I was disappointed to read a recent story (“Author looks at downside of natural gas,” Aug. 4) about natural gas development. The article, focused on a book by Walter Brasch, was filled with inaccuracies. Mr. Brasch’s latest book is seemingly years behind in raising issues that have been debated and researched here in Pennsylvania and across the country for some time.

For example, the book references a disputed Duke University study that attempted to connect natural gas development with methane in groundwater. Those of us who were born, raised and work in northeastern Pennsylvania, however, fully realize – as Mr. Brasch should – that methane presence in groundwater is more a function of geology than any industrial activity. Just as conveniently, Mr. Brasch ignores the near-universal panning of a study by a Cornell professor on air emissions associated with natural gas development. In fact, even a study funded by the Sierra Club – certainly no energy proponent – discredited the Cornell professor’s “findings.”

Here are several facts to consider:

  • Hydraulic fracturing has been done for over 60 years in the U.S. and there’s no scientific evidence of groundwater contamination; U.S. energy secretary Ernest Moniz confirmed this again last week.
  • Air emissions in our part of the country are at a 20-year low, thanks to – according to the U.S. EPA – increased natural gas use.
  • Our region and state are seeing tangible results, with Pennsylvania communities gaining more than $400 million, in new revenue paid in the form of impact fees by natural gas producers – including a half-million dollars for Luzerne County alone, despite no wells being drilled here.

Safe, responsible shale development has led to reduced utility costs, millions in royalty payments to residents and has created tens of thousands of good paying, family sustaining jobs – many of them right here in northeastern Pennsylvania. In fact, many of the companies located in Hazleton’s industrial parks, employing hard-working local men and women, have seen lower operating costs and benefits by using natural gas.

It’s unfortunate that Mr. Brasch wants to take all of that away – using outdated studies, misleading info and scare tactics.

John Augustine
Marcellus Shale Coalition
Mountain Top

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