PENNSYLVANIA LANDOWNERS SHARE FRACKING EXPERIENCES
On Thursday, November 10, 7 PM at the Days Inn Of Southern Pines, the nonprofit organization Save Our Sandhills will host Carol French and Carolyn Knapp, dairy farmers from Bradford County, Pennsylvania, who have witnessed firsthand the effects of the gas extraction boom, known as fracking, and Hope Taylor, Executive Director of Clean Water for North Carolina (CWFNC).
As you may know, this natural gas boom that is sweeping across the United States may soon reach Lee County and northern Moore County. Geologists believe that there is a major sub-basin of natural gas that extends from Granville County above Durham southward through the Sanford area and into Moore County to the vicinity of Carthage. Some early estimates indicate that this area might yield as much as a 40-year supply of natural gas. Fracking of natural gas wells would take place in northern Moore County within the Triassic Deep River Basin/Sanford Sub-basin, and it could have great implications through all of Moore County. The Marcellus Shale gas deposits in Pennsylvania are different from those in our Triassic Deep River Basin/Sanford Sub-basin. Our gas deposits lie closer to the surface, have more faults, and may be less extensive.
We keep hearing that fracking, or hydraulic fracturing, has been around for decades. Therefore, why the big fuss now? Well, until recently, natural gas drilling consisted of “vertical” wells being drilled or fracked in order to retrieve the gas from porous rocks such as limestone and sandstone. Other gas in tight rock formations, such as shale, tight sand and coal beds, was uneconomical to extract until fracking with “horizontal” wells was conceived. This method of drilling involves injecting more than a million gallons of water and sand, as well as a toxic cocktail of chemicals under high pressure into the rock formation to release the gas. It has been estimated that over a 4-year period, up to 140 million gallons of water can be used by just one gas well.
Hope Taylor, Executive Director of CWFNC, will speak on the environmental and health impacts of hydraulic fracturing as well as current regulations and legislation in North Carolina. Following this, French and Knapp will talk about their firsthand experiences regarding fracking on their farms. Since 1999, Taylor has served as Executive Director of Durham-based CWFNC, a statewide science-based nonprofit that focuses on environmental health, drinking water and the impacts of energy production on water. Her background, which includes a Master of Science in Public Health degree in Environmental Science and Engineering from UNC-Chapel Hill, plus twenty years as a biomedical researcher at National Institutes of Health and Duke University, makes her an effective and knowledgeable advocate for the people and communities of North Carolina. In 2009, the EPA appointed Taylor to its National Drinking Water Advisory Council. In her spare time, Taylor is also a dairy goat farmer in the upper end of the Triassic Basin shale area. CWFNC promotes clean, safe ground and surface water and environments through organizing, education, advocacy and technical assistance.
Carol French and Carolyn Knapp are dairy farmers, one conventional and one organic, whose families had leased their farmland to gas companies for a small source of income for years. They had no expectation that gas development was imminent or that horizontal fracking would be developed and permitted in Pennsylvania. When Marcellus shale gas extraction with horizontal drilling began rapidly developing in 2007, many landowners were caught completely off guard. In 2010, French and Knapp founded Pennsylvania Landowners’ Group for Awareness and Solutions, an organization committed to educating farmers, landowners and the public about the consequences of rapid gas development. Both are familiar with the ‘good,’ the ‘bad,’ and the ‘ugly’ concerning gas extraction, as they live in Pennsylvania’s county that has been most impacted from rapid gas development. They presented a very powerful presentation at a Statewide Summit on Fracking Impacts in Pittsboro on September 10. Knowing that both sides of the issue need to be explored, they discuss the ‘good’ that can come from gas exploration: revenue for landowners from leasing agreements, jobs in the gas industry, business for restaurants, hotels and lawyers. And they raise awareness about the ‘bad’: questionable leases favoring gas companies, liens on property, mortgage conflicts, heavy truck traffic, social disintegration, loss of agricultural land, ground water contamination, increased community and farming costs, loss of tourism. They will also respond to industry messaging about the potential for shale gas to contribute to “energy independence” in the US, and to create sustainable jobs and other widespread economic benefits. Both suggest that we learn from other states by setting up support centers in our local communities.
Hear personal accounts from Carol French and Carolyn Knapp who are living with fracking on their lands on a daily basis. Their personal experiences can help us sort the good from the bad, and help us put guidelines in place to protect our communities if fracking is legalized as proposed in North Carolina. These guidelines can safeguard our air and water, our environment, and our way of life for future generations. We need to balance the promise of riches with the peril of drilling.
Join us for an informative presentation on Thursday November 10, 7 PM at the Days Inn Of Southern Pines, located at 650 US Highway 1 South (near the intersection of Morganton Road). Refreshments will be served. All are welcome.
10/10/2011
Reclaiming Our Food, Oct. 14, Rooster's Wife
You're Invited to An Evening with: Tayna Denckla Cobb and Reclaiming Our Food
October 14 – Friday, 5 pm
The Roosters Wife
114 Knight Street Aberdeen, NC
RECLAIMING OUR FOOD: How the Grassroots Food Movement Is Changing the Way We Eat is the new book by Tanya Denckla Cobb and it tells the stories of people across America who are finding new ways to grow, process, and distribute food for their own communities. Their successes offer inspiration and practical advice for all of us interested in eating better while also building community around local food production.
Please show your support for local food projects by joining us for a community potluck event. Bring a dish to share and tell your friends!
Phone:910.692-3211
Meet the Author, Local Food – Community Potluck Event!!
October 14 – Friday, 5 pm
The Roosters Wife
114 Knight Street Aberdeen, NC
RECLAIMING OUR FOOD: How the Grassroots Food Movement Is Changing the Way We Eat is the new book by Tanya Denckla Cobb and it tells the stories of people across America who are finding new ways to grow, process, and distribute food for their own communities. Their successes offer inspiration and practical advice for all of us interested in eating better while also building community around local food production.
Please show your support for local food projects by joining us for a community potluck event. Bring a dish to share and tell your friends!
Phone:910.692-3211
Meet the Author, Local Food – Community Potluck Event!!
9/06/2011
Day Trip to Greensboro, Sept. 28
Day Tour to Historic Greensboro
Sponsored by the Moore County Historical Association
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Departs Shaw House, Southern Pines. 8:00 am to 5:30 pm
Day trip to Greensboro, NC. Visit Blandwood Mansion, an elegant 19th century Italian Villa, home of NC Governor John Matley Moorehead. Next stop, Greensboro Historical Museum where you will see the Dolly Madison and O. Henry memorabilia, rare documents, art works and a military history exhibit including 140 Confederate long rifles. Dutch lunch at Liberty Oaks restaurant. Final stop, Guilford Courthouse National Military Park (scene of the battle on March 15, 1781).
$55 members, $60 non-members. Travel by minibus
Sarah at the Shaw House (910) 692-2051 for info and reservations
9/02/2011
Joyride, Sept. 6
FirstHealth Community Health Services and the Foundation of FirstHealth are bringing Portland-based bicycle transportation expert and author Mia Birk to the Sandhills to discuss bicycling and pedestrian programs, plans and policies while sharing experiences and stories that inspired her success.
Monday, September 5
22nd Annual Tour de Moore Classic to benefit the Moore County Chapter of Habitat for Humanity
Join guest rider Mia Birk for a hilly, challenging and fun ride around beautiful Moore County in the heart of the Sandhills. For more information or to register, visit www.tourdemoore.org
Tuesday, September 6
Mia Birk will meet with key leaders to examine local policies that affect non-motorized transportation initiatives. Community leaders will have the opportunity to work directly with a leading expert on bicycle planning to create a bike and pedestrian-friendly community in Moore County.
Tuesday, September 6
6 p.m. • Robert E. Lee Auditorium, Pinecrest High School
A dramatic and enlightening behind-the-scenes story of how a group of determined visionaries transformed a community into a cycling mecca and inspired the nation. Please join us as author Mia Birk inspires, educates and empowers us to create ways to make our community more human, healthy, safe and splendid.
Representatives from The Country Bookshop in Southern Pines will be present with books available for purchase and signing.
To register for this event, please call (910) 715-5376 or visit www.firsthealth.org/joyride.
Monday, September 5
22nd Annual Tour de Moore Classic to benefit the Moore County Chapter of Habitat for Humanity
Join guest rider Mia Birk for a hilly, challenging and fun ride around beautiful Moore County in the heart of the Sandhills. For more information or to register, visit www.tourdemoore.org
Tuesday, September 6
Mia Birk will meet with key leaders to examine local policies that affect non-motorized transportation initiatives. Community leaders will have the opportunity to work directly with a leading expert on bicycle planning to create a bike and pedestrian-friendly community in Moore County.
Tuesday, September 6
Joyride: Pedaling Toward a Healthier Planet featuring author Mia Birk
6 p.m. • Robert E. Lee Auditorium, Pinecrest High School
A dramatic and enlightening behind-the-scenes story of how a group of determined visionaries transformed a community into a cycling mecca and inspired the nation. Please join us as author Mia Birk inspires, educates and empowers us to create ways to make our community more human, healthy, safe and splendid.
Representatives from The Country Bookshop in Southern Pines will be present with books available for purchase and signing.
To register for this event, please call (910) 715-5376 or visit www.firsthealth.org/joyride.
8/27/2011
Shaw House Fair, Oct. 8
3rd Annual Shaw House Fair
Saturday, October 8, 2011 • 9:00 to 4:00
Vintage Collectibles & Antiques Vendors, Food & Music & Tours!
Donate Collectibles
Please help make the Shaw House Fair a success. "Treasures" such as pottery, jewelry, silver, art work, vintage collectibles, figurines, linens, and other items of value are needed for the Silent Auction and Moore Treasures Sales.
Drop off at the Shaw House Mon-Fri 1-4 pm or call 692-2051 for pick-up. A donation receipt will be provided for your tax records.
You can also support the MCHA by being a sponsor.
Send your tax-deductible donation of $50 or more to:
MCHA, PO Box 324, So. Pines, NC 28388
Saturday, October 8, 2011 • 9:00 to 4:00
Vintage Collectibles & Antiques Vendors, Food & Music & Tours!
Donate Collectibles
Silent Auction & Moore Treasures Table
Please help make the Shaw House Fair a success. "Treasures" such as pottery, jewelry, silver, art work, vintage collectibles, figurines, linens, and other items of value are needed for the Silent Auction and Moore Treasures Sales.
Drop off at the Shaw House Mon-Fri 1-4 pm or call 692-2051 for pick-up. A donation receipt will be provided for your tax records.
You can also support the MCHA by being a sponsor.
Send your tax-deductible donation of $50 or more to:
MCHA, PO Box 324, So. Pines, NC 28388
8/26/2011
Food Banks and Hurricanes
The Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina is preparing for a possible landfall by Hurricane Irene later this week.
The Food Bank distributes food and non-food essentials to more than 500,000 people at risk of hunger daily in its 34-county service area.
The Food Bank also acts as a first responder during times of a natural disaster reacting immediately to serve victims of tornadoes, hurricanes and floods throughout central and eastern North Carolina. The organization began on Monday to prepare for a possible impact of Hurricane Irene.
The Food Bank has taken inventory of the following types of items in each of its six warehouses in Durham, Greenville, New Bern, Raleigh, Sandhills (Southern Pines) and Wilmington: Disaster relief kits, retail size canned goods from salvage/food drives, cereal/granola/energy bars, fruit snacks, water, Ensure/Boost-type drinks, Pedialyte, paper goods, hygiene products, cleaning products and household goods.
“We are preparing to provide assistance and basic supplies such as food, water, hygiene and paper products to those who might be affected by Hurricane Irene,” said Peter Werbicki, president and CEO of the Food Bank of Central & Eastern NC. “We have already been in communication with North Carolina Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NCVOAD) and other disaster response teams.”
In the event Hurricane Irene does not affect the Food Bank’s service area, the organization will be prepared to assist other food banks in the state.
The Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina has a long history of responding to natural disasters. With the devastation of the 2005 hurricane season, the Food Bank sent nine truckloads of relief food and essentials to help the victims of the hurricanes in the Gulf Coast. The Food Bank distributed more than 233,000 pounds of food to that area.
In April 2011, the organization distributed nearly 500,000 pounds of disaster relief product to partner agencies affected by the tornadoes in the hardest hit counties in its 34-county service area.
For updates on Food Bank preparation and to be a part of disaster relief in the 34 counties served by the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina, go to http://www.foodbankcenc.org/.
The Food Bank distributes food and non-food essentials to more than 500,000 people at risk of hunger daily in its 34-county service area.
The Food Bank also acts as a first responder during times of a natural disaster reacting immediately to serve victims of tornadoes, hurricanes and floods throughout central and eastern North Carolina. The organization began on Monday to prepare for a possible impact of Hurricane Irene.
The Food Bank has taken inventory of the following types of items in each of its six warehouses in Durham, Greenville, New Bern, Raleigh, Sandhills (Southern Pines) and Wilmington: Disaster relief kits, retail size canned goods from salvage/food drives, cereal/granola/energy bars, fruit snacks, water, Ensure/Boost-type drinks, Pedialyte, paper goods, hygiene products, cleaning products and household goods.
“We are preparing to provide assistance and basic supplies such as food, water, hygiene and paper products to those who might be affected by Hurricane Irene,” said Peter Werbicki, president and CEO of the Food Bank of Central & Eastern NC. “We have already been in communication with North Carolina Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NCVOAD) and other disaster response teams.”
In the event Hurricane Irene does not affect the Food Bank’s service area, the organization will be prepared to assist other food banks in the state.
The Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina has a long history of responding to natural disasters. With the devastation of the 2005 hurricane season, the Food Bank sent nine truckloads of relief food and essentials to help the victims of the hurricanes in the Gulf Coast. The Food Bank distributed more than 233,000 pounds of food to that area.
In April 2011, the organization distributed nearly 500,000 pounds of disaster relief product to partner agencies affected by the tornadoes in the hardest hit counties in its 34-county service area.
For updates on Food Bank preparation and to be a part of disaster relief in the 34 counties served by the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina, go to http://www.foodbankcenc.org/.
8/12/2011
Leasing Your Mineral Rights? Carthage, Aug. 23
August 23rd, 2011, 6-8pm
Old Town Hall Building, 203 W. Barrett St., Carthage NC
With the arrival of natural gas leases in central North Carolina, landowners should understand the complexities of natural gas exploration, acquaint themselves with how to critically assess mineral rights contracts and learn about the potential impacts of drilling on agricultural fields, water resources, timber, and personal property. On August 23nd at 6pm the Rural Advancement Foundation International will host Penn. St. Cooperative Extension Educator Tom Murphy and N.C. St. Cooperative Extension Specialist Dr. Ted Feitshans for a public community information session on hydraulic fracturing and mineral rights leasing. Topics of discussion will include understanding the gas drilling process, negotiating a fair mineral rights lease, potential impacts on land resources, and limiting landowner financial liabilities in contracts.
Mr. Tom Murphy is a Penn. St. Cooperative Extension Educator with extensive knowledge of gas exploration and experience working with landowners in the Marcellus Shale region of Pennsylvania. Mr. Murphy will lead a presentation on gas exploration process, potential impacts on land and water resources, and the experiences of landowners leasing mineral rights in Pennsylvania.
Dr. Ted Feitshans, attorney and an Extension Specialist in the Agricultural and Resource Economics Department at NC State University, will also give a presentation on how NC landowners can evaluate leases offered to them by drilling companies and determine the status of ownership of the mineral rights on their land. Dr. Feitshans is one of the few mineral rights experts in North Carolina, with extensive experience in environmental and agricultural law.
Representatives from RAFI-USA, a farmer advocacy non-profit organization based in Pittsboro, will be present to help landowners with additional resources on natural gas extraction and information on legal supports available to landowners interested in signing a mineral rights lease. Following the presentations there will be a question and answer session for program participants.
This event is free and open to the public and will run from 6pm-8pm on Tuesday, August 23rd, 2011 in the Old Town Hall Building in Carthage, NC. For additional information you may contact RAFI staff member Jordan Treakle: 919-444-1321; jordan@rafiusa.org
More information on mineral rights leasing can be found on RAFI's website: http://www.rafiusa.org/gaslease.html
Old Town Hall Building, 203 W. Barrett St., Carthage NC
Thinking About Leasing Your Mineral Rights?
With the arrival of natural gas leases in central North Carolina, landowners should understand the complexities of natural gas exploration, acquaint themselves with how to critically assess mineral rights contracts and learn about the potential impacts of drilling on agricultural fields, water resources, timber, and personal property. On August 23nd at 6pm the Rural Advancement Foundation International will host Penn. St. Cooperative Extension Educator Tom Murphy and N.C. St. Cooperative Extension Specialist Dr. Ted Feitshans for a public community information session on hydraulic fracturing and mineral rights leasing. Topics of discussion will include understanding the gas drilling process, negotiating a fair mineral rights lease, potential impacts on land resources, and limiting landowner financial liabilities in contracts.
Mr. Tom Murphy is a Penn. St. Cooperative Extension Educator with extensive knowledge of gas exploration and experience working with landowners in the Marcellus Shale region of Pennsylvania. Mr. Murphy will lead a presentation on gas exploration process, potential impacts on land and water resources, and the experiences of landowners leasing mineral rights in Pennsylvania.
Dr. Ted Feitshans, attorney and an Extension Specialist in the Agricultural and Resource Economics Department at NC State University, will also give a presentation on how NC landowners can evaluate leases offered to them by drilling companies and determine the status of ownership of the mineral rights on their land. Dr. Feitshans is one of the few mineral rights experts in North Carolina, with extensive experience in environmental and agricultural law.
Representatives from RAFI-USA, a farmer advocacy non-profit organization based in Pittsboro, will be present to help landowners with additional resources on natural gas extraction and information on legal supports available to landowners interested in signing a mineral rights lease. Following the presentations there will be a question and answer session for program participants.
This event is free and open to the public and will run from 6pm-8pm on Tuesday, August 23rd, 2011 in the Old Town Hall Building in Carthage, NC. For additional information you may contact RAFI staff member Jordan Treakle: 919-444-1321; jordan@rafiusa.org
More information on mineral rights leasing can be found on RAFI's website: http://www.rafiusa.org/gaslease.html
8/11/2011
Sad Bad News from Downtown Southern Pines
Specialty Cafe on northeast Broad Street is having to close its doors today. A bad faith agreement between the Cafe and the adjoining Pharmacy is resulting in withdrawal of the promised capital investment that enabled the cafe to exist as a much-needed and well-respected eatery and shop for only four months.
What is needed immediately is for local folks to stop by the cafe TODAY and stock up on its healthful variety of products that must GO.
This blog will continue to watch the events unfold.
What is needed immediately is for local folks to stop by the cafe TODAY and stock up on its healthful variety of products that must GO.
This blog will continue to watch the events unfold.
8/05/2011
Local Response NC Legislature, P'hurst Aug. 9
From: Kevin Smith
Date: August 4, 2011 9:11:41 PM EDT
Subject: A gathering to organize opposition to the proposed marriage amendment to the state constitution
On September 12th the General Assembly will reconvene to consider amendments to the state constitution; aka the GOP's annual pander to the religious right, a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage and civil unions. The difference is that this time they have the numbers to make it more than symbolic.
If the hypocrisy of a legislature that wants government's hands off everything except for women's reproductive rights and the most personal decision two adults can make offends you, come help us consider ways in which we can remind Congressman Boles and Senator Blake, both co-sponsors, that the state has more pressing priorities than a shrinking fraction of the populace's need for self righteousness.
If you would like to help, please join us in the hearth room at the Congregational Church of Pinehurst, 7:00 on Tuesday, August 9th. The church is at 895 Linden Road in Pinehurst across the road from Elliott's. I hope to see you there.
Thanks, Kevin Smith
Date: August 4, 2011 9:11:41 PM EDT
Subject: A gathering to organize opposition to the proposed marriage amendment to the state constitution
On September 12th the General Assembly will reconvene to consider amendments to the state constitution; aka the GOP's annual pander to the religious right, a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage and civil unions. The difference is that this time they have the numbers to make it more than symbolic.
If the hypocrisy of a legislature that wants government's hands off everything except for women's reproductive rights and the most personal decision two adults can make offends you, come help us consider ways in which we can remind Congressman Boles and Senator Blake, both co-sponsors, that the state has more pressing priorities than a shrinking fraction of the populace's need for self righteousness.
If you would like to help, please join us in the hearth room at the Congregational Church of Pinehurst, 7:00 on Tuesday, August 9th. The church is at 895 Linden Road in Pinehurst across the road from Elliott's. I hope to see you there.
Thanks, Kevin Smith
7/27/2011
July 28, Fracking, SOS, Sou. Pines
On July 28, 7 PM at the Southern Pines Civic Club, Save Our Sandhills will follow up the recent screening of the movie GASLAND with an open question–and--answer panel discussion featuring Senator Harris Blake and Representative Jamie Boles explaining their position to endorse North Carolina’s Senate Bill 709.
Understanding the topic of natural gas and fracking is going to be critical to this area since so many counties appear to be sitting on top of a 40-year supply of natural gas.
Understanding the topic of natural gas and fracking is going to be critical to this area since so many counties appear to be sitting on top of a 40-year supply of natural gas.
7/19/2011
Events at Specialty Cafe, Broad St. Sou. Pines
Meditation with Mark Hunsicker on Tuesdays at 7:00 pm. Mark is an accomplished teacher and makes everyone feel welcome in this guided and silent evening meditation group. Bring a pillow or mat. Chairs are available, as well. $5.00 suggested donation.
"Planting A Fall Garden" class taught by Robert VanDerVoort Wednesday, July 20th at 5:30pm. Come and learn from one of the Masters! Rob has a contagious enthusiasm when it comes to food...growing it, cooking it and eating it. The Cafe is fortunate to have him as a supplier of excellent produce.
Look for the next Specialty Pharmacy lecture on August 9th at 6:30 pm. Dr. Trey Waters will be discussing Nutrition; healthy food choices, food as medicine, and the role of supplements and vitamins in one's diet. Specialty Pharmacy offers Wellness Seminars every month; the seminars are informative and are a wonderful opportunity to learn from one of the area's experts in preventative medicine.
"Planting A Fall Garden" class taught by Robert VanDerVoort Wednesday, July 20th at 5:30pm. Come and learn from one of the Masters! Rob has a contagious enthusiasm when it comes to food...growing it, cooking it and eating it. The Cafe is fortunate to have him as a supplier of excellent produce.
Look for the next Specialty Pharmacy lecture on August 9th at 6:30 pm. Dr. Trey Waters will be discussing Nutrition; healthy food choices, food as medicine, and the role of supplements and vitamins in one's diet. Specialty Pharmacy offers Wellness Seminars every month; the seminars are informative and are a wonderful opportunity to learn from one of the area's experts in preventative medicine.
7/17/2011
Decision July 19, Pine Forest Development, Co. Comm. meeting
PINE FOREST
The decision on the Pine Forest rezoning has been lingering for several months. Numerous times meetings have been delayed because of illnesses of one or more of the Moore County Commissioners. At present, Planning Board Director Joey Raczkowski plans to present a report to the Commissioners on Tuesday July 19. At that time the Moore County Board of Commissioners may make a decision on the rezoning.
Let’s keep the character of Moore County from being destroyed.
PLEASE – Show your support by attending the July 19 meeting regarding the Pine Forest rezoning at the Moore County Board of Commissioners meeting, 6 PM at the historic Carthage Courthouse, 2nd floor.
7/12/2011
Leasing Your Mineral Rights?
July 19, 2011, 6:30-8:30 pm
Agriculture Building Auditorium, Pittsboro, NC
Dr. Ted Feitshans, attorney and an Extension Specialist in the Agricultural and Resource Economics Department at NC State University, will lead a presentation on how landowners can evaluate leases offered to them by drilling companies and determine the status of ownership of the mineral rights on their land. Dr. Feitshans is one of the few mineral rights experts in North Carolina, with extensive experience in environmental and agricultural law. Representatives from RAFI-USA, a farmer advocacy non-profit organization based in Pittsboro, will be present to help landowners with additional resources on natural gas extraction and information on legal supports available to landowners interested in signing a mineral rights lease. Following the presentations there will be a question and answer session for program participants.
This program will run from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday July 19, 2011 in the Auditorium of the Chatham County Agriculture building in Pittsboro, NC. For additional information you may contact the Chatham County Center of NC Cooperative Extension at 919-542-8202 or by e-mail at extension.programs@chathamnc.org.
North Carolina State University and North Carolina A&T State University commit themselves to positive action to secure equal opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, or veteran’s status. In addition, the two Universities welcome all persons without regard to sexual orientation. North Carolina State University, North Carolina A&T State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments cooperating.
Persons with disabilities and persons with limited English proficiency may request accommodations to participate by contacting Sam Groce, County Extension Director at 919.542.8202 or sam_groce@ncsu.edu or in person at the County Extension Office at least 5 days prior to the event.
Samuel E. Groce
County Extension Director
Administration, Community & Rural Development, Livestock & Forages
Chatham County Center, NC Cooperative Extension
North Carolina State University
Post Office Box 279 Pittsboro, NC 27312
Office 919-542-8202, Mobile 919-548-2220
webpage: http://chatham.ces.ncsu.edu/
e-mail: sam_groce@ncsu.edu
Agriculture Building Auditorium, Pittsboro, NC
Thinking About Leasing Your Mineral Rights?
With the arrival of natural gas leases in Chatham County, landowners should acquaint themselves with how to critically assess mineral rights contracts and understand the potential impacts of drilling on agricultural fields, water resources, timber, and personal property. Topics of discussion will include negotiating a fair mineral rights lease, potential impacts on land resources, and limiting landowner financial liabilities in contracts. The Chatham County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension in conjunction with Rural Advancement Foundation International (RAFI-USA) will be conducting a program to help answer landowners’ questions about these issues.
Dr. Ted Feitshans, attorney and an Extension Specialist in the Agricultural and Resource Economics Department at NC State University, will lead a presentation on how landowners can evaluate leases offered to them by drilling companies and determine the status of ownership of the mineral rights on their land. Dr. Feitshans is one of the few mineral rights experts in North Carolina, with extensive experience in environmental and agricultural law. Representatives from RAFI-USA, a farmer advocacy non-profit organization based in Pittsboro, will be present to help landowners with additional resources on natural gas extraction and information on legal supports available to landowners interested in signing a mineral rights lease. Following the presentations there will be a question and answer session for program participants.
This program will run from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday July 19, 2011 in the Auditorium of the Chatham County Agriculture building in Pittsboro, NC. For additional information you may contact the Chatham County Center of NC Cooperative Extension at 919-542-8202 or by e-mail at extension.programs@chathamnc.org.
North Carolina State University and North Carolina A&T State University commit themselves to positive action to secure equal opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, or veteran’s status. In addition, the two Universities welcome all persons without regard to sexual orientation. North Carolina State University, North Carolina A&T State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments cooperating.
Persons with disabilities and persons with limited English proficiency may request accommodations to participate by contacting Sam Groce, County Extension Director at 919.542.8202 or sam_groce@ncsu.edu or in person at the County Extension Office at least 5 days prior to the event.
Samuel E. Groce
County Extension Director
Administration, Community & Rural Development, Livestock & Forages
Chatham County Center, NC Cooperative Extension
North Carolina State University
Post Office Box 279 Pittsboro, NC 27312
Office 919-542-8202, Mobile 919-548-2220
webpage: http://chatham.ces.ncsu.edu/
e-mail: sam_groce@ncsu.edu
Hearing on Tyler's Ridge, tonight, 7:00, Douglass Center, Sou. Pines
The Southern Pines Town Council will conduct a hearing on the Tyler's Ridge development proposal tonight at 7:00PM at the Douglass Community Center on W. Pennsylvania Ave.
6/30/2011
Big Thank You to Gov. Purdue--No to Fracking, etc.
Environmental Coalition Praises Governor Perdue For Vetoing GOP-Backed Bills That Would Have Hurt North Carolina's Environment and Economy
Coalition includes: Clean Water for North Carolina, Environment North Carolina, Environmental Defense Fund, North Carolina Coastal Federation, NC Conservation Network, NC League of Conservation Voters, NC Sierra Club, NC Wildlife Federation, Southern Environmental Law Center, Western North Carolina Alliance and others.
Governor Perdue’s historic vetoes of S 781 and S 709 are to be commended. The 2011 session of the N.C. General Assembly has carried out a relentless assault on the environment, and Governor Perdue understands that. The legislature has attacked environmental safeguards, land conservation, financial incentives for the wise management of our natural heritage, and even environmental education. We applaud the Governor for standing up to these assaults.
S 781, Regulatory Reform Act of 2011, would have handcuffed state agencies from creating environmental protections for North Carolina’s air and water. By vetoing S 781, the Governor recognizes that North Carolinians overwhelmingly support keeping or strengthening N.C.’s environmental safeguards.
S 709, Energy Jobs Act, would have put North Carolina’s thriving coastal tourism economy at risk, in search of elusive offshore drilling revenues. The bill would have also pushed North Carolina to begin hydraulic fracturing (fracking) for natural gas, a dangerous process which contaminates groundwater and has caused devastation in other eastern states.
Also, a copy of the letter submitted to the Governor asking for the veto of anti-environmental bills, which contains a complete listing of all 33 groups, can be found at: http://www.wral.com/asset/news/state/nccapitol/2011/06/21/9758002/Env_veto.PDF
For More Information
Clean Water for North Carolina -- Hope Taylor, 919-401-9600, hope@cwfnc.org
Environment North Carolina -- Elizabeth Ouzts, 919-833-0015, elizabeth@environmentnorthcarolina.org
Environmental Defense Fund - Jane Preyer, w 919-881-2912, c 919-740-6727, jpreyer@edf.org
North Carolina Conservation Network - Brian Buzby, 919-247-3617, brian@ncconservationnetwork.org
North Carolina League of Conservation Voters - Dan Crawford, 919-839-0020, dan@nclcv.org
N.C. Wildlife Federation --Tim Gestwicki, 704-332-5696, tim@ncwf.org
N.C. Sierra Club --Molly Diggins, 919-919-833-8467, molly.diggins@sierraclub.org
Southern Environmental Law Center - Derb Carter, 919-967-1450, derbc@selcnc.org
Western North Carolina Alliance - Julie Mayfield, 828-258-8737, Julie@wnca.org
Coalition includes: Clean Water for North Carolina, Environment North Carolina, Environmental Defense Fund, North Carolina Coastal Federation, NC Conservation Network, NC League of Conservation Voters, NC Sierra Club, NC Wildlife Federation, Southern Environmental Law Center, Western North Carolina Alliance and others.
Governor Perdue’s historic vetoes of S 781 and S 709 are to be commended. The 2011 session of the N.C. General Assembly has carried out a relentless assault on the environment, and Governor Perdue understands that. The legislature has attacked environmental safeguards, land conservation, financial incentives for the wise management of our natural heritage, and even environmental education. We applaud the Governor for standing up to these assaults.
S 781, Regulatory Reform Act of 2011, would have handcuffed state agencies from creating environmental protections for North Carolina’s air and water. By vetoing S 781, the Governor recognizes that North Carolinians overwhelmingly support keeping or strengthening N.C.’s environmental safeguards.
S 709, Energy Jobs Act, would have put North Carolina’s thriving coastal tourism economy at risk, in search of elusive offshore drilling revenues. The bill would have also pushed North Carolina to begin hydraulic fracturing (fracking) for natural gas, a dangerous process which contaminates groundwater and has caused devastation in other eastern states.
Also, a copy of the letter submitted to the Governor asking for the veto of anti-environmental bills, which contains a complete listing of all 33 groups, can be found at: http://www.wral.com/asset/news/state/nccapitol/2011/06/21/9758002/Env_veto.PDF
For More Information
Clean Water for North Carolina -- Hope Taylor, 919-401-9600, hope@cwfnc.org
Environment North Carolina -- Elizabeth Ouzts, 919-833-0015, elizabeth@environmentnorthcarolina.org
Environmental Defense Fund - Jane Preyer, w 919-881-2912, c 919-740-6727, jpreyer@edf.org
North Carolina Conservation Network - Brian Buzby, 919-247-3617, brian@ncconservationnetwork.org
North Carolina League of Conservation Voters - Dan Crawford, 919-839-0020, dan@nclcv.org
N.C. Wildlife Federation --Tim Gestwicki, 704-332-5696, tim@ncwf.org
N.C. Sierra Club --Molly Diggins, 919-919-833-8467, molly.diggins@sierraclub.org
Southern Environmental Law Center - Derb Carter, 919-967-1450, derbc@selcnc.org
Western North Carolina Alliance - Julie Mayfield, 828-258-8737, Julie@wnca.org
6/29/2011
Call the Gov. Today re Fracking/Offshore Drilling Bill
Last chance to have your voice heard on VETO of S709 — Deadline tomorrow!
As tomorrow's decision deadline approaches, we still need as many people as possible to make their voices heard on Senate Bill 709 (promoting offshore oil, fracking and bad energy policy), and S781 (makes new protective rules essentially impossible, gutting current rules by endless cost-benefit analyses)! Please call again or for the 1st time, and urge friends and family to do the same. The veto of these bills is truly vital to our environment and quality of life in NC.
Call 919-733-2391 or email governor.office@nc.gov today!
Lawmakers Seek Inquiry of Natural Gas Industry
Federal lawmakers are calling on agencies to investigate the natural gas industry and whether the picture that has been painted accurately reflects the reality of projections. State and Federal concerns about the financial and environmental impacts sparked the inquiry. Five companies have been subpenaed including Talisman and Chesapeake Energy. Supporters of natural gas sent a letter signed by a bipartisan group of federal lawmakers to President Obama calling on him for continued support of natural gas development.
EPA Fracking Study to Focus on Five States
The Environmental Protection Agency will focus its national study of hydraulic fracturing on seven areas in five states. Five of these research projects will take a forensic approach, retroactively investigating places where drilling has already occurred and where contamination has been alleged (including sites in North Dakota, Texas, Pennsylvania, and Colorado). At two additional sites—in DeSoto Parish, La., in the Haynesville Shale and a separate site in Washington County, Pa.—the EPA will attempt to observe and measure the changes drilling brings to an area as it happens.
Worst Drought in More Than a Century Strikes Texas Oil Boom
The water crisis in Texas, the biggest oil- and gas- producing state in the U.S., highlights a continuing debate in North America and Europe over the impact on water supplies of an oil and gas production technique called hydraulic fracturing. The worst Texas drought since record-keeping began 116 years ago may crimp an oil and natural-gas drilling boom as government officials ration water supplies crucial to energy exploration. Environmental groups are concerned the so-called fracking method may pose a contamination threat, while farmers in arid regions like south Texas face growing competition for scarce water.
6/17/2011
Division Street at Cameo Theatre, June 18
SATURDAY, June 18, 11:00 am
Sustainable Saturdays Film Series
Division Street
CAMEO Art House Theatre, 225 Hay Street, Downtown Fayetteville
$6 per person, $5 for Cameo & Sustainable Sandhills members. Tickets sold the day of the event only.
Join Sustainable Sandhills this Saturday for our final showing of Divison Street as part of our Sustainable Saturdays Film Series.
Stay after the film to hear Maurizia Chapman, Transportation Planner with the Fayetteville Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (FAMPO) speak about the region’s bike and pedestrian efforts & existing and proposed greenways. Also, Brenda Johnson, Green Growth Planner with Sustainable Sandhills, will give a brief presentation on local wildlife and habitat fragmentation.
Sustainable Saturdays Film Series
Division Street
CAMEO Art House Theatre, 225 Hay Street, Downtown Fayetteville
$6 per person, $5 for Cameo & Sustainable Sandhills members. Tickets sold the day of the event only.
Join Sustainable Sandhills this Saturday for our final showing of Divison Street as part of our Sustainable Saturdays Film Series.
Stay after the film to hear Maurizia Chapman, Transportation Planner with the Fayetteville Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (FAMPO) speak about the region’s bike and pedestrian efforts & existing and proposed greenways. Also, Brenda Johnson, Green Growth Planner with Sustainable Sandhills, will give a brief presentation on local wildlife and habitat fragmentation.
6/12/2011
Reminder: GASLAND, June 15, Sunrise
GASLAND – The controversial documentary that has polarized America
Award-winning documentary "GASLAND" at the Sunrise, Southern Pines, Wednesday, June 15, at 7:00 PM. $7.
There is a natural gas drilling boom sweeping across the United States, and it is about to reach Lee County and northern Moore County. Geologists believe that there is a major sub basin of natural gas that extends from Granville County above Durham southward through the Sanford area and into Moore County to the vicinity of Carthage.
Energy companies want to use a highly controversial method of drilling to extract this gas, which is known as hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking." Fracking involves vertical as well as horizontal drilling and the pumping of huge amounts of water and chemicals into the shale rock to break up the rock and release the natural gas.
Horizontal drilling is currently illegal in North Carolina, but two bills currently being considered in the General Assembly would overturn this restriction.
This film dramaticcally shows the potential dangers of fracking to the environment and expecially to groundwater.
In order to provide a balanced view of the issues raised, a distinguished panel will discuss pros and cons, and questions will be addressed.
Award-winning documentary "GASLAND" at the Sunrise, Southern Pines, Wednesday, June 15, at 7:00 PM. $7.
There is a natural gas drilling boom sweeping across the United States, and it is about to reach Lee County and northern Moore County. Geologists believe that there is a major sub basin of natural gas that extends from Granville County above Durham southward through the Sanford area and into Moore County to the vicinity of Carthage.
Energy companies want to use a highly controversial method of drilling to extract this gas, which is known as hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking." Fracking involves vertical as well as horizontal drilling and the pumping of huge amounts of water and chemicals into the shale rock to break up the rock and release the natural gas.
Horizontal drilling is currently illegal in North Carolina, but two bills currently being considered in the General Assembly would overturn this restriction.
This film dramaticcally shows the potential dangers of fracking to the environment and expecially to groundwater.
In order to provide a balanced view of the issues raised, a distinguished panel will discuss pros and cons, and questions will be addressed.
6/06/2011
"Gasland", Sunrise Theatre, June 15, more on Fracking in Moore Co.
Save Our Sandhills will be the primary sponsor for the showing of the dramatic documentary film "Gasland" at the Sunrise Theater in Southern Pines on Wednesday, June 15, at 7:00PM. This film deals with the potential dangers of hydraulic fracturing, a controversial method of drilling for natural gas. Other sponsors will be Sustainable Sandhills and the Sandhills Area Land Trust.
As most of you know by now, there is a natural gas drilling boom sweeping across the United States, and it is about to reach Lee County and northern Moore County. Geologists believe that there is a major subbasin of natural gas that extends from Granville County above Durham southward through the Sanford area and into Moore County to the vicinity of Carthage.
Energy companies want to use a highly controversial method of drilling to extract this gas, which is known as hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking." Fracking involves vertical as well as horizontal drilling and the pumping of huge amounts of water and chemicals into the shale rock to break up the rock and release the natural gas. Horizontal drilling is currently illegal in North Carolina, but two bills currently being considered in the General Assembly would make it legitimate.
As noted above, Save Our Sandhills will be the primary sponsor for the showing of the nationally acclaimed film "Gasland" at the Sunrise Theater on Wednesday, June 15, at 7:00PM. Admission is $7.00. This was an Oscar nominated documentary and a prize winner at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival. This film exposes in a dramatic fashion the potential dangers of fracking to the environment and expecially to groundwater. The film itself, with dramatic footage of tap water being ignited with a match, is highly controversial and we will try to have panelists who will provide a balanced view of the issues raised by the film.
As most of you know by now, there is a natural gas drilling boom sweeping across the United States, and it is about to reach Lee County and northern Moore County. Geologists believe that there is a major subbasin of natural gas that extends from Granville County above Durham southward through the Sanford area and into Moore County to the vicinity of Carthage.
Energy companies want to use a highly controversial method of drilling to extract this gas, which is known as hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking." Fracking involves vertical as well as horizontal drilling and the pumping of huge amounts of water and chemicals into the shale rock to break up the rock and release the natural gas. Horizontal drilling is currently illegal in North Carolina, but two bills currently being considered in the General Assembly would make it legitimate.
As noted above, Save Our Sandhills will be the primary sponsor for the showing of the nationally acclaimed film "Gasland" at the Sunrise Theater on Wednesday, June 15, at 7:00PM. Admission is $7.00. This was an Oscar nominated documentary and a prize winner at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival. This film exposes in a dramatic fashion the potential dangers of fracking to the environment and expecially to groundwater. The film itself, with dramatic footage of tap water being ignited with a match, is highly controversial and we will try to have panelists who will provide a balanced view of the issues raised by the film.
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