Matthew Hamilton reports at Capitol Confidential acting state Health Department Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said Wed., Dec. 17, he would not recommend high-impact hydraulic fracturing in New York state. “Would I live in a community with HVHF (high-volume hydraulic fracturing) based on the facts I have now?” Zucker said. “Would I let my child play in the school field nearby, or my family drink the water from the tap or grow their vegetables in the soil? After looking at a plethora of reports … my answer is no.” Now, the state Department of Environmental Conservation will complete the SEQR (seekr) process with a final study published early next year, DEC Commissioner Joe Martens said. “I will then issue a legally binding finding statement prohibiting HVHF in New York state at this time,” Martens said. Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said he would be bound to whatever the “experts” decided “because I am not in a position to second-guess them with my expertise.... It can’t be political — it’s after the election.” he said. Locally, Hudson-based state representative Didi Barrett released a statement. “Our communities have worked hard to protect our natural resources and our beautiful Hudson River because we know how important it is to have a vibrant, safe and healthy water supply. The Department of Health’s recommendation to ban fracking is consistent with that priority, and makes sure that the health of our families, our water and natural resources are protected so that our communities remain strong, and our environment stays clean, now, and for future generations,” Barrett said. Read the full story at Capitol Confidential, a Times Union blog.