To the Editor:

Opposition to the natural gas pipeline to run through the Pinelands of New Jersey has failed, but it’s necessary for New Jersey residents who do oppose it to keep fighting. One reason for the pipeline, according to a spokesperson for the South Jersey Gas Company, is to help create and protect jobs. Creating and protecting jobs is important to us all, but how important would this be if it means that the health of our residents is compromised and beautiful landscape is ripped apart. The pollution of our air and waterways affects not only the wildlife but us, too.

It is important for New Jersey citizens to know the fragile Pinelands hold an estimated 17 trillion gallons of the nation’s purest water. Also, when oil and gas operators clear a site to build pipelines, harmful pollutants are released into nearby streams. These are direct consequences of the pipeline that will affect us greatly.

Republican and Democrat state governors have opposed the pipeline. This is not a political issue, but a quality-of-life issue. While also a national problem, it’s one that can affect us closely if we don’t continue to act. Chris Christie’s successor will be elected in November, and this should be at the forefront of our minds when that time comes.

Samantha Gardner, 

Hoagland Drive, Montgomery