Thornden Park documentary screening to raise awareness against hydrofracking
‘Gasland’ Screening
Where: Amphitheatre in Thornden Park
When: 6:30 to 10:30 p.m.
How much: Free
Documentarian and Sundance Jury Prize winner Josh Fox will lead a discussion on hydraulic fracturing Thursday night in the Amphitheatre at Thornden Park, following a viewing of his award-winning film ‘Gasland.’
The evening is set to begin at 6:30 p.m., with music from local bands Summer People and Run-On Sentence, followed by speeches and appearances from New York state Sen. David Valesky, Onondaga Nation representative Jeanne Shenandoah and representatives from Mayor Stephanie Miner’s office.
Hydraulic fracturing, or hydrofracking, is the process of increasing the flow of gas from bedrock through fracturing the underground shale with a mixture of 99 percent water and sand and one percent chemicals. The process’ potential effects on the environment are disputed.
Concern over the preservation of Skaneateles Lake, from which Syracuse receives its drinking water supply, along with a multitude of other concerns, aided the passing of a moratorium against hydrofracking in August, with a New York Senate vote of 49-9 in favor.
In order for the one-year moratorium to become a law, it will need to pass the State Assembly vote and be signed by Gov. David Paterson.
The vote is expected to take place following primary elections next week, when the assembly completes its recess.
‘Gasland’ follows Fox’s cross-country examination of hydraulic fracturing after a natural gas company approached him to lease his land for drilling.
Thursday’s event is designed to educate the community on the dangers of hydrofracking and raise awareness for the upcoming vote, said Dereth Glance, executive program director for Citizens Campaign for the Environment and organizer of the event.
‘The process uses millions of gallons of water laced with a cocktail of chemicals, many of which are known cancer-causing agents,’ Glance said.
Glance said hydrofracking companies have their sights set on New York, which is abundant in natural gas. Current New York policies make New York attractive for drilling companies like Chesapeake Energy and Halliburton, she said.
Glance, Valesky and others want to stop the rush of hydraulic fracturing and properly assess the risks and hazards associated with the process.
‘The gas isn’t going anywhere,’ Valesky said. ‘While there are potential economic benefits, it is important we ensure the safety of our public drinking water.’
Published on September 8, 2010 at 12:00 pm
