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Senate Committee Reviews Emergency Response Actions At Marcellus Shale Gas Wells

Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne), Majority Chair of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness, said the June 3 Clearfield County natural gas well blowout and other incidents have resulted in concerns about safely development Marcellus Shale natural gas wells.

           At a hearing this week,  a variety of industry, emergency services and local government representatives to discuss these important issues.
            Robert French, Director of the PA Emergency Management Agency, described his agency's role in responding to well emergencies.  He noted PEMA was still involved in evaluating the response to the Clearfield County blowout, but said there is a definite need for more training of local volunteer firefighters.
            Edward Mann, State Fire Commissioner, said cuts in the state budget over the past two years there has been a reduction in training available to local emergency responders.
            John Hanger, Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection, said there must be a culture of safety in the industry to help prevent accidents like the Clearfield County blowout.
           Major Harvey Cole, Pennsylvania State Police, outlined the significant problems caused by the heavy trucks used to transport drilling equipment and water.
           Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Bradford) represented the Lycoming County Marcellus Shale Task Force saying planning, education and communication are needed to prevent and then respond to environmental problems.

            Craig Konkle, Lycoming County Community Gas Exploration Task Force Safety Subcommittee, outlined the steps they have taken in the county to providing additional training and to improve communications on safety issues.
            Douglas Hill, County Commissioners Association of PA, called for more transparency when it comes to natural gas drilling suggesting DEP provide notice to counties and local governments of well drilling operations.
            Wesley Hill, Keystone Emergency Management Association, said with the growing number of Marcellus Shale natural gas drillers coming into the state, they should be made to follow established emergency protocols that exist in other states for preventing and responding to emergencies.

             David Spigelmyer, Chesapeake Energy and Marcellus Shale Coalition, said his company and organization helps first responder groups from various parts of the state in both training and education on emergency response issues.

             Sen. Lawrence Farnese (D-Philadelphia) is Minority Chair of the Committee.

 

7/5/2010

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