SVW RESEARCH TEAM PRODUCES COMPREHENSIVE STUDY OF FRACKING RISKS.

An SVW research team led by Louise Maher-Johnson and hydro-geologist Paul Rubin from the firm of HydroQuest has produced perhaps the most comprehensive independent study of potential hydrofracking impacts on the geology and hydrology of Upstate NY completed to date. The study examined aquifers, earthquake faults and the unique Karst formations of the Schoharie Valley Region. The data developed has been provided to the NYS DEC in the form of a formal DGEIS comment and is available to citizens and groups interested in this important issue.

Click here to view report by Geologist Paul Rubin.

EXTENSIVE WEB OF EARTHQUAKE FAULTS PLACES SCHOHARIE AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES AT RISK FROM FRACKING

Schoharie and surrounding counties are criss crossed with a web of active earthquake faults that when combined with a fragile Karst geology dramatically increases the risks associated with hydrofracking.

Click here to view web of criss-crossed deep or "basement" earthquake faults.

NETWORK OF UNDERGROUND AQUIFERS AT RISK FROM FRACKING

Upstate NY is replete with a bountiful, inter-connected and flowing system of freshwater aquifers that feed our lakes, reservoirs, rivers. Available maps show a wealth of groundwater aquifers, like branches of a huge tree, with smaller leaf-like aquifer pools seemingly everywhere else. These unconsolidated aquifers are permeable and relatively close to the surface, easy to contaminate from above and below. Deeper bedrock aquifers are not shown. To view USGS maps of NY State aquifers click the links below (NOTE: These are large files and may take 30-60 seconds to load.):

Finger Lakes Region

Lower Hudson Region

Hudson Mohawk Region

Adirondack Region

Niagara Region

FOLLOW THE MAPS: WATER & EARTHQUAKE FAULTS EVERYWHERE

The Schoharie Valley Watch Research Team has produced a summary document explaining the significance of the fault and aquifer maps. Click Here to view/download the "Follow the Maps" summary.

HELP FOR SCHOHARIE COUNTY FLOOD VICTIMS

Free Computer Equipment

1/18/12 UPDATE: SVW is not accepting requests for computers at this time because of a backlog in requests and delays from our supplier. Please revist this program in the future.

In partnership with the GE Elfun Computer Rehab Program, SVW is distributing free* computer equipment to those who have suffered a loss during the recent flooding, non-profit organizations, local government agencies, schools and volunteer organizations. To request computer equipment please print and complete a Computer Equipment Request Form and mail to the address on the form.

*There is an $18.00 software license fee for each computer requested.

Schoharie Valley Watch (SVW) is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit citizen advocacy organization supported by private donations. Our board and committee members are unpaid volunteers.

SVW works to build vibrant and sustainable rural communities and provides training, consultation and resources to empower rural residents and to encourage transparent and responsive local government.

We support aggressive revitalization efforts for our downtowns and villages coupled with progressive and comprehensive land-use regulations that encourage open space and historical preservation and a viable rural economy based on low-impact, environmentally-compatible local businesses.

SVW supports strong federal, state and local regulations to protect public and private water supplies from negative environmental impacts such as those from of gas and oil drilling. Until such time as drilling activities can be appropriately controlled, we support a ban on hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) and other chemically-intensive technologies.

We support rural access to technology services such as high-speed Internet as well as access to arts and education opportunities that enhance the quality of life of rural Upstate NY communities.

SVW is a member of the New York Planning Federation, the New York Gas Coordination Group and the sponsor of the Rural Citizens’ Center and the annual Blenheim ArtWalk and Music Festival. SVW partners with citizen and environment organizations across the country in an effort to leverage research, education and outreach opportunities.