Anti-fracking billboards in Coshocton coming down

Associated Press

COLUMBUS

An Ohio man who uses a biblical reference and a statement against “poisoned waters” in billboards opposing the disposal of gas-drilling wastewater says the messages will come down today.

Michael Boals of Coshocton, east of Columbus, told The Associated Press the billboards’ owners were ending his three-month verbal agreement after two months unless he agreed to change the text.

Well-owner Buckeye Brine, of Austin, Texas, filed a lawsuit in July over the ads, contending the signs contain false and defamatory attacks.

The company and the well’s local operator, Rodney Adams, objected to statements on the two billboards along U.S. Route 36, including a sign that quoted says “DEATH may come.” They defend the wells as safe, legal and compliant with all state regulations.

Buckeye Brine spokeswoman Jen Detwiler said the company took its concerns both to Boals and to sign-owner Robert Schlabach and his wife. “I can’t speak to the billboard owner’s motivations,” she said in an email.

Messages were left Monday for the Schlabachs and their attorney.