Energy development and wildlife

[mtmiller]

To be truthful, I have not viewed the video clips since my office computer won't allow, but I thought I would pass on the link to those interested.

http://www.cnn.com/2007/TECH/science/07/24/gas.wildlife.wyoming/index.html#cnnSTCVideo

 

[MarvB]

Interesting article, thanks Craig...

Story Highlights
In 2006, Wyoming provided enough natural gas to heat 27 million homes.
Biologists say the increased pace of drilling is hurting wildlife, habitat.
Studies show sage grouse down by 80 percent; mule deer down by 42 percent.
Communities say they want balance between drilling and habitat protection.

 

[1_pointer]

It'll be interesting to see how the 'balance' is met. Many of these areas IMO won't be willing to give up the jobs for nearly any species. Then if Uncle Sam has to step in one behalf of the ESA...

 

[Tom]

The pretty blonde's report is at cnn.com in the science page. She said there's lots of suggestion on what to do there. Like turn of the heater, it will save natural gas.

She reported grouse(sp?) down 80% and mule deer down 50% and gas drilling up 100% in a few years. A gas guy said their goal is to plant 500-600 acres a year of sage when they use 500/year. 20 of 23 counties have wells now, its a financial boom to the state, WY kids go to college for free now, stuff like that.