Gas Task Force Meeting Will Spotlight ‘Crystal Ball’

Next meeting of the Potter County Natural Gas Task Force will feature a look into the crystal ball to forecast the impact of Marcellus Shale gas development on the county in the years to come. It’s scheduled for 7 pm Tuesday, March 8, at the Gunzburger Building in Coudersport. Two veteran officials from Tioga County will present a program that summarizes what has taken place there since gas drilling started to intensify in 2008. Speakers will be Planning Director Jim Weaver and County Commissioner Erick Coolidge. All signs point to the increased level of gas drilling sweeping westward across the northern tier counties. Issues that have arisen in Bradford and Tioga counties are likely to be seen locally as the industry continues to expand.

Jim Weaver has been involved in a wide variety of public policy issues, as well as local environmental conservation activities. He’s one of the organizers of the Pine Creek Watershed “Water Dogs,” an organization that recruits, trains and equips volunteers to take periodic measurements of public waterways, checking for any changes that could indicate degradation from natural gas drilling or any other sources.

Erick Coolidge is one of the most respected and active county commissioners in Pennsylvania. He is a co-chair of the Natural Gas Task Force for the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania. In addition, Coolidge and his family operate a multi-generational dairy farm. He serves on a national advisory council for the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture.

The March 8 meeting will also include a preview of the March 10-11 Natural Gas Expo in Bradford, an update on volunteer water monitoring activities in Potter County, information on township issues, and other topics. Task Force meetings are open to anyone interested in learning more about the natural gas industry and its implications on Potter County’s environment, economy and way of life. The county’s website, pottercountypa.net, contains a wealth of information about Marcellus Shale natural gas development and related issues.