Why Moratoriums on Hydraulic Fracturing?
January 5, 2012
There are currently debates in a number of localities throughout Colorado over moratoriums or additional regulations on on oil and gas development, specifically in regards to hydraulic fracturing. These measures are similar to a moratorium that was put in place in New York State in 2008.
It’s very telling, however, that the New York moratorium didn’t last long.
Governor Andrew Cuomo recently lifted the moratorium and is actually proceeding proceeding with a plan to allow hydraulic fracturing in the state.
To counter the state’s move, however, many localities are putting in local ordinances to prohibit drilling for natural gas in their areas due to fears about the safety of hydraulic fracturing. While their debates continue, New Yorkers are losing millions in tax revenue and missing out on the creation of thousands of much-needed jobs.
Not only do moratoriums on hydraulic fracturing hurt the economy, they ignore the fact that it is a safe operation that relies on stringent operational standards, numerous regulations and decades of experience.
Our own state of Colorado has been using this process for years to recover oil and natural gas without incident. More than 100,000 jobs for Coloradans have been created, and billions in revenue are generated annually through the oil and natural gas industry.
More jobs and revenue can be generated if this process is allowed to continue.
Colorado also has some of the strictest regulations in the nation governing oil and natural gas development, including the hydraulic fracturing process. And these tough rules have recently been expanded by Governor John Hickenlooper, with additional protective measures added regarding transparency of hydraulic fracturing chemical disclosure. The Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) oversees all drilling operations to ensure that all necessary safety precautions are taken. These are in addition to the numerous federal regulations that also exist to protect the environment and public health.
We urge you to view these additional helpful links about the regulations, standards and disclosure requirements for hydraulic fracturing in Colorado:
- Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC)
- Hydraulic Fracturing Regulations
- Hydraulic Fracturing Standards
- Colorado Jobs and Economy
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