Submitted Content
To the editor:
The Sourlands are an extensive group of different parks and preserves that stretch through many townships including Hillsborough, Montgomery, Hopewell and Lambertville. It is comforting to know that there are clean quiet places that people can exist in nature, to exercise and relax, birdwatch and take photos. I grew up a short drive away from the Hillsborough preserves, often visiting throughout the year. These recreational spots are threatened by the proposed PennEast Pipeline.
This pipeline has support because it will both lower the price of natural gas and create jobs. These are clearly both great benefits, but it would be irresponsible for people to not consider the environmental effects and consequences.
Undeveloped land is easier to use when creating pipelines, which is why preserved land in the Sourlands has become part of the proposed line. The digging up will disturb wildlife and the peace the sanctuary creates. Allowing these pipes to pass through New Jersey will also put our state in danger of becoming a pipeline route, where our grounds get dug up for pipes that lead to and benefit other states, not ours. Once they start fracking, who will know when they stop? It has also been proven that there is arsenic in the bedrock under parts of the proposed path which could be a health hazard. All in all it is important to take a step back and consider every possible problem. No pipeline in our Sourlands!
Megan Moore
Hillsborough
