For DMME to exercise adequate regulation, industry must provide full disclosure of chemicals used in drilling and hydraulic fracturing. It's virtually impossible to substantiate any violation without this knowledge. Numerous states, already engaged in a rush of drilling by companies are finding that their state regulatory structure and reporting requirements are entirely inadequate to meet the task. Virginia must do all that is within its power to protect the water and air quality for citizens living around any potential drilling sites, such as those here in Washington Co.

Full disclosure is only fair to those citizens finding themselves subjected to a large industrial enterprise occuring not far from their doorsteps, wells, and nearby watercourses. Washington Co. has an economy that is deeply dependent on agriculture and tourism. We cannot let these long-term, land and water based, local businesses become damaged by poorly regulated, short-term, resource extraction. Special care should be given areas with karst geology.

Thank you for your attention to protecting Virginia's natural heritage, farming and other local businesses, and most importantly, our water.