New Questions Raised on NYS Fracking Policies

Recently-released documents suggest the Cuomo administration was aware of a Tioga County propane fracking proposal when it acted to restrict high-volume hydraulic fracturing.

Walter Hang, president of Ithaca-based Toxics Targeting, said he sought documents from the Department of Environmental Conservation regarding an application filed for the town of Barton project.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program September 24, Hang said the agency eventually released the information he had requested after initially rejecting the request.

Hang said Governor Andrew Cuomo "basically pulled a fast one" in announcing a limited definition of high-volume hydraulic fracturing which would be prohibited in New York state.

The environmental activist said the definition is "so problematic that, in fact, nothing may actually be prohibited."

Hang said he is calling on Cuomo to "keep his word" by banning all types of high-volume fracturing. He wants the DEC to issue a "Supplemental Findings Statement" to prohibit all fracking methods.