Shale gas protests heat up in Durham Bridge

Land in New Brunswick has never been ceded by the native Maliseet, Mi’kmaq and Passamaquoddy people. SWN Resources’ exploration program covers one million acres in New Brunswick.

In an interview with Fredericton blogger, Charles LeBlanc, RCMP Sergeant J. Stenger said a verbal confrontation occurred and that he thought both sides made their point. Four RCMP squad cars and numerous officers were present during a period of the open house that was scheduled to last from 2:00pm to 8:00pm. However, a caravan of SUVs transporting SWN Resources’ team left the open house two hours early. They were greeted with middle fingers and jeers as they drove out of the school parking lot.

“Traffic along route 620 was sympathetic with blowing of horns and thumbs up. Several cars were curious and totally unaware of the issue or that it could threaten their little back road community. Promises were made to get more informed for their sake and their family’s,” said Lawrence Wuest, a resident of Stanley.

The Nashwaak Valley is becoming a hotbed of shale gas opposition. Signs against shale gas are posted on many lawns and poles in the valley. The community of Taymouth has organized a number of information sessions on the topic. Many people in rural New Brunswick are expressing concern over the industry’s potential impacts to water and the landscape. Opposition to shale gas is expected to spread.

Tracy Glynn is on the board of the NB Media Co-op.