Gas Drilling Geology, Water Impacts To Be Focus Of Webinar

A free one-hour “webinar” on Thursday (Dec. 16) at 1 pm will focus on the geology and technology that plays an important part in natural gas extraction in the Marcellus shale. It’s sponsored by Penn State Cooperative Extension and will feature Dr. Michael Arthur (shown), professor of geosciences and co-director of the Penn State Marcellus Center for Outreach and Research. He’ll discuss geologic features, as well as the process and effect of hydraulic fracturing. Arthur will also address the continuing concern that drilling operations could allow gas migration into fresh-water aquifers.

Those seeking to participate are advised to register early so that they’re prepared to watch the webinar by 1 pm, as the registration process can take several minutes. Dr. Arthur will accept questions following his presentation. Information about how to register is available at http://extension.psu.edu/naturalgas/webinars.

Upcoming webinars will be held at 1 pm as follows:

• Jan. 20, “Marcellus Shale Legislation: What Issues Remain?”
• Feb. 16, “Gas Tax Issues”
• March 17, “Gas Well Development and Emergency Response and Management.”

Previous webinars, publications and other information on topics such as water use and quality, zoning, leasing considerations and implications for local communities also are available on the “Natural Gas” website at http://extension.psu.edu/naturalgas. For more information, contact John Turack at (724) 837-1402 or jdt15@psu.edu.