Panel: Gas Development Not Significantly Impacting Mon
Washington, PA Observer-Reporter
7 August 2009
WEXFORD, Pa. – The Marcellus Shale Committee issued the following
statement regarding ongoing monitoring of levels of total dissolved
solids in the Monongahela River:
"As noted by the state Department of Environmental Protection, there
are a number of potential contributors to the levels of total dissolved
solids in the Monongahela River.
"Following restrictions established by the DEP in October 2008, the
natural gas industry almost entirely eliminated water sent to treatment
plants along the river, equal to a rate of 1 percent of the total
effluent discharge at each permitted facility. Those restrictions on
the natural gas industry’s water discharges continue unchanged.
"As a result, water related to natural gas development is not a
significant contributor to the observed level of total dissolved solids
in the Monongahela River. Nearly all of the water used in natural gas
development in Western Pennsylvania is being recycled, which
dramatically reduces volumes needed for treatment. The remaining water
is being treated through a portfolio of approved methods not impacting
the Monongahela River."
Formed in 2008, the Marcellus Shale Committee represents the oil and
gas industry in Pennsylvania on matters pertaining to the acquisition,
exploration, drilling and development of the Marcellus Shale natural
gas resource. The committee, sponsored by the Pennsylvania Oil and Gas
Association and the Independent Oil and Gas Association of
Pennsylvania, includes independent producers with historical expertise
in the state's oil and gas fields and national companies dedicated to
bringing their industry experience and resources to achieve common
goals.