Catskill Mountainkeeper’s programs focus on protecting, promoting and enhancing the natural beauty, economy and wildlife in the 6 county Catskill Region. To date, the immediacy, importance and the size of the gas drilling threat has in many ways dwarfed all other significant issues.  In this section you will find detailed, in depth information about why drilling for gas using hydraulic fracturing “fracking” would be such a disaster for our region and state.  You will also find information about what Catskill Mountainkeeper is doing to help grow the economy through sustainable development.

The Catskills are now at a crossroads.  What we do right now and in the next few years will determine what our region will be like for decades to come.  It is our choice whether we will sensibly and strategically utilize our natural resources, natural beauty, close proximity to one of the largest economic markets in the world and develop the extensive talent pool we have, or choose to become a highly industrialized area with a great risk of substantial water, air and health problems leading to a decline in the quality of life, and our tourism and agriculture industries.

Please use this section of our website to become educated about the threats and opportunities in the Catskills.