Energy and Self-Determination

A year ago this past Spring, residents of Santa Fe County first learned of oil and gas exploration by Tecton Energy, LLC in the Galisteo Basin. Quickly, citizens began organizing to protect this fragile ecosystem. The Galisteo Basin is one of the greatest archaeology treasures in the United States and is a wildlife corridor. Its hydrology is very connected and highly permeable. Citizens knew that the Galisteo Basin must be protected from the adverse impacts of oil and gas exploration and development.

So, by late June 2007, Drilling Santa Fe was formed. There was a sense that the “drill at any cost” policy had gone too far. A line had been crossed. The backdrop was a national and international scene that had put many in near despair. It was the “perfect storm.”

Over the past year, many organizations formed, not only in Santa Fe County, but also in neighboring counties. Drilling Santa Fe took the stance of pro protections. It joined others in a coalition and as the website of Common Ground United states, “We are committed to the idea that local citizens must have a meaningful role in developing extractive resource development policies and the determining voice in their communities. We are committed to an honest, open, public, and transparent debate and decision-making process that holds public officials accountable for their actions.” Furthermore, we are committed to the idea that any development, whether it be real estate or oil and gas, be consistent and compatible with the community plans. If such developments are inconsistent or incompatible with community plans, then those developments are not to be permitted.

Now a new group is forming, the Citizens Energy Board. To read about them go to Local Energy News or to go to the video at Bioneers Community Website.

Links: Local Energy News and Bioneers Community Webiste.