Scott Fitzwilliams, Forest Supervisor

White River National Forest

Sacramento, CA

95812

 

Re: Oil and Gas Leasing DEIS for the White River National Forest

 

Dear Mr. Fitzwilliams,

 

I am writing about a serious problem that gas operations could cause for the water quality of the Crystal River and Coal Creek that run through the WRNF.  Gas well operations will require many, perhaps hundreds, of trucks carrying toxic and carcinogenic fluids for these wells.  The trucks will pass closely (as close as 15 feet in many places) by these rivers for about 15 miles.  State highway 133 is well known for accidents involving cars and trucks going into the river.  A chemical spill would not pass quickly down stream but will hang up in many pools and backwaters.  Also, the contaminated water will flow into many ditches and irrigation systems.  Livestock and crops will be contaminated and eventually the ground water and wells will be contaminated.  There could be cancers caused by such events.  

I am asking that the WRNF not allow these trucks to pass by the Crystal or Coal Creek by restricting access to the well sites.

 

Sincerely,

James Lester

11/22/2012

 

Resident of Redstone, CO

 

970 963 2517

james.or.lester@gmail.com