Following several people whose lives have been disrupted by the large oil and gas companies, Split Estate reveals how not only the landowner’s view might be impacted, but the health of the community is also under fire as many illnesses have been linked to the drilling, which has affected so many people. The Intermountain West is the region that is currently feeling the effects of the drilling, but throughout the country almost every state has leased the mineral rights under property owners’ lands.
While landowners think they have the rights to their property, the oil and gas companies supersede them when it comes to the minerals under the surface. Unfortunately, in order to get to the minerals, the companies have to set up drilling pads on top of the land. Many times these pads are only yards away from homes.
A Dream House Becomes a Nightmare
One couple highlighted in the documentary moved from Los Angeles to a quiet rural community in Colorado. They thought they found the home of their dreams with a nice view and fresh air. But immediately after they settled into their new lifestyle, a large company set up a drilling pad near their home and today they are extremely ill due to the toxic chemicals released in the air and water.
The companies claim that they are not causing any ill-effects through their drilling. They are adamant that the chemicals they use are non-toxic. Yet they do not have to reveal what they are using. They are exempt from being accountable to the public. The oil and gas companies have carte blanch when it comes to their business.
Oil and Gas Companies are Exempt from Full Disclosure
Even if the health of the public were not affected, imagine owning a beautiful ranch with plenty of land for grazing and a wonderful view. Then imagine a drilling rig placed just 200 feet outside your living room window. If that were the only problem with what is going on, then the country would be considered lucky. But that is not what is happening.
The chemicals are being released in ground water and into the air, making entire communities sick. Many people have simply left their homes and moved away, leaving their houses under foreclosure and their land to be ravaged by the big companies. They simply want to get away from the chemicals that are causing illnesses to them.
Colorado and New Mexico are particularly highlighted in the film. While watching the people of the various communities, it is disheartening to know that the Federal Government does not step in. As a matter of fact, they cannot step in unless the laws are changed, and changed drastically. The big oil and gas companies are exempt from the laws that the rest of us are obliged to obey.
This is indeed a shocking discovery for everyone that has not been affected by this intolerable situation.
Split Estate airs on Planet Green October, 17, 2009 at 8 PM ET.
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