Department Of Environmental Conservation Holds Hydro Fracking Hearing

NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 30: Fracking opponents attend a public hearing for supporters and opponents of gas-drilling, or fracking, on proposed fracking regulations in upstate New York on November 30, 2011 in New York City. Fracking, a process that injects millions of gallons of chemical mixed water into a well in order to release gas, has become a contentious issue in New York as critics of the process believe it contaminates drinking water among other hazards. New York City gets much of its drinking water from upstate reservoirs. If the regulations are approved, drilling in the upstate New York Marcellus Shale could begin next year. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)