Department of Environmental Protection this week advised oil and gas industry officials this week that developing the natural gas resources found in the Marcellus Shale formation must be done in accordance with the state’s environmental laws and regulations.

DEP has mobilized its oil and gas inspectors and has begun inspecting each site currently permitted to drill into the Marcellus Shale.

“While a great deal of economic opportunity is expected to come from the development of the Marcellus Shale formation, our department will ensure that Pennsylvania’s natural resources are not sacrificed,” said DEP Secretary Kathleen McGinty. “Over the past week, our inspections have uncovered a number of serious violations that will adversely impact nearby water resources. These violations need to be addressed immediately.”

Violations observed by inspectors during the past five days included poorly constructed and over-topping impoundments, inadequate erosion and sediment controls, improper waste and fluid disposal, and an inability on the part of site operators to identify the source of water in some impoundments.

DEP and other state agencies and commissions will continue to conduct site inspections to review procedures and regulations with operators and land-owners. If violations are found, the agency will issue orders and suspend operations.

Well operators will be required to present the following information to the department before well drilling permits will be issued in Pennsylvania:

· Well type, either vertical or lateral with topographical maps showing location of wells, laterals and property lines;

· Size and type of earth disturbances and locations of roads and pipelines;

· Preparedness, prevention and contingency plans;

· Anticipated water withdrawals, locations of withdrawal points, water management plans to protect surface and groundwater, and appropriate permits from the Susquehanna or Delaware river basin commissions if required.

· Name, location and permit number for treatment facilities where all waste water including water used for hydro-fracturing, or fracking as it is more commonly known, will be taken for treatment or disposal; and

· Water obstruction and encroachment permits where well construction, excavation or operation will affect a stream, wetland or other body of water.

More information on oil and gas drilling regulations is available online.

6/6/2008