DENVER, CO_Hunters and anglers will join other conservationists at a hearing Sept. 28 in Denver to support a federal proposal to crack down on emissions from oil and gas drilling that have fouled the air in western Wyoming and led to high readings of ground-level ozone in parts of Colorado and New Mexico. The Denver hearing is one of three by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on proposed rules requiring operators to dramatically cut emissions and methane leaks from wells and other equipment.

The rules would apply to new wells and ones being ``refracked.’’ In fracking (hydraulic fracturing) water, sand and chemicals are injected at high pressure underground, creating openings to release the gas or oil. The industry drills and fracks more than 25,000 wells annually nationwide. Conservationists want a closer look at the impacts of existing wells and new drilling on the Rockies’ air and water quality and wildlife and fish habitat on public lands.

The hearing is Wednesday, Sept. 28,  9 a.m.-12:30p.m., 2 p.m.-5 p.m., 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. at the Colorado Convention Center,  Room 207; 700 14th Street, Denver.

The public has until Monday Sept 26th to sign up for a 5 minute time slot. If you would like the National Wildlife Federation to sign you up to speak at the hearing, or for more information, please email:  CoombsW@nwf.org

Click here for the official EPA website on the hearings