The U.S. Geological Survey released a special study of satellite imagery this week which attempted to quantify landscape disturbance related to natural gas extraction-- both conventional and unconventional (Marcellus Shale) in Allegheny and Susquehanna counties between 2004 and 2010.

The study concluded in part--

-- Allegheny County had less than the critical amount of forest in 2001, and that forest has been further impacted by natural gas resource development. Percent forest declined by 0.07 percent (134.7 hectare).

-- Susquehanna County had greater than the critical amount of forest in 2001. That forest has declined by 0.09 percent (194.3 hectare) from natural gas resource development.

-- Susquehanna County agriculture declined by 0.17 percent (367.1 hetare) from natural gas resource development.

A copy of the study is available online.

4/29/2013