New York State has decided not to allow drilling for natural gas in the watersheds that provide the famously clean, unfiltered water to New York City and other downstate areas. The agreement is the result of a fight between the city and state after the state issued draft regulations last year, according to the Times.
While keeping watch over the watersheds was particularly important, there are issues surrounding the method for drilling for natural gas, known as hydraulic fracturing, which Alex Halperin and Sarah Laskow wrote about in TAP this month. There are tensions between the upstate landowners who would like to make money, and those concerned about the known and unknown environmental risks of the method.
That's especially true given the impending water crisis few people seem to know about. That New York City's drinking water is safe and free to consume is a huge boon to its residents, and one that has to be guarded, especially given the uncertainties involved in drilling upstate.
-- Monica Potts
