Dear Editor,

I am writing today to respond to the numerous false claims constantly being made about state land leasing and what it will mean for our state. Some have called for people to ‘wake up’, well I also believe it’s time to wake up and recognize the reality of Ohio’s natural gas and oil industry and the indispensable role it plays in our lives.

Let’s start with an incredible fact. Ohio, along with Pennsylvania and West Virginia, form one of the largest natural gas-producing regions in the world. This has resulted in incredible investment into our state and the ability to power our nation with energy produced right in our backyard.

Think about it. Every time we turn on our heaters on a cold Ohio winter night, what’s keeping you warm? Natural gas. How about those of us who rely on cars for our daily commute to work or to pick up our kids at school? It’s the natural gas and oil industry keeping us on the move.

It’s not just about the convenience these products provide Ohioans in their everyday lives, we recognize concerns surrounding the environment are widespread. However, the natural gas and oil industry hasn’t sat idly by, instead innovative solutions are being actively implemented to protect Ohio’s natural beauty and our earth.

The proof is in the facts. American natural gas has significantly reduced carbon emissions. In fact, Ohio has seen a 38% decrease in carbon emissions from power generation thanks to natural gas. Additionally, the Appalachian basin has slashed methane emissions by 37% between 2018 and 2022. That’s not just talk; it’s action.

I’d be remiss if I did not mention the economic impact this industry has had in Ohio. A recent study conducted by Cleveland State University and JobsOhio revealed investment in Ohio by the natural gas and oil industry has surpassed $100 billion reaching an estimated $103.1 billion.

To put this into perspective, that’s more than five times the size of Intel’s $20 billion investment in the state. This investment means good jobs, businesses, roads and schools in our state.

I understand that despite these benefits there are many concerned over Ohio’s new state land leasing program. While some want to scare Ohioans with promises of destruction, I’m here to tell you that’s just not the case. This is not the first time Ohio has entered into a public-private partnership and the results speak for themselves.

The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District is made up of land that is available to the public and has leased mineral rights. This work has been done in a responsible way that protects the environment and provides historical investment into conservation efforts.

There is a lot of misinformation surrounding energy production.

I believe we need to wake up to the reality that a thriving, responsible energy sector is propelling Ohio forward and focus on encouraging collaboration and innovation for a sustainable future.

Bruce Tague

Executive Director

The Ohio Natural

Energy Institute