Gas drillers battle Pennsylvania pollution concerns
The public outcry threatens to impede exploitation of the 44-million-acre (18-million-hectare) Marcellus Shale, which geologists say might contain enough natural gas to meet U.S. demand for a decade.
People in gas-drilling areas say their well water has become discolored or foul-smelling; their pets and farm animals have died from drinking it; and their children have suffered from diarrhea and vomiting.
Bathing in well water can cause rashes and inflammation, and ponds bubble with methane that has escaped during drilling, they say.
So the fed them beef-stew, baked and coleslaw and tried to convince them that drilling techniques have improved. Only it’s not working so well…
Ron Gulla, who said his land has been polluted by Range’s gas drilling, was incredulous.
“I have never seen such a bunch of liars in my life,” he shouted at Pitzarella, to scattered applause. “You have put me through hell.”
There are some pretty damning first person reports of drilling waste contaminating land and water. Be sure to read the article.
UPDATED: Here’s some of what to expect:
- The operators will make donations to area parks.
- Donations to the United Way and other organizations
- Billboards and advertising everywhere, even on buses.
- Art contests with cash awards for area schools.
- Essay contests on why natural gas is so wonderful for area schools.
About Sharon Wilson
Sharon Wilson is considered a leading citizen expert on the impacts of shale oil and gas extraction. She is the go-to person whether it’s top EPA officials from D.C., national and international news networks, or residents facing the shock of eminent domain and the devastating environmental effects of natural gas development in their backyards.
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