Ohio is in the process of cataloging shale holdings in parks, forests and preserves according to The Columbus Dispatch.

The Dispatch obtained records from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources that documents the state’s mission to find out how much Utica shale the state owns. Undoubtedly, the state hopes to, one day, open up some areas for gas drilling.

Here’s an excerpt:

The agency records also contained maps of five state forests with highlighted areas where drilling could be allowed. LoParo said the maps aren’t necessarily a sign that these forests — Beaver Creek, Fernwood, Harrison, Sunfish Creek and Yellow Creek — would be among the first put up for bids under a state law that lawmakers passed on Sept. 30, or that bidding might soon begin.

» Via: The Columbus Dispatch › State catalogs shale holdings in parks, forests