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Post Independent
Glenwood Springs, CO Colorado

In Durango, Cathy Behr, an ER nurse, almost died when she stripped clothes contaminated with the fracking fluid spill at a BP natural gas rig from an injured worker. A few days later Behr lay in critical condition facing multiple organ failure. All the doctors were provided was a vague Material Safety Data Sheet, a form required by OSHA, but they needed to know the chemical make up and concentration of ZetaFlow, the fracking fluid. But the MSDS listed that information as proprietary and the ingredients as secret. The manufacturer was unable to share the information with this patient.

News of Behr’s case spread to other states, amplifying the cry for disclosure of drilling fluids. The energy industry braced for a fight. Halliburton told Colorado’s Oil and Gas Conservation Commission that there are “no confirmed incidents of contamination of drinking water aquifers due to stimulation operations.”

The disclosure of fracking fluid ingredients to save the patient would impinge on Halliburton’s property rights. Then Halliburton threatened to pull its products out of Colorado and $29 billion in future gas-related tax and royalty revenue with them. A compromise was reached to allow knowledge of fracturing fluid recipes to health officials of chemicals stored in 50 gallon drums or larger. However, workers say that fluids are often kept in smaller quantities and some of the ingredients won’t be disclosed.



If this short little piece does not scare you to action concerning the disregard of our ground water, I don’t know what would. A repeat of Love Canal? You think it could not happen here, that officials would not be so dastardly but look at history. Prevention now could save us later. Water may be the next oil. Let’s keep it safe.

Alice Gustafson



Glenwood Springs

How do you see Glenwood Springs in 5 years? How about 10 or 20? Where should growth occur? What areas epitomize the flavor and character of Glenwood Springs? What areas do you see being used differently in the future? Now is your chance to voice your opinion and contribute to the future direction your town could take.

The first public meeting of the review of the Glenwood Springs Comprehensive plan took place at the Glenwood Springs Community Center with approximately 62 people in attendance. That is 62 out of 8,000 plus citizens. I would encourage all residents to participate, one way or other. There will be other public meetings scheduled. If you cannot attend I would urge you to check out the website: http://www.glenwoodspringscompplan.com or check out their Facebook page. If you do not have access to a computer, contact the City Planning Department, your City Council representative or Planning and Zoning Board and let them know what is important to you.

This is an important process to determining the character, essence and direction of Glenwood Springs in the coming decade and perhaps for years to come.

The Comprehensive Plan is the guiding document for present and future planning. The decisions made now will affect future generations. For that reason, I would especially encourage the younger members of our community to get involved.

This is such a great community. Be part of Glenwood’s future by acting now.

Kathryn Trauger

Glenwood Springs


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