The Real Truth...

Boulder, Colorado has always been known for its breathtaking views, wildlife habitat, and the surrounding outdoor landscape where most Boulderites can be found. Thousands of acres of grasslands, historic farms, and wetlands are present in the counties that are in danger from the harnessing of natural gas through hydrologic fracking. Unfortunately, Boulder’s five-year ban against oil and gas has officially ended. Replacing the oil and gas ban with a new set of rules is being developed. Meaning, big oil and gas companies may be moving into a beloved gem here in Colorado. Tensions here in Colorado are high especially now more than ever in Boulder County as oil and gas companies begin to seek out permits to begin fracking near the beloved 300 miles of bike paths and over 60 parks that are located in Boulder. Over the last few months many residents in Boulder have begun to protest this decision, one making a sign on the third flatiron reading “Do Not Frack Open Space” in hopes of deferring this decision. Many Boulder County Commissioners sit with their hands tied since they say they are unable to do more to control the oil and gas presence. Though they can assure residents living in Boulder that they “are we are doing everything we can under the current law to protect our local air, water, public health, and the environment with these new regulations.” Sadly, this does nothing to actually protect the people of Boulder’s air, water, heath, property, or the environment. A possible new future has arrived for Boulder, where natural gas drilling is soon to begin. The Commissioners say they will deliberate further options in order to regulate the local oil and gas development during a meeting that will take place April 25.