The U.S. EPA and the Pennsylvania DEP confirmed that there has not been a change in the quality of Pennsylvania waterways before or after Marcellus shale activities occurred.
A recent report by the DEP looked at the tens of thousands of state waterways through sampling and analyzing data points. Some Waterways have improved, including the Monongahela River, which was removed from the states impairment list for potable water use.
The Pennsylvania DEP commented on the report saying:
“rigorous sampling of the state’s waterways has not changed since the beginning of Marcellus Shale drilling. This is probably the third or fourth assessment in which the impact of Marcellus drilling would be included,” Whitman said, “and we have seen no change in the water quality pre- or post-Marcellus based on these two-year reports.”
To read the full report click here.
Before shale drilling operations take place, Range engages certified, independent third-party experts to collect and test private water well samples within approximately half of a mile of the proposed well site.
Range also conducts post-drilling water sampling and analysis where appropriate and supports various third party efforts to monitor groundwater before, during and after our activities. In some areas, groundwater monitoring wells have been installed near certain facilities to provide even greater assurances of water protection.
To discover more about Range’s best practices see the water protection section of the company’s Corporate Responsibility Report.