Letter to the editor: Expose fracking dangers

Recent reporting reveals Attorney General Josh Shapiro investigating the shale industry for “environmental crimes” committed by the oil and gas industry in Washington County and other areas. Residents have long complained of fracking causing water and air pollution, illness and dead animals. And such complaints have long gone unanswered by a Department of Environmental Protection that too often sides with the industry. Not only should the industry be investigated but, likewise, the DEP.

Sadly, on the heels of Shapiro’s investigation comes the alarming reports of rare cancers — Ewing sarcoma and others — occurring among young people within the heavily fracked counties of Washington, Greene and Westmoreland. Experts have long warned that the detrimental effects of fracking could take years to surface, with initial harm coming from impacted and polluted water wells such as being reported in Upper Burrell and Plum. The recent book “Amity and Prosperity” details the degree to which this occurs. Fracking, with its carcinogen cocktails, pollutes, sickens and even kills.

With fracking and its consequences now in our midst, it would behoove this paper to keep its readers informed and not in the dark. Subscribers deserve better.

Ron Slabe

Oakmont