Like any industrial process, there is always some risk associated. The natural gas industry is not any different. However, mitigating those risks, through robust and sound environmental regulations and a commitment by the industry to operate in accordance with those regulations, is key to mitigating risk and responsibly developing clean-burning natural gas. Here in Pennsylvania, we have one of, if not the most advanced and stringent regulatory regimes in the United States. Both Governor’s Rendell and Corbett have enacted new regulations aimed at enhancing well construction standards, increasing setback distances from where a well site or related infrastructure can be located, further protecting streams and wetlands by increasing setback distances, mandating that all private water wells within a 2,500 radius of a well site be tested prior to development commencing and generating a new revenue stream for communities that host natural gas development.
In addition to these state regulations and the federal regulations that govern natural gas development, the MSC’s Guiding Principles are anchored by our industry’s commitment to protecting our environment and mitigating any risks associated with development.
