republicans voted to classify coal ash as a nonhazardous material because the science proves it is nonhazardous. “In addition, the economic consequences of a hazardous designation are disastrous; one study found it would cost America more than 300,000 jobs in the next 20 years across a variety of industries. Public health is just as important as jobs, and they are not mutually exclusive in this case. By passing this bill, we will strengthen environmental protections and protect hundreds of thousands of jobs.” The bill’s next step is consideration by the full Energy & Commerce Committee. No date has been set yet, according to House sources. Let me know if you find anything else? Jim Kotcon >>> Jeff Stant <jstant(a)environmentalintegrity.org> 6/23/2011 6:08 PM >>> I heard from Sam that you had twelve people there and generated some press. Do you have any links to it? GREAT JOB!!! I'd like to keep this thing going and growing. But that's fantastic that you did it! Please post any press to Sierra's CCW listserve. Thanks Jeff Jeff Stant Director, Coal Combustion Waste Initiative Environmental Integrity Project 5819 Lowell Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46219 Phone: 317-359-1306 Mobile: 317-331-3607 Email: Jstant(a)environmentalintegrity.org

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Fw: DAILY UPDATE 22 June 2011. News of interest to Mon river watershed denizens.
by James Kotcon 22 Jun '11

22 Jun '11

News from Morgantown. Pay particular attention to what Governor Tomblin and Randy Huffman are saying. The pressure on the Governor must continue. JBK >>> "Donald C. Strimbeck" <dcsoinks(a)comcast.net> 6/22/2011 4:47 AM >>> DOMINION POST headline Wednesday 22 June 2011: Council OKs ban Gas company plans to sue city The Dominion Post The Morgantown City Council voted 6-1 to pass the Marcellus shale drilling ban in the city and within a 1-mile radius beyond the city’s boundaries. Dozens of people showed up to both support and speak against the drilling ban. The meeting began at 7:30 p.m., and people were still commenting after 11 p.m. Enrout Properties LLC, which owns the surface and mineral rights to the gas pad at the Morgantown Industrial Park, is already planning a lawsuit. The company hired Jackson Kelly to represent them in a lawsuit against the city. Work began last month, and $7 million has been invested in the well site so far. Drilling supporters rally at Courthouse http://ee.dominionpost.com/Repository/ml.asp?Ref=RFBvc3QvMjAxMS8wNi8yMiNBcj… Energy independence touted as benefit BY ALEX LANG The Dominion Post To show their support for the gas drilling industry and its employees, about 100 people gathered on Courthouse Square on Tuesday. “Economic growth through energy independence” and “Local energy=local jobs” were two of the signs on display in the crowd. “We’re responsible, we do things right,” Independent Oil and Gas Association of West Virginia President Michael McCown told the crowd. “Our industry is responsible for 35,000 jobs.” That number represents both the direct and indirect jobs tied to the drilling industry. He also said the workers are going to fight for their jobs and their honor. McCown was one of four speakers at a rally at the courthouse. Those involved in the gas drilling industry, most notably Marcellus shale, attended the rally before heading to the Morgantown City Council meeting. The council voted to ban Marcellus shale drilling in the city and within a 1-mile radius of city limits. One of those employees in attendance was Zach Toothman. He recently graduated from WVU with a degree in petroleum engineering. He said he is a field engineer for Chesapeake Energy and spends most of his time around Marcellus shale drilling. He said he was happy the rally was organized. “We need to do more like this,” Toothman said. Delegate Doug Skaff, DKanawha, told those at the rally that students like Toothman will have a chance to stay in West Virginia and raise a family thanks to the drilling industry. He said the state is at a crossroads and production of natural gas can be a game-changer for the state. The drilling industry must work with the various government environmental protection agencies, Skaff said. He added “we’re not going to this half-heartedly.” Chesapeake Energy Vice President of Corporate Development and State Government Regulations Scott Rotruck said safety is the number one priority. Not only in terms of worker safety, but environmental safety as well. “That is extremely important to us,” Rotruck said. Matt Sutton, who helped organize the rally, said it wasn’t in reaction to the several recent Marcellus shale protests. He added it was an idea that was talked about in the past. “They want to get out and show support for workers in the area,” Sutton said. MORGANTOWN COUNCIL City Marcellus drilling ban officially in place Byrer only one on council to vote no BY TRACY EDDY The Dominion Post Marcellus shale drilling is illegal in Morgantown and areas within a mile of the city limits. During its Tuesday meeting, Morgantown City Council voted, 6-1, to approve a law to ban horizontal drilling and fracturing — or fracking — in Morgantown and up to one mile beyond its borders. Mayor Bill Byrne and council members Ron Bane, John Gaddis, Jenny Selin, Marti Shamberger and Don Spencer voted for the law. Councilman Charlie Byrer voted against it. The vote didn’t take place until after midnight. Council spent nearly the first three hours of the meeting taking public comment on the issue and the smoking ban law. Spencer questioned the length of the public hearing at about 10:30 p.m. City Council has an 11 p.m. curfew when making decisions. Council unanimously voted to suspend the rules and work past curfew. Byrer said he voted against the ban because he supports the negotiations between the Morgantown Utility Board (MUB) and Northeast Natural Energy — the company drilling at the Morgantown Industrial Park. The drilling company agreed to implement extra safeguards at MUB’s request. He said it’s up to the governor to call a special session so the state legislature can address Marcellus shale drilling and permitting regulations. Council members also approved minor amendments to the ordinance. Byrer was the lone vote against them. The law now includes a definition of horizontal drilling and the phrase “horizontal drilling with fracturing” instead of “horizontal drilling and/or fracturing.” Council chambers overflowed with people and a crowd gathered in the lobby of City Hall to watch the meeting on TV. Several residents voiced their concerns for Morgantown’s water, air and general quality of life. Wetzel County residents also attended the meeting to talk about their experience with Marcellus shale drilling. Industry representatives spoke about how the industry could do its work responsibly. Mike John, president of Northeast Natural Energy, said the company wouldn’t be drilling at the industrial park if it didn’t think it could do it safely. He also cited the company’s agreement with MUB and said about $7 million was invested in the two wells, so far. “We believe it is impossible for an incident to occur that would impact Morgantown’s drinking water,” he said. Mike McCown, president of the Independent Oil and Gas Association of West Virginia, read City Council a letter from acting Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin, in which the governor requested Morgantown keep its authority within its city limits. Tomblin’s letter said the Marcellus wells at the Morgantown Industrial Park would be good for the city’s economy. “It sends a negative signal to a business to change the rules after permitting has already been completed,” McCown read. Larry Schwab, Collins Ferry Road, said the state and federal government don’t have regulations in place to protect residents. “We are looking to you, our elected officials, to protect us.” May seek injunction to stop the law from taking effect BY DAVID BEARD The Dominion Post The wheels are already in motion to sue Morgantown over its horizontal gas drilling and fracking ban, a Jackson Kelly attorney said Tuesday. Al Sebok said Enrout Properties LLC, which owns the surface and mineral rights to the Morgantown Industrial Park Marcellus gas pad, has retained him to represent Enrout in litigation against the city. Sebok was one of the scheduled speakers at Jackson Kelly’s seminar, “Marcellus Shale in WV: Emerging Issues,” held at the Waterfront Place Hotel. Morgantown based its ban on state code 8-12-19, which allows cities to extend their jurisdiction one mile beyond their boundaries when required to reasonably exercise their powers and authority. Sebok listed several reasons why the city may be wrong. One, 8-12-19 was written in 1969. When the Legislature updated the zoning law in 2004, it didn’t include the same extraterritorial provision; while Morgantown is changing its business and taxation code, the ban is really more of a zoning issue. Two, code 8-12-2, regarding home rule powers, forbids city laws that conflict with the state constitution or other general law. The ban does conflict. Three, cities have the power to legislate against public nuisances, but the law clearly defines public nuisance, and the city can’t “arbitrarily and capriciously” declare a legally permitted activity a public nuisance. Sebok said Northeast Natural Energy, the natural gas firm at the site, worked closely with the Morgantown Utility Board, a city agency, even before the permit was approved, and agreed to extra provisions — containment, berms, casings and testing — after the permit was issued. “This is what I view as a win-win situation for everyone. This is how the permitting [process] should work,” he said. He called the city’s action a regulatory taking of property without just compensation. He later told The Dominion Post that he didn’t know how soon Enrout would file suit — they’re evaluating options — but it likely will be quickly. He also said the company may seek an injunction or restraining order to suspend the ordinance until litigation is completed. Northeast President Michael John said that litigation is under consideration, and the company has been working with attorneys to map out strategies. Bottom line, though, he said: “I do not want to sue the city of Morgantown.” Northeast is in the business of drilling, not taking cities to court, he said. Morgantown City Manager Terrence Moore said the city has anticipated legal action and is acting with due diligence to prepare for and support City Council’s action, and will respond accordingly. He believes state code supports the city’s position. Rob Alsop, chief of staff for acting Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin, also spoke at the Jackson Kelly seminar. He equated the city’s ban to what the Environmental Protection Agency did to Arch Coal’s Spruce Mine in Logan County: Retroactively revoked a water permit, effectively halting $250 million worth of planned operations. Alsop referred to Northeast’s $7 million-plus investment at the Morgantown site. “Now, after the fact, there’s the potential they could be told to stop.” That could have a chilling impact on business across the state, he said, when Tomblin wants to promote the industry and its ancillary businesses. “Marcellus shale is a great development for West Virginia,” Alsop said. “We are doing all we can to make it a phenomenal development for West Virginia.” Tomblin appointed a Marcellus and Manufacturing Task Force to explore the promise of ethane, a natural gas by-product that could spur all sorts of plasticsrelated manufacturing to replace the lost chemical industry in the Kanawha Valley and the lost steel works in the Northern Panhandle. “We want this type of investment here,” he said. DEP: 1,600 Marcellus permits issued; 400 in works BY DAVID BEARD The Dominion Post Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Randy Huffman told a Morgantown audience Tuesday that the DEP is on pace to permit 400 more Marcellus wells this year; it needs more inspectors; and it needs the Legislature to take some action. Huffman was one of the featured speakers at Jackson Kelly’s seminar, “Marcellus Shale in WV: Emerging Issues,” held at the Waterfront Place Hotel. He said that in some ways, he is pleased Marcellus legislation failed last session. The DEP submitted a bill, SB 204, which the House ignored, and the Senate rewrote, scrapped and replaced with a different House bill. The only thing that survived was the bill number, Huffman said. “We bit off more than we could chew.” It was too much work for a part-time citizen legislature, and it’s better nothing passed than something deeply flawed and subject to many challenges, he said. The DEP expects to have a seat at the table for the Legislature’s Marcellus select committee drafting a new compromise bill, and its contribution will be different this time, based on new things it has learned — such as the aggregate effects on air quality and public notice provisions. While some have publicly said it’s already too late to keep the industry from running roughshod over the state, Huffman is more optimistic. “I strongly believe we are way in front of the Marcellus play from a regulatory standpoint. I’m really confident a lot of things are going to happen in the coming months.” Huffman said the DEP has issued 1,602 Marcellus permits, with 942 of those already completed. The remaining 660 have either not been drilled, are in process, or awaiting fracking to begin. The agency expects to approve another 400 permits this year, he said. It’s permitting at a greater capacity than the industry can drill. That’s understandable, he said, because gas fir ms have to take steps to secure and retain their leases. The expected legislation needs to have one thing: Money for inspectors, Huffman said. The DEP doesn’t have the power to raise fees without legislative action. Huffman did say, though, that without legislation, the DEP is doing what it can to adapt its growing knowledge of the state’s needs. Permit applications are different now from a year ago, and may be different again in two months. Acting Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin’s Chief of Staff Rob Alsop also spoke at the seminar, and told The Dominion Post that if the select committee could have something ready as early as August, Tomblin would be willing to consider putting it on the call with redistricting. THE STATE JOURNAL: Morgantown City Council Bans Horizontal Drilling with Hydraulic Fracturing Posted Wednesday, June 22, 2011 ; 12:59 AM President of company now developing two wells asked what the city is prepared to compensate him for his $7 million investment. By Pam Kasey Morgantown City Council voted 6-1 on June 21 to pass an ordinance prohibiting horizontal drilling with hydraulic fracturing within a mile outside city limits. It’s been an issue of hot discussion in Morgantown since early May, when the city’s residents learned after the fact that Northeast Natural Energy of Charleston had been permitted to drill two Marcellus Shale natural gas wells just upriver from the area’s drinking water intake on the Monongahela River. Residents expressed concerns about the possibility of an drilling or hydraulic fracturing accident that would contaminate drinking water, as well as air quality and other concerns, and they expressed frustration that there is no public notification and comment process for gas wells. NNE’s well pad is located outside but within a mile outside city limits; the Morgantown council is following Wellsburg’s lead in relying on a provision of state code that allows cities to extend their authority for up to a mile beyond their boundaries when needed to carry out city functions. Tuesday's second reading of the ordinance drew comments from dozens both for and against the ban. Mike McCown, president of the Independent Oil and Gas Association, read a letter from acting Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin urging the city to keep its ban within city limits. The industry won't take kindly to a ban, McCown said. “If a city says there shouldn’t be drilling and doesn’t support the industry, it’s going t be hard for industry members to support that city, to do commerce in that city,” he said. “That’s a decision the city’s going to have to take seriously, in my opinion.” Several who addressed council had traveled from adjacent Wetzel County, where Chesapeake Energy has a high concentration of Marcellus gas production activity. “Coming with this Marcellus development you’re going to have tons of air pollution, water pollution — I’ve submitted copies of accidents, road issues, water contaminations,” said Wetzel County resident Ed Wade. “In our area we’ve found crime rates have gone up, drug usage has gone up,” Wade said. “It’s going to put a strain on your volunteer fire departments, your EMS, your law enforcement. All of this is going to have to be doubled and tripled. … For the people of Morgantown and their best interest, I hope you guys make the right decision.” NNE President Mike John addressed council for the first time. John noted that his company’s wells have received permits from the state Department of Environmental Protection. He added that his company met the additional assurances of the Morgantown Utility Board, the provider of drinking water for about 90,000 in the region — assurances that he viewed as having come from the city through MUB. “Given this history, we were surprised that, despite our good faith effort to work with the city to their apparent satisfaction, we find ourselves before council tonight as you move forward to ban drilling and fracking within a mile of city limits,” John said. “While there is risk associated with any industrial process, given the safeguards that we have implemented and the nature of the site, we believe it is impossible for an incident to occur that would impact Morgantown’s drinking water in any meaningful way,” he added. He asked what the city is willing to compensate his company for the $7 million it has invested in its site based on good faith interactions with the city. Councilman Charles Byrer alone voted against the ordinance. He expressed a preference for regulation at the state level and cited concerns about the rights of mineral owners, including the city itself. “I think we’re basically going to be regretting this down the road. We have opportunity here. We’re sitting on a treasure,” he said. “And I think we’re on a slippery slope from a legal perspective.” Council takes this action, concluded Mayor William Byrne just before the vote was taken, in the absence of effective state regulation — mentioning in particular the need for public notification and comment on gas wells. “We do not do this with a lot of gusto,” Byrne said. FirstEnergy: Unconventional Gas an Additional Challenge to Coal-Fired Power Industry Posted Tuesday, June 21, 2011 ; 10:34 Updated Tuesday, June 21, 2011; 11:46 AM Power sector could represent one-third of U.S. natural gas demand by 2020. By Pam Kasey MORGANTOWN -- The boom in production of natural gas from formations like the Marcellus shale is presenting an additional challenge to an already challenged coal-fired power industry. That was one observation from Lauren Quamm, manager of market analytics for FirstEnergy Solutions, when he spoke June 21 at the “Marcellus Shale in West Virginia: Emerging Issues” seminar hosted in Morgantown by Jackson Kelly. FirstEnergy, Quamm said, operates from Illinois to Maryland and is the nation’s largest industrial utility based on customers served; FirstEnergy Solutions is the largest competitive retailer of electricity. “Natural gas is poised to become (an even more) important part of the fuel mix for generating electricity in this country,” while coal as a fuel for the generation of electricity is getting squeezed, Quamm said. That is based in part on the recent growth in supply of natural gas due to horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing, Quamm said. That growth has resulted in reduced prices. Not long ago, natural gas was the most expensive generation fuel that represented a significant part of the market. But the price of gas has halved since 2008, Quamm said, from $9 per million British thermal units in 2008 to $4.50 now; with that, the price of electricity has fallen approximately by half. And because all power plants in a region earn what the most expensive plant is charging per megawatt-hour, all power plants are earning less, he said. At the same time, planned and expected environmental regulations on air emissions and other aspects of power generation will affect coal-fired plants more than others. Given that squeeze, moderate projections are that 30 to 70 megawatts or about 20 percent of coal-fired generation capacity could be shut down east of the Rocky Mountains. “The replacement power plants will largely be fired by natural gas,” he said. The combination of gas plants added to the grid and increased firing of existing plants “could be a significant source of demand for the industry,” he said. If 50 to 70 gigawatts of coal-fired generation capacity is shuttered, he said, it could mean 8 to 9 trillion cubic feet per year of power sector gas demand by 2020: roughly one-third of U.S. natural gas demand. Agencies Say They Are Now More Prepared June 22, 2011 By J.W. JOHNSON JR. With AP Dispatches - Staff Writer , The Intelligencer / Wheeling News-Register A year after a natural gas well burst into flames in Marshall County, the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection is drafting legislation focused on well sites, water management and permit fees. In the early hours of June 7, 2010, Marshall County 911 dispatchers began receiving calls reporting a loud explosion and flames shooting 75 feet into the air on Beam's Lane outside of Moundsville. As emergency management teams from Marshall and Belmont counties arrived at the site of a natural gas well operated by AB Resources Inc., they began to assess the situation: A fire was raging and appeared to be unextinguishable, and seven workers had been seriously injured. After getting the fire under control and containing it for 12 hours until crews trained to handle well fires could arrive, emergency management officials remained at the site for nearly five days until the fire burned out. Now the DEP is paring down legislation it presented for this year's regular session, spokeswoman Kathy Cosco said. Out is language addressing such topics as forced pooling, which involves drilling in areas with multiple mineral rights owners, and the rights of surface owners, she said. The regular session bill died after substantial amendments in both chambers. Department Secretary Randy Huffman criticized lawmakers Tuesday for its fate. He told a Morgantown conference on Marcellus Shale issues that the changes disregarded provisions developed by his staff during the better part of the year. The new draft will also propose hiking permit fees above their current rate, which is usually around $600 per well, but not likely as high as the $10,000 proposed in the regular session bill, Cosco said. DEP's goal is enough funding for eight to 10 more inspectors - the department now has 17 positions - along with additional office staff, she said. Huffman said a serious fee hike would allow "more of a presence on the ground at these sites." Some companies have even offered to pay higher fees, but Huffman said he was forced to decline because his agency has no structure for accepting such sums. Huffman agreed the fee amount could prove a sticking point as a new House-Senate select committee attempts to find a compromise that can pass in special session. The industry argues that fees higher than those charged in other Marcellus states would make West Virginia less competitive. Rep. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., warned the Morgantown conference that if state legislators can't agree on Marcellus regulations, the federal government is likely to do the job for them. The federal Environmental Protection Agency is already cracking down on the coal industry and is "slathering" to get at the natural gas industry, too, Capito said. Locally, a lot has changed since the Beams Lane fire regarding the way local emergency management crews and first responders react when faced with a well explosion. They cited equal parts planning practice for the adaptations. "There was a steep learning curve when we arrived for that first fire," said Marshall County Emergency Management Director Tom Hart. "We found out that the best way to prepare for those situations and learn how to be able to respond was to actually deal with them." The fire was the first of three separate gas-related incidents in a four-month period in the county, and Hart said each incident presented a new challenge from which to learn. Hart said as a result of dealing with those incidents, local fire departments and law enforcement agencies now are more prepared and have a better idea of what to expect if a well fire is reported. He added his office has created a checklist and implemented other protocols in the emergency management comprehensive plan, which is shared not only with offices in Marshall County but around the state. The biggest change, Hart said, is that the lines of communication between county officials and gas company representatives are open, allowing for information to be shared on a more frequent basis. First responders at the Beam's Lane fire said it was unclear who was supervising the site, and county officials said they had not been informed of any drilling activity in that area or been given information as to how many employees had been working there. "Since that first incident, companies have been very forthwith in providing us with information on where their sites are and what is happening," he said, adding that information comes via weekly email updates and at monthly meetings of the Marshall County Energy Exploration Task Force, which was created last August. Hart said having frequent communication and knowing who to contact in the event of an emergency is key to allowing first responders to get to a site and on task as quickly as possible. He added many companies have also been proactive in investing in their own emergency plans and training for their workers. "They know that for public safety officials to assist them, they need to provide accurate information on their locations, and we need that information to protect the public and the people working at their sites," he said. Marshall County fire departments have also been able to upgrade their equipment and seek further training using donations from Chief Oil and Gas and Chesapeake Energy, which donated $100,000 and $221,000, respectively, following well fires on their properties. Hart said those funds were used to purchase equipment and supplies that would be used in the event of a similar incident. Hart said he has heard from representatives from counties around the state who have expressed concern over increased drilling activity in their areas. He said he will continue to share the information that Marshall County has gathered in the past year so they can be one step ahead in the event of an emergency. "I hate to say it, but I am kind of glad we dealt with it when we did and were able to become better prepared," he said.

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Fwd: WV_Crucial House Vote - Please Call Your Representatives
by James Kotcon 22 Jun '11

22 Jun '11

This is urgent. Drop what you are doing and call today. If you are not in the First District, call Capito and Rahall and ask them to call McKinley to ask him to withdraw the bill. JBK >>> Sam Flenner <samf.environmentalintegrity(a)gmail.com> 6/21/2011 8:42 PM >>> *HR 1391 – The very bad McKinley Coal Ash Bill is scheduled for a vote in the House Energy and Commerce Committee this Thursday, June 23rd. * The following House Representative from your state is on the Committee. Phone calls in opposition to HR 1391 are urgently needed to your member to ensure he opposes HR 1391. If you live in the District of the following Representative, please call him at *David McKinley 202-225-4172 * https://mckinley.house.gov//index.cfm?sectionid=58<https://mckinley.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=58>Phone calls are preferred And ask other members of your group or network to call him as well. The message is simple. --McKinley’s amended bill, HR 1391, derails the ongoing EPA coal ash rulemaking and would prevent EPA from regulating coal ash in a way that protects health and the environment. --EPA must be allowed to proceed with its coal ash rulemaking, consider the hundreds of thousands of public comments it has received, and make its decision based on the best available science. --Your representative should protect the health and environment of your community and those of other Americans who live around coal ash sites and honor the public rulemaking process. Again…Please: 1) Call your House Committee members today to ask him to oppose HR 1391; 2) Ask your members and any others in your network to call their Representatives to oppose HR 1391; 3) We lost in Subcommittee by only 1 vote – Please make the call. Thank you, Jeff Stant Director, Coal Combustion Waste Initiative Environmental Integrity Project 5819 Lowell Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46219 Phone: 317-359-1306 Mobile: 317-331-3607 Email: Jstant(a)environmentalintegrity.org -- Samuel E. Flenner III Outreach Coodinator Environmental Integrity Project www.environmentalintegrity.org samf.environmentalintegrity(a)gmail.com 317.352.2339 c-317.850.0436

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Fwd: San Antonio's Deely Coal Plant is Closing, Here is the Press Release
by Paul Wilson 21 Jun '11

21 Jun '11

maybe Rep. Mckinney should see this? fyi, paul ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Oliver Bernstein <oliver.bernstein(a)sierraclub.org> Date: Mon, Jun 20, 2011 at 4:28 PM Subject: Fwd: San Antonio's Deely Coal Plant is Closing, Here is the Press Release To: COAL-CAMPAIGN-ALERTS(a)lists.sierraclub.org ---------- Forwarded message ---------- This went out to local press in SA and to national coal press. http://action.sierraclub.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=209362.0 June 20, 2011 Contacts: Eva Hernandez, Sierra Club, 512-299-1550, or Ryan Rittenhouse, Public Citizen, 440-796-9695 Sierra Club and Partners Celebrate First Announced Closing of a Publicly-owned Coal Plant in Texas San Antonio's Deely Plant Expected to Close by 2018, Replaced by Clean, Solar Power San Antonio -- Monday afternoon, San Antonio Mayor Joaquin Castro announced that City Public Service’s (CPS) Deely coal-fired power plant will shut down by 2018. Additional solar power contracts for the San Antonio area will replace that dirty electricity and bring clean energy jobs to Texas. The planned retirement of the two coal boilers at Deely marks the 189th and 190th generators to begin plans for retirement in 2011. In response to today's announcement, the Sierra Club, SEED Coalition, and Public Citizen issued the following statement: The announcement today confirms the new direction taken by CPS Energy which has committed to meeting 20% of its energy needs through renewable energy by 2020, and reducing its peak demand through energy efficiency by 780 megawatts. CPS Energy recently began receiving power from a 14 MW solar plant in South San Antonio, and has signed a contract with SunEdison for an additional 30 MWs of solar power. Mary Anne Hitt, director of the Sierra Club's Beyond Coal Campaign stated that, "Today's announcement in Texas shows that cities around the country are taking strides to move beyond coal. Mayors and concerned citizens in many states have taken it upon themselves to prove that solar and other forms of clean energy are ready to replace dirty and dangerous sources of power to meet our energy needs." "San Antonio’s decision to phase out the Deely coal plant signals the beginning of the end of the coal-burning era and its associated air pollution and illness in Texas,” said Eva Hernandez, with the Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal campaign. “We are ready for Austin to follow suit and for other municipal utilities, the electric co-ops, retail electric utilities, and indeed the State of Texas to move forward with a clean energy economy. This is how we will create more jobs while breathing cleaner air in Texas.” However, environmental groups do not support the west Texas Summit coal plant that could be part of San Antonio’s plan. “Any purchase of coal power from the Summit coal plant should be conditional upon phasing out Deely,” said Ryan Rittenhouse of Public Citizen. “Furthermore, CPS should commit to running Deely's two dirty coal boilers as little as possible leading up to the phase out.” The CPS Deely plant is the first publicly-owned coal plant slated for retirement in Texas. The Sierra Club has called for the phase-out of the Lower Colorado River Authority's Fayette coal plant, which is partially-owned by the City of Austin. The Sierra Club's Beyond Coal Campaign has also called for the phase-out of several privately owned coal plants: TXU-Luminant’s Big Brown coal plant in Fairfield, the Martin Lake coal plant near Henderson, and the Monticello coal plant near Mount Pleasant. Several recently permitted coal plants in Texas have been prevented from starting, and three, White Stallion, Las Brisas, and Tenaska face additional obstacles. # # # -- Cheers, Sean Sarah Communications Manager (South East & North East) Sierra Club Beyond Coal Campaign C: 330 338-3740 P: 202 548-4589 E: Sean.Sarah(a)sierraclub.org -- Oliver Bernstein National Communications Strategist Sierra Club Phone: 512.477.2152 x102 Cell: 512.289.8618 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the COAL-CAMPAIGN-ALERTS list, send any message to: COAL-CAMPAIGN-ALERTS-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp -- Paul Wilson Sierra Club 504 Jefferson Ave Charles Town, WV 25414-1130 Phone: 304-725-4360 Cell: 304-279-1361 "There is no forward until you have gone back" ~Buddha "In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous" ~ Aristotle

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Fwd: Tr-Ash Talk: W.V. Rep. McKinley Sells Out Constituents
by James Kotcon 21 Jun '11

21 Jun '11

Note: The markup (on McKinley's bill) was rescheduled for next Tuesday, June 21 at 4 p.m. Actions Tuesday morning? JBK >>> Jim Sconyers <jimscon(a)gmail.com> 6/17/2011 3:24 PM >>> Jim - I think we need to do something. This worthless SOB needs some consequences. What can we do? How about picketing his Morgantown office and getting media there? Or.......? ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Raviya Ismail <rismail(a)earthjustice.org> Date: Fri, Jun 17, 2011 at 9:13 AM Subject: Tr-Ash Talk: W.V. Rep. McKinley Sells Out Constituents To: COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE(a)lists.sierraclub.org Here is our latest Tr-Ash Talk blog: http://earthjustice.org/blog/2011-june/tr-ash-talk-w-v-rep-mckinley-sells-o… Emily Enderle Tr-Ash Talk: W.V. Rep. McKinley Sells Out Constituents Congressman’s district is home to largest coal ash pond Here we go again. Some of our elected leaders are once more maneuvering to block much-needed health protections against coal ash. Rep. David McKinley (R-WV) has sponsored a bill that would broadly remove federal authority for any regulation of coal ash ever. This bill, if enacted, also would conveniently protect his business interests. In April, Politico exposed Rep. McKinley’s business interest in ensuring that coal ash is not regulated. Rep McKinley owns the largest engineering firm in West Virginia and his company uses coal ash in concrete, as fill for roads and other uses. Rep. McKinley also represents a district that has the largest coal ash pond in the nation, and his bill goes against what he promised West Virginian Curt Havens, veteran and constituent. Havens was at the Energy and Commerce hearing in April, when Rep. McKinley said, about prior coal ash threats, "I want to make sure that never happens again to another family in America." (Those comments start at minute marker 2:26:26.) Again, business interests are coming before the interest of protecting public health. During the House budget negotiations February frenzy, Rep. McKinley sponsored amendment 217 that would have prohibited the EPA from using any of their funds to move forward with the health protective Subtitle C regulation. Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-FL) introduced amendment 10, trying to achieve the same thing. It’s no surprise that both congressmen are heavily supported by the energy sector. During his 2010 campaign Rep. McKinley received $43,300 from energy companies, and $22,751 of that came from mining interests, according to the Center for Responsive Politics. Rep. McKinley’s current effort to stop the regulation of this potent waste, H.R. 1391, would “amend the Solid Waste Disposal Act to exempt fly ash waste, bottom ash waste, slag waste and flue gas emission control waste generated primarily from the combustion of coal or other fossil fuels from regulation as hazardous waste under such Act.” H.R. 1391 was scheduled to be marked up in the Environment and Economy subcommittee of Energy and Commerce this morning. The markup had to be rescheduled for next Tuesday, June 21 at 4 p.m. due to a drafting error. The bill, as written, couldn’t have been much worse and it’s doubtful there will be any improvements as they fix the drafting error. Rep. McKinley and the bill supporters will continue to put public health at risk. Further, they will undermine the public coal ash rulemaking currently underway that generated a record-breaking 450,000 comments. This is a tragic example of how some elected officials bow to dirty polluters rather than heeding the concerns of their constituents. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE list, send any message to: COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp -- Jim Sconyers jimscon(a)gmail.com 304.698.9628

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Fw. Clarksburg (WV) Considers Selling Effluent Water for Fracking
by Frank Young 17 Jun '11

17 Jun '11

Well, if you can sell it to someone else instead of discharging it into a stream, maybe you can avoid having to meet effluent NPDES permit limits! ----- Original Message ----- From: Denise Binion To: WVEC Board Sent: Thursday, June 16, 2011 4:42 PM Subject: [wvec-board] Clarksburg Considers Selling Effluent Water for Fracking The City is obviously unaware of WHY the water should be put back into the West Fork River. http://www.wboy.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=101571 __._,_.___ Reply to sender | Reply to group | Reply via web post | Start a New Topic Messages in this topic (1) Recent Activity: Visit Your Group Switch to: Text-Only, Daily Digest . Unsubscribe . Terms of Use. __,_._,___

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Bizarre, awesome, fascinating, and beyond belief!!!
by Jim Sconyers 16 Jun '11

16 Jun '11

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: david sconyers <dsconyers(a)yahoo.com> Date: Thu, Jun 16, 2011 at 11:02 AM Subject: Toward A Green Future To: DV <donnaventriss(a)yahoo.com>, Jim <jimscon(a)gmail.com>, Armygrunt69(a)aol.com, barneyusmc6669(a)hotmail.com, bromley <bromhood(a)gmail.com>, brownk(a)southflorida.edu, steve burke <oldindianrider(a)aol.com>, Brent Davis < marine6(a)roadrunner.com>, days(a)americanfast.com, jerry dejonge < dejongej(a)southflorida.edu>, dennisinor(a)aol.com, Fpwingfield(a)aol.com, FUSMCRVN(a)verizon.net, GeneMarine(a)aol.com, Frank Gill <frgill(a)sbcglobal.net>, Frank and Jody Gill <frankgill(a)comcast.net>, clay gooch < clay_gooch(a)hotmail.com>, guentherd1(a)aol.com, Mark <MSconyers(a)olc152.com>, mcleodm(a)southflorida.edu, sandy/joe molineaux <sjmolino823(a)cox.net>, richard morey <moreyr(a)southflorida.edu>, lou piantadosi <LouPiant(a)aol.com>, pwingfld(a)comcast.net, ray.morris(a)comcast.net, Jim Sconyers < jim_scon(a)yahoo.com>, sgt_major(a)earthlink.net, ToMaui21(a)comcast.net, Jan Harrod <jsharrod(a)cox.net>, Jennifer Lawton <jennifer.lawton(a)gmail.com>, Mike <msconyers(a)sbcglobal.net>, Sarah <srstolfa(a)gmail.com>, Jeff Sconyers < jeff.sconyers(a)seattlechildrens.org>, Curtis Ventriss <clventriss(a)msn.com>, RA Ventriss <rventriss(a)aol.com>, Lisa Ventriss <lisa(a)vtroundtable.org>, Beverly Ventriss <bventris(a)pacbell.net> Or maybe too much time on his hands?? You decide. http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=HSKyHmjyrkA&feature=email "If people are good only because they fear punishment, and hope for reward, then we are a sorry lot indeed." (Albert Einstein) "True terror is to wake up one morning and discover that your high school class is running the country" (Kurt Vonnegut) "What better way for a ruling class to claim and hold power than to pose as the defenders of the nation." (Christopher Hitchens)

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Fwd: Re: [wvec-board] Marcellus Special Session
by James Kotcon 16 Jun '11

16 Jun '11

>>> Julie Archer <julie(a)wvcag.org> 6/16/2011 10:07 AM >>> FYI... Don Strimbeck's Daily Update included this article from the Dominion Post... *Marcellus committee OK'd * /Bicameral group to study drilling rules, regulation / */BY DAVID BEARD The Dominion Post /* CHARLESTON --- Marcellus regulation took a major step forward Wednesday afternoon, and if you had sneezed, you would have missed it. In the opening moments of the Joint Committee on Government and Finance meeting --- after the gaveling and the order for a silent roll --- acting Senate President Jeff Kessler moved to authorize a select committee to study Marcellus regulation. The motion passed without fanfare or discussion, and the panel --- the two chamber leaders, and political party and major committee heads --- moved on with its regular business. It took little more than 15 seconds. The audience was still settling down and the motion was hard to hear. But that little blip opens the door to a special session to pass Marcellus regulations. Kessler, Speaker Rick Thompson and acting Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin met Wednesday morning and agreed to create the committee. It will consist of five members each from the House and Senate. Thompson and Kessler said they hadn't yet appointed members. But they're confident the two chambers can reach an agreement --- each had passed a bill during the regular 2011 session but couldn't reach a compromise --- and bring it to Tomblin so he can call a special session. No one knows for sure when that will be. If there's an agreement in time, Kessler speculated, perhaps August --- the time also considered for a redistricting special session. Thompson said, "I think it would be very good if we could finish it this summer." He said a special session --- without the distractions of nearly 1,900 other bills --- is the best way to take it up. The failed mega-bills, in their various incarnations, took on environmental issues, surface owner rights, inspectors, permits and fees, fracking fluid, water withdrawals and discharges, forced pooling, road maintenance and more. Since then, following the permitting of two wells in the Morgantown Industrial Park, other issues have arisen --- including well locations near water supplies and the rights of cities to ban drilling and fracking. Thompson and Kessler said the select committee --- working with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the governor's office and various stakeholders --- has no limits on its discussions. Kessler used the term "pretty broad" while Thompson chose "wide open." "It's crucial to have a regulatory framework that protects the environment," provides regulatory certainty for the business community and protects surface and mineral owner rights, he said. While Tomblin previously said the DEP is already equipped to regulate the industry by making rules, DEP Secretary Randy Huffman said the agency is not, in fact, prepared to handle it. And Kessler opposes the idea on principle. "We can't just wait on bureaucratic administrative agencies to set the policy. That has to be done by the Legislature," he said. Thompson doesn't expect major progress by the July interims --- July 11-13 --- but that the committee and other parties could coordinate and "get some movement" during the interims. Asked about the governor's goals for the committee, Tomblin spokeswoman Jacqueline Proctor said he prefers to leave it in the hands of the committee, although he's happy to work with members as they see fit. The timeline to ready a bill or bills and bring them to him for a special session call is also up to the committee, she said. She speculated unofficially that August may be a little soon to get it all together. Asked if letters and resolutions from the public and public bodies --- including Morgantown, Monongalia County and the WVU Faculty Senate --- and proposed drilling bans helped spark Wednesday's actions, Proctor said Tomblin has had the discussion on his agenda for a while. But he's paying attention to what's going on, she said. "He's keeping everything on his radar as much as possible." Julie Archer WV Citizen Action Group 1500 Dixie Street Charleston, WV 25311 (304) 346-5891 (304) 346-8981 FAX www.wvcag.org On 6/15/2011 9:55 PM, dsgjr(a)aol.com wrote: > > After lobbying hard for a special session on Marcellus regulation for > two days, and hearing only very negative replies that it wasn't going > to happen, there was a sudden turn of events on Wednesday. > Wednesday afternoon, before they left town, the Joint Committee on > Government and Finance voted to form a Select Committee to prepare for > a special session on Marcellus drilling regulation. The committee > will consist of five Senate members and five House members, who will > be appointed by the Speaker and the acting Senate President. > Julie Archer and I were attending another Interim Committee meeting > when this occurred, so we don't have any more details at this time. > I will do some nosing around on Thursday to see if I can learn more. > Don Garvin > WVEC Legislative Coordinator > >

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Google makes Business Case for Wind
by William V. DePaulo, Esq. 16 Jun '11

16 Jun '11

Google makes Business Case for Wind Bill Opalka <http://www.energybiz.com/author/bill-opalka> | Jun 16, 2011 [image: Share/Save]<http://www.addtoany.com/share_save#url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.energybiz.com%2Fart…> <http://www.energybiz.com/article/11/06/google-makes-business-case-wind?utm_…> Renewable energy developers agree: The lack of clear, long-term signals from policymakers stalls investments in the clean energy space. As the new kid on the block, and not an energy company, Google is plowing ahead. While Congress seems absent on energy policy this year – except for the predictable hearings on high gasoline prices – clean energy companies are looking for a signal that investments will pay off once various credits and subsidies expire at the end of this year and next. The message came through at a press conference at the American Wind Energy Association <http://www.awea.org/> conference in Anaheim. But along with the policy imperative, Google said there’s a business case<http://www.google.com/green/>to be made. “We believe in a clean energy future so we’re trying to do what we can to help enable that, but we also believe very strongly that all the things we are doing make good business sense,” said Rick Needham, director of green business operations and strategy at Google. The company has invested $400 million in large scale renewable energy<http://www.renewablesbiz.com/article/10/05/google-buys>projects. “Also, these investments provide strong financial returns, and are a way to diversify our cash holdings with good returns given those risks,” Needham added. [image: IBM Webcast]<http://ads.energycentral.com/a.aspx?Task=Click&ZoneID=838&CampaignID=8318&A…> <http://ads.energycentral.com/a.aspx?ZoneID=838&Task=Click&Mode=HTML&SiteID=…> And as a large energy consumer, Google has procured two 20-year long-term power purchase agreements for 250 megawatts of wind providing clean energy for its data centers. But that only goes so far, as uncertain policy and recent history illustrate. Ned Hall, AES executive vice president and AES Wind Generation<http://www.aes.com/aes/index?page=wind>president, said: “We have a lot of examples in our industry as to what hasn’t worked out well for us. In the late 90s we built 35,0000 megawatts of natural gas generation in our rush to excitement to what was viewed as a disruptive technology. That drove natural gas prices to $13. And that ended badly for a lot of businesses.” The current mania over shale gas and the lack of a commitment to clean energy affects markets now. Hall is the incoming chairman of AWEA, so he’s clearly in the space for the long haul, too. But he’s seen this movie before, too. “The disruptive nature of shale gas has changed the map again and there’s a rush back to gas. If we’re always chasing what we view as the current least-cost opportunity, we won’t get the diversity that I think we would benefit from,” Hall said. He spoke approvingly of the market signals for renewables outside of the U.S.: “AES does business in 28 countries. Most of our time and effort on wind development is focused outside the U.S. because we don’t see what exists today as a motivator to come and put in the time and effort.” Does Google want to lead by example? “We would welcome and encourage other companies that may not be investing or offtaking (procuring) to do something that makes business sense for them to drive the industry forward,” Needham said. The uncertain regulatory environment is taking its toll. But some of that pain is being eased by the likes of Google and AES. Bill Opalka is editor of RenewablesBiz Daily -- William V. DePaulo, Esq. 179 Summers Street, Suite 232 Charleston, WV 25301-2163 Tel 304-342-5588 Fax 304-342-5505 william.depaulo(a)gmail.com www.passeggiata.com

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Fwd: DEP Public Notice - 2012 Proposed Air Rules Hearing Set
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 14 Jun '11

14 Jun '11

At the Skyview meeting in Morgantown, Bill Hughs of WCAG said that attempts to have air emissions from aggregated sources from drilling sites properly monitored under WVDEP's rules have repeatedly failed. In fact, their lawyers blocked any such requests. WVDEP's rules need to be changed. An opportunity to request changes is coming up as shown below. -Jonathan -------- Original Message -------- Subject: DEP Public Notice - 2012 Proposed Air Rules AvailaHearing Set Date: Mon, 13 Jun 2011 16:49:39 -0400 From: <dep.online(a)wv.gov> To: <freesource(a)cheat.org> The following was sent to you because you are a Member of the DEP Public Notice mailing list. =========================================================== Monday, June 13, 2011 @ 4:49 PM =========================================================== 2012 Proposed Air Rules Hearing Set and Rules Available on DEP Website for Review The West Virginia Division of Air Quality has scheduled a public hearing on July 11, 2011 for its 2012 proposed legislative rules, which will take place at the Division of Environmental Protection’s Charleston headquarters, 601 57th Street S.E., Charleston, WV 25304. Oral and written comments will be limited to the proposed revisions and will be made a part of the rulemaking record. Copies of the rules are available from the Secretary of State’s office or from the DEP at http://www.dep.wv.gov/pio/Pages/Rules.aspx. You may also obtain hard copies of the information by calling the phone number listed below. Written comments may be submitted to the Public Information Office at the above address. Comments may also be e-mailed to dep.comments(a)wv.gov. The hearing dates, locations and comment deadlines are as follows: Division of Air Quality 45CSR8 – Ambient Air Quality Standards 45CSR14 – Permits for Construction and Major Modification of Major Stationary Sources of Air Pollution for the Prevention of Significant Deterioration 45CSR16 – Standards of Performance for New Stationary Sources 45CSR18 - Control of Air Pollution from Combustion of Solid Waste 45CSR19 – Permits for Construction and Major Modification of Major Stationary Sources of Air Pollution Which Cause or Contribute to Nonattainment 45CSR25 – Control of Air Pollution from Hazardous Waste Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facilities 45CSR30 – Requirements for Operating Permits 45CSR34 – Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants 45CSR35 – Requirements for Determining Conformity of General Federal Actions to Applicable Air Quality Implementation Plans (General Conformity) 45CSR42 – Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Program The public hearing for all air quality rules will take place beginning at 6 p.m. on July 11, 2011 in the Dolly Sods Conference Room. The comment period will begin on June 10, 2011 and end at the conclusion of the public hearing on July 11, 2011. Upon authorization and promulgation of revisions to 45CSR8, 45CSR14, 45CSR19 and 45CSR35, the DAQ will submit the rules to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as revisions to the State Implementation Plan pursuant to the federal Clean Air Act. Upon authorization and promulgation of revisions to 45CSR18, the DAQ will submit the final rule to the U.S. EPA for approval as a part of West Virginia’s Section 111(d)/129 Plan and program delegation of the federal New Source Performance Standards. Rules 45CSR16, 45CSR25 and 45CSR34 will be submitted to EPA to fulfill other federal obligations under the Clean Air Act, including delegations, plans and program approvals. Upon authorization and promulgation of 45CSR30, the rule will be submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a revision to the State’s Operating Permit Program under Title V of the federal Clean Air Act. Rule 45CSR42 is proposed to be repealed. For more information on any of the DAQ rules call 304-926-0475. =========================================================== To view past notices of open public comment periods or to unsubscribe from this Mailing List, login at: http://apps.dep.wv.gov//MLists2/

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Robert Bryce: America Needs the Shale Revolution - The Wall Street Journal.
by William DePaulo 13 Jun '11

13 Jun '11

I thought you would be interested in the following story on WSJ.com. Robert Bryce: America Needs the Shale Revolution http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304432304576369140191493636.h… The Wall Street Journal Mobile Reader for iPhoneTM delivers the latest global news, financial events, market insights and information to keep you ahead of the curve. Get the information you depend on plus entertainment, culture, and sports coverage when, where, and how you want it from the most credible source for news and information. Click below to download the WSJ Mobile Reader for free from the iTunes App Store. http://www.wsj.com/iphoneinstall William V DePaulo, Esq 179 Summers Street #232 Charleston WV 25301-2163 Tel 304-342-5588 Fax 304-342-5505 william.depaulo(a)gmail.com www.passeggiata.com

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AEP plant closings.
by James Kotcon 13 Jun '11

13 Jun '11

I expect such statements from the likes of Manchin and McKinley, but here is the quote that troubles me. "Kessler said he would like to see the EPA guidelines changed so that plants like Kammer would be able to remain viable producers of electricity, adding he will work to make that change happen." JBK Both Anger And Optimism Voiced On Fate of Plant June 10, 2011 By J.W. JOHNSON JR. Staff Writer , The Intelligencer / Wheeling News-Register Congressman David McKinley said Thursday that the more than 240 West Virginia workers affected by the closure of five American Electric Power plants deserve an explanation, not from AEP, but from the federal Environmental Protection Agency and, ideally, the president. "President (Barack) Obama and EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson should come to West Virginia and see first-hand the faces of the folks that no longer have jobs because of their extreme regulatory policies," he said. McKinley, R-W.Va., is one of many local and state representatives who voiced anger at Thursday's announcement that AEP's Kammer Plant could be closed by 2014 as a result of proposed EPA regulations. Representatives from AEP said the plant would close under the company's new compliance plan, which was introduced Thursday. The plan would close five plants in West Virginia and one in Ohio in an effort to become compliant with the proposed regulations. The move would affect 60 employees at the Kammer Plant and 242 statewide. McKinley said that decision is the best example of why unemployment numbers are so high across the country, and he hoped Obama would accept his invitation. "Just this week the president said he is concerned that we are not producing jobs as quickly as he would like it to happen," McKinley said. "The men and women who lost their jobs at American Energy Power know exactly why we continue to hemorrhage jobs, and that is an ideologically driven agenda that is out of touch with working men and women and businesses large and small." Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., said he would make himself available to the AEP employees affected by the closures and that proposed EPA regulations are an example of government run amok. "It's decisions like the one made by AEP that demonstrate the urgent need to rein in government agencies like the EPA, preventing them from overstepping their bounds and imposing regulations that not only cost us good American jobs, but hurt our economy," he said. "Onerous regulations issued by the EPA are the reason that 242 West Virginians will lose their jobs, and that's simply wrong." Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., echoed Manchin's statement, adding that in this instance, the EPA did not properly analyze the situation to understand the loss of jobs and increase in cost to consumers. "This is a perfect example of the EPA implementing rules and regulations without considering the devastating impact they may have on local economies and jobs," she said, adding she will be drafting a letter to Jackson to see documentation that economic impact was taken into account when creating the new regulations. Representatives from Marshall County said they were notified of the planned closure Thursday morning by AEP representatives, though many of them chose to remain optimistic about the news. Delegate Mike Ferro said the news was "devastating," especially after recent talk of bringing an ethane cracking plant to the county had officials expecting an economic boost. "Now all of sudden you kind of get kicked a bit," he said, adding he hoped those involved would have "a change of heart." State Sen. Jeff Kessler said although AEP has said a number of the 60 employees would be reaching retirement age in the coming years and that the company would attempt to find new positions for the remaining employees, he is not interested in job creation by attrition. "I am more concerned about long-term growth and maintaining a vibrant work force in Marshall County," he said. "We have to see if we can pick up the slack." Kessler said he would like to see the EPA guidelines changed so that plants like Kammer would be able to remain viable producers of electricity, adding he will work to make that change happen. County Commissioner Jason "Jake" Padlow said he was glad AEP gave employees such advance notice - nearly three years - and that he hoped that was enough time for the county to show that it deserves to keep the plant. "Hopefully with what is going on in Marshall County with the increase in business and industry, we can convince them to change their plans," he said.

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email changing
by Jim Sconyers 13 Jun '11

13 Jun '11

I am slowly switching over to gmail from Yahoo. I intend to use gmail only starting July 1, 2011. Please change my email address to jimscon(a)gmail.com Thanks Jim Sconyers jim_scon(a)yahoo.com 304.698.9628 Remember: Mother Nature bats last.

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NYTimes.com: Prices Fall for Some Gas-Rich Shale Land
by william.depaulo＠gmail.com 12 Jun '11

12 Jun '11

This page was sent to you by: william.depaulo(a)gmail.com. BUSINESS DAY | June 10, 2011 Reuters Breakingviews: Prices Fall for Some Gas-Rich Shale Land By CHRISTOPHER SWANN and REYNOLDS HOLDING The Marcellus shale has offered some of the hottest wildcat real estate in recent years, but if Exxon Mobil's recent $1.7 billion acquisition is any indication, the days of eye-watering prices are over. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/10/business/10views.html?emc=eta1 ---------------------------------------------------------- ABOUT THIS E-MAIL This e-mail was sent to you by a friend through NYTimes.com's E-mail This Article service. For general information about NYTimes.com, write to help(a)nytimes.com. NYTimes.com 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018 Copyright 2011 The New York Times Company

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Re: [EC] [WVHCBOARD] The cost of wind and solar energy
by Frank Young 10 Jun '11

10 Jun '11

Two excerpts from the article: "The math is simple: to have 8,500 megawatts of solar capacity, California would need at least 23 projects the size of Ivanpah, covering about 129 square miles, an area more than five times as large as Manhattan." "The Roscoe wind farm in Texas, which has a capacity of 781.5 megawatts, covers about 154 square miles. Again, the math is straightforward: to have 8,500 megawatts of wind generation capacity, California would likely need to set aside an area equivalent to more than 70 Manhattans. Apart from the impact on the environment itself, few if any people could live on the land because of the noise (and the infrasound, which is inaudible to most humans but potentially harmful) produced by the turbines." (emphasis added- F.Y.) ----------------------------------------- Frank's commentary- If we are going to mathematically render uninhabitable all lands on which "inaudible" but harmful effects emanate from power generating facilities, we would include all areas downwind of coal fired generating facilities that generate particulate matter- because such particulates are demonstrably responsible for thousands of premature human deaths. See the related map and narrative data here: http://www.catf.us/coal/problems/power_plants/existing/ "In 2000 and again in 2004, Abt Associates issued a study commissioned by the Clean Air Task Force quantifying the deaths and other health affects attributable to the fine particle pollution from power plants. In this newly updated study, CATF examines the progress towards cleaning up one of the nation's leading sources of pollution. The report finds that over 13,000 deaths each year are attributable to fine particle pollution from U.S. power plants." "Simple" and "straightforward" math- indeed! Frank ----- Original Message ----- From: "Hugh Rogers" <hugh.rogers(a)gmail.com> To: "WVHCBOARD" <WVHCBOARD(a)yahoogroups.com> Sent: Wednesday, June 08, 2011 9:00 AM Subject: [WVHCBOARD] The cost of wind and solar energy Robert Bryce ("Power Hungry" author) is back w/ some figures on "energy sprawl." Once again, he's good at debunking the notion that wind and solar are "free"--but five words from the end of the piece he gets to his pet alternatives, natural gas and nuclear power. Op-Ed Contributor The Gas Is Greener: The Cost of Renewable Energy Sources By ROBERT BRYCE Published: June 7, 2011 http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/08/opinion/08bryce.html IN April, Gov. Jerry Brown made headlines by signing into law an ambitious mandate that requires California to obtain one-third of its electricity from renewable energy sources like sunlight and wind by 2020. Twenty-nine states and the District of Columbia now have renewable electricity mandates. President Obama and several members of Congress have supported one at the federal level. Polls routinely show strong support among voters for renewable energy projects — as long as they don’t cost too much. But there’s the rub: while energy sources like sunlight and wind are free and naturally replenished, converting them into large quantities of electricity requires vast amounts of natural resources — most notably, land. Even a cursory look at these costs exposes the deep contradictions in the renewable energy movement. Consider California’s new mandate. The state’s peak electricity demand is about 52,000 megawatts. Meeting the one-third target will require (if you oversimplify a bit) about 17,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity. Let’s assume that California will get half of that capacity from solar and half from wind. Most of its large-scale solar electricity production will presumably come from projects like the $2 billion Ivanpah solar plant, which is now under construction in the Mojave Desert in southern California. When completed, Ivanpah, which aims to provide 370 megawatts of solar generation capacity, will cover 3,600 acres — about five and a half square miles. The math is simple: to have 8,500 megawatts of solar capacity, California would need at least 23 projects the size of Ivanpah, covering about 129 square miles, an area more than five times as large as Manhattan. While there’s plenty of land in the Mojave, projects as big as Ivanpah raise environmental concerns. In April, the federal Bureau of Land Management ordered a halt to construction on part of the facility out of concern for the desert tortoise, which is protected under the Endangered Species Act. Wind energy projects require even more land. The Roscoe wind farm in Texas, which has a capacity of 781.5 megawatts, covers about 154 square miles. Again, the math is straightforward: to have 8,500 megawatts of wind generation capacity, California would likely need to set aside an area equivalent to more than 70 Manhattans. Apart from the impact on the environment itself, few if any people could live on the land because of the noise (and the infrasound, which is inaudible to most humans but potentially harmful) produced by the turbines. Industrial solar and wind projects also require long swaths of land for power lines. Last year, despite opposition from environmental groups, San Diego Gas & Electric started construction on the 117-mile Sunrise Powerlink, which will carry electricity from solar, wind and geothermal projects located in Imperial County, Calif., to customers in and around San Diego. In January, environmental groups filed a federal lawsuit to prevent the $1.9 billion line from cutting through a nearby national forest. Not all environmentalists ignore renewable energy’s land requirements. The Nature Conservancy has coined the term “energy sprawl” to describe it. Unfortunately, energy sprawl is only one of the ways that renewable energy makes heavy demands on natural resources. Consider the massive quantities of steel required for wind projects. The production and transportation of steel are both expensive and energy-intensive, and installing a single wind turbine requires about 200 tons of it. Many turbines have capacities of 3 or 4 megawatts, so you can assume that each megawatt of wind capacity requires roughly 50 tons of steel. By contrast, a typical natural gas turbine can produce nearly 43 megawatts while weighing only 9 tons. Thus, each megawatt of capacity requires less than a quarter of a ton of steel. Obviously these are ballpark figures, but however you crunch the numbers, the takeaway is the same: the amount of steel needed to generate a given amount of electricity from a wind turbine is greater by several orders of magnitude. Such profligate use of resources is the antithesis of the environmental ideal. Nearly four decades ago, the economist E. F. Schumacher distilled the essence of environmental protection down to three words: “Small is beautiful.” In the rush to do something — anything — to deal with the intractable problem of greenhouse gas emissions, environmental groups and policy makers have determined that renewable energy is the answer. But in doing so they’ve tossed Schumacher’s dictum into the ditch. All energy and power systems exact a toll. If we are to take Schumacher’s phrase to heart while also reducing the rate of growth of greenhouse gas emissions, we must exploit the low-carbon energy sources — natural gas and, yes, nuclear — that have smaller footprints. Robert Bryce, a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, is the author, most recently, of “Power Hungry: The Myths of ‘Green’ Energy and the Real Fuels of the Future.” ------------------------------------ Working since 1967 for the conservation and wise management of West Virginia's natural resourcesYahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WVHCBOARD/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WVHCBOARD/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: WVHCBOARD-digest(a)yahoogroups.com WVHCBOARD-fullfeatured(a)yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: WVHCBOARD-unsubscribe(a)yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

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Fw: Re: renewable energy output
by Jim Sconyers 09 Jun '11

09 Jun '11

Sweet news! Jim Sconyers jim_scon(a)yahoo.com 304.698.9628 Remember: Mother Nature bats last. ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Jane W. <japlapoo(a)NETZERO.NET> To: CONS-SPST-GLOBALWARM-CHAIRS(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Sent: Thu, June 9, 2011 5:37:40 PM Subject: Fw: Re: renewable energy output Just passing along... ---------- Forwarded Message ---------- From: Buffalo Bruce <buffalobruce1(a)GMAIL.COM> To: NE-FORUM(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Subject: Re: renewable energy output Date: Thu, 9 Jun 2011 11:39:42 -0700 For those of you who may not have heard yet, Renewable Energy production now exceeds that of Nuclear Power in the U.S. U.S. Renewable Energy Now 11.6% of Domestic Energy Production, Exceeding Nuclear Power: U.S. Energy Information Administration, May 26, 2011 http://www.eia.gov/totalenergy/data/monthly/index.cfm In its latest "Monthly Energy Review," the EIA reports that for the first two months of 2011, renewable energy sources (i.e., biomass/biofuels, geothermal, solar, water, wind) accounted for 11.6% of domestic energy production - compared to 10.7% for the same period in 2010. Moreover, the combined energy output from all renewable energy sources exceeded that of nuclear power. The latter actually declined by 0.2% from 2010. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the NE-FORUM list, send any message to: NE-FORUM-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp To view the Sierra Club List Terms & Conditions, see: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/terms.asp- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the CONS-SPST-GLOBALWARM-CHAIRS list, send any message to: CONS-SPST-GLOBALWARM-CHAIRS-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp To view the Sierra Club List Terms & Conditions, see: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/terms.asp

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Fwd: WV-SORO Action Alert: Energy Panel Needs to Hear from You
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 09 Jun '11

09 Jun '11

-------- Original Message -------- Subject: WV-SORO Action Alert: Energy Panel Needs to Hear from You Date: Thu, 09 Jun 2011 17:05:27 -0400 From: Julie Archer <julie(a)wvsoro.org> Organization: WV-SORO To: undisclosed-recipients:; /An action alert from our friends at the Oil and Gas Accountability Project <http://www.earthworksaction.org/oil_and_gas.cfm>: / *U.S. Department of Energy to hear from citizens of the Marcellus Shale ~ Share your knowledge and tell your story! * *Monday, June 13, 2011 7:00pm -- 9:00 pm (sign up to speak begins at 6:30 pm) Washington Jefferson College 60 South Lincoln Street, Washington PA* In May, U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu announced the establishment of the Energy Advisory Board Natural Gas Subcommittee on Fracking Issues to make recommendations on improving the "safety and environmental performance" of hydraulic fracturing in shale formations. It's very positive that this critical issue is being investigated at the federal level. But many organizations and citizens loudly voiced concern that many of the Subcommittee's members are closely tied to the oil and gas industry, that no one directly impacted by shale gas development was included, and that meetings were only being held in Washington, DC, far from the areas already damaged by drilling. Thanks to this outcry, the Subcommittee just announced it will hold a meeting in Washington, PA, next week. / _Members need to hear from people whose water, property, and health have been impacted by gas drilling, and they need to be told why current industry practices and regulations are not nearly enough to protect our communities._/ */This meeting is open to the public but space is limited and comments will be limited to two minutes. Those wishing to speak should arrive early to sign up. /* *If you can't make it there in person or have more information to share, you can submit a written statement and other documentation to:* Renee Stone U.S. Department of Energy 1000 Independence Avenue, SW Washington D.C. 20585 or by email to: shalegas(a)hq.doe.gov. *For more information see:* /New York Times/ article: Energy Dept. Panel to Revise Standards for Gas Extraction, http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/07/science/earth/07frack.html?_r=2&hpw Natural Gas Subcommittee on Fracking Issues website: www.shalegas.energy.gov OGAP Press release on the make-up of the Subcommittee: http://earthworksaction.org/PR_DOE-fracking-panel.cfm -- Julie Archer WV Surface Owners' Rights Organization 1500 Dixie Street Charleston, WV 25311 (304) 346-5891 (304) 346-8981 FAX www.wvsoro.org

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Fwd: "Stop the Fracking in Morgantown Industrial Park" sent you a message on Facebook...
by James Kotcon 09 Jun '11

09 Jun '11

Check out the attached to see a summary of what is happening in Morgantown. JBK

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Fw: EPA Webinar June 15 - Guidance Development on Permitting the Use of Diesel Fuels in Hydraulic Fracturing
by Jim Sconyers 07 Jun '11

07 Jun '11

Jim Sconyers jim_scon(a)yahoo.com 304.698.9628 Remember: Mother Nature bats last. ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: "fracturing_hydraulic(a)epamail.epa.gov" <fracturing_hydraulic(a)epamail.epa.gov> Sent: Mon, June 6, 2011 3:08:17 PM Subject: EPA Webinar June 15 - Guidance Development on Permitting the Use of Diesel Fuels in Hydraulic Fracturing You are receiving this information because you opted to be informed of activities related to hydraulic fracturing when registering for hearings on EPA's draft study plan in summer and fall 2010. EPA is hosting a public informational webinar on June 15, 2011, from 2:00 - 5:00 pm Eastern Daylight Time, to discuss and to solicit input on a guidance the Agency is developing to assist the Underground Injection Control Program in issuing permits for the use of diesel fuels in oil and gas hydraulic fracturing. The webinar is open to the public, and all interested stakeholders are invited to attend. Stakeholders interested in attending the webinar are invited to pre-register at this website, https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/854776506, at least three (3) days in advance. Pre-registering for the meeting will allow EPA to improve meeting planning. The webinar will begin with a presentation by the EPA Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water on the Underground Injection Control program and possible approaches the Agency may recommend in a guidance for permitting the use of diesel fuels in hydraulic fracturing activities related to oil and natural gas extraction. EPA will answer questions and take comments submitted by webinar attendees for the remainder of the webinar. Persons who are successfully registered for the webinar via the website, https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/854776506, may (1) submit questions and comments to EPA during the online registration process and during the webinar, or (2) submit written comments to hydraulic.fracturing(a)epa.gov by June 29, 2011. Due to time limits, EPA may not be able to answer every question submitted during the registration process and during the webinar. Persons wishing to contribute written comments to EPA regarding the development of permitting guidance for oil and gas hydraulic fracturing activities using diesel fuels may also send written comments to hydraulic.fracturing(a)epa.gov with the words "Diesel Fuels Guidance Comments" in the subject line by June 29, 2011. EPA will not provide individual responses to written comments received by email. For more information and registration link, please see http://www.epa.gov/hydraulicfracturing. ______________________________________________________________________________________ Please respond to hydraulic.fracturing(a)epa.gov. For more information on the EPA activities related to hydraulic fracturing, please see http://epa.gov/hydraulicfracturing. To report non-emergency suspicious activity related to oil and gas activity, please call the EPA Eyes on Drilling toll-free tipline at 1-877-919-4EPA or send email to eyesondrilling(a)epa.gov.

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Marcellus Fw: Perfectly safe
by Jim Sconyers 07 Jun '11

07 Jun '11

A perfect example of what can go so wrong. Jim Sconyers jim_scon(a)yahoo.com 304.698.9628 Remember: Mother Nature bats last. ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Don Sauter <dtsauter(a)frontiernet.net> To: Susan Sauter <stsauter(a)frontiernet.net>; Sandra Fallon <sfallon3(a)comcast.net>; Rick Sanders <Ridewva(a)aol.com>; Jim Sconyers <jim_scon(a)yahoo.com> Sent: Mon, June 6, 2011 9:43:02 PM Subject: Perfectly safe http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11156/1151527-503.stm

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Fw: Maryland Moratorium
by Jim Sconyers 07 Jun '11

07 Jun '11

Awesome news. Jim Sconyers jim_scon(a)yahoo.com 304.698.9628 Remember: Mother Nature bats last. ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Don Sauter <dtsauter(a)frontiernet.net> To: Susan Sauter <stsauter(a)frontiernet.net> Cc: Jim Sconyers <jim_scon(a)yahoo.com>; Sandra Fallon <sfallon3(a)comcast.net>; John (wnpb) Nakashima <jnakashima(a)wvpubcast.org>; Nadine Grabania <greenacres(a)deepcreekcellars.com>; Kay & Bill Miller <kaybill(a)frontiernet.net>; Janine Breyel <jbreyel(a)gmail.com>; Kathy Evans <EvansKnob(a)aol.com>; larj <larj(a)frontiernet.net>; Rick Sanders <Ridewva(a)aol.com>; TV <HopZo(a)verizon.net> Sent: Mon, June 6, 2011 9:39:49 PM Subject: Maryland Moratorium Today the Governor of Maryland signed an executive order placing a moratorium on all Marcellus Shale drilling. It is very strict and requires (among other things) the industry to establish a plan of how they will pay for any damage created by the process. Hopefully the papers will have the full story tomorrow. Maryland's governor only has one first name. Don

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Permit Party June 21 - learning opportunity.
by James Kotcon 07 Jun '11

07 Jun '11

Many facilities need various environmental permits to operate, and these almost always must go through a "public comment" process. But how do you develop useful comments that will actually improve environmental protection? Join us as we review the Coresco fly ash permit and develop comments for the WV Chapter of Sierra Club. See the various parts of the permit, learn to decipher the jargon, identify gaps, and spot weaknesses. Good comments provide the basis for all future appeals and activity, and we need more people able to help draft these comments. You can be the critical link in the environmental protection process. (Desserts welcome). Tuesday, June 21. 6:30 PM home of Jim Kotcon & Candice Elliott 414 Tyrone Avery Road Morgantown, WV 26506 Directions: >From I-68 Exit 7, go North 1.0 mile on Rt 857. Turn Right onto Tyrone Avery Road and go 1.0 mile. Look for 4 mailboxes on the right, ours is the second from the end. Turn right up the gravel driveway and come to the second house on the right tan 2-story. Call 304-594-3322 for directions. Jim Kotcon

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NYTimes.com: U.K. Company Suspends Controversial Drilling Procedure
by william.depaulo＠gmail.com 04 Jun '11

04 Jun '11

This page was sent to you by: william.depaulo(a)gmail.com. BUSINESS DAY | June 02, 2011 U.K. Company Suspends Controversial Drilling Procedure By DAVID JOLLY Cuadrilla acted after two small earthquakes occurred near a test well in Lancashire, England, where the company was using fracking to explore for natural gas. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/02/business/global/02fracking.html?emc=eta1 ---------------------------------------------------------- ABOUT THIS E-MAIL This e-mail was sent to you by a friend through NYTimes.com's E-mail This Article service. For general information about NYTimes.com, write to help(a)nytimes.com. NYTimes.com 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018 Copyright 2011 The New York Times Company

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Fwd: Rapid Response LTEs, RSVP for Health Effects call
by Paul Wilson 03 Jun '11

03 Jun '11

fyi, paul ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Sierra Club Activist Network <community.manager(a)sierraclub.org> Date: Fri, Jun 3, 2011 at 11:37 AM Subject: Rapid Response LTEs, RSVP for Health Effects call To: pjgrunt(a)gmail.com Paul, you have a group bulletin from *Hydrofracking Team<http://connect.sierraclub.org/Team/Hydrofracking_Team> *. *Visit Hydrofracking Team.<http://connect.sierraclub.org/Team/Hydrofracking_Team> * Message: When news stories on fracking appear, but you can't find the right words to respond, it can help to have a template to start from. When you want to write your representative about a bill, it helps to have a template outlining some key points. The Rapid Response Project<http://connect.sierraclub.org/project/Hydrofracking_Rapid_Response>'s *collaboration space* is a place to find templates and to add your own for others to use. It also has a *blog* to post articles that need attention, forwarding, praise, or critical response. Join the Rapid Response Project<http://connect.sierraclub.org/project/Hydrofracking_Rapid_Response> to be a first responder, and help keep fracking front and center in the news, on the web, and on the desks of our representatives. Thank you! ------------------------------ *Visit Hydrofracking Team.<http://connect.sierraclub.org/Team/Hydrofracking_Team> * ------------------------------ Reply? Or other thoughts? If you have questions about the bulletin CONTENT, please visit the group's page and leave a comment<http://connect.sierraclub.org/Team/Hydrofracking_Team>, or contact the group owner. *Technical Issues?* Please reply to this message (or email community.manager(a)sierraclub.org) if you have questions or problems with the bulletin itself. If you want to stop getting email, you can either leave (unjoin) or set your email preferences<http://connect.sierraclub.org/editor/app/group/managegroupmembership.aspx?O…> . -- Paul Wilson Sierra Club 504 Jefferson Ave Charles Town, WV 25414-1130 Phone: 304-725-4360 Cell: 304-279-1361 "There is no forward until you have gone back" ~Buddha "In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous" ~ Aristotle

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nonpartisan independent research: Headwaters Economics
by Paul Wilson 03 Jun '11

03 Jun '11

This site looks like it might be of value on energy issues. check out the home page article on Fossil Fuel Extraction and Western Economies. fyi, paul http://headwaterseconomics.org/ -- Paul Wilson Sierra Club 504 Jefferson Ave Charles Town, WV 25414-1130 Phone: 304-725-4360 Cell: 304-279-1361 "There is no forward until you have gone back" ~Buddha "In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous" ~ Aristotle

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Fwd: [MVCAC] Community Environmental Legal Defense Fund (CELDF)
by James Kotcon 03 Jun '11

03 Jun '11

You're gonna love this. I especially like the line that says corporations in violation of the prohibition shall not have legal status as "persons". Unfortunately, the US Constitution and the US Supreme Court still trump a City Ordinance, but it would give the lawyers something to do. See attachment. JBK >>> <Duane330(a)aol.com> 6/2/2011 11:53 PM >>> The Concerned Citizens for Safe Air and Water were formed by Kathy Cash, Sandra Fallon, Alice Meehan, Ann Payne, Catherine Tall out of concern for the Marcellus shale drilling permits at the Morgantown Industrial Park. They organized a large meeting at the Morgantown High School on Friday night, May 20th. The attendees divided up into 5 committees – one of which was the legal committee chaired by Kitty Lozier and Duane Nichols. I was unable to attend the meeting at MHS. The legal committee was interested in finding out how the cities of Pittsburgh, Buffalo and other locations had adopted their bans against shale gas extraction. They learned that the technical assistance had been provided to each of these city councils by the Community Environmental Legal Defense Fund. The program director responsible for the ban ordinances was Ben Price. Price was familiar with the Wellsburg ordinance and has been working with the Pocahontas County citizens in WV as well. Kitty and Duane were able to set up a conference call with Ben Price and with the some of the rest of the committee members at 2 p.m. on Thursday, May 26. The legal committee asked Jenny Selin and me to join them because of our council activity in support of the resolutions that I drafted before the previous City Council Meeting on May 17. During the first conference call Price offered to draft an ordinance and to come to Morgantown to speak in its support. The committee members on the call were pleased with his offer. Nichols offered to coordinate the arrangements. A second call was set up for May 27 at 4 p.m. in which I was unable to participate. Late Thursday afternoon I did, however, call the City Manager and asked him to place the consideration of an ordinance “protecting public health, public safety and public welfare” on the agenda for the May 31 Committee Of The Whole Meeting – even though at that time (because Chambersburg services being disabled by the violent storm earlier Thursday), we had not yet received a copy of the draft. The first draft became available for the 4 p.m. Friday call. I received my draft about 8 p.m. that evening when I returned home (May 27). On Saturday a.m. I made several calls (which were difficult to complete due to the holiday weekend), and then called Price back on Monday (May 30) noon with some recommended changes and corrections that had been suggested by different persons. I received a copy of the revised draft that would be presented at the meeting by Councilor Selin late Monday evening. All of this push was deemed necessary because of the state of the drilling plans and preparation on the drill site across the Mon river. Waiting a month until the June COW made no sense at all to anyone on the committee. I was unable to contact Mayor Byrne throughout the weekend and finally after consultations with Councilor Selin did sent out the copy of the proposed ordinance to the full Council at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday morning. I did not consult with the City Manager before sending out the material to the Council. But copies of the email and the ordinance were sent to Terrance Moore and Jeff Mikorski simultaneously with the 9 a.m. Council mailing. The names of the persons on the original conference call on May 26 were as follows: Kitty Lozier, League of Women Voters Jenny Selin, City Council Member Don Spencer, City Council Member and Deputy Mayor until June 30 Linda Shuster, Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition Robert Bastress, Professor, WVU College of Law Evan Hansen, Environmental Consultant, Downstream Technologies Duane Nichols, Monongahela Area Watersheds Compact Members of the legal committee of the Concerned Citizens for Safe Air and Water hosted Price and paid for his travel and lodging from Chambersburg, PA. Don Spencer, Morgantown City Council >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> THE DRAFT ORDINANCE, ATTACHED, WAS INTRODUCED TO CITY COUNCIL IN THE "COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE" THIS PAST TUESDAY. AFTER EXTENDED DISCUSSION IT WAS "FORWARDED TO RESEARCH" RATHER THAN BEING "FORWARDED TO THE AGENDA FOR THE UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETING ON JUNE 7TH. THREE OTHER RESOLUTIONS HAVING TO DO WITH THE MARCELLUS DRILLING WERE "FORWARDED TO THE AGENDA" FOR THE JUNE 7TH MEETING, ONE OF WHICH WAS A BAN ON DRILLING WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS AND EXTENDING OUT ONE MILE PATTERNED AFTER THE WELLSBURG (wv) BAN ON SUCH DRILLING. Mayor Bill Byrne says that the CELDF ordinance (attached) has a very weak legal foundation, and is no consistent with State law. Ben Price of the CELDF says that the Wellsburg ban has a weak foundation and can be easily overturned in the future. We shall see if anything gets done in future City Council meetings.

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Drilling along Dunkard Creek
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 28 May '11

28 May '11

Anyone remember the Dunkard Creek debacle? Now Northeast Natural Energy, the same inexperienced company that is now drilling 3000 feet from Morgantown's water source, is going to be drilling in that watershed, too. http://www.dailymail.com/ap/ApTopStories/201105280432 -Jonathan

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fracking for OIL
by William V. DePaulo, Esq. 28 May '11

28 May '11

Shale Boom in Texas Could Increase U.S. Oil Output Michael Stravato for The New York Times By CLIFFORD KRAUSS<http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/k/clifford_kraus…> Published: May 27, 2011 ose<http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/28/business/energy-environment/28shale.html?…> CATARINA, Tex. — Until last year, the 17-mile stretch of road between this forsaken South Texas village and the county seat of Carrizo Springs Now the region is in the hottest new oil<http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/business/energy-environment/oil-petroleu…>play in the country, with giant oil terminals and sprawling RV parks replacing fields of mesquite. More than a dozen companies plan to drill up to 3,000 wells around here in the next 12 months. The Texas field, known as the Eagle Ford, is just one of about 20 new onshore oil fields that advocates say could collectively increase the nation’s oil output by 25 percent within a decade — without the dangers of drilling in the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico or the delicate coastal areas off Alaska. There is only one catch: the oil from the Eagle Ford and similar fields of tightly packed rock can be extracted only by using hydraulic fracturing, a method that uses a high-pressure mix of water, sand and hazardous chemicals to blast through the rocks to release the oil inside. The technique, also called fracking, has been widely used in the last decade to unlock vast new fields of natural gas<http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/business/energy-environment/natural-gas/…>, but drillers only recently figured out how to release large quantities of oil, which flows less easily through rock than gas. As evidence mounts that fracking poses risks to water supplies, the federal government and regulators in various states are considering tighter regulations on it. The oil industry says any environmental concerns are far outweighed by the economic benefits of pumping previously inaccessible oil from fields that could collectively hold two or three times as much oil as Prudhoe Bay, the Alaskan field that was the last great onshore discovery. The companies estimate that the boom will create more than two million new jobs, directly or indirectly, and bring tens of billions of dollars to the states where the fields are located, which include traditional oil sites like Texas and Oklahoma, industrial stalwarts like Ohio and Michigan and even farm states like Kansas. “It’s the one thing we have seen in our adult lives that could take us away from imported oil,” said Aubrey McClendon, chief executive of Chesapeake Energy, one of the most aggressive drillers. “What if we have found three of the world’s biggest oil fields in the last three years right here in the U.S.? How transformative could that be for the U.S. economy?” The oil rush is already transforming this impoverished area of Texas near the Mexican border, doubling real estate values in the last year and filling restaurants and hotels. “That’s oil money,” said Bert Bell, a truck company manager, pointing to the new pickup truck he bought for his wife after making $525,000 leasing mineral rights around his family’s mobile home. “Oil money just makes life easier.” Based on the industry’s plans, shale and other “tight rock” fields that now produce about half a million barrels of oil a day will produce up to three million barrels daily by 2020, according to IHS CERA, an energy research firm. Oil companies are investing an estimated $25 billion this year to drill 5,000 new oil wells in tight rock fields, according to Raoul LeBlanc, a senior director at PFC Energy, a consulting firm. “This is very big and it’s coming on very fast,” said Daniel Yergin, the chairman of IHS CERA. “This is like adding another Venezuela or Kuwait by 2020, except these tight oil fields are in the United States.” In the most developed shale field, the Bakken field in North Dakota, production has leaped to 400,000 barrels a day today from a trickle four years ago. Experts say it could produce as much as a million barrels a day by the end of the decade. The Eagle Ford, where the first well was drilled only three years ago, is already producing more than 100,000 barrels a day and could reach 420,000 by 2015, almost as much as Ecuador, according to Bentek Energy, a consultancy. Multimedia Slide Show <http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2011/05/29/business/energy-environment/fra…> Fracking Raises Hope for an Onshore Oil Rush<http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2011/05/29/business/energy-environment/fra…> What makes the new fields more remarkable is that they were thought to be virtually valueless only five years ago. “Everyone said the oil molecules are too large to flow in commercial quantities through these low-quality rocks,” said Mark G. Papa, chief executive of EOG Resources. EOG began quietly buying the rights to thousands of acres in the Bakken and Eagle Ford after an EOG engineer concluded that the techniques used to extract natural gas from shale — fracking, combined with drilling horizontally through layers of rocks — could be used for oil. Chesapeake and a few other independents quickly followed. Now the biggest multinational oil companies, as well as Chinese and Norwegian firms, are investing billions of dollars in the fields. The new drilling makes economic sense as long as oil prices remain above $60 a barrel, according to oil companies. At current oil prices of about $100 a barrel, shale wells can typically turn a profit within eight months — three times faster than many traditional wells. But water remains a key issue. In addition to possible contamination of surface and underground water from fracking fluids, the sheer volume of water required poses challenges, especially in South Texas, which faces a severe drought and rapidly diminishing water levels in the local aquifer. At the rate wells are being drilled, “there’s definitely going to be a problem,” said Bay Laxson, a local water official. Dave Thompson, regional production superintendent for the oil company SM Energy said the industry knew that water issues were “an Achilles heel.” He said his company was building a system to reuse water in the field. But unlike Pennsylvania and New York, where fracking for natural gas has produced organized opposition, the oil industry has been mostly welcomed in western and southern states. Thanks to the drilling boom, the recession<http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/subjects/r/recession_an…>bypassed North Dakota entirely. Here in Dimmit County, Tex., the unemployment rate has fallen in half, and sales tax receipts are up 70 percent so far this year, allowing the county to hire more police officers and buy sanitation and road repair equipment. “In my lifetime, this is the biggest thing I’ve ever seen,” said Jose Gonzalez, 78, a retired teacher and son of migrant farm workers, who leased mineral rights to Chesapeake for $27,000 and sold another plot for $100,000 to a company building an RV park for oil workers. “You can see I’m happy.”

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Fw: Coal ash song for WV Siera Club
by Jim Sconyers 27 May '11

27 May '11

Jim Sconyers jim_scon(a)yahoo.com 304.698.9628 Remember: Mother Nature bats last. ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: tom neilson <tomneilsonmusic(a)yahoo.com> To: jim_scon(a)yahoo.com; heatherheilman(a)yahoo.com; fooce(a)hotmail.com; gwenjones23(a)yahoo.com; freesource(a)cheat.org; sallywilts(a)yahoo.com; fyoung(a)mountain.net; ginelson(a)hughes.net; bhaddaka(a)gmail.com; jkotcon(a)wvu.edu; mdavis(a)wvu.edu; paynestake(a)verizon.net; ATDK(a)aol.com; shirley.rosenbaum(a)gmail.com; mooshy17(a)yahoo.com; blittle(a)citynet.net; djsoeder(a)yahoo.com; reginahendrix999(a)gmail.com; pjgrunt(a)gmail.com; celliot2(a)comcast.net; gregg(a)wvwc.edu; bill.price(a)sierraclub.org; michael.costello(a)wvwild.org Sent: Fri, May 27, 2011 2:15:12 PM Subject: Coal ash song for WV Siera Club WV Sierra Club Friends, My Biomess song (previously sent to you) about the proposed power plant aka wood incinerator in Greenfield has been picked as a Finalist and is awaiting deliberation by Sonic Bids judges for Music of the Earth 2011 Song of the Year. Now my coal ash song about the spill in Harriman, TN is one of 5 Finalists that has been nominated for Song of the Year for Social Action by Independent Musicians Awards. This is the second year in a row that I am a Finalist with IMA. Last year’s song was about the cancers at the nuclear weapons plant in Paducah, KY. There are 2 winners. One has already been picked by IMA. The public is being asked to vote for the other. Can you please circulate among your state chapters and other contacts? It is great publicity for both the issue of MTR and for all the groups working to protect our air, water, mountains and those who live therein. Thx for taking the time to do this. If you want to hear the songs and participate in the voting, go to http://www.independentmusicawards.com/imanominee/10th/Song/Social-Action Please share with anyone who might want to hear the music or be able to use it in their work. best, Tom 413-774-2411

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Fwd: TransGas says construction starts mid-summer
by James Kotcon 26 May '11

26 May '11

" Victor ... said TransGas has received commitments for a first portion of financing through private placement -- sale to one or a few large institutional investors -- and it's enough to begin construction by mid-summer. " See full articles below. JBK THE STATE JOURNAL: TransGas Development Systems of New York broke ground May 9 on the Adams Fork facility it has been preparing to build in Mingo County since December 2008. By Pam Kasey Back in 2007 and 2008, conventional wisdom said investors needed two conditions to feel comfortable backing the conversion of coal to liquid transportation fuels in the U.S. First, a sustained high price for oil -- above, say, $50/barrel. The price was that high at the time and, after a big dip during the recession, is that high again. That dip underscores the second, more fundamental condition: Assurance that, if the price of oil drops below a threshold, there still will be a market for the more expensive coal-to-liquid, or CTL, fuels. A favorite approach to that assurance was long-term purchase commitments by the Department of Defense -- an arrangement that would both establish a large market for the nascent industry and forestall any OPEC price manipulation to nip the industry in the bud. DoD commitments have not materialized. Nor have any other large institutional purchase commitments. Nor has a single commercial-scale CTL plant. Yet, TransGas Development Systems LLC of New York, the only company still in the running among several that have proposed CTL plants in West Virginia, broke ground May 9 on the Adams Fork facility it has been preparing to build in Mingo County since December 2008. What makes TransGas think they can make a go of it? Difficult Conditions The CTL industry in the U.S. has been trying to get its start under difficult conditions, according to Julie Dawoodjee, a spokeswoman for synthetic fuels developer Rentech Inc. In 2006, Rentech proposed the first CTL project in West Virginia. Since then, it has shelved that project but has other synthetic fuels projects under way. Oil price volatility challenges both investors and potential customers, she said. "Whenever crude reaches a high, suddenly everyone's interested in alternative energy. But then it's too late -- it's a four-to-five-year plan to get a plant producing," she said. "When crude comes down, everyone forgets, and that's when you should be building." Also making developers think twice is environmental interests' track record at holding up or stopping projects that have a coal component, she said. And, yes, government support has been lacking, she added, including long-term DoD contracts. However, Dawoodjee did say DoD contracts are not the only route to viability. "It would be very helpful if the government was interested and had the ability to sign these long-term off-take agreements," she said. "But there are other customers interested in long-term purchases." TransGas' Business Model "I've always taken issue with the people that were looking to get projects financed through an off-take agreement -- by getting a long-term contract with, say, the Defense Department," said TransGas Manager Adam Victor. It's an old model, he said, typical for building a power plant: Buy, for example, natural gas under long-term contracts at a certain price, and secure long-term power purchase agreements to sell it as electricity for, maybe, twice that price. "But in coal-to-liquids, the commodity price that you pay for coal is significantly less as a percentage of the revenue that you get from gasoline than what it would be when you buy natural gas and sell it as electricity," he said. There's plenty of cushion, he seems to feel. "The break-even price of oil for this project is between $45 and $50" per barrel, he said -- half of today's price, and a price that oil has dipped below for only about a month in the past six years. "That's when you're buying coal in the ground at today's current price of about $50/ton delivered." Victor expects to sell the fuel on the spot market and do a "back-to-back hedge," he said. "It's like if you have a floating rate on your mortgage but you don't want a floating rate, you go and enter into a hedge, a long-term swap and you get a fixed rate on your mortgage," he explained. "Same concept, but with fuel." Financing Victor's confidence seems to have convinced investors, in spite of last year's bankruptcy of an energy company he developed. Although he does not give out specifics, he said TransGas has received commitments for a first portion of financing through private placement -- sale to one or a few large institutional investors -- and it's enough to begin construction by mid-summer. To simplify the financing, the state Economic Development Authority in April authorized the potential issuance of up to $3 billion in industrial revenue bonds, or IRBs. The bonds are not tax exempt and will not implicate the EDA or any state body in the event of default, according to Brian Helmick, a lawyer with Spilman, Thomas & Battle, which serves as TransGas's bond counsel to the EDA. But the bonds simplify financing in that, while no single lender or investor would put up $3 billion, Helmick said, TransGas could, say, find five banks willing to lend. "Instead of doing five loan agreements, they could do it through one IRB structure, and each bank would buy a bond that represents its portion of the debt -- that's a simpler way to put the debt together," he explained. The bonds can be issued to bondholders at different times. In the event of default, Helmick said, the bondholders are liable or, if the bonds are insured, the insurer. Typically, although details haven't been worked out, title is pledged to the bondholders, who could take the project over just as a bank forecloses when a mortgage goes into arrears. DoD, Climate Change and Deficit Congress is considering legislation now that would extended the DoD's multi-year contract authority, according to Carol Raulston, spokeswoman for the National Mining Association. However, as currently configured, the Adams Fork plant would not be able to sell to the DoD. The 2007 energy bill prevents the government from purchasing motor fuels that will contribute more to climate change than do conventional motor fuels. CTL produces more greenhouse gases than petroleum-based fuels, and this plant will not store its carbon dioxide emissions. Victor said he believes storing CO2 underground is dangerous, citing a 1987 mudslide in Cameroon that released volcanically generated CO2 that suffocated 1,700 people. If the government requires the CO2 to be stored away, he said, he would most like to send it to the Gulf of Mexico for enhanced oil recovery, to help increase oil well yields. But, he said, he will follow the law and the cost will not hurt his competitiveness because capturing the CO2 is an integral part of his process, whereas crude oil refineries will need large capital investments to make that capture. TransGas's output would represent slightly more than 2 percent of imported gasoline, according to Victor, and enough similar plants could make the country a gasoline exporter and pay down the trade deficit. "I think this is a game changer and important for people to rally around, for us to show it can be done here in West Virginia and then throughout the country," he said. Proposed W.Va. Coal-to-Liquid Plant Proceeds as Other Companies Hold Off on Similar Projects Posted Wednesday, May 25, 2011 ; 04:36 PM Updated Wednesday, May 25, 2011; 05:30 PM No commercial coal-to-liquid plants currently exist in U.S. By PAM KASEY and JIM ROSS pkasey(a)statejournal.com jross(a)statejournal.com With TransGas Development Systems LLC expecting to begin construction on its Adams Fork coal-to-liquids plant in Mingo County in a few weeks, it seems fair to ask: Why isn't anyone else doing this? For all the talk over the years of the need to develop liquid fuels from coal, and for all the statements by political leaders that coal-to-liquids is a bright opportunity for West Virginia, the idea just hasn't caught on with the people who would invest the time and money in siting, designing, building and operating such plants. Synthetic fuels developer Rentech Inc. of Los Angeles, Calif., which at one time considered a coal-to-liquids, or CTL, project in Mingo County, shelved its project for now. "It just kind of naturally evolved to the point where both parties (Rentech and the Mingo County Redevelopment Authority) felt there wasn't a project there at this time," said spokeswoman Julie Dawoodjee. "Energy is such a dynamic industry that you never know when a project can be resurrected, but that's not an active opportunity for us at this time." The company has one project under way for producing alternative liquid transportation fuels: its Gulf Coast Synthetic Energy Center at Natchez, Miss. As initially planned, that project would have used coal as its feedstock. "The difficult macro-economic and regulatory environments have made seeking financing for such a design challenging," according to the company's website. "Rentech is evaluating alternative configurations that could make the Natchez Project more feasible in the near term." Dawoodjee said the company is considering other feedstocks. "That could use coal or could use some other type of fossil feedstock including natural gas," she said. "We even sit in an area where we have the opportunity to use petcoke (a refinery byproduct) or biomass." West Virginia University chemical engineer Elliot Kennel noted the new abundance and affordability of natural gas for producing domestic liquid transportation fuels in a conversation last month with The State Journal. His laboratory developed a process for liquefying coal directly through dissolution. The process that TransGas would use is "indirect" in that it first gasifies the coal -- performing an energy-intensive industrial process to make a synthetic gas similar to natural gas -- then liquefies it. "There are going to be questions asked about why you want to gasify coal given the current low price of natural gas," Kennel said, not of TransGas specifically but of CTL in general. "Natural gas itself as a feedstock looks tough to compete against economically in North America." And, of course, the electric industry lately has turned to natural gas over coal for new plants. One example of that is in Meigs County, Ohio, where American Municipal Power planned to build a new coal-fired power plant a few miles down the Ohio River from Ravenswood, W.Va. Construction workers and others were looking forward to such a large project. As with most large-scale coal projects, though, that project was challenged by several groups on environmental and economic grounds. Eventually, AMP bought an existing gas-fired plant and abandoned its coal plans. American Electric Power had considered sites in West Virginia, Ohio and Kentucky for new power plants using the integrated gasification combined cycle, or IGCC, technology that converts coal to gas. But those plans have fallen by the wayside. "The proposed IGCC plant in West Virginia would have been in the rate base for Appalachian Power, which meant the plant required rate-recovery approval from both West Virginia and Virginia. West Virginia provided approval. Virginia denied it," said Pat Hemlepp, director of corporate media relations for AEP. "The proposed IGCC plant in Ohio ended up tangled in litigation. The Ohio Consumers Counsel and others challenged the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio's authority to approve new generation under the current Ohio rules. The Supreme Court remanded the decision to the PUCO. It's still there... "The economic downturn has delayed the need for new generation. And the changing energy dynamics caused by the abundance of shale gas, combined with the variety of pending EPA regulations that target coal-fueled generation, has made natural gas the likely fuel of choice for new generation." It all adds up to one basic fact: Should TransGas build its facility in Mingo County, it would be unique in the United States. "There are no commercial coal-to-liquid plants in the U.S right now," Nicholas Paduano, a coal analyst with the Energy Information Administration, said in an e-mail to The State Journal when asked whether any such plants are in operation. "There is one commercial coal-to-gas plant operating in the U.S. in North Dakota. It uses North Dakota lignite coal to produce pipeline-quality synthetic gas. "There are plans right now in Illinois and Indiana to build coal-to-gas plants. The Air Force did have a coal-to-liquids project to produce fuel for aircraft, but plans for building a full-scale operation in Montana were scrapped about two years ago. West Virginia had approved a CTL project a few years ago before the recession. Consol Energy had planned to build a CTL plant in West Virginia, but that got scrapped in late 2008 after the credit crunch and drop in oil prices." Nevertheless, TransGas Manager Adam Victor is confident. "Everybody has been waiting for the government to fund these things, and I think that's been a waste of time," he said. Asked what he thinks is the reason no commercial-scale CTL plant has yet been built, he pointed to the nation's social capital over any lack of investment capital. "We have simply failed to educate people into the maths and sciences," he said. "Whether political, financial, legal -- we are not giving a rigorous enough technical education to people. We are not producing the engineers who would say, 'Of course we can do this.'"

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Fw: BACKGROUND: PEV News
by Jim Sconyers 25 May '11

25 May '11

Jim Sconyers jim_scon(a)yahoo.com 304.698.9628 Remember: Mother Nature bats last. ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Edward Mainland <emainland(a)COMCAST.NET> To: CONS-SPST-GLOBALWARM-CHAIRS(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Sent: Tue, May 24, 2011 2:32:42 PM Subject: BACKGROUND: PEV News http://www.environmentalleader.com/2011/05/20/fleet-briefing-ge-to-open-ve-… May 20, 2011 Fleet Briefing: GM to Open VE Plant; 60% Would Consider a PEV; New Steel Cuts Life-Cycle Emissions by 70% General Motors broke ground Tuesday for the $269.5 million addition to the facility housing its two-mode hybrid and heavy duty transmission operations. The electric motor plant near Baltimore will be the first by a major U.S. automaker dedicated to making the components for vehicle electrification, and is slated to open in 2013. The campus will be powered in part by a 1.23 megawatt rooftop solar array by Constellation Energy, expected to generate nine percent of its annual energy consumption and save approximately $330,000 during the life of the project. Constellation Energy will build, own and maintain the solar power system, and GM will purchase all of the electricity generated by the solar panels under a 20-year power purchase agreement, the company reported. The majority of consumers would consider buying a plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) for their next car purchase, according to a global study, Plug-in Electric Vehicles: Changing Perceptions, Hedging Bets, from Accenture. However, consumer preferences for charging PEVs could increase the cost and complexity of managing the electricity grid and charging infrastructure, Accenture said. 60 percent of consumers would consider buying a PEV for their next car purchase. 68 percent would “probably” or “certainly” do so within the next three years. Respondents in China are by far the most enthusiastic, 96 percent of them probably or certainly considering a purchase in the next three years, according to the findings. Consumers’ preferences for charging PEVs, however, could challenge utilities and charging service providers by increasing grid congestion and peak time electricity demand. Two thirds of the survey’s 7,000 respondents are not willing to let charge-point operators limit when they can charge their PEV. A further 20 percent would only accept limits if they fell within time periods they had chosen. Additionally, 62 percent are not keen on the concept of battery swapping, where empty batteries are quickly replaced at service stations for fully charged ones, preferring to plug in their car to recharge their own battery. This could limit the opportunity for charging off peak, when battery swapping companies would most likely refuel batteries, Accenture said. Consumers would also need more supportive charging infrastructure in order to adopt fully electric PEVs. Only 29 percent of car drivers would buy fully electric PEVs. 71 percent would prefer plug-in hybrid EVs (PHEVs), which also run on gasoline / diesel if the battery gets low. 85 percent say fully electric PEVs have insufficient battery range to cover their daily driving needs, the study found. The successful launch of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) depends greatly on the deployment of a robust residential and commercial network of charging equipment, according to the findings of the “Pike Pulse Report: Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment” from Pike Research. This market is in its infancy with many companies selling their product for less than five years, but the competition in this sector is set to intensify. The report evaluates electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) suppliers and rates them on 12 criteria for strategy and execution, including go-to-market strategy, product portfolio, partnerships, innovation, reach, market share, pricing, and staying power. According to Pike, two EVSE vendors are early standouts: Coulomb Technologies and ECOtality. Coulomb attained the highest overall score in the Pike Pulse report due to the company’s successful technology partnerships, global sales network, and extensive product portfolio. ECOtality is assessed as second. ECOtality’s contract to provide equipment to the federally funded EV Project, which it is also managing for the U.S. Department of Energy, is driving the majority of the company’s sales, and ECOtality likewise has formed extensive partnerships and has a strong product portfolio./ span> Rounding out the top ten are Elektromotive, AeroVironment, General Electric, Siemens, Eaton, Leviton, ClipperCreek and GoSmart, the company reported. The Steel Market Development Institute (SMDI), in collaboration with WorldAutoSteel, has released results of a three-year program to develop steel-intensive designs for electrified vehicles that reduce greenhouse gas emissions over their entire life cycle. The FutureSteelVehicle (FSV) program features steel body structure designs that reduce mass by more than 35 percent over a benchmark vehicle, and reduce total life cycle emissions by nearly 70 percent. This is accomplished while meeting a broad list of global crash and durability requirements, enabling 5-star safety ratings and avoiding high-cost penalties for mass reduction, according to the groups’ statement. The FSV program developed optimized advanced high-strength steel (AHSS) body structures for four proposed 2015 to 2020 model-year vehicles: battery electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV-20) for A-/B-Class vehicles; and plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV-40) and fuel cell (FCV) for C-/D-Class vehicles. The FSV concepts are efficient and lightweight. FSV’s BEV concept weighs 188 kg and reduces mass by more than 35 percent over a baseline internal combustion engine body structure adjusted for a battery electric powertrain and 2020 regulatory requirements. FSV’s A-/B-Class PHEV20 vehicle weighs 175 kg, and the larger C-/D-Class vehicle versions weigh 201 kg. The FSV portfolio of advanced steel and steel technologies, including more than 20 new AHSS grades of materials, are expected to be commercially available in 2015 to 2020. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the CONS-SPST-GLOBALWARM-CHAIRS list, send any message to: CONS-SPST-GLOBALWARM-CHAIRS-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp

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West Virginia rated last in development of clean energy
by William V. DePaulo, Esq. 23 May '11

23 May '11

CLICK<http://www.energybiz.com/article/11/05/wva-last-clean-energy-leadership?utm…> -- William V. DePaulo, Esq. 179 Summers Street, Suite 232 Charleston, WV 25301-2163 Tel 304-342-5588 Fax 304-342-5505 william.depaulo(a)gmail.com www.passeggiata.com

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Fw: Please Call Your Senators and Ask them to REFRAIN from Signing a Bad Coal Ash Letter Being Circulated
by Jim Sconyers 20 May '11

20 May '11

Jim Sconyers jim_scon(a)yahoo.com 304.698.9628 Remember: Mother Nature bats last. ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Lisa N. Widawsky <lwidawsky(a)environmentalintegrity.org> To: "COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG" <COAL-COMBUSTION-WASTE(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG> Cc: grassroots <grassroots(a)environmentalintegrity.org> Sent: Fri, May 20, 2011 11:34:22 AM Subject: Please Call Your Senators and Ask them to REFRAIN from Signing a Bad Coal Ash Letter Being Circulated Coal Ash Allies – Thank you to the 102 groups that quickly signed on to our letter asking Senators to stand up for human health and the environment by STAYING OFF the anti-Subtitle C letter being circulated by Senators Conrad and Enzi (see attached). The Conrad-Enzi letter asks President Obama for weak coal ash protections, but we all know that Subtitle C is the most protective option for human health and the environment because it would require basic, common-sense protections for our communities. Now, we need you all to CALL YOUR SENATORS’ offices and say: “On behalf of our members and supporters, please ask the Senator to REFRAIN from signing the Conrad-Enzi coal ash letter asking President Obama for weak coal ash protections.” You can find your Senators’ phone numbers here: http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm. After you do, please reply to let me know which offices you called and how they responded. Thanks again for continuing to fight for safe communities and a healthy environment! Sincerely, Lisa Widawsky Attorney Environmental Integrity Project 1 Thomas Circle, Suite 900 Washington, DC 20005 202.263.4452 (direct) 202.296.8822 (fax) The information transmitted is intended only for the person or entity to whom it is addressed and may contain confidential and/or privileged material. Any use of this information other than by the intended recipient is prohibited. If you receive this message in error, please send a reply e-mail to the sender and delete the material from any and all computers. Unintended transmissions shall not constitute waiver of the attorney-client or any other privilege.

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Fwd: Register today for the Sportsmen Marcellus Shale Summit, June 4
by Paul Wilson 20 May '11

20 May '11

Dam! I am already booked for June 4 tabling event! But this looks quite good. fyi, paul ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Katy Dunlap, Trout Unlimited <trout(a)tu.org> Date: Fri, May 20, 2011 at 9:02 AM Subject: Register today for the Sportsmen Marcellus Shale Summit, June 4 To: "Paul Wilson, Jr." <pjgrunt(a)gmail.com> [image: Trout Unlimited] <http://www.tu.org> Saturday, June 4th, 2011 University of Pittsburgh - Johnstown Campus In the heart of the Marcellus Shale region, sportsmen and women, and conservation groups are working together to identify and propose solutions to mitigate the impacts from gas drilling and hydraulic fracturing on hunting, fishing and trapping experiences. *REGISTER TODAY.<http://www.tu.org/conservation/eastern-conservation/marcellus-shale-project…> * *Learn more about the Sportsmen Alliance for Marcellus Conservation efforts and listen to experts in the field, along with sportsmen and women with first-hand experience, discuss the following topics*: - Potential impacts of Marcellus Shale gas development on wildlife, coldwater fisheries, and habitat and forest ecosystems; - Impacts of Marcellus Shale gas development on the outdoors experience; - Lessons from oil & gas development in the West; - What you can do as an individual outdoorsmen; and - How sportsmen and women interests can be protected through policies and best management practices that protect fish, wildlife and the outdoors experience. To register and to learn more about the program, visit * www.sportsmenalliance.org. <http://www.sportsmenalliance.org>* *Brought to you by:* *The Sportsmen Alliance for Marcellus Conservation* * ------------------------------ *Over 84 cents from every dollar contributed to TU goes directly into conservation programs. You have received this message because this email address is associated with a Trout Unlimited membership record. To remove yourself from future TU National notice emails, click on the first unsubscribe link below. To stop receiving all email communications from TU National, including appeals, action alerts and the quarterly e-newsletter, click on the second link below. All other inquiries may be directed to trout(a)tu.org or 1-800-834-2419. Please note TU Member Services staff will be unable to handle inquiries for several days due to a database upgrade. Trout Unlimited 1300 N. 17th Street, Suite 500 Arlington, VA 22209 © 2011 Trout Unlimited Remove yourself from this mailing<http://www.kintera.org/TR.asp?a=enJKLQMkF5JDIYK&s=djKPK9NQJdJULcOPKtF&m=hkK…> . Remove yourself from all mailings from Trout Unlimited<http://www.kintera.org/TR.asp?a=hqLQIZNwH8IKK8J&s=djKPK9NQJdJULcOPKtF&m=hkK…> . -- Paul Wilson Sierra Club 504 Jefferson Ave Charles Town, WV 25414-1130 Phone: 304-725-4360 Cell: 304-279-1361 "There is no forward until you have gone back" ~Buddha "In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous" ~ Aristotle

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on gas oil oil drilling: “Your authority goes as far as nobody challenges it,”
by Frank Young 19 May '11

19 May '11

BlankEven the Mayor and the Utility Board of Morgantown presumed that there is public notice of oil and gas drilling permit applications. But no; such permits are routinely issued, and without any public notice whatsoever. http://www.statejournal.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=99726 “We are very accustomed to public comment opportunities being provided and public input being solicited when water and wastewater systems are concerned,” Ball told The State Journal on May 10. “It’s a natural part of our world and it is quite surprising to us that those opportunities do not exist in the permitting of oil and gas wells.” Morgantown Mayor William Byrne said the lack of public notification put the city “behind the eight ball.” Huffman acknowledged that public notice is required for all other permits DEP issues and that it would be a good idea for oil and gas wells too, but said he doesn’t know if he has the authority. “Your authority goes as far as nobody challenges it,” he said. “But the Legislature has made a requirement that there be public notification of mining permits and water permits, but not on oil and gas permits,” he continued. “Just because I might think today that it’s the right thing to do, it’s not the public policy of the state to do that, so I think it’s better addressed by the Legislature.”

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Fw: Fwd: Here it comes! A Nonviolent Action Workshop
by Jim Sconyers 18 May '11

18 May '11

Jim Sconyers jim_scon(a)yahoo.com 304.698.9628 Remember: Mother Nature bats last. ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Ann Payne <Paynestake(a)frontier.com> To: Jim Sconyers <jim_scon(a)yahoo.com> Sent: Wed, May 18, 2011 2:09:20 PM Subject: Fwd: Here it comes! A Nonviolent Action Workshop FYI - I forwarded this to my list. Begin forwarded message: > > >The stars are indeed aligned. A Nonviolent Action Workshop will be held here in >Morgantown on this coming Sunday! Must register! Please read on. > > >Ann > > > >Begin forwarded message: > >> >> >>Hi Friends and Concerned Citizens! >>A spur of the moment-planned event. Somehow the stars aligned for us to have a >>nonviolence trainer friend staying with us this weekend.. Could you please share >>this with your communities, especially those looking for responses to the Shale >>Drilling... >> >> >>Introduction to Nonviolent Action >>Sunday, May 22nd 7-9pm >>Morgantown Church of the Brethren/Mennonite Church USA >>464 Virginia Ave. >> >>This workshop will lay the foundation of nonviolence and direct action, >>including opportunities for role play and practice responding nonviolently >>in situations of civil disobedience. Bob Gross, facilitator, is a nonviolence >>educator and Executive Director of On Earth Peace. >> >>For more information contact Carrie at 304-292-0711, ceikler(a)morgantowncob.org >>Please RSVP so we can adequately prepare our facilitator >> >> >>-- >>Carrie A. Eikler >>co-pastor >>Morgantown Church of the Brethren, Mennonite Church USA >>304-292-5616 >>www.morgantowncob.org >> >>"Even when we don't desire it, God is ripening." Rainer Maria Rilke >> >> >> >>-- >>Carrie A. Eikler >>co-pastor >>Morgantown Church of the Brethren, Mennonite Church USA >>304-292-5616 >>www.morgantowncob.org >> >>"Even when we don't desire it, God is ripening." Rainer Maria Rilke >> >> >

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Fwd: a bit of news
by James Kotcon 18 May '11

18 May '11

>>> Vickie Wolfe <ibtreehugger(a)gmail.com> 5/18/2011 1:04 PM >>> In case you haven't already heard, Stephanie Timmermeyer has taken a job with Chesapeake Energy's Eastern Division, in "Regulatory Affairs." -- ```````````````````````````````````````````````````` Vickie L. Wolfe PHONE: (304) 744-8777 E-MAIL: IBTreehugger(a)gmail.com ```````````````````````````````````````````````````` "It is horrifying that we have to fight our own government to save our environment." -Ansel Adams

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Marcellus driller fined record $1.1M
by Frank Young 18 May '11

18 May '11

BlankOne would think that after more than 100 years, the drilling industry could get it right. Are there reasons other than carelessness on the part of drilling crews that this could happen? According to the consent agreement signed on Monday, the DEP investigated at least seven instances of methane migration that contaminated 16 residential water wells in Bradford County last year. The DEP blamed improper cement casings of Chesapeake gas wells for allowing the natural gas to seep into drinking water supplies. . http://www.philly.com/philly/business/20110517_Marcellus_driller_fined_reco…

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Rally - Morgantown Water Threat from Gas Drilling
by Jim Sconyers 16 May '11

16 May '11

Jim Sconyers jim_scon(a)yahoo.com 304.698.9628 Remember: Mother Nature bats last. ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: "dfvet(a)aol.com" <dfvet(a)aol.com> To: jkotcon(a)wvu.edu; wyro(a)appalight.com; fmoose39(a)hotmail.com; karen.grubb(a)fairmontstate.edu; jim_scon(a)yahoo.com; blittle(a)citynet.net; heatherheilman(a)yahoo.com; nicolegood.wv(a)gmail.com Sent: Sun, May 15, 2011 10:08:09 AM Subject: Fwd: May 18: URGENT CALL TO ACTION!! DRINKING WATER AT RISK!! -----Original Message----- From: Kathleen Cash <cashkathy(a)gmail.com> To: Ann Payne <paynestake(a)frontier.com> Sent: Sun, May 15, 2011 9:01 am Subject: May 18: URGENT CALL TO ACTION!! DRINKING WATER AT RISK!! We’ve Heard from the Drillers, Now Let YOURVoice be Heard!! Marcellus Gas Drilling is Scheduled to Begin in Morgantown Industrial Park Upstream of Morgantown’s Drinking Water Plant Near County Schools PLEASE COMEto a Community-wide Rally to Express YOUR Concerns and Questions WHERE: Mon County Courthouse Square. High Street, Downtown Morgantown WHEN: Wednesday, May 18, 10:00 to Noon Bring Your Kids and Bring a Sign (G-rated) Please forward this announcement to your friends, family and neighbors. For your information: Morgantown Utility Board’s letters to the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection stating its concerns are attached and can be downloaded from the Charleston Gazette blog: http://blogs.wvgazette.com/watchdog/2011/05/13/morgantown-utility-board-see… Organized by concerned Morgantown area citizens: Kathy Cash, Sharon Goodman, Ann Payne, Marc Glass, Catherine Tall, Sandra Fallon, Cindy O'Brien

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Rally Time - change back
by Jim Sconyers 16 May '11

16 May '11

Sorry folks - rally is still at 10:00 AM to Noon on Wednesday. Jim Sconyers jim_scon(a)yahoo.com 304.698.9628 Remember: Mother Nature bats last. ________________________________ From: Jim Sconyers <jim_scon(a)yahoo.com> To: ec(a)osenergy.org; Dave & Robin Barnett <atwoodwv(a)gmail.com>; Steve Benson <mrbenson(a)frontiernet.net>; David Brisell <dbrisell(a)mindspring.com>; Jeremy Cooper <jeremybcooper(a)gmail.com>; Brad Durst <bdurst(a)wvca.us>; Sam Dyke <irisatfarm(a)hotmail.com>; Sandra Fallon <sfallon3(a)comcast.net>; Lawrence Fraley <lfraley(a)citilink.net>; Becky Friend <enlowb(a)yahoo.com>; Dee Fulton <dfvet(a)aol.com>; Kathy Furbee <kf3(a)hotmail.com>; Nicole Good <nicolegood.wv(a)gmail.com>; Leejay Graffious <lejay(a)frontiernet.net>; Evan Hansen <ehansen(a)downstreamstrategies.com>; Dave Houser <houserr(a)labyrinth.net>; Gordon Keyes <gkeyes(a)hsc.wvu.edu>; Lew & Carolyn McDaniel <lewmcdan(a)hrea.coop>; Connie Miller <calm9654(a)gmail.com>; Amanda Pitzer <amanda(a)cheat.org>; Steven Runfola <stevenrunfola(a)yahoo.com>; Susan & Don Sauter <stsauter(a)frontiernet.net>; Jim Sconyers <jim_scon(a)yahoo.com>; Rob Seese <vgseese(a)gmail.com>; Rachel and Frank Stevens <fstevens4(a)aol.com>; Mary Kay Stiles <stilesm(a)frontiernet.net>; Martha Summers <msummers(a)hsc.wvu.edu>; Bill Thorne <anglerbill(a)access.mountain.net>; Martin Tingley <riverwaker(a)gmail.com>; Sarah Veselka <sarah(a)deckerscreek.org>; Charlie & Sandy Walbridge <ccwalbridge(a)cs.com>; Sally Wilts <sallywilts(a)yahoo.com>; Carolyn Wotring <itsgranny(a)gmail.com> Sent: Mon, May 16, 2011 12:14:01 PM Subject: Fw: [EC] Fwd: [FODC] Morgantown Rally Time Changed, Now from Noon to 1 PM Note time change of Wed rally. Jim Sconyers jim_scon(a)yahoo.com 304.698.9628 Remember: Mother Nature bats last. ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Jonathan Rosenbaum <freesource(a)cheat.org> To: Energy Committee <ec(a)osenergy.org>; Kitty Lozier <clozier(a)gmail.com>; Aira Loren Burkhart <airaloren(a)gmail.com>; Deb Fulton <dfvet(a)aol.com>; Cindy O'Brien <cobandyo(a)frontier.com> Sent: Mon, May 16, 2011 11:59:49 AM Subject: [EC] Fwd: [FODC] Morgantown Rally Time Changed, Now from Noon to 1 PM Is this time change correct? -------- Original Message -------- Subject: [FODC] Morgantown Rally Time Changed, Now from Noon to 1 PM Date: Mon, 16 May 2011 11:53:37 -0400 From: Sarah Veselka <sarah(a)DECKERSCREEK.ORG> Reply-To: Sarah Veselka <sarah(a)DECKERSCREEK.ORG> To: FODC-L(a)LISTSERV.WVNET.EDU Marcellus Gas Drilling is Scheduled to Begin in Morgantown Industrial Park Upstream of Morgantown’s Drinking Water Plant Near County Schools The Morgantown Utility Board has Expressed Concerns and Requested Additional Safeguards to the WVDEP PLEASE COMEto a Community-wide Rally to Express YOUR Concerns and Questions WHERE: Mon County Courthouse Square. High Street, Downtown Morgantown WHEN: Wednesday, May 18, Noon to 1 PM Bring Your Kids and Bring a Sign (G-rated) Please forward this announcement to your friends, family and neighbors. For your information: Morgantown Utility Board’s letters to the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection stating its concerns can be downloaded from the Charleston Gazette blog: http://blogs.wvgazette.com/watchdog/2011/05/13/morgantown-utility-board-see… Organized by concerned Morgantown area citizens: Kathy Cash, Sharon Goodman, Marc Glass, Catherine Tall, Sandra Fallon, Cindy O'Brien

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Fw: Fwd: [FODC] Morgantown Rally Time Changed, Now from Noon to 1 PM
by Jim Sconyers 16 May '11

16 May '11

Note time change of Wed rally. Jim Sconyers jim_scon(a)yahoo.com 304.698.9628 Remember: Mother Nature bats last. ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Jonathan Rosenbaum <freesource(a)cheat.org> To: Energy Committee <ec(a)osenergy.org>; Kitty Lozier <clozier(a)gmail.com>; Aira Loren Burkhart <airaloren(a)gmail.com>; Deb Fulton <dfvet(a)aol.com>; Cindy O'Brien <cobandyo(a)frontier.com> Sent: Mon, May 16, 2011 11:59:49 AM Subject: [EC] Fwd: [FODC] Morgantown Rally Time Changed, Now from Noon to 1 PM Is this time change correct? -------- Original Message -------- Subject: [FODC] Morgantown Rally Time Changed, Now from Noon to 1 PM Date: Mon, 16 May 2011 11:53:37 -0400 From: Sarah Veselka <sarah(a)DECKERSCREEK.ORG> Reply-To: Sarah Veselka <sarah(a)DECKERSCREEK.ORG> To: FODC-L(a)LISTSERV.WVNET.EDU Marcellus Gas Drilling is Scheduled to Begin in Morgantown Industrial Park Upstream of Morgantown’s Drinking Water Plant Near County Schools The Morgantown Utility Board has Expressed Concerns and Requested Additional Safeguards to the WVDEP PLEASE COMEto a Community-wide Rally to Express YOUR Concerns and Questions WHERE: Mon County Courthouse Square. High Street, Downtown Morgantown WHEN: Wednesday, May 18, Noon to 1 PM Bring Your Kids and Bring a Sign (G-rated) Please forward this announcement to your friends, family and neighbors. For your information: Morgantown Utility Board’s letters to the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection stating its concerns can be downloaded from the Charleston Gazette blog: http://blogs.wvgazette.com/watchdog/2011/05/13/morgantown-utility-board-see… Organized by concerned Morgantown area citizens: Kathy Cash, Sharon Goodman, Marc Glass, Catherine Tall, Sandra Fallon, Cindy O'Brien _______________________________________________ EC mailing list EC(a)osenergy.org http://osenergy.org/mailman/listinfo/ec

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Fwd: [FODC] Morgantown Rally Time Changed, Now from Noon to 1 PM
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 16 May '11

16 May '11

Is this time change correct? -------- Original Message -------- Subject: [FODC] Morgantown Rally Time Changed, Now from Noon to 1 PM Date: Mon, 16 May 2011 11:53:37 -0400 From: Sarah Veselka <sarah(a)DECKERSCREEK.ORG> Reply-To: Sarah Veselka <sarah(a)DECKERSCREEK.ORG> To: FODC-L(a)LISTSERV.WVNET.EDU *Marcellus Gas Drilling is Scheduled to Begin in * *Morgantown Industrial Park* *Upstream of Morgantown’s Drinking Water Plant* *Near County Schools* ** *The Morgantown Utility Board has Expressed Concerns and* *Requested Additional Safeguards to the WVDEP* *PLEASE COME*to a Community-wide Rally to Express *YOUR *Concerns and Questions *WHERE*:Mon County Courthouse Square. High Street, Downtown Morgantown *WHEN*:Wednesday, May 18, Noon to 1 PM *Bring Your Kids and Bring a Sign (G-rated)* Please forward this announcement to your friends, family and neighbors. For your information:Morgantown Utility Board’s letters to the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection stating its concerns can be downloaded from the Charleston Gazette blog: /http://blogs.wvgazette.com/watchdog/2011/05/13/morgantown-utility-board-seeks-drilling-safeguards/ Organized by concerned Morgantown area citizens: Kathy Cash, Sharon Goodman, Marc Glass, Catherine Tall, Sandra Fallon, Cindy O'Brien

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Drilling this Monday - MUB's reaction
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 14 May '11

14 May '11

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/watchdog/2011/05/13/morgantown-utility-board-see… -Jonathan

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FW: [MarcellusGasInfo] Fwd: Announcement: Extractive Industry Accountability Project Conference, May 23-25, 2011
by Beth Little 13 May '11

13 May '11

Pretty poor notice on this. The main reason I am forwarding it is to point up how much is going on. From: marcellusgasinfo(a)googlegroups.com [mailto:marcellusgasinfo@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of J Sent: Friday, May 13, 2011 3:41 PM To: grassrootsVSgas; Shaleshock(a)yahoogroups.com; MarcellusGasInfo Subject: [MarcellusGasInfo] Fwd: Announcement: Extractive Industry Accountability Project Conference, May 23-25, 2011 And another movement networking opportunity. I can't make it there, but if anyone is able to head to DC and represent Marcellus region that'd be great! See below for info ~Julian ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: <jim(a)oei-dc.org> Date: Mon, May 9, 2011 at 10:38 PM Subject: Announcement: Extractive Industry Accountability Project Conference, May 23-25, 2011 To: Press Climate Camp <press(a)climatecamp.org.uk>, Sac <sacsustainaction(a)gmail.com>, RQIC <rqic(a)ciso.qc.ca>, S Weigel <sweigel(a)sonoraninstitute.org>, Erika <erika(a)equit.org.br>, Esr <esr41(a)verizon.net>, Powder River <resources(a)powderriverbasin.org>, Nal <nalu(a)sof.org.br>, Native Movement <nativemovement(a)gmail.com>, NC Warn <ncwarn(a)ncwarn.org>, NCI <info(a)ncipl.org>, NEC <rwhkc(a)earthlink.net>, Sonoran Institute <sonoran(a)sonoraninstitute.org>, WV Rivers Coalition <wvrivers(a)wvrivers.org>, UMD <umdvolunteerhouse(a)gmail.com>, Western Colorado Congress <info(a)wccongress.org>, Pblase <pblasenheim(a)gmail.com>, Nirsnet <nirsnet(a)nirs.org>, Northern Plains <info(a)northernplains.org>, Northern Rockies Rising Tide <northernrockiesrisingtide(a)riseup.net>, Mary <Maryo(a)nirs.org>, Matt <matt(a)energyjustice.net>, MEP <info(a)mepartnership.org>, Mississippi <mississippi(a)climateaction.net>, MM <mm2222ut(a)aol.com>, Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness <info(a)friends-bwca.org>, GBF <gbf(a)greatbear.org>, GCM <info(a)gcmonitor.org>, GRIP <grip(a)gilaresources.info>, Greater Yellow <gyc(a)greateryellowstone.org>, Groundwater Awareness Leauge <contact(a)g-a-l.info>, Hurricane Creek Keeper <hccreekkeeper(a)gmail.com>, Info WNC <info(a)wncpsr.org>, Jel <jelosegui(a)gmail.com>, Parras <parras.juan(a)gmail.com>, julian <Julian(a)risingtidenorthamerica.org>, Julie <julie(a)wnca.org>, Justin <justin(a)actnh.org>, JW <jwfarm(a)centurytel.net>, Kat <katuarkonada(a)gmail.com>, Lorax <lorax(a)riseup.net>, WK <wkatzfishman(a)igc.org>, Rafael <rberrocal(a)prensa.com>, Ramsey <ramsey(a)miningwatch.ca>, RANTWIN <rantwincities(a)riseup.net>, Regenwald <info(a)regenwald.org>, Resource Renew <rrenew.collective(a)riseup.net>, Rising Tide Bay Area <risingtidebayarea(a)gmail.com>, Rising Tide NA <contact(a)risingtidenorthamerica.org>, Rising Tide NT <risingtident(a)riseup.net>, Rootforce <rootforce(a)riseup.net>, Montana Environ Info <meic(a)meic.org>, Montana LR <info(a)mtlandreliance.org>, Wise <wiseamster(a)antenna.nl>, MWF <mwf(a)mtwf.org>, Sarah <sarah(a)voiceforthewild.org>, Stop Cliffside <info(a)stopcliffside.org>, WW4report <feedback(a)ww4report.com>, amy.anderson(a)oei-dc.org <mailto:amy..anderson@oei-dc.org> , jim(a)oei-dc.org, maginfo(a)blacksmithinstitute.org, Press CC <press(a)commoncause.org>, pblasenh <pblasenheim(a)riseup.net>, Save the Front <info(a)savethefront.net>, Smart <smartgrowth(a)mcn.net>, NRDC <nrdcaction(a)nrdc.org>, Loretta <Loretta(a)oglala.org>, Louisiana <louisiana(a)climateaction.net>, Lovely Goat <lovelygoatplantmedicine(a)riseup.net>, Manolan <manolan(a)uvm.edu>, Mario <mariociid@gmail..com <mailto:mariociid@gmail.com> >, "Marion Inst." <info(a)marioninstitute.org>, "Wild West Inst." <info(a)wildwestinstitute.org>, ORA <info(a)oregonrural.org>, Survival International <info.usa(a)survivalinternational.org>, Proletariat <proletariat04(a)gmail.com>, Stop Suits <stopthesuitscoalition(a)gmail.com>, Student Environmental AC <nationalcouncil(a)seac.org>, Pas <pasalavoz(a)movimientos.org>, OD <od(a)riseup.net>, Peaceful Uprising <info(a)peacefuluprising.org>, Philadelphia Rising Tide <phillyrisingtide(a)riseup.net>, Pollinators <pollinators(a)beehivecollective.org>, Powder River <info(a)powderriverbasin.org> Hemispheric Social Alliance / Rising Tide Mexico/ Natural Resources Project Management / Alliance for Responsible Trade / Our Earth Institute International Extractive Industry Accountability Conference May 23-25, 2011 George Washington University Washington, DC Our Earth Institute, along with it's partners, proudly presents the first "International Extractive Industry Accountability Conference" at the George Washington University in Washington, DC on May 23 - 25, 2011. The primary goal of this Conference will be to develop and implement an effective International Strategy to hold Extractive Industries accountable for the consequences of their actions and to force them to change. The conference will have several components. First, we will be holding Working Groups that will take steps to form a strategy to unite the anti-extraction groups in the United States, Central and South America, and Northern Europe to function as a united front. We will create an action plan that will allow our movement to have a more effective impact. Tentative topics include: . Creating a dynamic and interactive international union of anti-extraction organizations, which can share resources, speak with one voice, and effectively foster positive change. . Forcing extractive corporations to reimburse communities and people for any damage done to the environment, health and livelihoods of individuals, and to make them responsible for cleaning up and repairing any damage they have done. . Convincing investors in extractive industry companies to divest themselves of these assets if the corporations do not adopt safer and more fair extraction practices. . Persuading the U.S. and other nations to pass legislation requiring extractive companies to use "best practices" and to abide by domestic and U.N. treaties and standards, even when operating overseas. . Developing a "certification" system--similar to the Fair Trade label--to inform the public of the extent to which a company lives up to being environmentally healthy and socially fair. . Creating a strategy to protect Indigenous People's Land Rights, Livelihoods, and Health. Second, there will be a series of Workshops addressing topics such as: creating a successful anti-extraction campaign, ballot initiatives, effective activist strategies, fundraising, working with the media, lobbying and working with legislators, and effective public speaking on environmental issues. Lastly, the third day of the Conference will be devoted to actually Working on Capital Hill to lobby U.S. Senators and Representatives, and officials at the U.S. Bureau of Mines. It is our hope the Conference will be the first step in forming a dynamic and resilient international network that will make each individual anti-extraction group stronger, more effective, and better prepared to deal with this important battle that is getting more contentious each day. Please Join Us! Event Calendar Monday / May 23 Welcome Session 9:00am Working Groups 10:00am Lunch 12:30 - 1:30pm Working Groups 1:30 - 6:00pm Social Gathering 6:30pm Tuesday / May 24 Working Groups 9:00am - 12:30pm Lunch 12:30 - 1:30pm Workshops 1:30 - 5:30pm Summary Session 5:30 - 6:30pm Social Gathering 7:00pm Wednesday / May 25 Legislative and Government Office Visits * We suggest that you schedule your own appointment with your Senator, Representative or Mining Official at least 60 days in advance. If you need help with this scheduling we will be happy to assist. Please contact Abygale at Abygale.Lund(a)oei-dc.org Event Registration To Register for the Conference Registration Continues through: May 23, 2011 By Email: Send your and your organization's name, mailing address, email address, and telephone number to Abygale.Lund(a)oei-dc.org. Please submit your registration fee by clicking on the PayPal/Donate button on the Home Page of Our Earth Institute at www.oei-dc.org. You will receive an email confirmation of your registration and payment. By Regular Mail: Send your and your organization's name, mailing address, email address, telephone number, and a check or money order made out to "Our Earth Institute" to: Our Earth Institute 4410 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., #174 Washington, DC 20016 USA Registration Rates If you have special circumstance that do not allow you to pay, contact Abygale.Lund(a)oei-dc.org Individual rates: (USD) . Working Attendees: $40 . Low-income seniors/college students/partially employed: $30 . International Attendees: $10 Organization rates: Two individuals from your organization are allowed for this fee. (USD) . Organizations: $80 Workshop Proposals You must be registered for the conference to submit a workshop. Workshops are limited to 45-50 minutes. Proposals are due by: May 16, 2011. Please submit your proposals to jim(a)oei-dc.org Posters & Tabling There will be space provided for registered organizations to present a poster and to accommodate organizational outreach materials. Space is limited and the deadline for requests is May 18, 2011. There is no charge for tabling. Contact us if your want to table: jim(a)oei-dc.org <mailto:jim@oei-dc..org> Accommodations Affordable hotels and alternative housing are being arranged as we speak. Please consult future publications on the conference for this information. Sponsorships If you or your organization would like to be a sponsor of the event, please contact Jim Polk at jim(a)oei-dc.org Sponsorships include registration for up to four individuals from your organization and registration to give a workshop, as well as special recognition in the program. Venue The event will be held at the Cloyd Heck Marvin Center 800 21st Street Northwest, Washington D.C., at the George Washington University, which is three blocks east of the Foggy Bottom / GWU Metro Stop on the Orange/Blue line. Directions to The George Washington University Campus Cloyd Heck Marvin Center and University Conferences 800 21st Street, NW, Washington, DC 20052 By Plane . If you are traveling by plane and flying directly into Ronald Reagan National Airport, you can reach the campus by taxi, which will cost approximately $15. You can also reach campus by taking the Metro Blue Line (heading in the direction of Largo Town Center). Exit at the stop marked Foggy Bottom - GWU. . If you are flying into Dulles International Airport, you can take the Washington Flyer Shuttle Bus to downtown Washington. Tickets can be purchased at the airport. You may also take a taxi directly form the airport. By Train If you are traveling by train, you will arrive at Union Station and can take a taxi for the approximate cost of $10. You can also take the Metro Red Line (heading toward Shady Grove). When you reach the Metro Center stop, transfer to the Blue Line (heading toward Franconia-Springfield) or the Orange Line (heading towards Vienna). Exit at the stop marked Foggy Bottom-GWU. By METRO/ Public Transit If you are traveling by Metro to campus, exit at the stop marked Foggy Bottom/GWU. As you exit the station, you will be at 23rd and I Streets. By Car . From North Interstate 95 south to Interstate 495 (Capital Beltway) toward Silver Spring/Northern Virginia. Take exit 33, heading south on Connecticut Avenue for about 9 miles. Turn right onto Florida Avenue (just past the Washington Hilton) and turn left immediately onto 21st Street. The Marvin Center is located at 800 21st Street (between H and Eye Streets). . From Northwest Interstate 270 to Interstate 495 (Capital Beltway) toward Silver Spring. Take exit 33, heading south on Connecticut Avenue for about 9 miles. Follow directions as given in From North. . From West Interstate 66 and Route 50 both connect with the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge. Cross the bridge and exit left at E Street, then again at Virginia Avenue. Bear left, following signs for 23rd Street. Turn right on 23rd 1Street and continue a few blocks to campus. Turn right on H Street. The Marvin Center is on your left between 22nd and 21st Streets. . >From South Interstate 95 to Interstate 395 Arlington Memorial Bridge exit. Cross the bridge and bear left at the Lincoln Memorial. Turn left onto 23rd Street, NW, and follow directions as given in From West. Parking The Marvin Center Garage operates from 7am - midnight Monday through Friday and is closed on weekends. Make sure you have your car out by 11:45pm. A visitor's parking garage is located between 23rd and 22nd Streets and H and Eye Streets. The visitor entrance is on Eye Street. Parking on campus is at a premium and visitors are encouraged to use public transportation when visiting the campus. The nearest METRO stop, Foggy Bottom/GWU located on the Orange/Blue lines, is a short 3-block walk from the Marvin Center. Any Questions whatsoever, call: Jim Polk 202-257-9333 or Abygale Lund 860-304-9789 -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "MarcellusGasInfo" group. To post to this group, send email to marcellusgasinfo(a)googlegroups.com To unsubscribe from this group, send email to marcellusgasinfo+unsubscribe(a)googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/marcellusgasinfo?hl=en This listserv is managed and owned by the Binghamton Regional Sustainabiliy Coalition (BRSC) For our email list policy, visit For BRSC email list policy, visit http://groups.google.com/group/marcellusgasinfo/files _____ No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1375 / Virus Database: 1500/3635 - Release Date: 05/13/11

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Fw: Financial Times: France to ban fracking of fossil fuels
by Jim Sconyers 12 May '11

12 May '11

Jim Sconyers jim_scon(a)yahoo.com 304.698.9628 Remember: Mother Nature bats last. ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Peter Gollon <PGollon(a)AOL.COM> To: CONS-SPST-GLOBALWARM-CHAIRS(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Sent: Thu, May 12, 2011 1:14:22 PM Subject: Financial Times: France to ban fracking of fossil fuels France to ban fracking of fossil fuels By Peggy Hollinger in Paris Published: May 11 2011 22:39 | Last updated: May 11 2011 23:06 French lawmakers have voted to ban a controversial technique used to extract shale gas and oil that opponents say contaminates the environment. If the vote by the lower house of parliament passes the Senate next month, France will be the first country to ban hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking. The process injects water, chemicals and sand into rock formations to break them open and extract previously unattainable fossil fuel deposits. Please respect FT.com's ts&cs and copyright policywhich allow you to: share links; copy content for personal use; & redistribute limited extracts. Email ftsales.support(a)ft.com to buy additional rights or use this link to reference the article - http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/907fd72c-7c06-11e0-9b16-00144feabdc0.html#ixzz1M9… The overwhelming vote by the National Assembly follows months of protest across France against a technique that environmentalists say threatens to pollute the water table. Many were outraged at the beginning of the year when it was discovered that several exploration permits had been granted without public consultation. The issue has become highly political as the government prepares for a difficult presidential campaign next year. Far from claiming victory, environmentalists and opposition Socialists accused the government of yielding to industry lobbying, because last-minute amendments to the draft law will allow scientific research to be conducted on shale gas and oil and its environmental impact, albeit under the control of state entities. The government will deliver an annual report to parliament on the conditions of this research, the first due by the end of the year. France relies on nuclear power for most of its electricity, but the Fukushima disaster has encouraged interest in other energy sources. The government has found itself caught between the possibility of exploiting new energy sources and addressing public concern over the environmental consequences. A report by the industry ministry recommended that test wells be drilled as it would be “damaging for the economy and for jobs for our country to forbid itself a deeper evaluation of this potential wealth”. Industry sources said they were relieved that the law had not revoked the permits already granted. A study published this week by scientists at Duke University in North Carolina found no sign that fracking chemicals were polluting the water supply, but there was evidence that gas was leaking from shale wells into drinking water, creating an explosion risk. A report by the European Centre for Energy and Resource Security last week found that Europe could cover its energy needs for the next 60 years if it was able to develop its unconventional gas resources. Nonetheless the French oil companies association Union Francaise des Industries Petrolieres said it “strongly regrets” the ban. Assuming the bill is not significantly changed when it is debated in the upper house next month, companies will have to deliver a report on the techniques they plan to use to explore for fossil fuels. If these techniques include hydraulic fracking, their permits will be cancelled. If they fail to report the use of the banned technology and are found to be using it, executives could face a €75,000 ($107,000) fine and prison sentences. Additional reporting by Ed Crooks in New York Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2011. http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/907fd72c-7c06-11e0-9b16-00144feabdc0.html#axzz1M1… - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the CONS-SPST-GLOBALWARM-CHAIRS list, send any message to: CONS-SPST-GLOBALWARM-CHAIRS-signoff-request(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp

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Fwd: wowza - this is interesting commentary on the power industry's PR needs
by James Kotcon 11 May '11

11 May '11

Is this for real? JBK >>> West Virginia News Service WVNS <wvnsnews(a)gmail.com> 5/10/2011 2:24 PM >>> This is brilliant. ------------------------------ *From:* send23-proxymailing(a)peabodyusa.com [mailto: send23-proxymailing(a)peabodyusa.com] *On Behalf Of *Peabody Energy *Sent:* Tuesday, May 10, 2011 7:50 AM *To:* *Subject:* Peabody Announces "Coal Cares," Nationwide Campaign to Fight Asthma Stigma *Peabody** Energy (NYSE: BTU) Announces "Coal Cares™" Initiative, New Nationwide Campaign Against Stigma of Childhood Asthma* ST. LOUIS, May 10, 2011 / PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Peabody Energy today announced the creation of an innovative new public health initiative designed to combat the stigma of asthma among American children ages 0-18. With Coal Cares™ (www.coalcares.org), Peabody will offer free, custom-branded inhaler actuators <http://coalcares.org/freeinhalers.html> to children living within 200 miles of a coal plant, along with coupons worth $10 towards the purchase of the asthma medication itself. "Too many young Americans face daily schoolyard taunting and bullying because of a condition over which they have no control," said Gregory H. Boyce, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Peabody Energy. "By re-branding the inhaler as a cool, individualized, must-have accessory, Coal Cares™ will empower children to tell bullies: ‘suck it up.’" Children can choose from a variety of youth-themed inhaler cases, from tween faves like "the Bieber" and "My Little Pony," to the "Emo" and "Diamond" inhalers for older, style-conscious youth. There’s even "My First Inhaler," for tots. Coal Cares™ launches today in commemoration of Asthma Awareness Month<http://www.epa.gov/asthma/awm/>, the Environmental Protection Agency’s effort to call attention to rising asthma rates<http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/04/health/research/04asthma.html?_r=3>, especially among children. Coal Cares™ and its Puff-Puff™ line of inhalers is the first, and most ambitious, market-friendly public health initiative of this scope of any privately-owned American company, and testifies to the energy industry’s commitment to the well-being of all citizens, including the youngest. "Our actions are guided by a singular mission: to be a leading worldwide producer and supplier of balanced energy solutions, which power economic prosperity and well-being," said Boyce. "Coal Cares™ brings this mission to life, empowering children everywhere to take control of their destinies, beginning with their own lungs." "Coal Cares™ is emblematic of the return to self-reliance that healthy entrepreneurship demands," said James Miasmus, Vice President of Government Affairs at Peabody USA. "Costly ‘scrubbing’ technology, on the other hand, is an untested and heavy-handed intrusion into our still-vulnerable economy. At Peabody, we're thinking globally but acting locally, and locating preventive action at the point of consumption, where it belongs." "Coal Cares™ isn’t just the name of a campaign," said Kevin Briesslau, Vice President of Communications at Peabody Coal. "It’s a philosophy, a way of doing business in harmony with the community we are a part of. After all, coal is the fastest-growing fuel in the world. We're part of America’s heritage, and we’re here to stay." To learn more about Peabody's Coal Cares™ initiative, visit: www.coalcares.org. Peabody Energy (NYSE: BTU) is the world's largest private-sector coal company and a global leader in clean coal solutions. With 2010 sales of 246 million tons and nearly $7 billion in revenues, Peabody fuels 10 percent of U.S. power and 2 percent of worldwide electricity. CONTACT: Vic Ganey Phone (314) 472-5539 SOURCE Peabody Energy -- West Virginia News Service (WVNS) Toll Free: 1-800-317-6705 Fax: 540-301-0801 E-mail: wvns(a)publicnewsservice.org

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