This report was submitted by Nancy York, Larimer Alliance member:

I attended the July 14, 2020 afternoon hearing with the new professional Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission. Just under 80 folks were in the zoom attendance. Tom Rhodes spoke factually and eloquently just before me as one of the last speakers of the session.

It was a positive experience hearing the concerns and aspirations of the majority of speakers advocated for protecting our health, addressing the climate crisis, and noting the economic consequences of O&G development. Anyone who needs and wants a little pickup should participate in the frequent future hearings. You can see the upcoming schedule and register to attend at this website: https://cogcc.state.co.us/#/home The next hearing will be July 28th.

The Rural and Urban divide became clearer as elected officials get to speak first. It was interesting to hear from a few rural communities and counties namely Silt, and Delta, Logan and Mesa counties. The dominate concern mentioned was the economic driver of oil & gas development, namely jobs and revenue for streets, schools and such. Mesa particularly mentioned liquified natural gas exports via Oregon to Japan. Dave Devanney representing the Western Colorado Alliance, having just moved from Battlement Mesa in Garfield County, noted that O&G had developed in that community and expressed concerns about the air and water pollution.

There was culturally diverse representation on the anti-fracking side. So many impassioned speakers from around the state, some as individuals and others representing organizations. 

It is an investment of time to participate but affirming to hear and to be in solidarity.

Now we must wait and see what actions this COGCC will take. I’m hopeful.