"As first recommendations emerge from Energy panel, scientists seek ouster of the chairman, John Deutch - a former CIA chief and director of Energy companies"

"All but one member of a government advisory panel weighing the safety of one of the most contentious forms of energy development, known as fracking, have financial ties to the natural gas industry, scientists and some environmental groups are asserting. The scientists called for the ouster of its chairman, former CIA director John Deutch, who sits on the boards of two energy-related companies.

The group, which reports to Energy Secretary Seven Chu, is concluding that development of shale gas can be done safely provided that companies fully disclose the chemicals used in fracturing liquids, and that they face monitoring of their activities and rigorous standards for emissions of airborne contaminants.

While the Energy Department doesn't regulate natural gas production, the Environmental Protection Agency is still months from reaching conclusions in its own study, and the panel is leaving largely unaddressed the most sensitive issue of toxic chemicals that may make their way into drinking water supplies, opponents of fracking fear the Energy panel's recommendation can give a boost to the industry. "

Evan Bush reports for iWatch News (Center for Public Integrity) August 10, 2011. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Scientists Slam US DOE Fracking Panel Make-Up on Eve of Release of Report" (Platts)
[3]
"US Panel Seeks More Disclosure on  Natgas Drilling" (Reuters) [4]

"Gas Fracking Poses Serious Environmental Risks, U.S. Panel Finds" (Bloomberg) [5]

"Panel Calls for More 'Fracking' Rules" (Wall St. Journal) [6]

"Panel Urges Steps To Reduce Shale-Drilling Risks" (Philadelphia Inquirer) [7]

"Energy Department Panel To Endorse Shale Gas Exploration" (Washington Post) [8]

"Panel Seeks Stiffer Rules for Drilling of Gas Wells" (New York Times) [9]

"Federal Panel Urges Greater Tabs On 'Fracking'" (Los Angeles Times) [10]