The clock is ticking on the public comment period for those interested in registering their thoughts on revised natural gas drilling regulations. The topic has understandably generated a great deal of interest as the regulations will likely govern potential drilling in the Marcellus Shale formation for the foreseeable future.

 The Marcellus Shale is one of the largest natural gas fields in North America and could provide a multi-billion dollar economic boost for the areas in and surrounding the Marcellus Shale formation. The financial benefits associated with natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale could be enormous. In addition, the benefits from an energy supply perspective are also important. 

Skyrocketing fuel prices have clearly demonstrated our need to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. Reducing consumption, increasing our use of renewable energy and alternative fuels, and increasing exploration will all help to further this goal. In my view, we are buying too much oil from people who don’t like us very much, and that domestic sources, safely extracted, can play a role in our energy independence and in reducing home heating costs for families