XTO refiles application to drill near state park

FRANKLIN TWP — XTO Energy has resubmitted its application to the state Department of Environmental Protection for a permit to drill for Marcellus Shale natural gas in the township.

XTO has proposed to drill on more than 90 acres owned by James Cratty on Election House Road, less than a mile from Moraine State Park. XTO initially said it could begin drilling in August.

However, two environmental groups, Save Lake Arthur Watershed and Delaware Riverkeeper Network, appealed XTO’s applications, alleging that they were incomplete.

According to a news release, XTO reviewed the grounds for the appeal and determined that the issue could be resolved with additional information.

The company withdrew the application in August and refiled it Friday.