Thanks to the editorial board for its insightful recommendation for a moratorium on high-volume horizontal hydraulic fracturing ("Yes, a drilling moratorium," March 26). A moratorium will provide additional time for results from health studies being conducted in Pennsylvania and other states where such fracking is already occurring and where injuries and illnesses have been reported.
A primary goal must be the prevention of harm to workers, nearby residents and the general public. Mere "surveillance" is not acceptable when we have lessons to be learned from the experience in other states that can significantly reduce the danger of harm to New Yorkers. Developing the economy is important, but the gas is not going to go away and we must not rush to extract it without the knowledge of how to do so safely, if at all. To do otherwise will decrease the quality of life for many people and result in increases in personal and state health care costs, which will result in higher taxes for all New Yorkers.
Learning more about the potential health risks of such fracking from ongoing scientific studies before taking any action is a reasonable, common-sense approach. Physicians, scientists, legislative leaders and media professionals should demand nothing less.
Sheila Bushkin-Bedient, M.D., M.P.H.
David O. Carpenter, M.D.
Institute for Health and the Environment University at Albany, Rensselaer