Thanks for the insightful editorial "Drill deeper, New York," Jan. 15. The cautious and carefully researched approach that you recommend stands in sharp contrast with that of a full-page advertisement that's been published twice recently. That ad declares only a border keeps New Yorkers from the new jobs and other benefits associated with the "safe and responsible shale gas development" that has been "good for Pennsylvania."
Your editorial pointed to unanswered questions regarding the impact of fracking on human health and the environment and suggested the state Department of Environmental Conservation may not have adequately assessed the possible dangers.
At least three studies of fracking are under way. The federal Environmental Protection Agency is studying fracking's potential impact on drinking water.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry is studying the possible long-term risks of drinking, showering and washing in water from wells in Dimock, Pa..
And the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection plans to study the health threats posed by the high level of radioactivity in wastewater from fracking.
These studies indicate how far we are from having enough scientific data to make an informed decision.
Let us hope our border will continue to stand between us and the dangers of fracking — and that New York's leaders will honor the memory of Love Canal and not risk selling our children's future for a mess of pottage.
SISTER HONORA KINNEY
Albany