Credit: Brad Weaver/Unsplash
22 April
Fracking changes the landscape near Ohio's Salt Fork State Park
Residents near Ohio's largest state park face changes as fracking expands, altering the region's character.
Megan Henry reports for Ohio Capital Journal.
In short:
- Terri Sabo, a local resident since 1983, expresses concern over the transformation of Guernsey County, Ohio, due to fracking-related industrialization.
- Recent state laws have expedited the leasing process for fracking in state parks, with multiple parcels near Salt Fork now contracted to energy companies.
- FracTracker Alliance reports over 1,400 fracking incidents in Ohio, with significant local opposition to increased industrial activity.
Key quote:
"I'm past the sadness. I'm into acceptance now. And it's gonna happen."
— Terri Sabo, local resident and activist.
Why this matters:
The alteration of landscapes and potential for spills and leaks of fracking fluids can disrupt local ecosystems, harm wildlife and endanger species dependent on pristine environments.
A 2021EHN scientific investigation found that western Pennsylvania families near fracking were exposed to harmful chemicals, and regulations failed to protect communities' mental, physical and social health.
ohiocapitaljournal.com