Ohio lawmakers propose PERSERV Act to ban fracking under state parks

In a pivotal meeting of the Ohio Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, lawmakers gathered to discuss the PERSERV Act, a proposed legislation aimed at banning the controversial practice of horizontal chemical extraction of oil and gas beneath Ohio's state parks and public lands. The act, which stands for Protecting Public Resources, Ecosystems, Sensitive Lands from Extraction, Violation and Exploitation, seeks to address growing concerns over environmental safety and public health.

The urgency of this legislation was underscored by recent incidents, including a significant explosion at a hydraulic fracturing site near Salt Fork State Park. This event prompted emergency evacuations and road closures, highlighting the potential dangers of fracking operations in close proximity to recreational areas. While wildlife and water sources were reportedly unharmed, the incident raised alarms about the risks associated with such extraction methods.

Melinda Zupper, a spokesperson for Save Ohio Parks, an environmental advocacy group, presented alarming statistics during the meeting. She noted that Ohio has experienced over 1,400 incidents related to oil and gas operations in the past five years—an average of one incident every 1.5 days. These incidents range from explosions to gas releases, raising concerns about the safety of both the environment and local communities.

Zupper emphasized the importance of Ohio's state parks, which serve as vital ecosystems and recreational spaces that support tourism and local economies. She warned that fracking could disrupt these habitats, leading to irreversible damage and threatening biodiversity. Furthermore, she pointed out the serious health risks associated with fracking, including cancer and neurological disorders, particularly for vulnerable populations living nearby.

The committee members engaged in a thoughtful dialogue about the implications of fracking near populated areas, with some expressing skepticism about the proximity of fracking sites to schools and healthcare facilities. The discussion highlighted the need for comprehensive safety measures and the potential long-term consequences of allowing such operations to continue.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of the PERSERV Act became clear. With the federal government recently reducing the workforce at national parks, Ohio's proactive stance on environmental protection is more critical than ever. The proposed legislation aims not only to safeguard natural resources but also to protect the health and well-being of all Ohioans, particularly those in vulnerable communities. The committee's deliberations signal a growing recognition of the need to balance economic interests with environmental stewardship, setting the stage for a significant legislative battle ahead.