December 3rd, 2012 by WCBC Radio
Marcellus Shale Fracking, a form of natural gas production, is once again expected to generate a great deal of debate when Maryland lawmakers reconvene in Annapolis in January. While the governor has appointed a commission to study all aspects of the issue for several years, one Maryland energy expert says it's time to push it along. Drew Cobbs of Maryland Petroleum Council says fracking of Marcellus Shale will lead to the increase of natural gas resources, and about $300 million a year in Western Maryland. Critics however, including some officials from the Marcellus Shale Drilling Study Panel say there are concerns. They say safeguards need to be in place, and that production from Shale formation can potentially pollute the drinking and surface waters. Allegany County Commissioner Bill Valentine says he believes there is growing support for moving ahead with fracking, suggesting that many of the health and safety issues are proving unfounded…
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