As an industry comprised of scientists, engineers, environmental and safety specialists, we highly value regulatory compliance and transparency. That’s why Marcellus operators have for years voluntarily disclosed – prior it being required by law – trace additives used during the development process to independent databases and state regulators.
The Inquirer editorial is replete with references to ‘could’ and ‘might,’ but offers no evidence of any water supply endangerment from the potential use of additives in the development process, many of which are found in everyday consumer products. Noticeably absent is recognition that Pennsylvania’s well construction standards – requiring multiple layers of steel casing and cement – are designed specifically to ensure that no additives come into contact with drinking water.
In fact, there have been more than 11,000 unconventional wells developed in Pennsylvania and the clear-eyed facts continue to confirm that safe, responsible shale gas development does not adversely impact Pennsylvania’s water quality.
David Callahan
President, Marcellus Shale Coalition
Harrisburg
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