PA Marcellus News Digest
June 15th-21st
A large Digest today, since we have been away at a conference this week
Special: Youtube Video: Part 1 - Marcellus Matters (May 17, 2012): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSQIlhuHGYE
Releases
"Truthland," the factual alternative to "Gasland," launches nationwide
Wallaby
June 14
Film leverages facts, interviews with experts to tell real story behind shale development; major summer screening tour kicks off.
The development of enormous reserves of American energy from tight formations such as shale has been hailed as a “game-changer” by the Energy Information Administration, as playing a “key role in our nation's clean energy future,” according to the Environmental Protection Agency, and as a means of helping our country “create jobs and power trucks and factories that are cleaner and cheaper,” President Obama said earlier this year.
Link: http://wallaby.telicon.com/PA/library/2012/2012061578.HTM
Wallaby
June 14
Film leverages facts, interviews with experts to tell real story behind shale development; major summer screening tour kicks off.
The development of enormous reserves of American energy from tight formations such as shale has been hailed as a “game-changer” by the Energy Information Administration, as playing a “key role in our nation's clean energy future,” according to the Environmental Protection Agency, and as a means of helping our country “create jobs and power trucks and factories that are cleaner and cheaper,” President Obama said earlier this year.
Link: http://wallaby.telicon.com/PA/library/2012/2012061578.HTM
Van Gas Technologies Offers Economical and Ecological Solutions for Natural Gas Dehydration
Wallaby
PR Newswire
June 19
Harmful emissions are generated during natural gas dehydration as water vapor is removed from gas using traditional Triethylene glycol dehydrators. Water vapor and other impurities must be removed from natural gas, because these impurities can damage equipment and delay or stop transportation. "It is therefore necessary to employ dehydration systems," states Tyler Currie, Western Sales Manager for Van Gas Technologies. "Economical and ecology-friendly fuel gas conditioning is the focus of our business."
Link: http://wallaby.telicon.com/PA/library/2012/2012061988.HTM
Wallaby
PR Newswire
June 19
Harmful emissions are generated during natural gas dehydration as water vapor is removed from gas using traditional Triethylene glycol dehydrators. Water vapor and other impurities must be removed from natural gas, because these impurities can damage equipment and delay or stop transportation. "It is therefore necessary to employ dehydration systems," states Tyler Currie, Western Sales Manager for Van Gas Technologies. "Economical and ecology-friendly fuel gas conditioning is the focus of our business."
Link: http://wallaby.telicon.com/PA/library/2012/2012061988.HTM
Lutherans Call for Fracking Moratorium
Assembly cites human health concerns, advocacy for most vulnerable
Protecting Our Waters
Iris Marie Bloom
June 18
Less than a week after Pennsylvania farmers called for a moratorium on unconventional gas extraction, a large gathering of Pennsylvania Lutherans has also formally passed a resolution calling for a statewide halt on shale gas drilling.
Link: http://protectingourwaters.wordpress.com/2012/06/18/lutherans-call-for-fracking-moratorium/
Assembly cites human health concerns, advocacy for most vulnerable
Protecting Our Waters
Iris Marie Bloom
June 18
Less than a week after Pennsylvania farmers called for a moratorium on unconventional gas extraction, a large gathering of Pennsylvania Lutherans has also formally passed a resolution calling for a statewide halt on shale gas drilling.
Link: http://protectingourwaters.wordpress.com/2012/06/18/lutherans-call-for-fracking-moratorium/
Fitzgerald to Open First Session of Penn State Extension’s “Marcellus & Beyond” Shale Gas Summer Series
Wallaby
June 20
PITTSBURGH – Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald will provide opening remarks at the first session of Penn State Extension’s “Marcellus & Beyond” Shale Gas Summer Series at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 26, at Rodef Shalom’s Levy Hall located at 4905 5th Avenue in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood.
Link: http://wallaby.telicon.com/PA/library/2012/2012062076.HTM
Wallaby
June 20
PITTSBURGH – Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald will provide opening remarks at the first session of Penn State Extension’s “Marcellus & Beyond” Shale Gas Summer Series at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 26, at Rodef Shalom’s Levy Hall located at 4905 5th Avenue in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood.
Link: http://wallaby.telicon.com/PA/library/2012/2012062076.HTM
Aqua America Increases Investment in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Ohio to Address Water-Energy Nexus
Wallaby
Business Wire
June 20
BRYN MAWR, Pa.-Aqua America, Inc. (NYSE: WTR) Chairman and CEO Nicholas DeBenedictis detailed Aqua’s sustainability initiatives with respect to its growing water-energy nexus at the Citi Global Water and Renewables Investment Conference held today in New York City.
Link: http://wallaby.telicon.com/PA/library/2012/2012062038.HTM
Wallaby
Business Wire
June 20
BRYN MAWR, Pa.-Aqua America, Inc. (NYSE: WTR) Chairman and CEO Nicholas DeBenedictis detailed Aqua’s sustainability initiatives with respect to its growing water-energy nexus at the Citi Global Water and Renewables Investment Conference held today in New York City.
Link: http://wallaby.telicon.com/PA/library/2012/2012062038.HTM
White bill to create non-taxpayer fund for ethane-cracker development
Measure would let taxpayers off the hook for $1.6 billion Royal Dutch Shell tax credit
Wallaby
June 20
HARRISBURG, June 20 – State Rep. Jesse White, D-Washington/Allegheny/Beaver, is introducing legislation to attract the global gas company Royal Dutch Shell to Pennsylvania, but without the use of any taxpayer dollars.
Link: http://wallaby.telicon.com/PA/library/2012/2012062058.HTM
Measure would let taxpayers off the hook for $1.6 billion Royal Dutch Shell tax credit
Wallaby
June 20
HARRISBURG, June 20 – State Rep. Jesse White, D-Washington/Allegheny/Beaver, is introducing legislation to attract the global gas company Royal Dutch Shell to Pennsylvania, but without the use of any taxpayer dollars.
Link: http://wallaby.telicon.com/PA/library/2012/2012062058.HTM
Governor Tom Corbett Highlights Potential for Jobs, Economic Growth from Building Petrochemical Industry in PA
Wallaby
June 20
Harrisburg – Governor Tom Corbett was joined today by members of his cabinet, elected state officials and representatives of labor and business to highlight the importance of bringing a petrochemical complex to Pennsylvania.
Link: http://wallaby.telicon.com/PA/library/2012/2012062045.HTM
Wallaby
June 20
Harrisburg – Governor Tom Corbett was joined today by members of his cabinet, elected state officials and representatives of labor and business to highlight the importance of bringing a petrochemical complex to Pennsylvania.
Link: http://wallaby.telicon.com/PA/library/2012/2012062045.HTM
Articles
White proposes surtax to support cracker plant
Observer-Reporter
Christie Campbell
June 21
Even as Gov. Tom Corbett on Wednesday highlighted the importance of bringing a petrochemical complex to Pennsylvania, a local lawmaker was introducing legislation to attract the complex and others without using taxpayer dollars.
Link: http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/story11/Corbett-cracker-plant
Observer-Reporter
Christie Campbell
June 21
Even as Gov. Tom Corbett on Wednesday highlighted the importance of bringing a petrochemical complex to Pennsylvania, a local lawmaker was introducing legislation to attract the complex and others without using taxpayer dollars.
Link: http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/story11/Corbett-cracker-plant
Justice is lacking in Shipman case
Observer-Reporter
Editorial
June 21
[...]For those who haven’t followed the story, Shipman, the former owner of a wastewater disposal company, was accused of dumping millions of gallons again, millions of gallons of gas-drilling wastewater, sewage sludge and restaurant grease into streams and mine shafts over a six-county area.
Link: http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/editorial11/Toothman-editorial
Observer-Reporter
Editorial
June 21
[...]For those who haven’t followed the story, Shipman, the former owner of a wastewater disposal company, was accused of dumping millions of gallons again, millions of gallons of gas-drilling wastewater, sewage sludge and restaurant grease into streams and mine shafts over a six-county area.
Link: http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/editorial11/Toothman-editorial
Marcellus talk draws crowd in Buffalo Township
Observer-Reporter
Scott Beveridge
June 21
TAYLORSTOWN A Clean Air Council representative and other environmentalists visited Washington County Wednesday to express and discuss their concerns about air pollution relating to the Marcellus Shale natural gas development boom.
Link: http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/story11/Buffalo-Marcellus-worries
Observer-Reporter
Scott Beveridge
June 21
TAYLORSTOWN A Clean Air Council representative and other environmentalists visited Washington County Wednesday to express and discuss their concerns about air pollution relating to the Marcellus Shale natural gas development boom.
Link: http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/story11/Buffalo-Marcellus-worries
Untapped goldmine of natural gas sits below Bucks County
Philly Burbs
Amanda Cregan
June 21
New government data reveals that a potential goldmine of untapped natural gas sits below Bucks County.
Link: http://www.phillyburbs.com/my_town/palisades/untapped-goldmine-of-natural-gas-sits-below-bucks-county/article_80280894-4286-5922-85bd-c46e270acb66.html#.T-NpdlgKvqA.facebook
Philly Burbs
Amanda Cregan
June 21
New government data reveals that a potential goldmine of untapped natural gas sits below Bucks County.
Link: http://www.phillyburbs.com/my_town/palisades/untapped-goldmine-of-natural-gas-sits-below-bucks-county/article_80280894-4286-5922-85bd-c46e270acb66.html#.T-NpdlgKvqA.facebook
Injection Wells: The Poison Beneath Us
Pro Publica
Abrahm Lustgarten
June 21
Over the past several decades, U.S. industries have injected more than 30 trillion gallons of toxic liquid deep into the earth, using broad expanses of the nation's geology as an invisible dumping ground.
Link: http://www.propublica.org/article/injection-wells-the-poison-beneath-us
Pro Publica
Abrahm Lustgarten
June 21
Over the past several decades, U.S. industries have injected more than 30 trillion gallons of toxic liquid deep into the earth, using broad expanses of the nation's geology as an invisible dumping ground.
Link: http://www.propublica.org/article/injection-wells-the-poison-beneath-us
A New Video Short From Josh Fox
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 20
Link: http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/20/a-new-video-short-from-josh-fox/
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 20
Link: http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/20/a-new-video-short-from-josh-fox/
DEP Investigating Potential Shell Methane Migration
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 21
Link: https://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/21/dep-investigating-potential-methane-migration-by-shell/
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 21
Link: https://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/21/dep-investigating-potential-methane-migration-by-shell/
Inhofe Bill To Kill EPA Air Toxic Rule Loses 46-53
John Hanger's Facts of The Day
Blog
June 20
Senator Inhofe's effort to kill the EPA air toxic rule won this afternoon the support of 46 senators but drew the opposition of 53. The bill needed 50 votes to pass.
Link: http://johnhanger.blogspot.com/2012/06/inhofe-bill-to-kill-epa-air-toxic-rule.html
John Hanger's Facts of The Day
Blog
June 20
Senator Inhofe's effort to kill the EPA air toxic rule won this afternoon the support of 46 senators but drew the opposition of 53. The bill needed 50 votes to pass.
Link: http://johnhanger.blogspot.com/2012/06/inhofe-bill-to-kill-epa-air-toxic-rule.html
Big government, big business, big labor back $1.65B tax credit for big oil
PA Independent
Eric Boehm
June 20
HARRISBURG — Business groups, union leaders and representatives of state and local government threw their support behind a plan to provide Shell Oil with a $1.65 billion tax credit as part of the state budget agreement.
Link: http://paindependent.com/2012/06/big-government-big-business-big-labor-back-1-65b-tax-credit-for-big-oil/
PA Independent
Eric Boehm
June 20
HARRISBURG — Business groups, union leaders and representatives of state and local government threw their support behind a plan to provide Shell Oil with a $1.65 billion tax credit as part of the state budget agreement.
Link: http://paindependent.com/2012/06/big-government-big-business-big-labor-back-1-65b-tax-credit-for-big-oil/
Corbett pushes hard for petrochemical plant
Inquirer
Amy Worden
June 21
HARRISBURG - With the clock winding down toward the Assembly's summer break, Gov. Corbett made his biggest public push yet to line up legislative support for his plan to bring a multibillion-dollar petrochemical plant to Western Pennsylvania.
Link: http://www.philly.com/philly/news/politics/20120621_Corbett_pushes_hard_for_petrochemical_plant.html?cmpid=124488459
Inquirer
Amy Worden
June 21
HARRISBURG - With the clock winding down toward the Assembly's summer break, Gov. Corbett made his biggest public push yet to line up legislative support for his plan to bring a multibillion-dollar petrochemical plant to Western Pennsylvania.
Link: http://www.philly.com/philly/news/politics/20120621_Corbett_pushes_hard_for_petrochemical_plant.html?cmpid=124488459
Inquirer
Mayer Krain
Letter to the Editor
June 21
Republican Gov. Tom Corbett is trying to bring more jobs to Pennsylvanians by giving enormous tax breaks to Shell (Daily News, June 5).
Link: http://www.philly.com/philly/opinion/159795405.html
Mayer Krain
Letter to the Editor
June 21
Republican Gov. Tom Corbett is trying to bring more jobs to Pennsylvanians by giving enormous tax breaks to Shell (Daily News, June 5).
Link: http://www.philly.com/philly/opinion/159795405.html
Corbett lines up tax credit crew
Pitt Trib
Timothy Puko and Michael Macagnone
June 21
Government, labor and industry representatives joined Gov. Tom Corbett in Harrisburg on Wednesday to urge lawmakers to pass a tax credit benefiting petrochemical plants.
Link: http://triblive.com/news/2056226-74/jobs-corbett-pennsylvania-state-credit-job-plant-industry-department-subsidy
Pitt Trib
Timothy Puko and Michael Macagnone
June 21
Government, labor and industry representatives joined Gov. Tom Corbett in Harrisburg on Wednesday to urge lawmakers to pass a tax credit benefiting petrochemical plants.
Link: http://triblive.com/news/2056226-74/jobs-corbett-pennsylvania-state-credit-job-plant-industry-department-subsidy
City joins lawsuit opposing unified drilling zone
Pitt Trib
Cindy Ekas
June 21
Connellsville City Council adopted a resolution Wednesday night to support a lawsuit opposing Act 13, which amends the Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Act to establish a unified zoning scheme across the state.
Link: http://triblive.com/news/fayette/2068441-74/act-council-gas-resolution-state-zoning-health-drilling-matthews-program
Pitt Trib
Cindy Ekas
June 21
Connellsville City Council adopted a resolution Wednesday night to support a lawsuit opposing Act 13, which amends the Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Act to establish a unified zoning scheme across the state.
Link: http://triblive.com/news/fayette/2068441-74/act-council-gas-resolution-state-zoning-health-drilling-matthews-program
In Western Pennsylvania, an Energy Boom Not Visibly Stifled
NY Times
Jonathan Weisman
June 20
SMITHFIELD, Pa. — From his farm nestled far from the big cities, in the wooded hills above the Monongahela and Cheat Rivers, David Headley has not heard much about the battles in Washington over regulations that Republicans say are stifling a domestic energy revolution.
Link: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/21/us/an-energy-boom-in-western-pennsylvania.html?_r=3&pagewanted=1&exprod=myyahoo
NY Times
Jonathan Weisman
June 20
SMITHFIELD, Pa. — From his farm nestled far from the big cities, in the wooded hills above the Monongahela and Cheat Rivers, David Headley has not heard much about the battles in Washington over regulations that Republicans say are stifling a domestic energy revolution.
Link: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/21/us/an-energy-boom-in-western-pennsylvania.html?_r=3&pagewanted=1&exprod=myyahoo
Methane, water spout
Wellsboro Gazette
Jason Przybycien
June 20
Shell Appalachia subsidiary SWEPI LP suspended operations in Union Township while they contain and investigate methane and water releases around the Guindon K 706 well pad.
Link: http://www.tiogapublishing.com/news/the_wellsboro_mansfield_gazette/methane-water-spout/article_a9733e36-bb02-11e1-8204-0019bb2963f4.html
Wellsboro Gazette
Jason Przybycien
June 20
Shell Appalachia subsidiary SWEPI LP suspended operations in Union Township while they contain and investigate methane and water releases around the Guindon K 706 well pad.
Link: http://www.tiogapublishing.com/news/the_wellsboro_mansfield_gazette/methane-water-spout/article_a9733e36-bb02-11e1-8204-0019bb2963f4.html
Low natural gas prices contribute to risky renewable energy investing
Post-Gazette
Amy Friedenberger
June 20
Aol Energy covered the 9th Annual Renewable Energy Finance Forum Wall Street yesterday in New York. The common theme: renewable energy project financing and development is falling to the wayside as regulatory uncertainty and low natural gas prices continue to be a major influence, resulting in a risky situation for investors.
Link: http://shale.sites.post-gazette.com/index.php/news/archives/24634
Post-Gazette
Amy Friedenberger
June 20
Aol Energy covered the 9th Annual Renewable Energy Finance Forum Wall Street yesterday in New York. The common theme: renewable energy project financing and development is falling to the wayside as regulatory uncertainty and low natural gas prices continue to be a major influence, resulting in a risky situation for investors.
Link: http://shale.sites.post-gazette.com/index.php/news/archives/24634
New Data Documents Shale Gas Is The Difference Between Coal Booming Globally But Busting in North America
John Hanger's Facts of the Day
Blog
June 19
BP's 2011 Statistical Energy Review confirms that shale gas is the difference between coal booming or busting. Last year, coal boomed globally, reaching its highest share of global energy consumption since 1969, but it busted in North America.
Link: http://johnhanger.blogspot.com/2012/06/new-data-documents-shale-gas-is.html
John Hanger's Facts of the Day
Blog
June 19
BP's 2011 Statistical Energy Review confirms that shale gas is the difference between coal booming or busting. Last year, coal boomed globally, reaching its highest share of global energy consumption since 1969, but it busted in North America.
Link: http://johnhanger.blogspot.com/2012/06/new-data-documents-shale-gas-is.html
Chesapeake Energy announces upcoming roadwork in northern Pa.
Daily Review
June 19
TOWANDA - Chesapeake Energy Corp. announced Monday the following ongoing, upcoming and completed roadwork projects in Bradford, Susquehanna, and Sullivan counties to improve regional transportation infrastructure. These projects are part of Chesapeake's ongoing commitment to responsible development of the Marcellus Shale in Pennsylvania. Chesapeake has invested more than $300 million since 2010 repairing and rebuilding more than 450 miles of road infrastructure in northern Pennsylvania and expects to invest $25 million this year upgrading approximately 56 miles of state roads and another $15 million on township roads:
Link: http://thedailyreview.com/news/chesapeake-energy-announces-upcoming-roadwork-in-northern-pa-1.1331625
Daily Review
June 19
TOWANDA - Chesapeake Energy Corp. announced Monday the following ongoing, upcoming and completed roadwork projects in Bradford, Susquehanna, and Sullivan counties to improve regional transportation infrastructure. These projects are part of Chesapeake's ongoing commitment to responsible development of the Marcellus Shale in Pennsylvania. Chesapeake has invested more than $300 million since 2010 repairing and rebuilding more than 450 miles of road infrastructure in northern Pennsylvania and expects to invest $25 million this year upgrading approximately 56 miles of state roads and another $15 million on township roads:
Link: http://thedailyreview.com/news/chesapeake-energy-announces-upcoming-roadwork-in-northern-pa-1.1331625
Support For Shell Tax Break In Monaca, But Skepticism Over Job Claims
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 20
Link: http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/20/support-for-shell-tax-break-in-monaca-but-skepticism-over-job-claims/
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 20
Link: http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/20/support-for-shell-tax-break-in-monaca-but-skepticism-over-job-claims/
Shell Tax Break: American Chemistry Council Conducted Jobs Study For Eight Other States, Too
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 19
Link: http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/19/shell-tax-break-american-chemistry-council-conducted-jobs-study-for-eight-other-states-too/
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 19
Link: http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/19/shell-tax-break-american-chemistry-council-conducted-jobs-study-for-eight-other-states-too/
Mansfield University: Growing with the gas industry
Daily Review
C.R. Wagner
June 19
[...]In February 2011, Seatrax, a company which provides safety training for Shell, approached Sikorski for a larger classroom. And thus began the growing relationship between MU and the natural gas industry. Every Thursday MU started hosting Seatrax trainings.
Link: http://thedailyreview.com/news/mansfield-university-growing-with-the-gas-industry-1.1331603
Daily Review
C.R. Wagner
June 19
[...]In February 2011, Seatrax, a company which provides safety training for Shell, approached Sikorski for a larger classroom. And thus began the growing relationship between MU and the natural gas industry. Every Thursday MU started hosting Seatrax trainings.
Link: http://thedailyreview.com/news/mansfield-university-growing-with-the-gas-industry-1.1331603
Lawmaker fighting for release of air data
Observer-Reporter
Christie Campbell
June 19
Although the state Department of Environmental Protection insists nothing of significance was found from recent air testing at a Smith Township medical center, a local lawmaker wants the department to release the raw data from those tests.
Link: http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/story11/06-19-2012-White-DEP
Observer-Reporter
Christie Campbell
June 19
Although the state Department of Environmental Protection insists nothing of significance was found from recent air testing at a Smith Township medical center, a local lawmaker wants the department to release the raw data from those tests.
Link: http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/story11/06-19-2012-White-DEP
Chambers pins his departure on ‘dysfunctional’ school board
Daily Local
Sara Mosqueda-Fernandez
June 18
EAST WHITELAND — Bruce Chambers last week said the Great Valley School Board’s “dsyfunctional nature” was behind his decision to resign from the board.
“Due to the dysfunctional nature of our school board and the resultant stress that is affecting my health, I can no longer serve on the board,” Chambers wrote in his resignation letter.
Link: http://www.dailylocal.com/article/20120618/NEWS01/120619564/chambers-pins-his-departure-on-dysfunctional-school-board
Daily Local
Sara Mosqueda-Fernandez
June 18
EAST WHITELAND — Bruce Chambers last week said the Great Valley School Board’s “dsyfunctional nature” was behind his decision to resign from the board.
“Due to the dysfunctional nature of our school board and the resultant stress that is affecting my health, I can no longer serve on the board,” Chambers wrote in his resignation letter.
Link: http://www.dailylocal.com/article/20120618/NEWS01/120619564/chambers-pins-his-departure-on-dysfunctional-school-board
Landowners spar with gas pipeline drillers
Herald Standard
J. Miles Layton
June 18
SPRINGHILL TWP. — The Headley and Bezjak families say they are regretting their decisions to allow a natural gas pipeline to cross their properties.
Link: http://www.heraldstandard.com/news/local_news/landowners-spar-with-gas-pipeline-drillers/article_bad21970-908c-58a0-bcf0-7c5bdbbf7915.html
Herald Standard
J. Miles Layton
June 18
SPRINGHILL TWP. — The Headley and Bezjak families say they are regretting their decisions to allow a natural gas pipeline to cross their properties.
Link: http://www.heraldstandard.com/news/local_news/landowners-spar-with-gas-pipeline-drillers/article_bad21970-908c-58a0-bcf0-7c5bdbbf7915.html
Consider pros and cons of leasing before signing on
Observer-Reporter
Pat McCune and Bill Summers
June 18
It's no secret that the Marcellus is a capital intensive arena. The amount of equipment and inventory necessary to develop a world-class energy play are staggering. Businesses usually borrow money to buy property or equipment. However, for tangible assets, such as construction equipment or reusable items, you may wish to lease.
Link: http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/business11/06-18-2012-FINANCING-IN-THE-MARCELLUS---MON-BIZ
Observer-Reporter
Pat McCune and Bill Summers
June 18
It's no secret that the Marcellus is a capital intensive arena. The amount of equipment and inventory necessary to develop a world-class energy play are staggering. Businesses usually borrow money to buy property or equipment. However, for tangible assets, such as construction equipment or reusable items, you may wish to lease.
Link: http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/business11/06-18-2012-FINANCING-IN-THE-MARCELLUS---MON-BIZ
Nockamixon gas drilling lawsuit will likely advance to PA Supreme Court
Philly Burbs
Amanda Cregan
June 18
[...]As the township advances through the courts, a gas drilling company will soon learn the fate of a permit application that could bring the first gas well to Bucks County.
Link: http://www.phillyburbs.com/my_town/palisades/nockamixon-gas-drilling-lawsuit-will-likely-advance-to-pa-supreme/article_f6bc8750-3548-5fad-b6c0-5f2b7088c940.html
Philly Burbs
Amanda Cregan
June 18
[...]As the township advances through the courts, a gas drilling company will soon learn the fate of a permit application that could bring the first gas well to Bucks County.
Link: http://www.phillyburbs.com/my_town/palisades/nockamixon-gas-drilling-lawsuit-will-likely-advance-to-pa-supreme/article_f6bc8750-3548-5fad-b6c0-5f2b7088c940.html
Residents’ documentary tells ‘real story’ of shale gas drilling
Tribune-Democrat
Kathy Mellott
June 17
A group of northeastern Pennsylvania natives has produced and is releasing a film geared at providing what it feels is an accurate portrayal of deep shale gas drilling in the Marcellus and Utica beds.
Link: http://tribune-democrat.com/local/x1901565351/Residents-documentary-tells-real-story-of-shale-gas-drilling
Tribune-Democrat
Kathy Mellott
June 17
A group of northeastern Pennsylvania natives has produced and is releasing a film geared at providing what it feels is an accurate portrayal of deep shale gas drilling in the Marcellus and Utica beds.
Link: http://tribune-democrat.com/local/x1901565351/Residents-documentary-tells-real-story-of-shale-gas-drilling
State investigating spill in Georges Creek
Herald Standard
J. Miles Layton
June 18
SPRINGHILL TWP. — The state Department of Environmental Protection is investigating a spill into Georges Creek of a lubricant similar to clay that is used in the pipeline drilling process.
Link: http://www.heraldstandard.com/news/local_news/state-investigating-spill-in-georges-creek/article_9d2cb962-e170-5434-9e22-3afa9c8091c3.html
Herald Standard
J. Miles Layton
June 18
SPRINGHILL TWP. — The state Department of Environmental Protection is investigating a spill into Georges Creek of a lubricant similar to clay that is used in the pipeline drilling process.
Link: http://www.heraldstandard.com/news/local_news/state-investigating-spill-in-georges-creek/article_9d2cb962-e170-5434-9e22-3afa9c8091c3.html
Valerus puts emphasis on Marcellus shale gas safety
Post-Gazette
Erich Schwartzel
June 19
SMITHFIELD, Pa. -- The shale gas industry isn't often seen as a natural place to find pomp and circumstance, but six months of working at the Valerus gas processing firm will earn you a graduation cap of sorts.
Link: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/business/news/valerus-puts-emphasis-on-marcellus-shale-gas-safety-640971/
Post-Gazette
Erich Schwartzel
June 19
SMITHFIELD, Pa. -- The shale gas industry isn't often seen as a natural place to find pomp and circumstance, but six months of working at the Valerus gas processing firm will earn you a graduation cap of sorts.
Link: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/business/news/valerus-puts-emphasis-on-marcellus-shale-gas-safety-640971/
Supervisors urged to adopt resolution opposing Act 13
Pitt Trib
Linda Harkcom
June 18
[...]"I represent over 200 Westmoreland County residents who have serious concerns about the health and environmental effects of the gas drilling operations as well as concerns about the effect on property values," said WMCG President Jan Milburn, a resident of Ligonier Township.
Link: http://triblive.com/news/fayette/2051998-74/township-act-group-supervisors-marcellus-officials-pleasant-resolution-approved-citizens
Pitt Trib
Linda Harkcom
June 18
[...]"I represent over 200 Westmoreland County residents who have serious concerns about the health and environmental effects of the gas drilling operations as well as concerns about the effect on property values," said WMCG President Jan Milburn, a resident of Ligonier Township.
Link: http://triblive.com/news/fayette/2051998-74/township-act-group-supervisors-marcellus-officials-pleasant-resolution-approved-citizens
New Data Documents Shale Gas Is The Difference Between Coal Booming Globally But Busting in North America
John Hanger's Facts of the Day
Blog
June 19
BP's 2011 Statistical Energy Review confirms that shale gas is the difference between coal booming or busting. Last year, coal boomed globally, reaching its highest share of global energy consumption since 1969, but it busted in North America.
Link: http://johnhanger.blogspot.com/2012/06/new-data-documents-shale-gas-is.html
John Hanger's Facts of the Day
Blog
June 19
BP's 2011 Statistical Energy Review confirms that shale gas is the difference between coal booming or busting. Last year, coal boomed globally, reaching its highest share of global energy consumption since 1969, but it busted in North America.
Link: http://johnhanger.blogspot.com/2012/06/new-data-documents-shale-gas-is.html
PA Loses Jobs in April & May: Needs More Than Just Marcellus Shale
John Hanger's Facts of the Day
Blog
June 18
After compiling a jobs creation record over the last year that put Pennsylvania among the worst performing states, Pennsylvania has lost jobs during April and May. Here are the troubling numbers that demonstrate Pennsylvania needs more jobs than the gas boom by itself can provide.
Link: http://johnhanger.blogspot.com/2012/06/pa-loses-jobs-in-april-may-needs-more.html
John Hanger's Facts of the Day
Blog
June 18
After compiling a jobs creation record over the last year that put Pennsylvania among the worst performing states, Pennsylvania has lost jobs during April and May. Here are the troubling numbers that demonstrate Pennsylvania needs more jobs than the gas boom by itself can provide.
Link: http://johnhanger.blogspot.com/2012/06/pa-loses-jobs-in-april-may-needs-more.html
Clay drilling lubricant leaks into W. Pa. creek
Centre Daily Times
AP
June 18
POINT MARION, PA. — The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection is monitoring a creek where a clay substance used as a lubricant leaked from an underground drilling operation in southwestern Pennsylvania.
Link: http://www.centredaily.com/2012/06/18/3233191/clay-drilling-lubricant-leaks.html
Centre Daily Times
AP
June 18
POINT MARION, PA. — The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection is monitoring a creek where a clay substance used as a lubricant leaked from an underground drilling operation in southwestern Pennsylvania.
Link: http://www.centredaily.com/2012/06/18/3233191/clay-drilling-lubricant-leaks.html
Local officials say they aren’t told about spills
Fuel Fix
AP
June 16
PITTSBURGH — Gas drilling-related companies spilled oils, gases or chemicals about 134 times onto land and into water across Pennsylvania since Jan. 1, 2011, but the state rarely, if ever, notified the public.
Link: http://fuelfix.com/blog/2012/06/16/local-officials-say-they-arent-told-about-spills/
Fuel Fix
AP
June 16
PITTSBURGH — Gas drilling-related companies spilled oils, gases or chemicals about 134 times onto land and into water across Pennsylvania since Jan. 1, 2011, but the state rarely, if ever, notified the public.
Link: http://fuelfix.com/blog/2012/06/16/local-officials-say-they-arent-told-about-spills/
Safe, clean energy
Post-Gazette
Brian Drake, Marcellus Shale Coalition
Letter to the Editor
June 19
Jeff Schmidt's June 6 letter ("Natural Gas Is Not a Clean Energy Investment") lodges a series of claims that are fundamentally unsupported by the facts about the safe, responsible development of clean-burning American natural gas.
Link: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/opinion/letters/safe-clean-energy-640975/#ixzz1yFEw224p
Post-Gazette
Brian Drake, Marcellus Shale Coalition
Letter to the Editor
June 19
Jeff Schmidt's June 6 letter ("Natural Gas Is Not a Clean Energy Investment") lodges a series of claims that are fundamentally unsupported by the facts about the safe, responsible development of clean-burning American natural gas.
Link: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/opinion/letters/safe-clean-energy-640975/#ixzz1yFEw224p
Nat.gas tax credit an "essential" part of budget deal for Corbett, negotiators say.
Morning Call
Capitol Ideas
John L. Micek
Blog
June 18
Legislative authorization of a $1.65 billion tax credit for Shell Oil and other petrochemical producers is a Corbett administration "essential" as negotiations over the 2012-13 state budget enter their final days.
Link: http://blogs.mcall.com/capitol_ideas/2012/06/natgas-tax-credit-an-essential-part-of-budget-deal-for-corbett-negotiators-say.html
Morning Call
Capitol Ideas
John L. Micek
Blog
June 18
Legislative authorization of a $1.65 billion tax credit for Shell Oil and other petrochemical producers is a Corbett administration "essential" as negotiations over the 2012-13 state budget enter their final days.
Link: http://blogs.mcall.com/capitol_ideas/2012/06/natgas-tax-credit-an-essential-part-of-budget-deal-for-corbett-negotiators-say.html
SWPA-EHP releases guidelines to monitor, test private wells
Post-Gazette
Amy Friedenberger
June 18
The Southwest Pennsylvania Environmental Health Project, nonprofit environmental health project funded by The Heinz Endowments, the Pittsburgh Foundation and the Claneil Foundation, released a set of guidelines for monitoring and testing private wells in the effort to address the concerns of Washington County residents who are worried about the safety of water from private wells near natural gas drilling locations.
Link: http://shale.sites.post-gazette.com/index.php/news/archives/24628-swpa-ehp-releases-guidlines-to-monitor-test-private-wells
Post-Gazette
Amy Friedenberger
June 18
The Southwest Pennsylvania Environmental Health Project, nonprofit environmental health project funded by The Heinz Endowments, the Pittsburgh Foundation and the Claneil Foundation, released a set of guidelines for monitoring and testing private wells in the effort to address the concerns of Washington County residents who are worried about the safety of water from private wells near natural gas drilling locations.
Link: http://shale.sites.post-gazette.com/index.php/news/archives/24628-swpa-ehp-releases-guidlines-to-monitor-test-private-wells
Big test for Corbett looms in election, tax credit
Times Leader
Marc Levy, AP
June 18
HARRISBURG — It’s budget season again for Gov. Tom Corbett, and that means the same thing as last year: His approval rating has plummeted as Pennsylvania’s no-new-taxes chief executive preaches austerity for public schools and social services while prescribing tax cuts and tax breaks for businesses.
Link: http://www.timesleader.com/stories/Big-test-for-Corbett-looms-in-election-tax-credit,164883
Times Leader
Marc Levy, AP
June 18
HARRISBURG — It’s budget season again for Gov. Tom Corbett, and that means the same thing as last year: His approval rating has plummeted as Pennsylvania’s no-new-taxes chief executive preaches austerity for public schools and social services while prescribing tax cuts and tax breaks for businesses.
Link: http://www.timesleader.com/stories/Big-test-for-Corbett-looms-in-election-tax-credit,164883
Is Ohio Still Wooing Shell? Governor’s Office Won’t Say
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 18
Link: https://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/18/is-ohio-still-wooing-shell-governors-office-wont-say/
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 18
Link: https://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/18/is-ohio-still-wooing-shell-governors-office-wont-say/
Corbett Asks For Automatic Withholding On Drilling Royalty Payments
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 18
Link: http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/18/corbett-asks-for-automatic-withholding-on-drilling-royalty-payments/
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 18
Link: http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/18/corbett-asks-for-automatic-withholding-on-drilling-royalty-payments/
Air quality concerns raised as gas compressor stations multiply
Times-Tribune
Laura Legere
June 18
The number of natural gas compressor stations planned for Northeast Pennsylvania is multiplying as companies lay more pipelines to carry Marcellus Shale gas to customers.
Link: http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/air-quality-concerns-raised-as-gas-compressor-stations-multiply-1.1331314
Times-Tribune
Laura Legere
June 18
The number of natural gas compressor stations planned for Northeast Pennsylvania is multiplying as companies lay more pipelines to carry Marcellus Shale gas to customers.
Link: http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/air-quality-concerns-raised-as-gas-compressor-stations-multiply-1.1331314
Chartiers residents voice concern over gas well
Observer-Reporter
Kathie O. Warco
June 16
During a public hearing Tuesday on a proposed oil and gas extraction ordinance to make Chartiers Township compliant with the state's new gas drilling law, the supervisors heard from residents unhappy a gas well may be coming to their neighborhood.
Link: http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/story11/06-16-2012-chartiers-act-13-hearing
Observer-Reporter
Kathie O. Warco
June 16
During a public hearing Tuesday on a proposed oil and gas extraction ordinance to make Chartiers Township compliant with the state's new gas drilling law, the supervisors heard from residents unhappy a gas well may be coming to their neighborhood.
Link: http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/story11/06-16-2012-chartiers-act-13-hearing
A debate over Shell chemical plant, and the tax credits that might it lure it to Pa.
Inquirer
Andrew Maykuth
June 18
The Corbett administration is mounting a full-court press to persuade Shell Chemical L.P. to build a huge petrochemical plant in Pennsylvania that officials see as the cornerstone of a manufacturing revival fueled by Marcellus Shale natural gas.
Link: http://articles.philly.com/2012-06-18/business/32282957_1_natural-gas-tax-credit-construction-jobs
Inquirer
Andrew Maykuth
June 18
The Corbett administration is mounting a full-court press to persuade Shell Chemical L.P. to build a huge petrochemical plant in Pennsylvania that officials see as the cornerstone of a manufacturing revival fueled by Marcellus Shale natural gas.
Link: http://articles.philly.com/2012-06-18/business/32282957_1_natural-gas-tax-credit-construction-jobs
AG spokesman says sentence 'bad for Pennsylvania'
Herald Standard
Jennifer Harr
June 17
A spokesman for the state attorney general said the office is “extremely disappointed” in the probationary sentence that a Greene County man received for six years of illegal dumping and theft.
Link: http://www.heraldstandard.com/news/local_news/ag-spokesman-says-sentence-bad-for-pennsylvania/article_e570b5dc-a6f7-53a1-96dd-589dc3662b80.html
Herald Standard
Jennifer Harr
June 17
A spokesman for the state attorney general said the office is “extremely disappointed” in the probationary sentence that a Greene County man received for six years of illegal dumping and theft.
Link: http://www.heraldstandard.com/news/local_news/ag-spokesman-says-sentence-bad-for-pennsylvania/article_e570b5dc-a6f7-53a1-96dd-589dc3662b80.html
Drilling won’t threaten Pa. parks, officials say
The Vindicator
Jeanne Starmack
June 17
[...]
The view is breathtaking, and worth protecting. There is no fracking going on underneath the gorge — fracking is not allowed under any state park land, said Terry Brady, deputy press secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.One of the wells is drilled and fracking is under way, said John Poister, spokesman for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Work has started on a second well.
What would happen if a well casing failed, or a blowout threatened the watershed or the creek?
Poister said the DEP regularly inspects the wells, even when they are capped, to make sure no failed casings could allow fracking fluid or natural gas to migrate to ground water.
Link: http://www.vindy.com/news/2012/jun/17/drilling-wont-threaten-pa-parks-official/
The Vindicator
Jeanne Starmack
June 17
[...]
The view is breathtaking, and worth protecting. There is no fracking going on underneath the gorge — fracking is not allowed under any state park land, said Terry Brady, deputy press secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.One of the wells is drilled and fracking is under way, said John Poister, spokesman for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Work has started on a second well.
What would happen if a well casing failed, or a blowout threatened the watershed or the creek?
Poister said the DEP regularly inspects the wells, even when they are capped, to make sure no failed casings could allow fracking fluid or natural gas to migrate to ground water.
Link: http://www.vindy.com/news/2012/jun/17/drilling-wont-threaten-pa-parks-official/
Panel OK's bill to keep gas drill waste out of NJ
Bloomberg Businessweek
Andrew Duffelmeyer
AP
June 15
Lawmakers on Thursday approved legislation banning hydraulic fracturing byproducts from other states from entering New Jersey, citing concerns about waste from neighboring Pennsylvania endangering public health and the environment in the Garden State.
Link: http://www.businessweek.com/ap/2012-06/D9VDJSR00.htm
Bloomberg Businessweek
Andrew Duffelmeyer
AP
June 15
Lawmakers on Thursday approved legislation banning hydraulic fracturing byproducts from other states from entering New Jersey, citing concerns about waste from neighboring Pennsylvania endangering public health and the environment in the Garden State.
Link: http://www.businessweek.com/ap/2012-06/D9VDJSR00.htm
Cracker plant jobs claim may be way off
Pitt Trib
Timothy Puko
June 15
The jobs created by a proposed petrochemical plant in the region could be less than half of what Gov. Tom Corbett and state leaders have been touting, according to new numbers from a member of Corbett's cabinet.
Link: http://triblive.com/state/2008446-74/jobs-state-plant-permanent-shell-industry-corbett-numbers-tax-billion
Pitt Trib
Timothy Puko
June 15
The jobs created by a proposed petrochemical plant in the region could be less than half of what Gov. Tom Corbett and state leaders have been touting, according to new numbers from a member of Corbett's cabinet.
Link: http://triblive.com/state/2008446-74/jobs-state-plant-permanent-shell-industry-corbett-numbers-tax-billion
Fracking Forces Central PA Mobile Home Residents Out
Allegheny Front
Emily Reddy
June 16
(includes audio)
Just over three months ago residents of a mobile home park in Central Pennsylvania were told they had to leave. The Riverdale Mobile Home Park, near Jersey Shore, had been sold.
Link: http://www.alleghenyfront.org/story.html?storyid=201206141024390.197551
Allegheny Front
Emily Reddy
June 16
(includes audio)
Just over three months ago residents of a mobile home park in Central Pennsylvania were told they had to leave. The Riverdale Mobile Home Park, near Jersey Shore, had been sold.
Link: http://www.alleghenyfront.org/story.html?storyid=201206141024390.197551
Greene County businessman sentenced for dumping wastewater across six counties
Post-Gazette
Torsten Ove
June 15
A Greene County businessman who admitted to 13 of 98 charges of illegally dumping millions of gallons of wastewater across six local counties was sentenced today to seven years of probation, 1,750 hours of environement-related community service and ordered to pay $257,316 in restitution.
Link: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/local/washington/green-county-businessman-sentenced-for-dumping-wastewater-across-six-counties-640556/
Post-Gazette
Torsten Ove
June 15
A Greene County businessman who admitted to 13 of 98 charges of illegally dumping millions of gallons of wastewater across six local counties was sentenced today to seven years of probation, 1,750 hours of environement-related community service and ordered to pay $257,316 in restitution.
Link: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/local/washington/green-county-businessman-sentenced-for-dumping-wastewater-across-six-counties-640556/
Tax Marcellus Shale to help governor's budget
Patriot-News
Edward I. Benintende
June 15
Gov. Tom Corbett's proposed 2012 budget hurts the most vulnerable Pennsylvanians: public school and university students, the elderly and the disabled.
Link: http://www.pennlive.com/letters/index.ssf/2012/06/tax_marcellus_shale_to_help_go.html
Patriot-News
Edward I. Benintende
June 15
Gov. Tom Corbett's proposed 2012 budget hurts the most vulnerable Pennsylvanians: public school and university students, the elderly and the disabled.
Link: http://www.pennlive.com/letters/index.ssf/2012/06/tax_marcellus_shale_to_help_go.html
If state must compete, tax credits are better option
Patriot-News
David E. Black, President Harrisburg Regional Chamber & Capital Region Economic Development Corporation
Letter to the Editor
June 15
[...]The Corbett administration has been a quiet, nose-to-the-grindstone bunch for the most part. That's good from a work perspective, but in the realm of public policy it gives political opposition the opportunity to define Team Corbett, which is unfortunate given the challenges of government in these times of a still soft economy, growing pension costs and flat (at best) revenues.
Link: http://www.pennlive.com/letters/index.ssf/2012/06/if_state_must_compete_tax_cred.html
Patriot-News
David E. Black, President Harrisburg Regional Chamber & Capital Region Economic Development Corporation
Letter to the Editor
June 15
[...]The Corbett administration has been a quiet, nose-to-the-grindstone bunch for the most part. That's good from a work perspective, but in the realm of public policy it gives political opposition the opportunity to define Team Corbett, which is unfortunate given the challenges of government in these times of a still soft economy, growing pension costs and flat (at best) revenues.
Link: http://www.pennlive.com/letters/index.ssf/2012/06/if_state_must_compete_tax_cred.html
Gov. Corbett advocates for state's environment
Patriot-News
Patrick Henderson, Energy Executive, Office of Gov. Tom Corbett
Letter to the Editor
June 14
While criticizing Mitt Romney and Gov. Tom Corbett, Char Magaro ("Healthy environment should be our priority," June 7) casts unfounded allegations regarding their respective positions on energy and environmental policy.
Link: http://www.pennlive.com/letters/index.ssf/2012/06/gov_corbett_advocates_for_stat.html
Patrick Henderson, Energy Executive, Office of Gov. Tom Corbett
Letter to the Editor
June 14
While criticizing Mitt Romney and Gov. Tom Corbett, Char Magaro ("Healthy environment should be our priority," June 7) casts unfounded allegations regarding their respective positions on energy and environmental policy.
Link: http://www.pennlive.com/letters/index.ssf/2012/06/gov_corbett_advocates_for_stat.html
Gas wells in parks more than a drill
Pitt Trib
Nafari Vanaski
June 13
It's a gorgeous day and you don't have to go to work, so you pack a lunch and go on a picnic in the park with a friend.
The two of you decide to toss around the Frisbee. On your first throw, the wind takes it -- right into a drilling rig.
Talk about a daydream buster. It might sound far-fetched, but if Allegheny County Councilman Matt Drozd has his way, it might happen.
Link: http://triblive.com/news/columnists/1994030-74/drilling-parks-drozd-county-gas-park-lot-acres-allegheny-arabia
Pitt Trib
Nafari Vanaski
June 13
It's a gorgeous day and you don't have to go to work, so you pack a lunch and go on a picnic in the park with a friend.
The two of you decide to toss around the Frisbee. On your first throw, the wind takes it -- right into a drilling rig.
Talk about a daydream buster. It might sound far-fetched, but if Allegheny County Councilman Matt Drozd has his way, it might happen.
Link: http://triblive.com/news/columnists/1994030-74/drilling-parks-drozd-county-gas-park-lot-acres-allegheny-arabia
Labor fights unpaid OT in gas industry
Standard Speaker
Laura Legere
June 15
The U.S. Department of Labor has started a new effort to combat unfair pay practices in the natural gas industry in the northeastern United States, focusing on subcontractors who avoid paying taxes, overtime and workers' compensation premiums by wrongly classifying employees as independent contractors.
Link: http://standardspeaker.com/news/labor-fights-unpaid-ot-in-gas-industry-1.1330049
Standard Speaker
Laura Legere
June 15
The U.S. Department of Labor has started a new effort to combat unfair pay practices in the natural gas industry in the northeastern United States, focusing on subcontractors who avoid paying taxes, overtime and workers' compensation premiums by wrongly classifying employees as independent contractors.
Link: http://standardspeaker.com/news/labor-fights-unpaid-ot-in-gas-industry-1.1330049
Pipeline plan jeopardizes water quality
Daily Local
Richard Whiteford, Guest Columnist
June 14
Over the years local conservation organizations, the state of Pennsylvania, and Chester County have spent millions of dollars protecting our watersheds to preserve the integrity of our drinking water for our health and safety.
Link: http://www.dailylocal.com/article/20120614/OPINION02/120619735/guest-column-pipeline-plan-jeopardizes-water-quality
Daily Local
Richard Whiteford, Guest Columnist
June 14
Over the years local conservation organizations, the state of Pennsylvania, and Chester County have spent millions of dollars protecting our watersheds to preserve the integrity of our drinking water for our health and safety.
Link: http://www.dailylocal.com/article/20120614/OPINION02/120619735/guest-column-pipeline-plan-jeopardizes-water-quality
Gas group CEO: Industry must communicate with adversaries
Observer-Reporter
Michael Bradwell
June 15
With America's recent ascent as the world's No. 1 producer of natural gas, it would appear that Regina Hopper's job would be an easy one.
In November 2009, Hopper was named president and chief executive officer of the newly created America's Natural Gas Alliance, which represents 30 of North America's largest independent natural gas exploration and production companies, which include those working in the unconventional shale plays that have produced a surplus of natural gas over the past few years.
Link: http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/story11/06-15-2012-ANGA-PRESENTATION-TO-CHAMBER
Observer-Reporter
Michael Bradwell
June 15
With America's recent ascent as the world's No. 1 producer of natural gas, it would appear that Regina Hopper's job would be an easy one.
In November 2009, Hopper was named president and chief executive officer of the newly created America's Natural Gas Alliance, which represents 30 of North America's largest independent natural gas exploration and production companies, which include those working in the unconventional shale plays that have produced a surplus of natural gas over the past few years.
Link: http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/story11/06-15-2012-ANGA-PRESENTATION-TO-CHAMBER
Don't use mine water for Marcellus fracking
Citizens Voice
Audrey Simpson
Letter to the Editor
June 15
The bill recently introduced onto the floor of the Pennsylvania Senate which aims to encourage Marcellus gas drillers to use acid mine drainage water, instead of fresh water, for fracking operations falls well short of making the process more environmentally friendly.
Link: http://citizensvoice.com/opinion/letters/don-t-use-mine-water-for-marcellus-fracking-1.1329991
Citizens Voice
Audrey Simpson
Letter to the Editor
June 15
The bill recently introduced onto the floor of the Pennsylvania Senate which aims to encourage Marcellus gas drillers to use acid mine drainage water, instead of fresh water, for fracking operations falls well short of making the process more environmentally friendly.
Link: http://citizensvoice.com/opinion/letters/don-t-use-mine-water-for-marcellus-fracking-1.1329991
Governor Giveaway: Tom Corbett keeps shoveling our money to the oil and gas companies
Post-Gazette
Debbie Srogi, One Pittsburgh
Opinion
June 15
It is not news that Gov. Tom Corbett is a friend of oil and gas companies, but his support of the industry over the hardworking men and women of Pennsylvania is becoming more devastating every day.
Link: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/opinion/perspectives/governor-giveaway-tom-corbett-keeps-shoveling-our-money-to-the-oil-and-gas-companies-640467/
Post-Gazette
Debbie Srogi, One Pittsburgh
Opinion
June 15
It is not news that Gov. Tom Corbett is a friend of oil and gas companies, but his support of the industry over the hardworking men and women of Pennsylvania is becoming more devastating every day.
Link: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/opinion/perspectives/governor-giveaway-tom-corbett-keeps-shoveling-our-money-to-the-oil-and-gas-companies-640467/
New Jersey Mulls Barring Pennsylvania Drilling Waste
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 14
Link: http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/14/new-jersey-mulls-barring-pennsylvania-drilling-waste/
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 14
Link: http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/14/new-jersey-mulls-barring-pennsylvania-drilling-waste/
West Virginia “Has Not Had Any Further Discussions” About Cracker With Shell
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 15
Link: http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/15/west-virginia-has-not-had-any-further-discussions-about-cracker-with-shell/
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 15
Link: http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/15/west-virginia-has-not-had-any-further-discussions-about-cracker-with-shell/
Corbett Administration Sells Ethane Cracker Tax Break; Secretary Says Shell Asked For It
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 14
Link: http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/14/corbett-administration-sells-ethane-cracker-tax-break-secretary-says-shell-asked-for-it/
State Impact
Scott Detrow
June 14
Link: http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/14/corbett-administration-sells-ethane-cracker-tax-break-secretary-says-shell-asked-for-it/
Pa. lawmakers offer Shell tax credit plans
Post-Gazette
Laura Olson
June 14
HARRISBURG -- Two Beaver County lawmakers have released similar versions of a proposed ethane tax credit for Shell Oil Co., which the governor has urged for inclusion in the pending state budget package.
Link: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/local/marcellusshale/pa-lawmakers-offer-shell-tax-credit-plans-640322/
Post-Gazette
Laura Olson
June 14
HARRISBURG -- Two Beaver County lawmakers have released similar versions of a proposed ethane tax credit for Shell Oil Co., which the governor has urged for inclusion in the pending state budget package.
Link: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/local/marcellusshale/pa-lawmakers-offer-shell-tax-credit-plans-640322/
New study projects 14 percent growth in shale-related employment in PA
Times-Tribune
June 14
An IHS Global Insight study released Wednesday projects that shale gas-supported employment in Pennsylvania will grow 14 percent each year between 2010 and 2015, more than in any other unconventional gas producing state.
Link: http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/gas-drilling/new-study-projects-14-percent-growth-in-shale-related-employment-in-pa-1.1329426
Times-Tribune
June 14
An IHS Global Insight study released Wednesday projects that shale gas-supported employment in Pennsylvania will grow 14 percent each year between 2010 and 2015, more than in any other unconventional gas producing state.
Link: http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/gas-drilling/new-study-projects-14-percent-growth-in-shale-related-employment-in-pa-1.1329426
Pennsylvania lobbying for DRBC fracking rules
Morning Call
Tim Darragh
June 14
Gov. Tom Corbett's administration has been lobbying neighboring states to approve regulations to open the Delaware River basin to natural gas drilling, a plan that came to a screeching halt in November when Corbett's counterpart in Delaware said the proposal lacked sufficient public health protections.
Link:http://www.mcall.com/news/nationworld/pennsylvania/mc-allentown-marcellus-fracking-20120614,0,4013578.story
Morning Call
Tim Darragh
June 14
Gov. Tom Corbett's administration has been lobbying neighboring states to approve regulations to open the Delaware River basin to natural gas drilling, a plan that came to a screeching halt in November when Corbett's counterpart in Delaware said the proposal lacked sufficient public health protections.
Link:http://www.mcall.com/news/nationworld/pennsylvania/mc-allentown-marcellus-fracking-20120614,0,4013578.story
CORBETT: SHELL CRACKER PLANT COULD SPUR “NEW INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION” IN PA
Pennsylvania Legislative Services
Mike Howells
Juen 21
(full text below)
Gov. Tom Corbett was joined today by members of his administration, the General Assembly, and business and labor leaders to tout the employment and economic potential of a Royal Dutch Shell ethane cracker plant in Beaver County. Legislation has been offered to provide Shell, which is considering a number of other locations in other states, $66 million in annual performance-based tax credits if the company locates the plant in western Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania is currently the primary choice for Shell as it considers its options.
Pennsylvania Legislative Services
Mike Howells
Juen 21
(full text below)
Gov. Tom Corbett was joined today by members of his administration, the General Assembly, and business and labor leaders to tout the employment and economic potential of a Royal Dutch Shell ethane cracker plant in Beaver County. Legislation has been offered to provide Shell, which is considering a number of other locations in other states, $66 million in annual performance-based tax credits if the company locates the plant in western Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania is currently the primary choice for Shell as it considers its options.
“We are investing in the opportunity for thousands of Pennsylvanians to have a good job,” Gov. Corbett said. According to the American Chemistry Council (ACC), the petrochemical complex could result in 10,000 construction jobs, 400 direct plant jobs, and 17,000 associated jobs in related industries.
Labor and Industry Secretary Julia Hearthway said the plant could be a “big win” for the state’s labor force and for its business owners, and would create an entirely new industry segment in the Commonwealth.
Gov. Corbett emphasized the initiative is bipartisan in nature, and called the tax credit, HB 2478, sponsored by Rep. Jim Christiana (R-Beaver), “a jobs bill.”
“Even across the party lines, even across the lines of labor and business, we all understand that this is an opportunity for the future of our state,” Gov. Corbett said.
“We are investing…in a new industrial revolution in Pennsylvania,” the governor added. He detailed potential benefits of the industry that would extend beyond Beaver County, notably cheap ethane for consumer product manufacturers throughout the Commonwealth.
“The benefits of employing 10,000 more Pennsylvanians and lowering the cost of raw materials for Pennsylvania manufacturers for outweigh the investment that we’re making,” Gov. Corbett contended.
Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, a Democrat, said the potential for “new wealth” flowing into the western part of the state as a result of Shell building the plant in Beaver County means all sides have to come together to achieve a consensus. He emphasized the state is “not giving anything away” and said for the $66 million annual tax credit cap, Shell will have to achieve a variety of benchmarks related to economic development.
Frank Sirianni, President of the Pennsylvania Building Construction Trades Council, said the measure would mean a great deal to the construction industry in Pennsylvania.
“We are usually the last ones to recover from an economic downturn,” Sirianni said, noting unemployment in the construction sector remains above 20 percent across the Commonwealth. “We are urging every legislator to step forward and work on this issue.”
John DeFazio, District Director for US Steelworkers, called the possibility of the cracker plant “the opportunity of ten lifetimes.” He said the payout for the Commonwealth will be “good paying jobs” that he suggested will remain for many years.
Sen. Elder Vogel (R-Beaver) expressed confidence the Shell plant, if located in Beaver County, would change the face of Southwestern Pennsylvania. He expressed his thanks to the company for considering Pennsylvania given the fact that Louisiana already has the infrastructure in place to accommodate the plant.
“We have the chance of a lifetime, once again, to start something here,” Sen. Vogel said.
Sen. Tim Solobay (D-Washington), whose district includes part of Beaver County, pointed to the success of the Commonwealth's Film Tax Credit in attracting the movie industry and turning Pennsylvania into “the Hollywood of the East.” He indicated the tax credit being offered in HB 2478 could help the Commonwealth retain its status as the “Energy Capital of the East,” while reinvigorating the manufacturing sector.
Sen. John Wozniak (D-Cambria), a native of Johnstown, offered a glimpse into the effects the collapse of manufacturing had on cities throughout Pennsylvania, including Johnstown, Pittsburgh, and Bethlehem. He said the opportunity to bring manufacturing back to Pennsylvania requires all parties to work together quickly to conclude the deal.
Rep. Jim Christiana (R-Beaver), sponsor of HB 2478, thanked Gov. Corbett and his administration and said the governor is part of the reason for Pennsylvania's success so far in the race to win the cracker plant. He remarked the tax credit he authored is not tailored to one single company or even one industry.
“We need to create a partnership with government, labor, and private business to put our folks back to work,” Rep. Christiana said.
Rep. Rob Matzie (D-Washington) recounted how his grandfather, an Italian immigrant, came to America and found work with the American Bridge Company for forty years. He said his family has never lived more than a third of a mile from the rowhouse that was built by the American Bridge Company for his grandfather to live in, and expressed hope a rejuvenated manufacturing sector can ensure such traditions can continue in Pennsylvania.
David Taylor, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Manufacturing Association, said the coalition assembled in support of the Shell plant is “pro-production.” He said its goal is to “seize the high common ground” to achieve more prosperity for Pennsylvania and “especially the 475,000 Pennsylvanians who are today looking for work.”
Taylor called the proposed tax credit “perfectly defensible,” arguing it is performance-based, makes for a lasting investment as the plant would be “impossible” to move once sited, and promises guaranteed technologies and products.
“Any Pennsylvania manufacturer using ethylene in its production process would benefit,” Taylor said.
Speaking to his confidence in the job estimates provided by the ACC, Gov. Corbett said the projections are based on past experiences in the industry and were made by people who have a great deal of experience in the sector. He added the Commonwealth is in competition with Ohio, West Virginia, and Louisiana, among others for the plant. The governor pointed out that there are also projections that a cracker plant would attract other associated businesses to Pennsylvania statewide. He noted propane is a byproduct of the process and said companies in the southeast may look to obtain their propane from Shell as a result.
Gov. Corbett indicated both the Department of Revenue and the Department of Community and Economic Development are currently engaged in internal “fact-checking” of job and economic growth projections. He noted there are also lessons being taken from the industry that exists on the Gulf Coast and said in Pennsylvania the plant would be that much closer to the “feedstock” of natural gas which would then stay within the state. Sec. Hearthway clarified an early estimate of 6,500-8,000 jobs from her department is only the first of two phases of its projection, and includes only the construction jobs and not ongoing operations.
“Numbers – it's going to be a lot of jobs,” the governor stated.
Gov. Corbett reported the administration is currently conducting outreach with legislators and expressed confidence “support will be there” to pass a tax credit bill. With respect to concerns voiced by some lawmakers that the $66 million annual figure has the potential to grow, Gov. Corbett stressed the law has not been passed yet. He predicted considerable debate on both the House and Senate floor and indicated the possibility that the figure, as it is finalized, could well “see movement.”
On the question of what assurances exist that the tax credit will not be “misused,” Gov. Corbett reiterated the credit is performance-based, and will only be conferred if Shell meets various economic goals. He expressed confidence revenues from the new industry will meet or exceed the value of the tax credit.
Asked what impact the tax credit may have on education spending, Gov. Corbett emphasized the initiative has no impact on the upcoming budget, and conceded the current budget environment remains “tough.” He indicated a strong likelihood more money will be put back in on top of the original proposed budget in various areas.
On the possibility of more “broad-based” tax reductions to encourage smaller companies to generate smaller numbers of jobs, Gov. Corbett said “I don't see those kinds of companies coming in and saying 'we're going to provide thousands of jobs – we don't want you to give us money up front, we want to earn it.'” He conceded, however, that he and the legislature would likely listen to other companies who made such a pitch.
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CLEAN WATER ACTION RALLY FOR MARCELLUS GAS DRILLERS TO IMPROVE PROTECTIONS
Pennsylvania Legislative Services
Jasmine Ohadi
June 19
(full text below)
Numerous members from environmental and community organizations gathered today at the Capitol for a rally organized by Clean Water Action to demand that the three major Marcellus Shale gas drilling companies improve their protections for Pennsylvania communities from natural gas drilling activities.
Pennsylvania Legislative Services
Jasmine Ohadi
June 19
(full text below)
Numerous members from environmental and community organizations gathered today at the Capitol for a rally organized by Clean Water Action to demand that the three major Marcellus Shale gas drilling companies improve their protections for Pennsylvania communities from natural gas drilling activities.
Myron Arnowitt, PA State Director for Clean Water Action, briefly stated various issues concerning drilling near residential communities. “We will ask them over and over again when they will get CLEAN.”
According to Arnowitt, CLEAN embraces five steps to improve protections: Comply with new EPA air regulations; end the use of frack pits to prevent leaking; end the allocation of wastewater into rivers; partake in annual testing for all water supplies near gas wells; and zone oil and gas operations at least 3,000 feet from residential or commercial areas.
Ralph Kisberg, President of the Responsible Drilling Alliance, made few statements regarding Range Resources, commenting on the industries several environmental mishaps over the years. According to Kisberg, three Washington County families are suing Range Resources for conspiracy to conceal the families’ exposure to toluene, benzene, arsenic, cobalt and cadmium.
“We all know what is in Article 1, Section 27 of the PA Constitution—‘the people have the right to clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the natural, scenic, historic, and atheistic value’s of the environment,’” Kisberg stated.
“Range does a better job than other drillers in terms of violations, but that does not excuse the problems they have caused and continue to cause. Legislation that allows them to destroy people’s quality of life, and effect their health, or ruin their property values, while hiding behind a heartless legal system does not give Range the moral authority to do what we know what they have done to those people,” Kisberg added.
Heather Arnet, CEO of the Women and Girls Foundation, introduced several speakers from their GirlGov program. “We are certainly in favor of having jobs—we all need jobs in our state, and we especially need jobs for women,” she said. “But as we focus on the economic development of our region, we should also make sure that we are securing the basic human rights to clean air and clean water.”
Veronica Tatone, a resident of Derry Township, expressed her concerns and experiences living in a community where drilling operations occur not far from her home. According to Tatone, there were several instances where fires occurred due to flammable gas at the drilling sites.
Pam Parson, Gas Truth of Central PA, also expressed her frustrations with drilling operations.
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