A Pennsylvania lawsuit alleged that nearby drilling operations contaminated private water wells, igniting a battle over causation and responsibility. Plaintiffs pointed to methane and chemical signatures. Companies disputed the link. As expert witnesses parsed geology, the case underscored a persistent question: when water changes, who proves why?
Source: Reuters (2009) Read More
Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell proposed tighter oversight of Marcellus Shale drilling, requiring companies to restore contaminated water supplies, report gas migration, and use oilfield-grade cement casings. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection added 68 inspectors, bringing the total to 188. Meanwhile, drillers applied for 5,200 permits—nearly triple 2009 levels—accelerating development across two-thirds of Pennsylvania and neighboring states.
Source: Reuters (2010) Read More
In a Reuters investigation, Jon Hurdle reported that U.S. government scientists found chemical contaminants in drinking water wells near gas drilling operations in Dimock, Pennsylvania. The findings marked the first federal confirmation linking pollution concerns to hydraulic fracturing sites. For residents who had long complained of tainted water, the announcement intensified fears that drilling near homes could carry health consequences beyond what regulators had publicly acknowledged.
Source: Reuters (2009) Read More