TU Spearheading Training Of Volunteer Water Monitors

Trout Unlimited is spearheading training for volunteers who will monitor area streams and rivers for any impact from natural gas drilling. At this month’s Potter County Natural Gas Task Force meeting, TU representative Dr. Peter Ryan announced that volunteers are being recruited from area watershed protection groups.

They’ll be checking waterways for any potential degradation due to natural gas drilling or any other causes. Headwaters Resource Conservation and Development Council is supporting the monitoring system in Potter, Cameron, McKean, Elk and Jefferson counties.

Dr. Ryan also reported on the recent tanker accident on Peet Brook Road, a tributary to the Allegheny River. Of the 4,200 gallons of contaminated water that was released, all but 400 gallons was recovered and there was evidently no major impact on the waterway. He said the spill was a reminder that, despite regulations, accidents will happen.