Currently there are safer and greener alternatives for recycling and treating produced water than piping it under our town to a tank farm.
Other gas companies are using the systems below with great success.
The advantages
Less trucks bringing fresh water to site for fracking because the units can reclaim 70% or more of the waste water and reuse it.
Less trucks to haul away what little waste water is left over.
No need for underground pipelines and tank farms.
They are on site systems and are mobile so it can be relocated to another site.
If Williams cares about being a good neighbor, than why did they not propose this type of system?
See info below
http://www.pr-inside.com/stw-resources-announces-preliminary-agreement-r972758.htm
a few paragraphs from article
STW's semi-permanent installations can process up to 17,142 barrels or 720,000 gallons per day. STW's mobile units give it the ability to move the processing of fracture water from well site to well site. At this time, Devon Energy is evaluating STW's water processing technology for use in some of its drilling and production operations.
The first project will utilize technology developed by GE Water & Process Technologies to reclaim approximately 70% of the fresh water from highly contaminated oil and natural gas hydraulic fracture flow-back water and salt water that is produced in conjunction with the production of oil and natural gas.
link to website for more info
http://www.stwresources.com/_pdf/STW%20Website%20Markets%20Document.pdf
Here is another company with mobile on site recycling and treatment
http://altelainc.com/applications/detail/oil-and-gas-industry-produced-water/
a few paragraphs with links to their brochure
Historically, produced water generated at an oil or gas site is stored on-site in large tanks. Oil and gas companies must pay for disposal trucking companies to visit the site multiple times per week, pump the produced water out of the storage tanks and transport the waste to commercial underground reinjection sites. These disposal trucks must often travel great distances to the reinjection sites. When these trucks are unavailable or during periods of poor weather, many well sites must be shut down due to the inability to store and/or dispose of the produced water onsite.
some info on cost for this type of system
In addition, many oil and gas wells are simply “pinching back” production due to inability of onsite infrastructure to handle produced water volumes. Trucking costs alone can be in excess of $3 per barrel (bbl) and a disposal reinjection well can cost upwards of $4 million to drill. In many locations, total produced water disposal costs are greater than $5/bbl. Stated differently, the oil & gas industry spends as much as 80 times as much, per gallon, to get rid of dirty produced water as individuals pay for clean municipal water. Despite considerable efforts and investment, there were no cost-effective technological solutions available to reduce the huge disposal costs of this highly-brackish produced water, until now. View PDF of our Oil & Gas Industry Brochure.
AltelaRainSM lowers the cost of oil and gas production while dramatically decreasing the volume of waste that needs to be trucked away and disposed. It purifies the most highly-challenged water using energy produced at the wellhead, in a simple, mobile and modular system located on-site. More on the AltelaRainSM System
Friday, October 30, 2009
Toxin Discovery in Barnett Shale Air
The Barnett Shale air is the air we are currently breathing every day. This should not come as a surprise after the news out of Dish, TX recently.
http://stopthedrilling.blogspot.com/2009/10/human-health-effects-associated-with.html
The air quality is so bad in Dish that scientist are calling for more Dish air studies. Peggy Heinkel-Wolfe from the Denton Record Chronicle reports.
http://www.dentonrc.com/sharedcontent/dws/drc/localnews/stories/DRC_dish_1030.267021ddb.html
a few paragraphs from her article.
The TCEQ memo also noted concerns about sulfides found by the Wolf Eagle study. Because some of the long carbon chains in the air samples were difficult to identify, state toxicologists said they could not draw accurate conclusions about the long-term health effects, and they recommended more study of those pollutants.
The Environmental Defense Fund has since released another study of TCEQ data, conducted at Rice University, showing a strong correlation between gas drilling production in Denton County and the types of pollutants found in the county’s air. That analysis showed a likely connection between four volatile organic compounds — pentane, butane, ethane and propane — detected in the county’s ambient air and the amount of condensate produced in local gas wells. And now it isn't just about Dish, TX air quality.
News 8 did a great segment last night about the air quality throughout the Barnett Shale area. This is just another wake up call to all of us that natural gas is not the "clean burning" fuel of the future. The extraction of this fuel is a dirty and health threatening process!
Read a few paragraphs from the news story and click on the link for the complete report.
http://www.wfaa.com/sharedcontent/dws/wfaa/latestnews/stories/wfaa091029_mo_drilling.2669d39e4.html
Drilling began to take off in the Barnett Shale around 2002, which was when there were nearly 2,000 gas wells.
Since then, that number has grown to more than 12,000. So, many might wonder which government agency has been testing the air at each of those sites to check for any potentially harmful elements in the air. The answer is no one.
Now, for the first time, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is conducting a Barnett Shale air quality study. The results have surprised the highest levels of the commission.
As stated below, benzene's long term exposure effect can lead to cancer.
TCEQ found something potentially hazardous in the air near some natural gas facilities during testing conducted around the Barnett Shale. Benzene, a cancer-causing, dangerous toxin, was discovered to be in the air.
"Long-term exposures to a high enough level of benzene can lead to cancers, leukemia specifically," said Dr. Michael Honeycutt.
http://stopthedrilling.blogspot.com/2009/10/human-health-effects-associated-with.html
The air quality is so bad in Dish that scientist are calling for more Dish air studies. Peggy Heinkel-Wolfe from the Denton Record Chronicle reports.
http://www.dentonrc.com/sharedcontent/dws/drc/localnews/stories/DRC_dish_1030.267021ddb.html
a few paragraphs from her article.
The TCEQ memo also noted concerns about sulfides found by the Wolf Eagle study. Because some of the long carbon chains in the air samples were difficult to identify, state toxicologists said they could not draw accurate conclusions about the long-term health effects, and they recommended more study of those pollutants.
The Environmental Defense Fund has since released another study of TCEQ data, conducted at Rice University, showing a strong correlation between gas drilling production in Denton County and the types of pollutants found in the county’s air. That analysis showed a likely connection between four volatile organic compounds — pentane, butane, ethane and propane — detected in the county’s ambient air and the amount of condensate produced in local gas wells. And now it isn't just about Dish, TX air quality.
News 8 did a great segment last night about the air quality throughout the Barnett Shale area. This is just another wake up call to all of us that natural gas is not the "clean burning" fuel of the future. The extraction of this fuel is a dirty and health threatening process!
Read a few paragraphs from the news story and click on the link for the complete report.
http://www.wfaa.com/sharedcontent/dws/wfaa/latestnews/stories/wfaa091029_mo_drilling.2669d39e4.html
Drilling began to take off in the Barnett Shale around 2002, which was when there were nearly 2,000 gas wells.
Since then, that number has grown to more than 12,000. So, many might wonder which government agency has been testing the air at each of those sites to check for any potentially harmful elements in the air. The answer is no one.
Now, for the first time, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is conducting a Barnett Shale air quality study. The results have surprised the highest levels of the commission.
As stated below, benzene's long term exposure effect can lead to cancer.
TCEQ found something potentially hazardous in the air near some natural gas facilities during testing conducted around the Barnett Shale. Benzene, a cancer-causing, dangerous toxin, was discovered to be in the air.
"Long-term exposures to a high enough level of benzene can lead to cancers, leukemia specifically," said Dr. Michael Honeycutt.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
IMPORTANT! Flower Mound Public Hearing Monday Night Nov. 2nd
This is just a reminder about the Public Hearing/Meeting on the seismic testing, waste water pipelines and "tank farms".
It is this Monday, November 2nd at 6:00pm at the FM Town Hall.
It is important that you show up and let the Town Council know how you feel.
If you want some info on these issues. You can view the Town's presentation from the previous meetings.
http://www.flower-mound.com/env_resources/pix/pdf/Oct%2015%20TC%20Work%20Session%20-%20Items%2023.pdf
http://www.flower-mound.com/env_resources/pix/pdf/Oct%2015%20TC%20Work%20Session%20-%20Item4.pdf
Here is some more info we have had sent to us.
First set of Town streets proposed for seismic testing
http://stopthedrilling.blogspot.com/2009/10/proposed-public-flower-mound-streets.html
Foundation problems
http://home-exteriors.suite101.com/article.cfm/how_to_avoid_foundation_repair
The Consequences of Seismic Testing
Unfortunately, seismic testing for oil or gas exploration can result in foundation damage in homes that are in the vicinity. Both the initial and the reflective jolts can damage a concrete slab. Too often municipal governments give permission for these tests without alerting residents.
Of course, legal proceedings can mandate that “big oil” pay for the residential foundation damage that they incur, but it's worth it to them if they hit pay dirt.
Sewer Systems, water well and septic problems
http://74.95.82.236:591/rconline/FMPro?-db=rconline.fp5&-format=record_detail.html&-lay=detail&-sortfield=currentrecordid&-sortorder=descend&TopStory=Y&IsCurrent=Y&-recid=12613502&-find=
There are still a lot of unknowns about the impact of seismic testing on private sewer systems. In Bradford County, it is so early in the process that there is no feedback yet of damage or suspected damage to sewer systems. However, Neiley says it will cost you between $6,000 to $20,000 to rehabilitate or replace a damaged sewer system. That could wipe out whatever you may have made from your gas lease.There are legal issues with seismic testing
http://www.thenewsconnection.com/article.cfm?articleID=31727
With the more widespread use of truck-mounted “thumper” and vibrating energy sources, the explosive dangers associated with dynamite charges are eliminated. The logistics of laying out long geophone lines can still cause negative impacts to properties as can the potential for physical damage caused by the use of heavy equipment in urban areas.
The mechanics of thumper trucks generally require that they not be used on paved surfaces because of the force of the impact which can break or disintegrate concrete or asphalt road surfaces. Crews laying out cables can crush landscape beds, break bushes or trees, or leave fences and gates open allowing pets or livestock to get out.
Shock waves emitted by the trucks can also panic or stress livestock and ribbon flags and trash left behind by seismic crews can harm livestock and native species through ingestion. Some reports of damages to foundations and buildings have been publicized when thumper trucks are used in close proximity to structures but setback restrictions incorporated in documents should minimize the possibility of such damages.
http://www.setexasrecord.com/news/204883-vidor-residents-sue-seismic-testing-company-for-home-damage
According to the plaintiffs' petition, Clifford and Rhonda Miller own a house at 115 Briarcliff Vidor. Wylie and Richard each live on the same block. "In late November 2005, defendants began seismic testing on Briarcliff with 'thumper trucks' sending strong sound waves into the earth to detect mineral reserves. Century retained Urban Specialists to monitor the testing. Testing took place on Briarcliff just several yards from the homes, the suit said. "As a result of the loud sound waves, pictures were shaken off the walls and their homes damaged." "Plaintiffs discovered their houses sustained serious losses and damages after the seismic testing," the suit said.
I actually spoke with the lawyer for the case above. He has handled others. Most settle out of court with the homeowner having to sign a confidentiality agreement.
I spoke with two other attorneys and they have handled cases with similar outcomes.
My insurance company said my home is not covered for any damage from seismic testing.
I urge you to call your insurance company.
Pipeline articles
http://www.timesleader.com/news/hottopics/shale/Texas_leads_way_in_water_issues_02-22-2009.html
The 2007 report lists 354 active cases caused by oil and gas operations, she said, though no producing oil or gas wells are listed as sources. “Pipeline releases, tank battery leakage, and releases from compressor stations, gas plants, booster stations, separators, dehydrators make up the majority of the cases,” she noted. “A few cases are due to blowouts that primarily occur during the drilling of an oil or gas well.”
http://wcmessenger.com/news/content/EkuAkuZpuukoyqDwIJ.php
"The pipe that runs across Mr. Mitchell's land developed a very small hole - a hole large enough to put a toothpick through," said Chip Minty, media relations manager with Devon Energy Corp. "Under pressure, enough gas leaked through from that size of hole to make itself obvious."Minty said the hole was caused by corrosion by bacteria. "Bacteria can settle in a pipe and create corrosion, so we're analyzing that bacteria so we can treat that pipeline and address that type of bacteria so we don't have that type of corrosion problem again," Minty said.
http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/dep_orders_driller_to_stop_all_hydraulic_fracturing_in_susquehanna_county
The Department of Environmental Protection has ordered Cabot Oil and Gas Corp. to stop all hydraulic fracturing of natural gas wells in Susquehanna County after failed pipe connections and a ruptured hose at a well site there caused three chemical spills in less than a week.
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09156/975204-58.stm
A leaking waste water pipe from a Range Resources Marcellus shale gas well drilled in Washington County's Cross Creek Park has polluted an unnamed tributary of Cross Creek Lake, killing fish, salamanders, crayfish and aquatic insect life in approximately three-quarters of a mile of the stream.
It is this Monday, November 2nd at 6:00pm at the FM Town Hall.
It is important that you show up and let the Town Council know how you feel.
If you want some info on these issues. You can view the Town's presentation from the previous meetings.
http://www.flower-mound.com/env_resources/pix/pdf/Oct%2015%20TC%20Work%20Session%20-%20Items%2023.pdf
http://www.flower-mound.com/env_resources/pix/pdf/Oct%2015%20TC%20Work%20Session%20-%20Item4.pdf
Here is some more info we have had sent to us.
First set of Town streets proposed for seismic testing
http://stopthedrilling.blogspot.com/2009/10/proposed-public-flower-mound-streets.html
Foundation problems
http://home-exteriors.suite101.com/article.cfm/how_to_avoid_foundation_repair
The Consequences of Seismic Testing
Unfortunately, seismic testing for oil or gas exploration can result in foundation damage in homes that are in the vicinity. Both the initial and the reflective jolts can damage a concrete slab. Too often municipal governments give permission for these tests without alerting residents.
Of course, legal proceedings can mandate that “big oil” pay for the residential foundation damage that they incur, but it's worth it to them if they hit pay dirt.
Sewer Systems, water well and septic problems
http://74.95.82.236:591/rconline/FMPro?-db=rconline.fp5&-format=record_detail.html&-lay=detail&-sortfield=currentrecordid&-sortorder=descend&TopStory=Y&IsCurrent=Y&-recid=12613502&-find=
There are still a lot of unknowns about the impact of seismic testing on private sewer systems. In Bradford County, it is so early in the process that there is no feedback yet of damage or suspected damage to sewer systems. However, Neiley says it will cost you between $6,000 to $20,000 to rehabilitate or replace a damaged sewer system. That could wipe out whatever you may have made from your gas lease.There are legal issues with seismic testing
http://www.thenewsconnection.com/article.cfm?articleID=31727
With the more widespread use of truck-mounted “thumper” and vibrating energy sources, the explosive dangers associated with dynamite charges are eliminated. The logistics of laying out long geophone lines can still cause negative impacts to properties as can the potential for physical damage caused by the use of heavy equipment in urban areas.
The mechanics of thumper trucks generally require that they not be used on paved surfaces because of the force of the impact which can break or disintegrate concrete or asphalt road surfaces. Crews laying out cables can crush landscape beds, break bushes or trees, or leave fences and gates open allowing pets or livestock to get out.
Shock waves emitted by the trucks can also panic or stress livestock and ribbon flags and trash left behind by seismic crews can harm livestock and native species through ingestion. Some reports of damages to foundations and buildings have been publicized when thumper trucks are used in close proximity to structures but setback restrictions incorporated in documents should minimize the possibility of such damages.
http://www.setexasrecord.com/news/204883-vidor-residents-sue-seismic-testing-company-for-home-damage
According to the plaintiffs' petition, Clifford and Rhonda Miller own a house at 115 Briarcliff Vidor. Wylie and Richard each live on the same block. "In late November 2005, defendants began seismic testing on Briarcliff with 'thumper trucks' sending strong sound waves into the earth to detect mineral reserves. Century retained Urban Specialists to monitor the testing. Testing took place on Briarcliff just several yards from the homes, the suit said. "As a result of the loud sound waves, pictures were shaken off the walls and their homes damaged." "Plaintiffs discovered their houses sustained serious losses and damages after the seismic testing," the suit said.
I actually spoke with the lawyer for the case above. He has handled others. Most settle out of court with the homeowner having to sign a confidentiality agreement.
I spoke with two other attorneys and they have handled cases with similar outcomes.
My insurance company said my home is not covered for any damage from seismic testing.
I urge you to call your insurance company.
Pipeline articles
http://www.timesleader.com/news/hottopics/shale/Texas_leads_way_in_water_issues_02-22-2009.html
The 2007 report lists 354 active cases caused by oil and gas operations, she said, though no producing oil or gas wells are listed as sources. “Pipeline releases, tank battery leakage, and releases from compressor stations, gas plants, booster stations, separators, dehydrators make up the majority of the cases,” she noted. “A few cases are due to blowouts that primarily occur during the drilling of an oil or gas well.”
http://wcmessenger.com/news/content/EkuAkuZpuukoyqDwIJ.php
"The pipe that runs across Mr. Mitchell's land developed a very small hole - a hole large enough to put a toothpick through," said Chip Minty, media relations manager with Devon Energy Corp. "Under pressure, enough gas leaked through from that size of hole to make itself obvious."Minty said the hole was caused by corrosion by bacteria. "Bacteria can settle in a pipe and create corrosion, so we're analyzing that bacteria so we can treat that pipeline and address that type of bacteria so we don't have that type of corrosion problem again," Minty said.
http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/dep_orders_driller_to_stop_all_hydraulic_fracturing_in_susquehanna_county
The Department of Environmental Protection has ordered Cabot Oil and Gas Corp. to stop all hydraulic fracturing of natural gas wells in Susquehanna County after failed pipe connections and a ruptured hose at a well site there caused three chemical spills in less than a week.
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09156/975204-58.stm
A leaking waste water pipe from a Range Resources Marcellus shale gas well drilled in Washington County's Cross Creek Park has polluted an unnamed tributary of Cross Creek Lake, killing fish, salamanders, crayfish and aquatic insect life in approximately three-quarters of a mile of the stream.
Spill on a Barnett Shale Drill Site
This happened today. The family who has the well on their property does not own their mineral rights!
The property owner had to call the TRC because the workers didn't do anything about it until the inspector showed up!!
http://txsharon.blogspot.com/2009/10/spill-on-aruba-petroleum-drill-site.html
The property owner had to call the TRC because the workers didn't do anything about it until the inspector showed up!!
http://txsharon.blogspot.com/2009/10/spill-on-aruba-petroleum-drill-site.html
Any and all pipelines can leak.
Pipelines can leak. Chemicals and produced water are highly corrosive liquids. Couplings can fail.
For info on some pipeline accidents, scroll down the the last link.
The least amount of pipelines, no matter what they carry, running through our neighborhoods and towns, the better.
http://apps.grouptivity.com/socialmail/main.do?uId=425853&tId=329977&pk=158086918403&acn=zj%21d9&pId=lddglP9kZt4=&acn=zj%21d9
A few paragraphs from the article above
Seventy-five families residing in the shadow of a Freeport Dow Chemical Co. facility began making plans Tuesday to live elsewhere until the company can fix an underground pipeline that's leaking toxic chemicals.
A lineman discovered the leak Sunday morning when he found the pipeline, located 4 feet underground, was emitting toluene diisocyanate, known as TDI — a major ingredient in polyurethane foam, used primarily in bedding, furniture and car seats. The chemical is a toxic, flammable substance that irritates the lungs, skin and eyes.
http://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/comm/reports/safety/PSI.html
For info on some pipeline accidents, scroll down the the last link.
The least amount of pipelines, no matter what they carry, running through our neighborhoods and towns, the better.
http://apps.grouptivity.com/socialmail/main.do?uId=425853&tId=329977&pk=158086918403&acn=zj%21d9&pId=lddglP9kZt4=&acn=zj%21d9
A few paragraphs from the article above
Seventy-five families residing in the shadow of a Freeport Dow Chemical Co. facility began making plans Tuesday to live elsewhere until the company can fix an underground pipeline that's leaking toxic chemicals.
A lineman discovered the leak Sunday morning when he found the pipeline, located 4 feet underground, was emitting toluene diisocyanate, known as TDI — a major ingredient in polyurethane foam, used primarily in bedding, furniture and car seats. The chemical is a toxic, flammable substance that irritates the lungs, skin and eyes.
http://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/comm/reports/safety/PSI.html
Chesapeake admits chemicals from fracking can damage water
New York City's water is safe from the toxic effects of gas drilling for now. The watershed supplies drinking water 9 million New Yorkers.
http://www.propublica.org/feature/company-says-nyc-watershed-more-important-than-profit-from-a-gas-well-1028
Here are a few paragraphs from the above article
Our research has shown we are the only leasehold owner in the New York City watershed, and so Chesapeake is uniquely positioned to take this issue off the table,” Chesapeake CEO Aubrey McClendon said in a released statement.
Chesapeake owns leases for 5,000 acres of the watershed, which falls within the Marcellus Shale, a deeply buried gas-rich rock formation that is poised for development. McClendon told The New York Times [3] that the company’s holdings in the watershed are “a drop in the bucket” compared with the 1.5 million acres it has leased across the shale formation in New York and in other states.
“How could any one well be so profitable that it would be worth damaging the New York City water system?” he said to the Times.
It is sad that Chesapeake thinks New York residents are more important than the people of Texas and all the other states where they are "fracking up" the water. Don't get me wrong, I am happy for New York and yes, a bit jealous that they don't have to wonder what they are drinking every time they hold a glass of water in their hands. It is nice to see somewhere the concerns of residents are not only being heard but that they are having some success in stopping this activity from affecting their health and quality of life.
Oh how I wish the whole industry felt the same about the State of Texas.
Fracking doesn't just taint water. Spills at well sites, injection wells, "tank farms" and pits along with leaks from pipelines can contaminate the air and ground.
Call or write our Texas politicians and ask them to support the Frac Act.
Press release about Frac Act:
http://s3.amazonaws.com/propublica/assets/natural_gas/frac_act_press_release_090609.pdf
For more info go to http://www.earthworksaction.org/oil_and_gas.cfm
http://www.propublica.org/feature/company-says-nyc-watershed-more-important-than-profit-from-a-gas-well-1028
Here are a few paragraphs from the above article
Our research has shown we are the only leasehold owner in the New York City watershed, and so Chesapeake is uniquely positioned to take this issue off the table,” Chesapeake CEO Aubrey McClendon said in a released statement.
Chesapeake owns leases for 5,000 acres of the watershed, which falls within the Marcellus Shale, a deeply buried gas-rich rock formation that is poised for development. McClendon told The New York Times [3] that the company’s holdings in the watershed are “a drop in the bucket” compared with the 1.5 million acres it has leased across the shale formation in New York and in other states.
“How could any one well be so profitable that it would be worth damaging the New York City water system?” he said to the Times.
It is sad that Chesapeake thinks New York residents are more important than the people of Texas and all the other states where they are "fracking up" the water. Don't get me wrong, I am happy for New York and yes, a bit jealous that they don't have to wonder what they are drinking every time they hold a glass of water in their hands. It is nice to see somewhere the concerns of residents are not only being heard but that they are having some success in stopping this activity from affecting their health and quality of life.
Oh how I wish the whole industry felt the same about the State of Texas.
Fracking doesn't just taint water. Spills at well sites, injection wells, "tank farms" and pits along with leaks from pipelines can contaminate the air and ground.
Call or write our Texas politicians and ask them to support the Frac Act.
Press release about Frac Act:
http://s3.amazonaws.com/propublica/assets/natural_gas/frac_act_press_release_090609.pdf
For more info go to http://www.earthworksaction.org/oil_and_gas.cfm
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Red Oak and River Walk file another law suit against Flower Mound
Thursday, October 22, 2009, Red Oak filed a new law suit against the Town of Flower Mound.
Imagine this. If Red Oak and River Walk are successful.
*You can be treated at a hospital that is just a few hundred feet away from drilling activity.
*Let your children play at a park a few hundred feet from drilling activity.
*Rent an apartment or better yet, buy a condo, a few hundred feet from drilling activity.
*Shop and dine a few hundred feet from drilling activity.
For the residents that live in the River Walk/Morriss Rd/2499 area, changes to the ordinance could greatly affect you!!!
Seismic testing on all public streets near this site could become a possibility.
What if Red Oak wants to pipe their waste water to a "tank farm", where will the pipelines go from this site?
Think about this now before you see what the outcome of the law suit is. Now is the time to keep the Flower Mound Oil & Gas Ordinance strong!!!
http://www.petitiononline.com/fmogord9/petition.html
Case No. 2009-30345-211 in the 211th Judicial District Court. Go to link and enter case no. for information
http://justice1.dentoncounty.com/PublicAccess/Search.aspx?ID=200&NodeID=1,1100,1101,1102,1250,1251,1252,1253,1254,1255,1256,1300,1310,1320,1330,1340,1350,1360&NodeDesc=All%20Courts%20Search
When we get more info, we will pass it on.
Imagine this. If Red Oak and River Walk are successful.
*You can be treated at a hospital that is just a few hundred feet away from drilling activity.
*Let your children play at a park a few hundred feet from drilling activity.
*Rent an apartment or better yet, buy a condo, a few hundred feet from drilling activity.
*Shop and dine a few hundred feet from drilling activity.
For the residents that live in the River Walk/Morriss Rd/2499 area, changes to the ordinance could greatly affect you!!!
Seismic testing on all public streets near this site could become a possibility.
What if Red Oak wants to pipe their waste water to a "tank farm", where will the pipelines go from this site?
Think about this now before you see what the outcome of the law suit is. Now is the time to keep the Flower Mound Oil & Gas Ordinance strong!!!
http://www.petitiononline.com/fmogord9/petition.html
Case No. 2009-30345-211 in the 211th Judicial District Court. Go to link and enter case no. for information
http://justice1.dentoncounty.com/PublicAccess/Search.aspx?ID=200&NodeID=1,1100,1101,1102,1250,1251,1252,1253,1254,1255,1256,1300,1310,1320,1330,1340,1350,1360&NodeDesc=All%20Courts%20Search
When we get more info, we will pass it on.
Legal Issues With Seismic Testing
Interesting article submitted last year by Gas and Oil Attorney Virginia Moore.
http://www.thenewsconnection.com/article.cfm?articleID=31727
These paragraphs caught my eye.
The mechanics of thumper trucks generally require that they not be used on paved surfaces because of the force of the impact which can break or disintegrate concrete or asphalt road surfaces. Crews laying out cables can crush landscape beds, break bushes or trees, or leave fences and gates open allowing pets or livestock to get out.
Shock waves emitted by the trucks can also panic or stress livestock and ribbon flags and trash left behind by seismic crews can harm livestock and native species through ingestion. Some reports of damages to foundations and buildings have been publicized when thumper trucks are used in close proximity to structures but setback restrictions incorporated in documents should minimize the possibility of such damages.
What setback restrictions could possibly be enough in a densely populated neighborhood where some homes are 15 to 20 feet from the street?
Call your insurance company and see what they have to say about coverage from seismic testing. You won't like the answer.
In my quest to check out the legal consequences for homeowners from seismic testing damage, I called a few lawyers who have represented homeowners after seismic testing damaged their foundations, septic tanks, and water wells. I was told most of the cases eventually end up being settled out of court (for those homeowners that don't give up) and always the homeowner is asked to sign a confidentiality agreement.
Let the FM Town Council know seismic testing on our streets is bad for ALL OF FLOWER MOUND!
ATTEND THE PUBLIC HEARING NOVEMBER 2ND AT TOWN HALL
http://www.thenewsconnection.com/article.cfm?articleID=31727
These paragraphs caught my eye.
The mechanics of thumper trucks generally require that they not be used on paved surfaces because of the force of the impact which can break or disintegrate concrete or asphalt road surfaces. Crews laying out cables can crush landscape beds, break bushes or trees, or leave fences and gates open allowing pets or livestock to get out.
Shock waves emitted by the trucks can also panic or stress livestock and ribbon flags and trash left behind by seismic crews can harm livestock and native species through ingestion. Some reports of damages to foundations and buildings have been publicized when thumper trucks are used in close proximity to structures but setback restrictions incorporated in documents should minimize the possibility of such damages.
What setback restrictions could possibly be enough in a densely populated neighborhood where some homes are 15 to 20 feet from the street?
Call your insurance company and see what they have to say about coverage from seismic testing. You won't like the answer.
In my quest to check out the legal consequences for homeowners from seismic testing damage, I called a few lawyers who have represented homeowners after seismic testing damaged their foundations, septic tanks, and water wells. I was told most of the cases eventually end up being settled out of court (for those homeowners that don't give up) and always the homeowner is asked to sign a confidentiality agreement.
Let the FM Town Council know seismic testing on our streets is bad for ALL OF FLOWER MOUND!
ATTEND THE PUBLIC HEARING NOVEMBER 2ND AT TOWN HALL
The Gathering Line-Drilling News
Gathering Line - a special pipeline that transports gas from the field to the main pipeline.
The Gathering Line is a round-up of oil & gas drilling news brought to you by National Alliance for Drilling Reform (NA4DR), a broad alliance of grassroots activists from states across the nation that are affected with drilling development.
WWJD on Carter Avenue? TXsharon wants to know if Chesapeake Energy or anyone in Fort Worth government has stopped to consider the answer to that question. Bluedaze: DRILLING REFORM FOR TEXAS.
Some upstate NY landowners are wondering whether they can sell their property if it has a gas lease. Check out the Marcellus Effect for a short review and a link to interviews with realtors.
NEWS FROM PENNSYLVANIA: Laceyville, PA, Getting Nearly $100,000 in Gas Revenues: Is This Good News? Peacegirl at Gas Wells Are Not Our Friends combs the newspapers of Bradford and Susquehanna Counties in Pennsylvania and talks with local people from these areas to find out what is really happening. This week the focus is on Laceyville, Wyoming County, PA. Will the people of Laceyville survive the invasion of the gas industry?
How Many Natural Gas Explosions Does It Take?!! One Too Many! Read it at Cheap Tricks and Costly Truths.
For the first time in decades, New Mexico Senators sacrificed migrating big game with their vote to allow drilling during the winter in the Jicarilla Ranger District of the Carson National Forest. Drilling Santa Fe asks if we have forgotten the high price of deregulation and offers something for consideration.
The Gathering Line is a round-up of oil & gas drilling news brought to you by National Alliance for Drilling Reform (NA4DR), a broad alliance of grassroots activists from states across the nation that are affected with drilling development.
WWJD on Carter Avenue? TXsharon wants to know if Chesapeake Energy or anyone in Fort Worth government has stopped to consider the answer to that question. Bluedaze: DRILLING REFORM FOR TEXAS.
Some upstate NY landowners are wondering whether they can sell their property if it has a gas lease. Check out the Marcellus Effect for a short review and a link to interviews with realtors.
NEWS FROM PENNSYLVANIA: Laceyville, PA, Getting Nearly $100,000 in Gas Revenues: Is This Good News? Peacegirl at Gas Wells Are Not Our Friends combs the newspapers of Bradford and Susquehanna Counties in Pennsylvania and talks with local people from these areas to find out what is really happening. This week the focus is on Laceyville, Wyoming County, PA. Will the people of Laceyville survive the invasion of the gas industry?
How Many Natural Gas Explosions Does It Take?!! One Too Many! Read it at Cheap Tricks and Costly Truths.
For the first time in decades, New Mexico Senators sacrificed migrating big game with their vote to allow drilling during the winter in the Jicarilla Ranger District of the Carson National Forest. Drilling Santa Fe asks if we have forgotten the high price of deregulation and offers something for consideration.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Flower Mound Ordinance Hearing Very Important!
WASTEWATER
Nov. 2nd: First Council Public Hearing on any proposed changes to ordinances
Presentation from Staff reviewing performance of ordinances and any proposed text changes
Presentation should include Pros and Cons of piping wastewater to a central collection facility- Questions and comments from the Public (two-way dialogue with Staff and Council)
Council deliberation but no action required by Council
SEISMIC TESTING
Nov. 2nd: First Council Public Hearing on Town-wide policy for seismic testing in the right-of-way
Presentation from Staff reviewing Pros and Cons of allowing seismic testing
Questions and comments from the Public (two-way dialogue with Staff and Council)
Council deliberation but no action required by Council
Nov. 2nd: First Council Public Hearing on any proposed changes to ordinances
Presentation from Staff reviewing performance of ordinances and any proposed text changes
Presentation should include Pros and Cons of piping wastewater to a central collection facility- Questions and comments from the Public (two-way dialogue with Staff and Council)
Council deliberation but no action required by Council
SEISMIC TESTING
Nov. 2nd: First Council Public Hearing on Town-wide policy for seismic testing in the right-of-way
Presentation from Staff reviewing Pros and Cons of allowing seismic testing
Questions and comments from the Public (two-way dialogue with Staff and Council)
Council deliberation but no action required by Council
Thursday, October 22, 2009
More evidence that changes to the Flower Mound O & G Ordinance Will Affect Whole Town
On Monday October 5th, Corey Van Trease, a spokesperson for the Hilliard family, Smith family, and the Smith Foundation stated that these large property lease holders where in favor of seismic testing, waste water pipelines and "tank farms".
Hilliard is right smack in the middle of highly populated neighborhoods! Shadow Ridge Middle School and Blue Bonnet Elementary are very close.
Where would the highly toxic waste water be piped to from that site?
What neighborhoods would be forced via eminent domain to have these waste water pipe lines buried 4 feet below the ground running through their yards?
Neighbors are saying Cherokee Horn told them that Titan wants to drill 8 wells at this site. That is a lot of waste water! No application has been filed with the town yet but now is the time to speak up and protect our rights for our children to attend school in a safe and healthy environment. Protect our rights to keep our quality of life, health and safety. Just look at the town of Dish, Tx (less than 20 miles away).
http://www.fwweekly.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2104%3Asacrificed-to-shale&catid=30%3Acover-story&Itemid=375
http://www.flower-mound.com/agenda/TCarchive/minutes_100509.pdf
Corey Van Trease, 2104 Cavalier Way, Flower Mound Mr. Van Trease stated he was speaking on behalf of Patty Smith, the Smith Foundation, and the Ron Hilliard family. They were all in support of the waste water collection system. He agreed that the Town needed to review the ordinance on a regular basis. He stated all the issues deserved more research, however he believed there were more pros than cons.
Hilliard is right smack in the middle of highly populated neighborhoods! Shadow Ridge Middle School and Blue Bonnet Elementary are very close.
Where would the highly toxic waste water be piped to from that site?
What neighborhoods would be forced via eminent domain to have these waste water pipe lines buried 4 feet below the ground running through their yards?
Neighbors are saying Cherokee Horn told them that Titan wants to drill 8 wells at this site. That is a lot of waste water! No application has been filed with the town yet but now is the time to speak up and protect our rights for our children to attend school in a safe and healthy environment. Protect our rights to keep our quality of life, health and safety. Just look at the town of Dish, Tx (less than 20 miles away).
http://www.fwweekly.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2104%3Asacrificed-to-shale&catid=30%3Acover-story&Itemid=375
If seismic testing on public streets is passed, they will be testing all streets around this site and any other sites throughout Flower Mound. The ordinance allows seismic testing on private property but greed is coming into play here. But at what cost? Certainly not the gas companies.
Call your insurance company and see if they cover seismic testing. I did and the answer wasn't good. Call a foundation repair company. I did. They told me to have my home inspected before and after the seismic testing, at my cost of course. Call a lawyer, I did and yes there have been cases where homeowners have had to sue gas companies for damage to their homes, foundations, water wells, and septic tanks. For those that can afford to stick it out, they sometimes get an out of court settlement but according to the attorneys I called, the gas companies have the homeowners sign a CONFIDENTIALITY AND NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT so they can't talk about it afterward.
http://www.flower-mound.com/agenda/TCarchive/minutes_100509.pdf
Corey Van Trease, 2104 Cavalier Way, Flower Mound Mr. Van Trease stated he was speaking on behalf of Patty Smith, the Smith Foundation, and the Ron Hilliard family. They were all in support of the waste water collection system. He agreed that the Town needed to review the ordinance on a regular basis. He stated all the issues deserved more research, however he believed there were more pros than cons.
Proposed public Flower Mound Streets for first set of seismic testing
Here is the first set of streets proposed for testing on Flower Mound public streets. Williams is contacting HOA's throughout FM to try to get them on board with the testing. They want to test all over town and not just rural Flower Mound.
Remember, the current ordinance lets them test on private property. That means, those in West Flower Mound can already allow it on their property.
Why change the ordinance?
Why do they need to impose it on the rest of the Town where it is more populated and urban?
First set of Town Streets proposed for seismic testing in a meeting between Williams and Town Staff October 2nd 2009. Streets Williams determined to be the first streets to be tested.
Streets-Neighborhood
Ada Drive-Shiloh Area
Bayshore Dr.-The Landing
Beachview Dr.-Emerald Bay
Beaver Creek Dr-River Oaks
Bella lago drive-Bella Lago
Bluewood Trail
Cavalier Way-Chateau Du Luc
Bruton Orand-Wellington
Cedar Ridge Drive-River Oaks
Darcey Court-Wellington
Dumas Court-Coeur Du Lac Ph II
Gental Drive-Wichita Creek
Greenbrier Lane-Red Bud
Heather Court-Wichita Creek
Hidden Valley Rd-Hidden Valley Country Estates
High Point Drive-River Oaks
High Meadow Rd-Between The Landing, Chateau Du Luc & Bell Lago
Hugo Court-Shiloh Area
Jennifer Drive-Wellington
La Rochelle-Chateau Du Luc
Lake Laguno-Bella Lago
Lakeside-Red Bud Point
Meadow Drive-Red Bud Point
Monet Court-Red Bud Point
Nandina Drive-Wellington
Oak Creast Drive-River Oaks
Paradise Lane-Emerald Bay
Park Ridge Road-Wichita Creek
Penninsula Drive-The Penninsula
Red Bud Drive-Red Bud Point
Ridgecrest Drive-Shiloh Area
River Bend Trail-River Oak
Rocky Point Road-Rocky Point
Skillern Blvd-Skillern
Sun Meadow Drive-Wichita Creek
Twin Coves Park Rd.-Twin Coves Park Rd
Valley View Lane-Shiloh Area
Wichita Trail-Wichita Trail
Remember, the current ordinance lets them test on private property. That means, those in West Flower Mound can already allow it on their property.
Why change the ordinance?
Why do they need to impose it on the rest of the Town where it is more populated and urban?
First set of Town Streets proposed for seismic testing in a meeting between Williams and Town Staff October 2nd 2009. Streets Williams determined to be the first streets to be tested.
Streets-Neighborhood
Ada Drive-Shiloh Area
Bayshore Dr.-The Landing
Beachview Dr.-Emerald Bay
Beaver Creek Dr-River Oaks
Bella lago drive-Bella Lago
Bluewood Trail
Cavalier Way-Chateau Du Luc
Bruton Orand-Wellington
Cedar Ridge Drive-River Oaks
Darcey Court-Wellington
Dumas Court-Coeur Du Lac Ph II
Gental Drive-Wichita Creek
Greenbrier Lane-Red Bud
Heather Court-Wichita Creek
Hidden Valley Rd-Hidden Valley Country Estates
High Point Drive-River Oaks
High Meadow Rd-Between The Landing, Chateau Du Luc & Bell Lago
Hugo Court-Shiloh Area
Jennifer Drive-Wellington
La Rochelle-Chateau Du Luc
Lake Laguno-Bella Lago
Lakeside-Red Bud Point
Meadow Drive-Red Bud Point
Monet Court-Red Bud Point
Nandina Drive-Wellington
Oak Creast Drive-River Oaks
Paradise Lane-Emerald Bay
Park Ridge Road-Wichita Creek
Penninsula Drive-The Penninsula
Red Bud Drive-Red Bud Point
Ridgecrest Drive-Shiloh Area
River Bend Trail-River Oak
Rocky Point Road-Rocky Point
Skillern Blvd-Skillern
Sun Meadow Drive-Wichita Creek
Twin Coves Park Rd.-Twin Coves Park Rd
Valley View Lane-Shiloh Area
Wichita Trail-Wichita Trail
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Williams is contacting HOA's about seismic testing
We just received this e-mail from a Bridlewood Resident. HOA's...get ready for Williams to give you a call if they haven't yet. This looks like proof that they want to seismic test all over town. This is not just about Rural West Flower Mound anymore.
Subject: [Bridlewood] Board Brief
Seismic Testing on Flower Mound Roads – As we indicated in our 10/13 Board Brief, Williams Companies has asked Flower Mound for access to town roadways to do seismic testing. With Bridlewood common area infrastructure (e.g. building foundations, courts, pools, brick walls, sidewalks, parking) in close proximity to public roads, we are concerned about potential damage to the HOA’s assets if Williams and/or another gas company is permitted to use public roads, specifically those in and around Bridlewood, for this activity. While the west side of town is where Williams would like to focus now, we understand they have requested permission to do this on roads throughout town.
A representative of Williams contacted the Bridlewood HOA office to introduce himself as the person who would be leading the testing in the area, should it be approved. This outreach to our community has led us to conclude that the activity is not intended to be restricted to just the West side of town. The Bridlewood Board’s duty is to protect the assets of this Association. We will encourage Town of Flower Mound staff and Town Council to carefully consider the ramifications of seismic testing, or any other activity, that could cause damage to or adversely impact the value of private and HOA property in Bridlewood.
Williams’ request was initially denied by Town staff. Town Council has asked for more information and is revisiting the request. Town Council held a work session this past Thursday, one of the results of which is the formalizing of input into the process with public hearings. The Bridlewood Board intends to share our concerns with Town Council at a public hearing, once scheduled. We encourage Bridlewood residents to participate in the public forum. When we have more information on the scheduling we will communicate it.
Subject: [Bridlewood] Board Brief
Seismic Testing on Flower Mound Roads – As we indicated in our 10/13 Board Brief, Williams Companies has asked Flower Mound for access to town roadways to do seismic testing. With Bridlewood common area infrastructure (e.g. building foundations, courts, pools, brick walls, sidewalks, parking) in close proximity to public roads, we are concerned about potential damage to the HOA’s assets if Williams and/or another gas company is permitted to use public roads, specifically those in and around Bridlewood, for this activity. While the west side of town is where Williams would like to focus now, we understand they have requested permission to do this on roads throughout town.
A representative of Williams contacted the Bridlewood HOA office to introduce himself as the person who would be leading the testing in the area, should it be approved. This outreach to our community has led us to conclude that the activity is not intended to be restricted to just the West side of town. The Bridlewood Board’s duty is to protect the assets of this Association. We will encourage Town of Flower Mound staff and Town Council to carefully consider the ramifications of seismic testing, or any other activity, that could cause damage to or adversely impact the value of private and HOA property in Bridlewood.
Williams’ request was initially denied by Town staff. Town Council has asked for more information and is revisiting the request. Town Council held a work session this past Thursday, one of the results of which is the formalizing of input into the process with public hearings. The Bridlewood Board intends to share our concerns with Town Council at a public hearing, once scheduled. We encourage Bridlewood residents to participate in the public forum. When we have more information on the scheduling we will communicate it.
Hud may not loan on homes near drilling
Interesting article from another blog
http://txsharon.blogspot.com/2009/10/hud-may-not-loan-on-homes-near-drilling.html
The only ones getting rich from all this natural gas development are Big Gas. Citizens will be stuck with diminished property values, clean-up of toxic air, water and soil and unending medical expenses.
The The Environmental Conservation Committee of The New York State Assembly issued a Draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement governing natural gas drilling. This 3 page document is packed with great nuggets of information that people need to consider before opening the door to Big Gas.Here's something they never tell you when they show the picture of the gas well with only 2 tanks and landscaping.
First, the wells and the pipelines and compressors are joined at the hip.
As the song says: You can't have one without the other... Recently, Range Resources convinced the Denton City Council differently, Denton Succumbs to Greed. Range Resources to Drill 5 Wells, but they weren't telling the truth, of course.Another thing they never tell you is how the most valuable asset you own will be rendered worthless.
In the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development HANDBOOK 4150.2:Valuation Analysis for Home Mortgage Insurance for Single Family One- to Four-Unit Dwellings, July 1, 1999, page 20-21, 2-2 SPECIAL NEIGHBORHOOD HAZARDS AND NUISANCES:
A. UNACCEPTABLE SITES
FHA guidelines require that a site be rejected if the property being appraised is subject to hazards, environmental contaminants, noxious odors, offensive sights or excessive noises to the point of endangering the physical improvements or affecting the livability of the property, its marketability or the health and safety of its occupants. Rejection may also be appropriate if the future economic life of the property is shortened by obvious and compelling pressure to a higher use, making a long-term mortgage impractical.
D. OPERATING AND ABANDONED OIL OR GAS WELLS
Operating and abandoned oil and gas wells pose potential hazards to housing, including potential fire, explosion, spray and other pollution.
1. Existing Construction
No existing dwelling may be located closer than 300 feet from an active or planned drilling site. Note that this applies to the site boundary, not to the actual well site.I have been placing calls to mortgage officers in Broome and Sullivan County in New York, Wayne County in Pennsylvania, and Sussex County in New Jersey who are experienced in FHA loans, and Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Of the ones I have been able to speak to, half were familiar with the language in the HUD Handbook and interpreted it to mean that residential structures for sale that are within 300 feet of the boundary of any property that is leased for natural gas drilling is not eligible for insurance for FHA financing.
I have also been placing calls to real estate brokers in each of these counties to get a sense of what percentage of the market relies on FHA financing. So far, it is a little all over the map: for homes in the middle of the market that go for anywhere between $110K to $210K the responses have been between 20% and 70%. Even if we accept only the lower figure, it is clear that this greatly reduces the pool of eligible buyers for these homes with a pursuant reduction in value of no small significance for the seller.
This becomes problematic in the context of an energy regulatory agenda that involves compulsory integration with horizontal wells running beneath people’s properties. And in case you don’t think drilling does not occur in urban or suburban areas, I simply direct your attention to the Dallas/Ft. Worth area and Dish, Texas
So the people on Carter Ave. where Chesapeake wants to put a 16" high pressure pipeline to carry unodorized, highly flammable, highly corrosive wet gas will not only be in grave danger and have greatly diminished property, they won't be able to sell their homes with a HUD loan.
http://txsharon.blogspot.com/2009/10/hud-may-not-loan-on-homes-near-drilling.html
The only ones getting rich from all this natural gas development are Big Gas. Citizens will be stuck with diminished property values, clean-up of toxic air, water and soil and unending medical expenses.
The The Environmental Conservation Committee of The New York State Assembly issued a Draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement governing natural gas drilling. This 3 page document is packed with great nuggets of information that people need to consider before opening the door to Big Gas.Here's something they never tell you when they show the picture of the gas well with only 2 tanks and landscaping.
First, the wells and the pipelines and compressors are joined at the hip.
As the song says: You can't have one without the other... Recently, Range Resources convinced the Denton City Council differently, Denton Succumbs to Greed. Range Resources to Drill 5 Wells, but they weren't telling the truth, of course.Another thing they never tell you is how the most valuable asset you own will be rendered worthless.
In the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development HANDBOOK 4150.2:Valuation Analysis for Home Mortgage Insurance for Single Family One- to Four-Unit Dwellings, July 1, 1999, page 20-21, 2-2 SPECIAL NEIGHBORHOOD HAZARDS AND NUISANCES:
A. UNACCEPTABLE SITES
FHA guidelines require that a site be rejected if the property being appraised is subject to hazards, environmental contaminants, noxious odors, offensive sights or excessive noises to the point of endangering the physical improvements or affecting the livability of the property, its marketability or the health and safety of its occupants. Rejection may also be appropriate if the future economic life of the property is shortened by obvious and compelling pressure to a higher use, making a long-term mortgage impractical.
D. OPERATING AND ABANDONED OIL OR GAS WELLS
Operating and abandoned oil and gas wells pose potential hazards to housing, including potential fire, explosion, spray and other pollution.
1. Existing Construction
No existing dwelling may be located closer than 300 feet from an active or planned drilling site. Note that this applies to the site boundary, not to the actual well site.I have been placing calls to mortgage officers in Broome and Sullivan County in New York, Wayne County in Pennsylvania, and Sussex County in New Jersey who are experienced in FHA loans, and Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Of the ones I have been able to speak to, half were familiar with the language in the HUD Handbook and interpreted it to mean that residential structures for sale that are within 300 feet of the boundary of any property that is leased for natural gas drilling is not eligible for insurance for FHA financing.
I have also been placing calls to real estate brokers in each of these counties to get a sense of what percentage of the market relies on FHA financing. So far, it is a little all over the map: for homes in the middle of the market that go for anywhere between $110K to $210K the responses have been between 20% and 70%. Even if we accept only the lower figure, it is clear that this greatly reduces the pool of eligible buyers for these homes with a pursuant reduction in value of no small significance for the seller.
This becomes problematic in the context of an energy regulatory agenda that involves compulsory integration with horizontal wells running beneath people’s properties. And in case you don’t think drilling does not occur in urban or suburban areas, I simply direct your attention to the Dallas/Ft. Worth area and Dish, Texas
So the people on Carter Ave. where Chesapeake wants to put a 16" high pressure pipeline to carry unodorized, highly flammable, highly corrosive wet gas will not only be in grave danger and have greatly diminished property, they won't be able to sell their homes with a HUD loan.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Citizen Rights, Property Rights, and Quality of Life
The below open letter to the Town Council was sent to us. It really makes sense of this whole issue here in Flower Mound. We have been accused of making this a political issue. You can read the FMCAUD's mission to see that it has never been about politics.
It seems there is an effort out there to discredit those of us that want to protect our property, health, safety and quality of life.
We are not holding parties with free food and passing out propaganda.
This is not a political party issue.
This is a PROTECTING OUR PROPERTY RIGHTS ISSUE!
and
This is a QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUE! Period.
please read the letter.
As I read the pro’s and con’s of Gas Drilling in rural and urban area’s, one thing strikes me. People seem to ignore history.
Protected Industries
Not so long ago in the United States, we did not have laws or regulation for: Slavery, child labor, tobacco, industrial, and financial industries. Left to their own moral and ethical choices, the individuals whom profited from these activities rarely made the right choices. As evidenced by history.
In each case, the United States government stepped in and created laws & regulations to protect its citizens. It didn’t happen overnight. Citizens had to step up and demand their rights, for which many died.
Gas & Oil Industry Exemptions:
The Gas & Oil Industry is exempt from the following Federal Laws:
· Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
· Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
· Safe Drinking Water Act
· Clean Water Act · Clean Air Act
· National Environmental Policy Act
· Toxic Release Inventory under the Emergency Planning and Community
Right-to-Know Act
It doesn’t take a genius to know that when an industry is exempt from so many “Health” related regulations, something is wrong.
There are independent studies being produced almost daily about the adverse affects, just from “Fracking”. Airborne toxins, leaks, spills, and legal & illegal dumping produced by the Natural Gas Drilling companies. All of the affects have yet to be determined, but dying animals & vegetation would allude that this is not safe for humans.
Citizens Rights
In November of 2008, Flower Mound’s Town Council passed an ordinance banning smoking in restaurants, bars, and parks. Our council understood that public smoking was an infringement of rights. Flower Mound residents also have the RIGHT to Safe Drinking Water, Clean Water in our Wells, Ponds, Lakes, Rivers, Streams, and Aquifer; Clean Air, and Conservation, Environmental, Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-know protections. We also have the RIGHT to protect our homes from damage and devaluation.
Anyone who tells you differently should understand the American Constitution. These people aren’t just infringing on our rights, they are trying to take them away.
This isn’t about the rural residents of Flower Mound’s rights. Their 100 wells have been approved. Williams can drill anytime they choose. They can do seismic testing on their property. No one from the Town has taken away their rights. I have no problem with these property owners getting paid for their minerals. Although, I do have a problem when my property rights are infringed upon.
THIS IS ABOUT the RIGHTS of residents who live in more dense neighborhoods. Williams and other gas drilling companies want your rights.
Greedy Gas Drilling Companies have come to Flower Mound! William’s most recent efforts to erode our ordinances are, by gathering rural residents at weekly events at the Circle R Ranch, where they buy their dinner and espouse untruths. Telling that if you don’t get the Town to allow Seismic Testing on streets and Tank Farms, these people will be taking away YOUR money.
What they aren’t telling these residents is that they, Williams, have sent a contract to the Town asking for Seismic testing on ALL Town Streets. Or that they will be using Eminent Domain to condemn portions of resident's property to run these pipelines carrying these toxic chemicals back to their new “Industrial” zone.
When you don’t have the truth on your side, I guess the only thing LEFT to do is to lie. Wanting to protect your rights doesn’t make you left wing liberal, just ask the NRA.
You don’t have to be a Republican, Democrat, or even an Independent to want to protect your Rights.
You may own your minerals and you may not. You may of signed a lease and you may not of signed a lease.
This is not about politics…never has been and never will be.
It is a QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUE!
Protect our Rights:
Currently, our only protection from these companies is our Town ordinances. This is not the first attempt to weaken our ordinances. Each time they have been attacked, our ordinances has held up to the law.
This will certainly not be the last attempt at changing our ordinances. Over 64,000 residents live in Flower Mound. More than 60,000 of them live east of Shiloh Rd and most live on less than one acre neighborhood lots. The way our current ordinances are written, it makes it hard for drilling companies to drill cheaply. They will start at the fringes and continue picking away, until our community is drained dry. The question is “what will residents be left with”?
...... Plummeting property values, and toxins in the air, soil, and water.
Just ask all those who have come before us.
Members of Town Council do not change or allow erosion of our ordinances. Keep our Ordinances strong: Vote NO on Seismic Testing on public roads and “Tank Farms”.
It seems there is an effort out there to discredit those of us that want to protect our property, health, safety and quality of life.
We are not holding parties with free food and passing out propaganda.
This is not a political party issue.
This is a PROTECTING OUR PROPERTY RIGHTS ISSUE!
and
This is a QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUE! Period.
please read the letter.
As I read the pro’s and con’s of Gas Drilling in rural and urban area’s, one thing strikes me. People seem to ignore history.
Protected Industries
Not so long ago in the United States, we did not have laws or regulation for: Slavery, child labor, tobacco, industrial, and financial industries. Left to their own moral and ethical choices, the individuals whom profited from these activities rarely made the right choices. As evidenced by history.
In each case, the United States government stepped in and created laws & regulations to protect its citizens. It didn’t happen overnight. Citizens had to step up and demand their rights, for which many died.
Gas & Oil Industry Exemptions:
The Gas & Oil Industry is exempt from the following Federal Laws:
· Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
· Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
· Safe Drinking Water Act
· Clean Water Act · Clean Air Act
· National Environmental Policy Act
· Toxic Release Inventory under the Emergency Planning and Community
Right-to-Know Act
It doesn’t take a genius to know that when an industry is exempt from so many “Health” related regulations, something is wrong.
There are independent studies being produced almost daily about the adverse affects, just from “Fracking”. Airborne toxins, leaks, spills, and legal & illegal dumping produced by the Natural Gas Drilling companies. All of the affects have yet to be determined, but dying animals & vegetation would allude that this is not safe for humans.
Citizens Rights
In November of 2008, Flower Mound’s Town Council passed an ordinance banning smoking in restaurants, bars, and parks. Our council understood that public smoking was an infringement of rights. Flower Mound residents also have the RIGHT to Safe Drinking Water, Clean Water in our Wells, Ponds, Lakes, Rivers, Streams, and Aquifer; Clean Air, and Conservation, Environmental, Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-know protections. We also have the RIGHT to protect our homes from damage and devaluation.
Anyone who tells you differently should understand the American Constitution. These people aren’t just infringing on our rights, they are trying to take them away.
This isn’t about the rural residents of Flower Mound’s rights. Their 100 wells have been approved. Williams can drill anytime they choose. They can do seismic testing on their property. No one from the Town has taken away their rights. I have no problem with these property owners getting paid for their minerals. Although, I do have a problem when my property rights are infringed upon.
THIS IS ABOUT the RIGHTS of residents who live in more dense neighborhoods. Williams and other gas drilling companies want your rights.
Greedy Gas Drilling Companies have come to Flower Mound! William’s most recent efforts to erode our ordinances are, by gathering rural residents at weekly events at the Circle R Ranch, where they buy their dinner and espouse untruths. Telling that if you don’t get the Town to allow Seismic Testing on streets and Tank Farms, these people will be taking away YOUR money.
What they aren’t telling these residents is that they, Williams, have sent a contract to the Town asking for Seismic testing on ALL Town Streets. Or that they will be using Eminent Domain to condemn portions of resident's property to run these pipelines carrying these toxic chemicals back to their new “Industrial” zone.
When you don’t have the truth on your side, I guess the only thing LEFT to do is to lie. Wanting to protect your rights doesn’t make you left wing liberal, just ask the NRA.
You don’t have to be a Republican, Democrat, or even an Independent to want to protect your Rights.
You may own your minerals and you may not. You may of signed a lease and you may not of signed a lease.
This is not about politics…never has been and never will be.
It is a QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUE!
Protect our Rights:
Currently, our only protection from these companies is our Town ordinances. This is not the first attempt to weaken our ordinances. Each time they have been attacked, our ordinances has held up to the law.
This will certainly not be the last attempt at changing our ordinances. Over 64,000 residents live in Flower Mound. More than 60,000 of them live east of Shiloh Rd and most live on less than one acre neighborhood lots. The way our current ordinances are written, it makes it hard for drilling companies to drill cheaply. They will start at the fringes and continue picking away, until our community is drained dry. The question is “what will residents be left with”?
...... Plummeting property values, and toxins in the air, soil, and water.
Just ask all those who have come before us.
Members of Town Council do not change or allow erosion of our ordinances. Keep our Ordinances strong: Vote NO on Seismic Testing on public roads and “Tank Farms”.
Friday, October 16, 2009
R E S P E C T...not in Chesapeake's dictionary
http://txsharon.blogspot.com/2009/10/attn-epa-blowing-whistle-on-chesapeake.html
Thanks to Txsharon for posting this e-mail from Chesapeake to Mayor Tillman of Dish. Just days after the Dish meeting where the information was shared about how unhealthy the air is in Dish, Chesapeake shows the lack of respect gas companies seem to have for humans.
It seems they like to rub salt in the wound. These gas guys have "you know whats" the size of Texas!
-----Original Message-----From: Justin Bond
To: 'tillman4council@aol.com'
Cc: Julie Wilson
Sent: Thu, Oct 15, 2009 1:19 pm
Subject: Chesapeake announces awards from the EPA
Mayor Tillman –Good afternoon!
In case you missed the press release earlier this week, I wanted to be sure you saw Chesapeake’s recent award from the Environmental Protection Agency. We are proud to announce our selection as the Natural Gas STAR Production Partner of the Year. This program is voluntary and encourages oil and natural gas companies to adopt technologies and practices that improve operational efficiency and reduce emissions of methane. Since joining in 2007, Chesapeake has reported a significant reduction in methane emissions totals.
Enjoy the rest of your day, and please let me know if I can be of any assistance.
Thank you,
Justin Bond
Public Affairs Supervisor
Chesapeake Energy Corporation100 Energy Way
Fort Worth, TX 76102Main: 817-502-5000
Direct: 817-502-5612Cell: 817-266-1714
Email: Justin.Bond@chk.com
Thanks to Txsharon for posting this e-mail from Chesapeake to Mayor Tillman of Dish. Just days after the Dish meeting where the information was shared about how unhealthy the air is in Dish, Chesapeake shows the lack of respect gas companies seem to have for humans.
It seems they like to rub salt in the wound. These gas guys have "you know whats" the size of Texas!
-----Original Message-----From: Justin Bond
To: 'tillman4council@aol.com'
Cc: Julie Wilson
Sent: Thu, Oct 15, 2009 1:19 pm
Subject: Chesapeake announces awards from the EPA
Mayor Tillman –Good afternoon!
In case you missed the press release earlier this week, I wanted to be sure you saw Chesapeake’s recent award from the Environmental Protection Agency. We are proud to announce our selection as the Natural Gas STAR Production Partner of the Year. This program is voluntary and encourages oil and natural gas companies to adopt technologies and practices that improve operational efficiency and reduce emissions of methane. Since joining in 2007, Chesapeake has reported a significant reduction in methane emissions totals.
Enjoy the rest of your day, and please let me know if I can be of any assistance.
Thank you,
Justin Bond
Public Affairs Supervisor
Chesapeake Energy Corporation100 Energy Way
Fort Worth, TX 76102Main: 817-502-5000
Direct: 817-502-5612Cell: 817-266-1714
Email: Justin.Bond@chk.com
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Too much wastewater for treatment plants
100 + gas wells planned for Flower Mound. How many "tank farms" or "waste water treatment sites" will be needed?
Read what is happening in Pennsylvania. Below is the link for the whole article.
http://www.propublica.org/feature/wastewater-from-gas-drilling-boom-may-threaten-monongahela-river
Here are a few paragraphs
Pennsylvania is at the forefront of the nation’s gas drilling boom, with at least 4,000 new oil and gas wells drilled here last year alone, more than in any other state except Texas. This rapid expansion has forced state regulators to confront a problem that has been overlooked as gas drilling accelerates nationwide: How will the industry dispose of the enormous amount of wastewater it produces?
Oil and gas wells disgorge about 9 million gallons of wastewater a day in Pennsylvania, according to industry estimates used by the DEP. By 2011 that figure is expected to rise to at least 19 million gallons, enough to fill almost 29 Olympic-sized swimming pools every day. That’s more than all the state’s waterways, combined, can safely absorb, DEP officials say.
"I don’t know that even our [water] program people had any idea about the volumes of water that would be used," said Dana Aunkst, who heads the DEP’s water program.
Much of the wastewater is the byproduct of a drilling process called hydraulic fracturing [5], or fracking, which pumps at least a million gallons of water per well deep into the earth to break layers of rock and release gas. When the water is sucked back out, it contains natural toxins [6] dredged up during drilling, including cadmium and benzene, which both carry cancer risks. It can also contain small amounts of chemicals added to enhance drilling.
Read what is happening in Pennsylvania. Below is the link for the whole article.
http://www.propublica.org/feature/wastewater-from-gas-drilling-boom-may-threaten-monongahela-river
Here are a few paragraphs
Pennsylvania is at the forefront of the nation’s gas drilling boom, with at least 4,000 new oil and gas wells drilled here last year alone, more than in any other state except Texas. This rapid expansion has forced state regulators to confront a problem that has been overlooked as gas drilling accelerates nationwide: How will the industry dispose of the enormous amount of wastewater it produces?
Oil and gas wells disgorge about 9 million gallons of wastewater a day in Pennsylvania, according to industry estimates used by the DEP. By 2011 that figure is expected to rise to at least 19 million gallons, enough to fill almost 29 Olympic-sized swimming pools every day. That’s more than all the state’s waterways, combined, can safely absorb, DEP officials say.
"I don’t know that even our [water] program people had any idea about the volumes of water that would be used," said Dana Aunkst, who heads the DEP’s water program.
Much of the wastewater is the byproduct of a drilling process called hydraulic fracturing [5], or fracking, which pumps at least a million gallons of water per well deep into the earth to break layers of rock and release gas. When the water is sucked back out, it contains natural toxins [6] dredged up during drilling, including cadmium and benzene, which both carry cancer risks. It can also contain small amounts of chemicals added to enhance drilling.
Thank you Calvin Tillman and the Residents of Dish
Many thanks go out to Mayor Tillman and the residents of Dish for sharing their plight with all of us. They spent their own money to test the air quality because the gas companies and the state wouldn't.
Dish has been complaining for a very long time about the smell and the health of their citizens. Of course the gas companies said it was just the odorant they were smelling.
The results of the study showed levels of toxic chemicals that exceeded state levels.
This has shamed the TCEQ into conducting air quality tests throughout the Barnett Shale area.
http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/kera/news.newsmain/article/0/1/1566121/North.Texas/State.Tests..Air.Around.Drilling.And.Pipeline.Sites
Dish has been complaining for a very long time about the smell and the health of their citizens. Of course the gas companies said it was just the odorant they were smelling.
The results of the study showed levels of toxic chemicals that exceeded state levels.
This has shamed the TCEQ into conducting air quality tests throughout the Barnett Shale area.
http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/kera/news.newsmain/article/0/1/1566121/North.Texas/State.Tests..Air.Around.Drilling.And.Pipeline.Sites
Flower Mound Town Council Work Session Tonight at 6:00pm
There will be a work session tonight for the town council. It will be about seismic testing, wastewater pipelines and "tank farms".
http://www.google.com/calendar/event?eid=b3VkNW1vYzVtdXBpczUydTI3NnJ0cmlkNW9fMjAwOTEwMTVUMjMwMDAwWiB2MW5ic2w4Y2Mzdm1zYjFsMTdpcm1nN3NyMEBn&ctz=America/Chicago
Interesting that the guest list is anonymous by the request of the organizer. I am sure it will be a dog and pony show for the council trying to convince them that gas drilling is great, seismic testing is great, wastewater pipelines running under our homes to "tank farms" are great. Having up to 100 wells just in West Flower Mound is great. How about having a gas well and compressor station 1000' from Shadow Ridge Middle school? Great?
I wonder if the residents of Dish, Texas still think gas drilling is a "blessing" as one of our rural West Flower Mound residents put it?
http://www.fwweekly.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2104%3Asacrificed-to-shale&catid=30%3Acover-story&Itemid=375&limitstart=1
http://www.google.com/calendar/event?eid=b3VkNW1vYzVtdXBpczUydTI3NnJ0cmlkNW9fMjAwOTEwMTVUMjMwMDAwWiB2MW5ic2w4Y2Mzdm1zYjFsMTdpcm1nN3NyMEBn&ctz=America/Chicago
Interesting that the guest list is anonymous by the request of the organizer. I am sure it will be a dog and pony show for the council trying to convince them that gas drilling is great, seismic testing is great, wastewater pipelines running under our homes to "tank farms" are great. Having up to 100 wells just in West Flower Mound is great. How about having a gas well and compressor station 1000' from Shadow Ridge Middle school? Great?
I wonder if the residents of Dish, Texas still think gas drilling is a "blessing" as one of our rural West Flower Mound residents put it?
http://www.fwweekly.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2104%3Asacrificed-to-shale&catid=30%3Acover-story&Itemid=375&limitstart=1
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
When will enough be enough? Natural gas drilling is hazardous and deadly to humans and animals.
Lets see how the Gas Mafia gets their way out of the events of the past month. I am sure they will put some spin on Wolf Eagle's Dish, Tx report.
Will Flower Mound be the new Dish?
Just take the time to read all the articles posted on this blog for the past year. You will see that the town of Dish is not the only place dealing with the dangerous effects of drilling. Watch this video taken with an infrared camera showing what is going into the air.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LiU4ehXV-LI&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Ftxsharon%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fclean%2Dburning%2Dnatural%2Dgas%2Dhas%2Ddirty%2Ehtml&feature=player_embedded
Williams wants to drill up to 100 wells in Flower Mound!!! With that comes compression stations, waste water pipelines, "tank farms", seismic testing etc. That is just Williams. There are other gas drillers including, Keystone, Titan and Red Oak that want to drill and not in rural Flower Mound in the middle of neighborhoods and 1000' from Shadow Ridge Middle School.
Sign the petition to keep FM Oil & Gas Ordinance strong.
http://www.petitiononline.com/fmogord9/petition.html
Incredible article from the FW Weekly. A must read. Here are a few interesting paragraphs.
Though pipeline companies are private, federal law gives them the right to take property for pipelines through eminent domain. It's a reality that sticks in the craw of property owners and one that state legislators have thus far found no way to change.
Will Flower Mound be the new Dish?
Just take the time to read all the articles posted on this blog for the past year. You will see that the town of Dish is not the only place dealing with the dangerous effects of drilling. Watch this video taken with an infrared camera showing what is going into the air.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LiU4ehXV-LI&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Ftxsharon%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fclean%2Dburning%2Dnatural%2Dgas%2Dhas%2Ddirty%2Ehtml&feature=player_embedded
Williams wants to drill up to 100 wells in Flower Mound!!! With that comes compression stations, waste water pipelines, "tank farms", seismic testing etc. That is just Williams. There are other gas drillers including, Keystone, Titan and Red Oak that want to drill and not in rural Flower Mound in the middle of neighborhoods and 1000' from Shadow Ridge Middle School.
Sign the petition to keep FM Oil & Gas Ordinance strong.
http://www.petitiononline.com/fmogord9/petition.html
Incredible article from the FW Weekly. A must read. Here are a few interesting paragraphs.
Though pipeline companies are private, federal law gives them the right to take property for pipelines through eminent domain. It's a reality that sticks in the craw of property owners and one that state legislators have thus far found no way to change.
At one location, the air sample contained benzene at 8.7 times the state-set level allowed for long-term exposure. Carbon disulfide was detected at more than 10 times the acute, or short-term, levels allowed by TCEQ regulations and more than 100 times what's allowed by the long-term standard. Napthalene concentrations were 3.6 times what's allowed by the state's long-term standard.
"In other words," Rich said, "it's a toxic soup out there."
One North Texas banker told the Weekly that the use of eminent domain and the rampant placement of industrial facilities like compressor stations and pipelines in residential areas is beginning to worry people in his own industry - for exactly the reason outlined by Paul. "We worry that the owner may not find his property has the value anymore to make it worth his or her while to pay the mortgage," said the banker, who asked that his name not be used. "And if the value sinks low enough, we might just call in the note as a premptive solution." Banks also might refuse to make new loans in similar areas, he said.
http://www.fwweekly.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2104%3Asacrificed-to-shale&catid=30%3Acover-story&Itemid=375&limitstart=1Human Health Effects Associated with Chemicals Detected in the Air in Excess of TCEQ Short-term and Long-term Effects Screening Levels in DISH, Texas
Human Health Effects Associated with Chemicals Detected in the Air in Excess of TCEQ Short-term and Long-term Effects Screening Levels in DISH, Texas
From Wilma Subra
Acute Health Effects
Irritates Skin and Eyes - Benzene, Xylenes, Naphthalene, Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene, Diethyl Benzene, Carbon Disulfide, Carbonyl Sulfide, Methyl Ethyl Disulfide, Ethyl-Methylethyl Disulfide
Irritates Nose - Benzene, Xylenes, Naphthalene, Diethyl Benzene, Carbonyl Sulfide, Dimethyl Disulfide, Methyl Ethyl Disulfide, Ethyl-Methylethyl Disulfide
Irritates Throat and Lungs - Benzene, Xylenes, Naphthalene, Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene, Diethyl Benzene, Carbonyl Sulfide, Dimethyl Disulfide, Methyl Ethyl Disulfide, Ethyl-Methylethyl Disulfide
Headaches - Benzene, Xylenes, Naphthalene, Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene, Diethyl Benzene, Carbon Disulfide, Methyl Pyridine, Dimethyl Pyridine
Dizziness, Light Headed - Benzene, Xylenes, Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene, Diethyl Benzene, Carbon Disulfide, Methyl Pyridine, Dimethyl Pyridine
Nausea, Vomiting - Benzene, Xylenes, Naphthalene, Diethyl Benzene, Carbon Disulfide, Carbonyl Sulfide, Dimethyl Disulfide, Methyl Pyridine, Dimethyl Pyridine
Skin Rashes - Naphthalene
Fatigue - Naphthalene, Carbon Disulfide
Tense and Nervous - Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene
Personality Changes, Depression, Anxiety, Irritability --Carbon Disulfide
Confusion - Naphthalene
Unconsciousness - Carbon Disulfide
Drowsiness - Diethyl Benzene, Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene
Weakness - Carbonyl Sulfide, Dimethyl Disulfide
Muscle Cramps - Carbonyl Sulfide
Irregular Heartbeat (arrhythmia) - Carbonyl Sulfide
Chronic Health Effects Caused by
Repeated Exposures
Damage to Liver and Kidneys - Xylenes, Naphthalene, Diethyl Benzene, Carbon Disulfide
Damages Lungs - Naphthalene
Damages Developing Fetus - Naphthalene, Xylenes
Causes Reproductive Damage - Carbon Disulfide
Damages Nerves Causing Weakness and Poor Coordination
- Carbon Disulfide
Affects Nervous System - Carbonyl Sulfide
Affects the Brain - Carbonyl Sulfide
Carcinogen - Benzene
Leukemia - Benzene
May be a Carcinogen - causes nasal and lung cancer in animals - Naphthalene
Mutagen - Benzene
Teratogen - Developmental Malformations - Benzene
Aplastic Anemia - Benzene
Anemia - Naphthalene
Changes in Blood Cells - Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene
Affects Blood Clotting Ability - Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene
From Wilma Subra
Acute Health Effects
Irritates Skin and Eyes - Benzene, Xylenes, Naphthalene, Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene, Diethyl Benzene, Carbon Disulfide, Carbonyl Sulfide, Methyl Ethyl Disulfide, Ethyl-Methylethyl Disulfide
Irritates Nose - Benzene, Xylenes, Naphthalene, Diethyl Benzene, Carbonyl Sulfide, Dimethyl Disulfide, Methyl Ethyl Disulfide, Ethyl-Methylethyl Disulfide
Irritates Throat and Lungs - Benzene, Xylenes, Naphthalene, Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene, Diethyl Benzene, Carbonyl Sulfide, Dimethyl Disulfide, Methyl Ethyl Disulfide, Ethyl-Methylethyl Disulfide
Headaches - Benzene, Xylenes, Naphthalene, Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene, Diethyl Benzene, Carbon Disulfide, Methyl Pyridine, Dimethyl Pyridine
Dizziness, Light Headed - Benzene, Xylenes, Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene, Diethyl Benzene, Carbon Disulfide, Methyl Pyridine, Dimethyl Pyridine
Nausea, Vomiting - Benzene, Xylenes, Naphthalene, Diethyl Benzene, Carbon Disulfide, Carbonyl Sulfide, Dimethyl Disulfide, Methyl Pyridine, Dimethyl Pyridine
Skin Rashes - Naphthalene
Fatigue - Naphthalene, Carbon Disulfide
Tense and Nervous - Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene
Personality Changes, Depression, Anxiety, Irritability --Carbon Disulfide
Confusion - Naphthalene
Unconsciousness - Carbon Disulfide
Drowsiness - Diethyl Benzene, Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene
Weakness - Carbonyl Sulfide, Dimethyl Disulfide
Muscle Cramps - Carbonyl Sulfide
Irregular Heartbeat (arrhythmia) - Carbonyl Sulfide
Chronic Health Effects Caused by
Repeated Exposures
Damage to Liver and Kidneys - Xylenes, Naphthalene, Diethyl Benzene, Carbon Disulfide
Damages Lungs - Naphthalene
Damages Developing Fetus - Naphthalene, Xylenes
Causes Reproductive Damage - Carbon Disulfide
Damages Nerves Causing Weakness and Poor Coordination
- Carbon Disulfide
Affects Nervous System - Carbonyl Sulfide
Affects the Brain - Carbonyl Sulfide
Carcinogen - Benzene
Leukemia - Benzene
May be a Carcinogen - causes nasal and lung cancer in animals - Naphthalene
Mutagen - Benzene
Teratogen - Developmental Malformations - Benzene
Aplastic Anemia - Benzene
Anemia - Naphthalene
Changes in Blood Cells - Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene
Affects Blood Clotting Ability - Trimethyl Benzene, Methyl-Methylethyl Benzene, Tetramethyl Benzene
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Denton County town calls for natural gas regulations
Confirmation of what many already knew. Natural Gas Drilling and Operations are NOT "clean burning" at all. This could happen to any city here in North Texas. Another reason better regulation and accountability is needed for all gas drilling. Below are some articles and press releases.
We must demand that the gas drilling industry have respect for our health and safety. Another reason that strong local Oil & Gas Ordinances are important.
http://www.wfaa.com/sharedcontent/dws/wfaa/latestnews/stories/wfaa091012_mo_dishcompressions.20f1c4733.html
DISH, Texas — A Denton County town of less than 200 is leading a charge for change.
The push began with Dish residents fighting for state oversight of natural gas pipelines. Now, scientists have confirmed their worst fears.
The tiny town has nearly a dozen gas compression engines, and it was a lingering smell in the air that led to initial concerns over air quality.
Many say it was lax state regulations that led the Town of Dish to be at the mercy of industrial pollution from natural gas compression stations.
The town, which has eleven engines pressurizing natural gas from pipelines within its limits, paid for its own study. Dish sits at the crossroads of nearly a dozen high-pressured lines.
"There were 16 total toxins that were above TCEQ-established limits," said Mayor Calvin Tillman, referring to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
Tillman said some levels of cancer-causing agents and neurotoxins were 100 times above state standards.
"The industry has told us time and time again that what were smelling is just odorant; it's nothing that would harm us," Tillman said.
At a Dish Town Hall meeting Monday night, environmental scientist Alisa Rich told residents unusually high levels of benzene, carbon disulphide and xylene were discovered in the air.
"It's absorbed very readily in the lungs, often times resulting in GI problems," she said.
Dish town leaders called on companies to shut down the gas compressors until more tests are done.
"I would like to see a safety stand down," said one leader.
While most residents at the meeting said the news didn't send them into a panic, they said it has raised serious concerns.
"I'm definitely alarmed for the little one," said Zack Smith, a Dish resident, while standing next to his wife and young daughter. "I don't want to subject her to anything she shouldn't be subjected to, as well as I don't want to be subjected to anything I should be subjected to. I am beginning to wonder if that's the case."
The Texas Commission of Environmental Quality is also doing its own testing on Dish's air quality.
There are hundreds of gas compressors across North Texas. Environmental scientists say there has not been a lot of air testing done to keep up with the growth of the compressors.
NEWS RELEASEEmbargoed for release until: October 13, 2009
Contact:Calvin Tillman, Mayor of DISH Texas, (940) 453-3640
Kathy Chruscielski, Texas Oil & Gas Accountability Project, 817-692-6206
Wes Gillingham, Catskill Mountainkeeper, 845 482 5400/845 901 1029
Gwen Lachelt, Earthworks, 970 259-3353
Jennifer Goldman, Earthworks, 406 587-4473
DISH, Texas – The Town of DISH, TX has announced that its air quality study found seven locations where carcinogenic and neurotoxic emissions violated limits set by the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The town commissioned the study – which cost 15% of its total budget – to assess the mega-complex of compressors, condensate tanks, and major pipelines that process and transport natural gas extracted from the Barnett Shale underlying the area.“Frankly, I didn’t think the results would come back as bad as they did,” said Mayor Calvin Tillman. “TCEQ needs to shut these compressors down immediately and until we can get emission controls that protect the residents living right up against this infrastructure.”
DISH’s study – performed by Wolf Eagle Environmental -- revealed benzene, a known carcinogen, at all seven sampling locations, with three samples exceeding the state’s limits. Other hazardous pollutants were also detected above regulatory limits. The Town – which commissioned the study after failed attempts to draw the attention of State regulators -- is now working to develop baseline data for community health impacts.
The Town of DISH serves as a warning for other communities dealing with the shale gas industry as it drills newly accessible deposits across the country, including Texas, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia and Arkansas."Living with this type of infrastructure and development is difficult to imagine until it’s here. You can feel and hear the compressor engines roaring," says Kathy Chruscielski, a citizen activist with the Texas Oil & Gas Accountability Project. "It's like living next to a 24 hour truck stop. Homeowners suddenly find themselves next door to an industrial zone with very little recourse at the federal and state levels."
In Horseheads, New York, Schlumberger – a $75 billion multinational energy company -- is proposing a 65-acre distribution and bulk chemical storage facility that will serve drilling and fracturing operations in the Marcellus Shale deposit.“Based on Horseheads’ welcome of Schlumberger, I don’t think the Village government really has thought about what’s coming,” says Wes Gillingham of Catskill Mountainkeeper. “Experience like DISH’s and others warn of the too often negative consequences of shale infrastructure.”
National groups focused on gas policy reform say that fixes are needed at both the federal and state levels, and enforcement is critical. The FRAC Act, introduced in both Houses of Congress by members representing shale gas regions, would start this process by ending a Cheney-era loophole to the Safe Drinking Water Act and require full disclosure of all drilling toxics.
“We need to get the balance right,” says Gwen Lachelt, Director of EARTHWORKS’ Oil & Gas Accountability Project. “The drilling industry’s track record repeatedly demonstrates that current regulation is inadequate. Fortunately, shale drilling is in its early stages, so it’s not too late to learn from decades of hard-won experience in the Rocky Mountain gas patch and elsewhere. That experience shows there is no substitute for federal and state oversight and enforcement. We can start with passage of the FRAC Act.”In DISH, Mayor Tillman echoes the statement about getting it right with what he calls the precautionary tale of DISH’s mega gas complex.
“The companies behind the gas complex gave us a great sales pitch. But that’s all it was. Turns out we needed stronger rules to make them walk their talk.”###The Texas Oil & Gas Accountability Project is a campaign of EARTHWORKS.Catskill Mountainkeeper is a community based advocacy organization, working for the protection of natural resources essential to healthy communities. They are based in the Catskill Mountains of NY which is on top of the Marcellus shale.EARTHWORKS is nonprofit public interest organization that works with communities to address the destructive impacts of mineral development, in the U.S. and worldwide. Earthworks’ has offices in Washington, DC, Colorado and Montana.
WFAA Live report
Contaminants in air around Texas gas town: study
Mon Oct 12, 2009 6:41pm EDT
By Ed Stoddard
DALLAS (Reuters) - High concentrations of harmful compounds have been found in the air in a north Texas town that is in the heart of the region's gas industry, according to a report released this month by an environmental consultancy.
The study by Wolf Eagle Environmental Engineers and Consultants found high concentrations of carcinogenic and neurotoxin compounds in the atmosphere at seven locations around the rural town of DISH, which is about 50 miles northwest of Dallas.
Carcinogens are linked to cancers while neurotoxins are toxins that act on nerve cells.
The report said the levels of several of the substances exceeded those that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) uses as benchmarks or triggers that could prompt it to investigate or take action.
The TCEQ is conducting its own studies in the area.
DISH is on the Barnett Shale, a large geological formation in north Texas that contains vast amounts of natural gas. In and around the town are pipelines, wells and several compressor stations owned by a number of energy companies including Chesapeake, Atmos and Crosstex.
The town hired the consultancy to do the study.
"The chemicals and concentrations that we found are consistent with other facilities that we have tested in and around the Barnett Shale. Many of these chemicals are related to the scenting process of natural gas because natural gas has no odor," said Alisa Rich, president of Wolf Eagle.
"I'm extremely confident that this is linked to the gas industry," she told Reuters in an interview. The data was collected over a 24-hour period in August.
She said the compressor stations were a special cause for concern because of the volumes of gas pumped through them.
"Atmos Energy does not believe that its operations in the DISH area make any significant contribution to the emissions of the chemicals listed in the Wolf Eagle Engineering study," Atmos said in response to an e-mail query from Reuters.
"Atmos Energy is aware that the TCEQ is planning additional emissions testing in this area in the near future and will cooperate fully with those efforts," it said.
Chesapeake and Crosstex declined to comment.
DISH's Mayor Calvin Tillman told Reuters he would like to see the compressor stations shut down "until we can know with confidence that they are not emitting these toxins."
The report is the latest to link environmental and health hazards with America's booming gas industry.
In August, U.S. government scientists announced that they had found for the first time found chemical contaminants in drinking water wells near natural gas drilling operations, fueling concern that a gas-extraction technique is endangering the health of people who live close to drilling rigs.
We must demand that the gas drilling industry have respect for our health and safety. Another reason that strong local Oil & Gas Ordinances are important.
http://www.wfaa.com/sharedcontent/dws/wfaa/latestnews/stories/wfaa091012_mo_dishcompressions.20f1c4733.html
DISH, Texas — A Denton County town of less than 200 is leading a charge for change.
The push began with Dish residents fighting for state oversight of natural gas pipelines. Now, scientists have confirmed their worst fears.
The tiny town has nearly a dozen gas compression engines, and it was a lingering smell in the air that led to initial concerns over air quality.
Many say it was lax state regulations that led the Town of Dish to be at the mercy of industrial pollution from natural gas compression stations.
The town, which has eleven engines pressurizing natural gas from pipelines within its limits, paid for its own study. Dish sits at the crossroads of nearly a dozen high-pressured lines.
"There were 16 total toxins that were above TCEQ-established limits," said Mayor Calvin Tillman, referring to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
Tillman said some levels of cancer-causing agents and neurotoxins were 100 times above state standards.
"The industry has told us time and time again that what were smelling is just odorant; it's nothing that would harm us," Tillman said.
At a Dish Town Hall meeting Monday night, environmental scientist Alisa Rich told residents unusually high levels of benzene, carbon disulphide and xylene were discovered in the air.
"It's absorbed very readily in the lungs, often times resulting in GI problems," she said.
Dish town leaders called on companies to shut down the gas compressors until more tests are done.
"I would like to see a safety stand down," said one leader.
While most residents at the meeting said the news didn't send them into a panic, they said it has raised serious concerns.
"I'm definitely alarmed for the little one," said Zack Smith, a Dish resident, while standing next to his wife and young daughter. "I don't want to subject her to anything she shouldn't be subjected to, as well as I don't want to be subjected to anything I should be subjected to. I am beginning to wonder if that's the case."
The Texas Commission of Environmental Quality is also doing its own testing on Dish's air quality.
There are hundreds of gas compressors across North Texas. Environmental scientists say there has not been a lot of air testing done to keep up with the growth of the compressors.
NEWS RELEASEEmbargoed for release until: October 13, 2009
Contact:Calvin Tillman, Mayor of DISH Texas, (940) 453-3640
Kathy Chruscielski, Texas Oil & Gas Accountability Project, 817-692-6206
Wes Gillingham, Catskill Mountainkeeper, 845 482 5400/845 901 1029
Gwen Lachelt, Earthworks, 970 259-3353
Jennifer Goldman, Earthworks, 406 587-4473
DISH, Texas – The Town of DISH, TX has announced that its air quality study found seven locations where carcinogenic and neurotoxic emissions violated limits set by the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The town commissioned the study – which cost 15% of its total budget – to assess the mega-complex of compressors, condensate tanks, and major pipelines that process and transport natural gas extracted from the Barnett Shale underlying the area.“Frankly, I didn’t think the results would come back as bad as they did,” said Mayor Calvin Tillman. “TCEQ needs to shut these compressors down immediately and until we can get emission controls that protect the residents living right up against this infrastructure.”
DISH’s study – performed by Wolf Eagle Environmental -- revealed benzene, a known carcinogen, at all seven sampling locations, with three samples exceeding the state’s limits. Other hazardous pollutants were also detected above regulatory limits. The Town – which commissioned the study after failed attempts to draw the attention of State regulators -- is now working to develop baseline data for community health impacts.
The Town of DISH serves as a warning for other communities dealing with the shale gas industry as it drills newly accessible deposits across the country, including Texas, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia and Arkansas."Living with this type of infrastructure and development is difficult to imagine until it’s here. You can feel and hear the compressor engines roaring," says Kathy Chruscielski, a citizen activist with the Texas Oil & Gas Accountability Project. "It's like living next to a 24 hour truck stop. Homeowners suddenly find themselves next door to an industrial zone with very little recourse at the federal and state levels."
In Horseheads, New York, Schlumberger – a $75 billion multinational energy company -- is proposing a 65-acre distribution and bulk chemical storage facility that will serve drilling and fracturing operations in the Marcellus Shale deposit.“Based on Horseheads’ welcome of Schlumberger, I don’t think the Village government really has thought about what’s coming,” says Wes Gillingham of Catskill Mountainkeeper. “Experience like DISH’s and others warn of the too often negative consequences of shale infrastructure.”
National groups focused on gas policy reform say that fixes are needed at both the federal and state levels, and enforcement is critical. The FRAC Act, introduced in both Houses of Congress by members representing shale gas regions, would start this process by ending a Cheney-era loophole to the Safe Drinking Water Act and require full disclosure of all drilling toxics.
“We need to get the balance right,” says Gwen Lachelt, Director of EARTHWORKS’ Oil & Gas Accountability Project. “The drilling industry’s track record repeatedly demonstrates that current regulation is inadequate. Fortunately, shale drilling is in its early stages, so it’s not too late to learn from decades of hard-won experience in the Rocky Mountain gas patch and elsewhere. That experience shows there is no substitute for federal and state oversight and enforcement. We can start with passage of the FRAC Act.”In DISH, Mayor Tillman echoes the statement about getting it right with what he calls the precautionary tale of DISH’s mega gas complex.
“The companies behind the gas complex gave us a great sales pitch. But that’s all it was. Turns out we needed stronger rules to make them walk their talk.”###The Texas Oil & Gas Accountability Project is a campaign of EARTHWORKS.Catskill Mountainkeeper is a community based advocacy organization, working for the protection of natural resources essential to healthy communities. They are based in the Catskill Mountains of NY which is on top of the Marcellus shale.EARTHWORKS is nonprofit public interest organization that works with communities to address the destructive impacts of mineral development, in the U.S. and worldwide. Earthworks’ has offices in Washington, DC, Colorado and Montana.
WFAA Live report
Contaminants in air around Texas gas town: study
Mon Oct 12, 2009 6:41pm EDT
By Ed Stoddard
DALLAS (Reuters) - High concentrations of harmful compounds have been found in the air in a north Texas town that is in the heart of the region's gas industry, according to a report released this month by an environmental consultancy.
The study by Wolf Eagle Environmental Engineers and Consultants found high concentrations of carcinogenic and neurotoxin compounds in the atmosphere at seven locations around the rural town of DISH, which is about 50 miles northwest of Dallas.
Carcinogens are linked to cancers while neurotoxins are toxins that act on nerve cells.
The report said the levels of several of the substances exceeded those that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) uses as benchmarks or triggers that could prompt it to investigate or take action.
The TCEQ is conducting its own studies in the area.
DISH is on the Barnett Shale, a large geological formation in north Texas that contains vast amounts of natural gas. In and around the town are pipelines, wells and several compressor stations owned by a number of energy companies including Chesapeake, Atmos and Crosstex.
The town hired the consultancy to do the study.
"The chemicals and concentrations that we found are consistent with other facilities that we have tested in and around the Barnett Shale. Many of these chemicals are related to the scenting process of natural gas because natural gas has no odor," said Alisa Rich, president of Wolf Eagle.
"I'm extremely confident that this is linked to the gas industry," she told Reuters in an interview. The data was collected over a 24-hour period in August.
She said the compressor stations were a special cause for concern because of the volumes of gas pumped through them.
"Atmos Energy does not believe that its operations in the DISH area make any significant contribution to the emissions of the chemicals listed in the Wolf Eagle Engineering study," Atmos said in response to an e-mail query from Reuters.
"Atmos Energy is aware that the TCEQ is planning additional emissions testing in this area in the near future and will cooperate fully with those efforts," it said.
Chesapeake and Crosstex declined to comment.
DISH's Mayor Calvin Tillman told Reuters he would like to see the compressor stations shut down "until we can know with confidence that they are not emitting these toxins."
The report is the latest to link environmental and health hazards with America's booming gas industry.
In August, U.S. government scientists announced that they had found for the first time found chemical contaminants in drinking water wells near natural gas drilling operations, fueling concern that a gas-extraction technique is endangering the health of people who live close to drilling rigs.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Save Your Property Rights from Drillers
Below is an e-mail document that has been sent to us. We wanted to post it because we feel this is very important to all residents of Flower Mound, whether you own your minerals, don't own your minerals, signed a lease or have not signed a lease.
As stressed in previous posts, this is not just about rural west Flower Mound. Although that is what Williams and the Shiloh residents want us to believe. If the Oil & Gas Ordinance is changed to allow Seismic Testing and Waste water pipelines, all of Flower Mound will be impacted.
Williams is not the only gas drilling company that wants to drill in Flower Mound. Titan will be drilling on the Hilliard property very close to Shadow Ridge Middle School and densely populated neighborhoods. Keystone will be drilling near Wellington Estates near many homes, schools and parks. Red Oak still wants to drill in the middle of town at River Walk.
Seismic testing could be done anywhere near these sites so the gas company can maximize their profits. Williams sent a document to the town to indemnify them for any damage from performing this sort of activity. If it's not going to damage anything why would you ask for an indemnification?
Waste Water could be piped away from these sites to other "Tank Farms". Possibly placing these pipelines through neighborhoods and public areas. Pipelines may reduce the truck traffic on some streets, but they could add traffic to the areas where the "tank farms" are. Salt, one of the main ingredients in produced waste water, has long been known to kill vegetation http://ourohio.org/index.php?page=can-i-use-salt-to-kill-weeds. Also, as posted in many of the articles on this blog and in countless newspapers throughout the nation, toxic chemicals are also found in drilling waste water.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Let the Town Council know how you feel.
Sign the petition http://www.petitiononline.com/fmogord9/petition.html
Contact the Council
If possible, attend the work session on October 15th
Here is the Document that was sent
The Town has been asked, and is considering, making 2 changes to our Oil and Gas Ordinance.
1. Allow Seismic testing on the town’s public roads ways, which would include neighborhood streets.
2. Allow “produce water” (fracking wastewater) gathering and storage system that would transport produced water from other pad sites/location to a central storage location for removal by wastewater hauling trucks.
This was proposed by Williams Gas Drilling, but would impact all drilling companies in Flower Mound. Town staff denied William’s request (see Town fact sheet). Despite staff's position, Council is proceeding with approval. Mayor Smith & Council Member Levenick have both signed a Gas Lease with Williams. William has told leasees they will not drill and they will not get their big $ if this does not pass. (See October 5th Council meeting) Which is why over 600 rural residents have signed a petition asking the council to vote yes.
Why you should object to losing your property rights. VOTE “NO”
1. Wellington homeowners DO NOT own our Mineral Rights. Keystone Exploration purchased the mineral rights of Wellington. They also recently purchased a drill site on the corner of Skillern and River Hill Dr.
2. Texas Supreme Court has found that mineral rights are superior to surface rights. (The only thing protecting our property rights from drillers is our Town Ordinances).
3. Homeowners are not covered by insurance if Seismic activity causes damage.
4. If damage is caused to our HOA common property it also is our $$.
5. Burden of Proof for damage is on the damaged party (good luck on that one – read the Town fact sheet)
6. Wastewater is not just water or salt water. It contains highly toxic chemicals including known carcinogens. (See Article on Radio Active Waste)
7. Common carrier pipelines in Texas have a statutory right of eminent domain. They can put pipelines carrying these toxic chemicals in our yards, parks, and school (LISD has already leased their minerals). (See supporting information sheet for Texas Railroad url)
8. Pipelines break! When a pipeline breaks, you don’t notice until major damage has already occurred. Say it breaks in your backyard and your pets or kids find it first.
9. The Gas and Oil Industry are exempt from: The Clean Air Act, The Clean Water Act, and the EMERGENCY PLANNING AND COMMUNITY RIGHT TO KNOW ACT and many more.
10. Williams is drilling 100 wells and wants 30 tanks in their “tank farm” less than 1 ½ miles from our homes and schools. (Read the Clean Air report from Dish Tx) What will Keystone and other drilling companies want to do???
Say No by signing the online petition: (Over 600 rural residents have asked Council to vote Yes) http://www.petitiononline.com/fmogord9/petition.html
Contact your Town Council and ask them to protect what is left of your property rights. Ask them to vote No to Seismic testing & Toxic Waste pipelines/”Tank Farms”. http://www.flower-mound.com/council/council.php
Supporting Information:
URL to last Monday night’s town meeting, where the Town Manager gave a report why the Town Staff said no to William’s request. Click on the October 5th video and select Managers Report. http://www.flower-mound.com/public/fmtv.php
URL to Town Fact Sheet under “Seismic Testing and Produce Water Gathering System”: http://www.flower-mound.com/env_resources/env_resources_ong.php
URL to the White paper that the Town distributed at Monday’s Meeting (Collection Facilities “Tank Farms”: http://www.ead.anl.gov/pub/doc/ProducedWatersWP0401.pdf
URL to the New Article on Radioactive waste surface…, which the Town distributed at Monday’s meeting: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/DN-norms_11wes.ART.East.Edition1.420fc23.html
URL to Dish Tx air quality report: http://www...townofdish.com/
Another article in the DMN:
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/DN-seismic_11met.ART1.Central.Edition1.4c33dc9.html
1. Texas Supreme Court has found that mineral rights are superior to surface rights. What this means is that although oil and gas companies will often promise to keep all disturbance removed from actual residential settings, if it is necessary to conduct further exploration that necessitates the use of your land, whomever owns mineral rights or possesses a lease to mineral rights can enter your land at any point in time with no notice, and you cannot receive compensation for any damage caused by their incursion on your property except if the damage is caused maliciously. Unfortunately “Seismic Testing” is not considered malicious. http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/173748/real_estate_market_woes_mineral_rights.html?cat=6
2. Common carrier pipelines in Texas have a statutory right of eminent domain. Common carrier pipelines are operators that transport oil, oil products, gas, carbon dioxide, salt brine, sand, clay, liquefied minerals or other mineral solutions.
For example, a pipeline transporting hazardous liquids would be a common carrier, and would have the right of eminent domain. A ‘common carrier’ pipeline transporting natural gas would be a ‘public utility’ (more commonly referred to as a ‘gas utility’), and also would have the power of eminent domain. The Railroad Commission does not have the authority to regulate any pipelines with respect to the exercise of their eminent domain powers. (http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/about/faqs/eminentdomain.php ).
Oil and Gas Industry exemptions: http://www.ewg.org/reports/Free-Pass-for-Oil-and-Gas/Oil-and-Gas-Industry-Exemptions
Sign the petition asking Council to vote NO. (Over 600 rural residents have a signed a petition asking council to vote yes. Don’t let your vote go uncounted)
Attend the October 15th Council Meeting @ 6:00. Residents will not be allowed to speak at the work session. Therefore if you have question send them to the council prior to the meeting.
Why Flower Mound Should NOT Negotiate with Williams to Change Gas Drilling Ordinance
If every gas driller incites “lease holders” to overrun city hall, Mobs will hold the town hostage and there will be nothing we as homeowners can do to protect ourselves from potential threats of:
- Drilling toxic waste,
- Un-insurable property damage,
- Property devaluation, and
- Cost of subsidizing drilling with our community tax dollars
Ordinance Change Briefing
Williams Drilling and Shiloh Road residences are asking for variances to our drilling ordinance. Williams is using pressure on the Shiloh Road to storm city hall. Williams has threatened not to drill on the Shiloh Road leases unless the Shiloh residence can get Flower Mound Town council to change the drilling ordinance. This ordinance change would allow for seismic testing and toxic wastewater piping in our neighborhood and near your homes, walls, pools, and ground piping.
We think that the Williams and the Shiloh Road group have a right to drill. Williams has been granted drilling permits by the Town of Flower Mound based on existing drilling ordinance. We do not think the town should approve or negotiate on Williams contract “paper” nor should they open the ordinance given the direct and aggressive impact Williams is trying to have on Flower Mound politics.
Flower Mound Home Owners Drilling Bill of Rights
Seismic damage is not covered by homeowners insurance therefore we do not want seismic events in our neighborhoods.
We do not want drilling within 1000 ft of our homes nor do we believe toxic waste should be piped through our neighborhoods.
We do not allow wastewater piping, tanks and infrastructure that produce toxic waste to be routed or located in our neighborhoods.
Homeowners, HOA’s nor City surface rights should NOT be taken away by changing the ordinance or offer code variances that would cause complex legal issues weakening the drilling code.
Taxpayers should not pay for or subsidize gas-drilling efforts. They are heavily subsidized and protected by the government already.
We recommend that air quality checks and other remediation and safety processes/standards be put in place to further protect town neighborhoods health and safety.
Call to Action:1. Sign the online petition. http://www.petitiononline.com/fmogord9/petition.html2. Contact your town council and tell them you don't want them to change the ordinance 3. Go to the October 15th (6:00) Town Council meeting. If you are unable to make it, please send e-mail with your concern
As stressed in previous posts, this is not just about rural west Flower Mound. Although that is what Williams and the Shiloh residents want us to believe. If the Oil & Gas Ordinance is changed to allow Seismic Testing and Waste water pipelines, all of Flower Mound will be impacted.
Williams is not the only gas drilling company that wants to drill in Flower Mound. Titan will be drilling on the Hilliard property very close to Shadow Ridge Middle School and densely populated neighborhoods. Keystone will be drilling near Wellington Estates near many homes, schools and parks. Red Oak still wants to drill in the middle of town at River Walk.
Seismic testing could be done anywhere near these sites so the gas company can maximize their profits. Williams sent a document to the town to indemnify them for any damage from performing this sort of activity. If it's not going to damage anything why would you ask for an indemnification?
Waste Water could be piped away from these sites to other "Tank Farms". Possibly placing these pipelines through neighborhoods and public areas. Pipelines may reduce the truck traffic on some streets, but they could add traffic to the areas where the "tank farms" are. Salt, one of the main ingredients in produced waste water, has long been known to kill vegetation http://ourohio.org/index.php?page=can-i-use-salt-to-kill-weeds. Also, as posted in many of the articles on this blog and in countless newspapers throughout the nation, toxic chemicals are also found in drilling waste water.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Let the Town Council know how you feel.
Sign the petition http://www.petitiononline.com/fmogord9/petition.html
Contact the Council
If possible, attend the work session on October 15th
Here is the Document that was sent
The Town has been asked, and is considering, making 2 changes to our Oil and Gas Ordinance.
1. Allow Seismic testing on the town’s public roads ways, which would include neighborhood streets.
2. Allow “produce water” (fracking wastewater) gathering and storage system that would transport produced water from other pad sites/location to a central storage location for removal by wastewater hauling trucks.
This was proposed by Williams Gas Drilling, but would impact all drilling companies in Flower Mound. Town staff denied William’s request (see Town fact sheet). Despite staff's position, Council is proceeding with approval. Mayor Smith & Council Member Levenick have both signed a Gas Lease with Williams. William has told leasees they will not drill and they will not get their big $ if this does not pass. (See October 5th Council meeting) Which is why over 600 rural residents have signed a petition asking the council to vote yes.
Why you should object to losing your property rights. VOTE “NO”
1. Wellington homeowners DO NOT own our Mineral Rights. Keystone Exploration purchased the mineral rights of Wellington. They also recently purchased a drill site on the corner of Skillern and River Hill Dr.
2. Texas Supreme Court has found that mineral rights are superior to surface rights. (The only thing protecting our property rights from drillers is our Town Ordinances).
3. Homeowners are not covered by insurance if Seismic activity causes damage.
4. If damage is caused to our HOA common property it also is our $$.
5. Burden of Proof for damage is on the damaged party (good luck on that one – read the Town fact sheet)
6. Wastewater is not just water or salt water. It contains highly toxic chemicals including known carcinogens. (See Article on Radio Active Waste)
7. Common carrier pipelines in Texas have a statutory right of eminent domain. They can put pipelines carrying these toxic chemicals in our yards, parks, and school (LISD has already leased their minerals). (See supporting information sheet for Texas Railroad url)
8. Pipelines break! When a pipeline breaks, you don’t notice until major damage has already occurred. Say it breaks in your backyard and your pets or kids find it first.
9. The Gas and Oil Industry are exempt from: The Clean Air Act, The Clean Water Act, and the EMERGENCY PLANNING AND COMMUNITY RIGHT TO KNOW ACT and many more.
10. Williams is drilling 100 wells and wants 30 tanks in their “tank farm” less than 1 ½ miles from our homes and schools. (Read the Clean Air report from Dish Tx) What will Keystone and other drilling companies want to do???
Say No by signing the online petition: (Over 600 rural residents have asked Council to vote Yes) http://www.petitiononline.com/fmogord9/petition.html
Contact your Town Council and ask them to protect what is left of your property rights. Ask them to vote No to Seismic testing & Toxic Waste pipelines/”Tank Farms”. http://www.flower-mound.com/council/council.php
Supporting Information:
URL to last Monday night’s town meeting, where the Town Manager gave a report why the Town Staff said no to William’s request. Click on the October 5th video and select Managers Report. http://www.flower-mound.com/public/fmtv.php
URL to Town Fact Sheet under “Seismic Testing and Produce Water Gathering System”: http://www.flower-mound.com/env_resources/env_resources_ong.php
URL to the White paper that the Town distributed at Monday’s Meeting (Collection Facilities “Tank Farms”: http://www.ead.anl.gov/pub/doc/ProducedWatersWP0401.pdf
URL to the New Article on Radioactive waste surface…, which the Town distributed at Monday’s meeting: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/DN-norms_11wes.ART.East.Edition1.420fc23.html
URL to Dish Tx air quality report: http://www...townofdish.com/
Another article in the DMN:
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/DN-seismic_11met.ART1.Central.Edition1.4c33dc9.html
1. Texas Supreme Court has found that mineral rights are superior to surface rights. What this means is that although oil and gas companies will often promise to keep all disturbance removed from actual residential settings, if it is necessary to conduct further exploration that necessitates the use of your land, whomever owns mineral rights or possesses a lease to mineral rights can enter your land at any point in time with no notice, and you cannot receive compensation for any damage caused by their incursion on your property except if the damage is caused maliciously. Unfortunately “Seismic Testing” is not considered malicious. http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/173748/real_estate_market_woes_mineral_rights.html?cat=6
2. Common carrier pipelines in Texas have a statutory right of eminent domain. Common carrier pipelines are operators that transport oil, oil products, gas, carbon dioxide, salt brine, sand, clay, liquefied minerals or other mineral solutions.
For example, a pipeline transporting hazardous liquids would be a common carrier, and would have the right of eminent domain. A ‘common carrier’ pipeline transporting natural gas would be a ‘public utility’ (more commonly referred to as a ‘gas utility’), and also would have the power of eminent domain. The Railroad Commission does not have the authority to regulate any pipelines with respect to the exercise of their eminent domain powers. (http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/about/faqs/eminentdomain.php ).
Oil and Gas Industry exemptions: http://www.ewg.org/reports/Free-Pass-for-Oil-and-Gas/Oil-and-Gas-Industry-Exemptions
Sign the petition asking Council to vote NO. (Over 600 rural residents have a signed a petition asking council to vote yes. Don’t let your vote go uncounted)
Attend the October 15th Council Meeting @ 6:00. Residents will not be allowed to speak at the work session. Therefore if you have question send them to the council prior to the meeting.
Why Flower Mound Should NOT Negotiate with Williams to Change Gas Drilling Ordinance
If every gas driller incites “lease holders” to overrun city hall, Mobs will hold the town hostage and there will be nothing we as homeowners can do to protect ourselves from potential threats of:
- Drilling toxic waste,
- Un-insurable property damage,
- Property devaluation, and
- Cost of subsidizing drilling with our community tax dollars
Ordinance Change Briefing
Williams Drilling and Shiloh Road residences are asking for variances to our drilling ordinance. Williams is using pressure on the Shiloh Road to storm city hall. Williams has threatened not to drill on the Shiloh Road leases unless the Shiloh residence can get Flower Mound Town council to change the drilling ordinance. This ordinance change would allow for seismic testing and toxic wastewater piping in our neighborhood and near your homes, walls, pools, and ground piping.
We think that the Williams and the Shiloh Road group have a right to drill. Williams has been granted drilling permits by the Town of Flower Mound based on existing drilling ordinance. We do not think the town should approve or negotiate on Williams contract “paper” nor should they open the ordinance given the direct and aggressive impact Williams is trying to have on Flower Mound politics.
Flower Mound Home Owners Drilling Bill of Rights
Seismic damage is not covered by homeowners insurance therefore we do not want seismic events in our neighborhoods.
We do not want drilling within 1000 ft of our homes nor do we believe toxic waste should be piped through our neighborhoods.
We do not allow wastewater piping, tanks and infrastructure that produce toxic waste to be routed or located in our neighborhoods.
Homeowners, HOA’s nor City surface rights should NOT be taken away by changing the ordinance or offer code variances that would cause complex legal issues weakening the drilling code.
Taxpayers should not pay for or subsidize gas-drilling efforts. They are heavily subsidized and protected by the government already.
We recommend that air quality checks and other remediation and safety processes/standards be put in place to further protect town neighborhoods health and safety.
Call to Action:1. Sign the online petition. http://www.petitiononline.com/fmogord9/petition.html2. Contact your town council and tell them you don't want them to change the ordinance 3. Go to the October 15th (6:00) Town Council meeting. If you are unable to make it, please send e-mail with your concern
Sunday, October 4, 2009
IMPORTANT: Sign the petition to keep FM O & G ordinance strong and attend the Town Council Meeting
The below e-mail was not generated from FMCAUD and was forwarded to us.
It is response to an e-mail circulating from the Shiloh Road Residents. We have been searching for info on high density neighborhoods, schools or parks that have experienced seismic testing and waste water pipelines and storage facilities. It seems as one Shiloh resident put it in the last Town Council Meeting, Flower Mound has the chance to be on the cutting edge of this new technology.
Again we have a gas company putting neighbor against neighbor. Convincing the Shiloh Residents that the rest of Flower Mound doesn't care about their plight and are jealous of their big lots and all the money they are going to make. Yes, we consider the Shiloh residents to be neighbors. Many are friends.
But, do we really want to be the "lab rats" for this? The question is still out there. Who is going to pay for any damage or liability that may result from the proposed activity? Four words come to mind......Flower Mound Tax Payers!!!
Let the town council know how you feel. Show up to the meeting tomorrow night. Town Hall, 6:00 pm. Sign the petition below to "Keep the Flower Mound Oil and Gas Ordinance Strong".
All members of a household over the age of 18 may sign the petition on a separate line.
Here is a email we received.
The Shiloh Road folks are misguided and misinformed. Before being the vocal minority for Williams and all gas drilling companies wanting to drill in Flower mound, they should check their facts.
Have the Shiloh Rd residents seen a copy of the actual agreement that was submitted to the Town? Or are they just spotting what Williams is feeding them?
I don’t believe that Williams has disclosed this agreement to them, because they continue to insist that this only affects their neighborhood. Do they really think the whole community cares what they do on their property. Don’t be puppets. Get the facts in writing.
Williams has asked for Seismic Testing and wastewater collection facilities and pipelines that is not limited to the Shiloh Rd area, but to be extended to any area that they obtain leases. This would have to adopted for all drilling companies.
Williams signed lease agreements with the Shiloh Road area, knowing that seismic testing and wastewater collection sites with pipelines were not allowed in our ordinance. They are a big company with lots of attorneys that are paid to know this stuff. They are now telling these residents if they don’t get the town to change their ordinance they, Williams, won’t drill and the residents will not benefit from future royalty payments. Which they are claiming in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. (Sounds like extortion.)
Williams stated that they will maximize their profits only if they can do seismic testing on the town’s streets.
Why is it the town’s and residents responsibility to maximize Williams profit, while risking $450 million dollars of the town’s assets?
Residents are not insured for potential damage to their sidewalks, retaining walls, home foundation, and pools. Why should we take on William’s risk?
If these people who signed a lease are confident with Furgo Engineering's report that no damage will be caused by vibrational seismic testing; Let them do the testing in their driveways and yards. Why would Williams ask for complete indemnification if they felt that there was no risk?
The test mentioned below (their communication) was done in a big dirt field, not on concrete next to homes, retaining walls, sidewalks, or swimming pools.
Shiloh Rd. lease holders signed agreements for gas drilling, knowing that seismic testing and wastewater collection sites with pipelines were not allowed in our ordinance.
If they didn’t want trucks coming through their neighborhood they shouldn't have signed a lease until an ordinance was in place. This is exactly like developers buying residential land and expecting the Town to change it zoning to a chemical plant in the middle of a residential neighborhood. Smart developers get an option on the land until the zoning has been changed.
The Shiloh Rd. residences and Williams demanding an immediate change to our ordinance because Williams lease agreement term is expiring. This issue does not relieve the town from their obligation of due diligence. They represent the whole community.
It is not a simple request. Just understanding how to identify and deal with a pipeline break is difficult. Laws exempting the Gas and Oil industry from disclosing what the chemical makeup of the fracking watste”water(?)” the Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act limit the town’s ability to deal with risk. Just think of it this way, if a truck turns over you know it immediately. If a pipeline leaks or breaks you wouldn’t know it until vegetation and potentially animals and people start dying. This is a lot of risk.
I ask residents to not be angry with the Shiloh Rd. people. I think they have let Williams hood wink them, and potentially extort them into believing that they are the only ones affected by what is happening; while, behind their backs asking the Town and all its residents to take on their risks while Williams receives the reward.
I guess it goes back to the old adage “You can’t get something for nothing”. There is always a price to pay. Ask yourself what you are willing to risk? If the risk is too much, please tell
Town Council at Monday’s meeting. The meeting is at town hall at 6:00.
If you agree with the above e-mail sign the petition
Keep Flower Mound's Oil and Gas Ordinance Strong
http://www.petitiononline.com/fmogord9/petition.html
We did not include the Shiloh Road Residents e-mail blast because we did not receive it directly.
It is response to an e-mail circulating from the Shiloh Road Residents. We have been searching for info on high density neighborhoods, schools or parks that have experienced seismic testing and waste water pipelines and storage facilities. It seems as one Shiloh resident put it in the last Town Council Meeting, Flower Mound has the chance to be on the cutting edge of this new technology.
Again we have a gas company putting neighbor against neighbor. Convincing the Shiloh Residents that the rest of Flower Mound doesn't care about their plight and are jealous of their big lots and all the money they are going to make. Yes, we consider the Shiloh residents to be neighbors. Many are friends.
But, do we really want to be the "lab rats" for this? The question is still out there. Who is going to pay for any damage or liability that may result from the proposed activity? Four words come to mind......Flower Mound Tax Payers!!!
Let the town council know how you feel. Show up to the meeting tomorrow night. Town Hall, 6:00 pm. Sign the petition below to "Keep the Flower Mound Oil and Gas Ordinance Strong".
All members of a household over the age of 18 may sign the petition on a separate line.
Here is a email we received.
The Shiloh Road folks are misguided and misinformed. Before being the vocal minority for Williams and all gas drilling companies wanting to drill in Flower mound, they should check their facts.
Have the Shiloh Rd residents seen a copy of the actual agreement that was submitted to the Town? Or are they just spotting what Williams is feeding them?
I don’t believe that Williams has disclosed this agreement to them, because they continue to insist that this only affects their neighborhood. Do they really think the whole community cares what they do on their property. Don’t be puppets. Get the facts in writing.
Williams has asked for Seismic Testing and wastewater collection facilities and pipelines that is not limited to the Shiloh Rd area, but to be extended to any area that they obtain leases. This would have to adopted for all drilling companies.
Williams signed lease agreements with the Shiloh Road area, knowing that seismic testing and wastewater collection sites with pipelines were not allowed in our ordinance. They are a big company with lots of attorneys that are paid to know this stuff. They are now telling these residents if they don’t get the town to change their ordinance they, Williams, won’t drill and the residents will not benefit from future royalty payments. Which they are claiming in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. (Sounds like extortion.)
Williams stated that they will maximize their profits only if they can do seismic testing on the town’s streets.
Why is it the town’s and residents responsibility to maximize Williams profit, while risking $450 million dollars of the town’s assets?
Residents are not insured for potential damage to their sidewalks, retaining walls, home foundation, and pools. Why should we take on William’s risk?
If these people who signed a lease are confident with Furgo Engineering's report that no damage will be caused by vibrational seismic testing; Let them do the testing in their driveways and yards. Why would Williams ask for complete indemnification if they felt that there was no risk?
The test mentioned below (their communication) was done in a big dirt field, not on concrete next to homes, retaining walls, sidewalks, or swimming pools.
Shiloh Rd. lease holders signed agreements for gas drilling, knowing that seismic testing and wastewater collection sites with pipelines were not allowed in our ordinance.
If they didn’t want trucks coming through their neighborhood they shouldn't have signed a lease until an ordinance was in place. This is exactly like developers buying residential land and expecting the Town to change it zoning to a chemical plant in the middle of a residential neighborhood. Smart developers get an option on the land until the zoning has been changed.
The Shiloh Rd. residences and Williams demanding an immediate change to our ordinance because Williams lease agreement term is expiring. This issue does not relieve the town from their obligation of due diligence. They represent the whole community.
It is not a simple request. Just understanding how to identify and deal with a pipeline break is difficult. Laws exempting the Gas and Oil industry from disclosing what the chemical makeup of the fracking watste”water(?)” the Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act limit the town’s ability to deal with risk. Just think of it this way, if a truck turns over you know it immediately. If a pipeline leaks or breaks you wouldn’t know it until vegetation and potentially animals and people start dying. This is a lot of risk.
I ask residents to not be angry with the Shiloh Rd. people. I think they have let Williams hood wink them, and potentially extort them into believing that they are the only ones affected by what is happening; while, behind their backs asking the Town and all its residents to take on their risks while Williams receives the reward.
I guess it goes back to the old adage “You can’t get something for nothing”. There is always a price to pay. Ask yourself what you are willing to risk? If the risk is too much, please tell
Town Council at Monday’s meeting. The meeting is at town hall at 6:00.
If you agree with the above e-mail sign the petition
Keep Flower Mound's Oil and Gas Ordinance Strong
http://www.petitiononline.com/fmogord9/petition.html
We did not include the Shiloh Road Residents e-mail blast because we did not receive it directly.
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