fomp.org

FRERC.ORG has just setn the following news release to all of its memebers, FOMP would also like you to be aware. More info at www.frerc.org

“U.S. FOREST SERVICE COLLECTING ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Dyad Petroleum Decision Delayed

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., June 25, 2008.Pike National Forest, Pikes Peak Ranger Brent Botts said more information has been requested from Dyad Petroleum before a thorough Environmental Assessment (EA) can be completed for the El Paso County project. No decision on the exploratory drilling proposal is expected prior to the Spring of 2009.According to Botts, “We asked Dyad Petroleum representatives for additional information about the site, roads, air and water quality and they responded favorably. It will likely take at least another six months to evaluate the information and prepare the environmental analyses.”The Forest Service will prepare a formal scoping statement and solicit public comment following receipt and evaluation of the additional information requested of Dyad.”

Hello everyone!

Spring is here and Friends of Monument Preserve is about to get into full swing for the upcoming season. There are quite a few things planned and we will discuss those at the board meeting tomorrow night. The calendar is linked on the right and has all the details.

Here are few important notes:

Board Meeting - tomorrow 4/8 at 7:00PM

1. Among other agenda items will be the USFS law enforcement officer Tom Healy will drop in to talk about recent vandalism in the Preserve
2. FRERC - gas drilling discussion. If Chris Amenson is able to make the meeting we’ll ask him to update FOMP on the progress and activities to date. Chris and FRERC are doing a great job coordinating various parties interested in the upcoming oil and gas

Upcoming Events - Lots of volunteer opportunities! Dates and contact info is in the calendar section at the end.

1. Tree Planting Project - this coming weekend!! Volunteers needed, see the calendar for more information.
2. Trail Work begins April 19 - see the calendar for more information.
3. Hot Shot dinner. Volunteers needed, see the calendar for more information.
4. Memorial Grove Ceremony. Volunteers needed, see the calendar for more information.

Hope to see you there!
Thanks
Chris Tirpak

There is a new group forming to deal with issues pertaining to the proposed oil and gas drilling in the Pike National Forest. It is called Front Range Environmental Resource Coalition and its web site is www.frerc.org - they are having a first meeting on Tuesday April 1. Details can be found on their web site.

Today the Gazette published an article regarding oil and gas drilling in the Monument area. FOMP has been aware of this effort for nearly 5 years and has been opposed to Oil and Gas drilling on Mt. herman since we first heard about it. Frankly, I was surprised to find that there were only 17 comments (for or against) filed during the initial comment period 4 years ago; however, I expect that to change now that we are actually about to have live drilling rigs in Monument full time. People from Manitou to Cheyenne (yes, Boulder too) are going to realize that oil and gas companies are serious about drilling all up an down the Front Range. If Dyad discovers natural gas in Monument, the battle of the Roan plateau will look like an friendly intellectual dinner table discussion.

Stay tuned.

Gazette Article - Pike forest could be ground zero for new drilling

As a partner organization with the USFS FOMP will be reviewing the EA when it becomes available in the near future and submitting comments as an organization. We encourage you to get involved and review the EA as well and make comments as individuals.

Note: I have already received several questions regarding why FOMP is opposed to this effort and I will articulate those reasons here shortly. — Thanks — Chris / FOMP Board