Residents of Western Maryland don’t want fracking

The Dec. 5 Metro article “Extension of Md. fracking halt likely as legislative fight looms” quoted Del. Jason C. Buckel (R-District 1B) as saying, “In general, I think it would be unfair to suggest that there’s been a significant movement of people opposed to fracking in Allegany or Garrett.” I disagree. As a business owner long involved in this issue in Garrett County, I know the anti-fracking movement is strong and growing.

At an Allegany County meeting two weeks ago, anti-fracking dominated for hours, with several dozen people speaking in favor of a ban. Almost 700 Frostburg residents, more than voted in the last municipal election, have signed a petition supporting a fracking ban within city limits, and hundreds have turned out at public meetings on the issue. Mr. Buckel attended the Frostburg and county delegation meetings.

In August, the House Environment and Transportation Committee held a hearing in Garrett County on fracking; an overflow audience of 450 attended, with 70 percent speaking against fracking. The Garrett County towns of Mountain Lake Park and Friendsville have passed fracking-ban ordinances and received support from their citizens.

Fracking opposition in Western Maryland comes from farmers, business owners, students, health professionals and faith leaders. We insist that for the sake of our health and communities, Maryland ban fracking once and for all.

Paul Roberts, Friendsville, Md.

The writer is board president of Citizen Shale.

Posted on 12/12/2016 in Uncategorized