Could there be a natural gas deposit on your property? Check out this geological map that accompanies a fascinating News & Observer story about the potential energy bonanza that sits about a mile underground in areas of Wake, Durham, Orange, Lee and Chatham counties.
It’s a safe bet that attempts to access these resources will face stiff opposition.
In recent months the N.C. Geological Survey has been sharing the data with state public officials, environmentalists and the energy industry.
The basins in this state cross county lines, and some exceed 50 miles. In addition to the Triangle, geologists have identified shale deposits in Moore, Granville, Montgomery, Richmond and Anson counties.
State House Speaker Joe Hackney said growing statewide interest in this topic is inevitable, given the potential risks and benefits. Hackney, a Democrat who represents portions of Chatham, Orange and Moore counties, was briefed about the gas deposits by the state’s Geological Survey in February.
“I was pretty amazed,” Hackney said. “It’s an interesting discovery, that’s for sure.”
Meantime, two panels are looking into the potential for drilling off the North Carolina coast. Carolina Journal TV’s Anthony Greco filed this update on the process.
