Margaret, I own some land in Decatur. From what I understand, the Utica Shale deposit holds more promise than the Marcellus although both are present in the Worcester area. The Utica is deeper down under the Marcellus.
There has been some leasing in the area, mostly Elexco. Also, a landowners coalition (Worcester Area) has been formed. I have a feeling that things have slowed down considerably due to the collapse in Natural Gas prices. As energy prices eventually begin to rise as the economy recovers, natural gas drilling prospects will improve. Gastem is planning wells in the Cherry Valley area. Results from those wells could be an important forecast for Eastern Otsego. I think this will all take a couple yrs. to play out.......Jeff.