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Md. Gas Drilling Damage Compensation Fund Proposed

MOUNTAIN LAKE PARK, Md. (AP) -- Some people concerned about the effects of natural gas drilling in western Maryland are proposing a fund to compensate those whose livelihoods or property values are diminished by drilling.

The Allegheny Highlands Conservancy is hosting a meeting on the topic Wednesday in Mountain Lake Park.

Friendsville winemaker Paul Roberts proposed the fund last month as a member of a state panel that is developing safe drilling standards. The fund would compensate those who suffer damage not covered by environmental protections.

The idea met resistance from a number of panel members. But Roberts got a green light to explore the idea further.

The state has issued no permits for drilling in Maryland's portion of the Marcellus Shale. Regulators are awaiting the panel's safe drilling recommendations, due in August.

(Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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