Marcellus Shale - Gas Wells

October 28, 2010

Lehman Twp. supervisors say they back gas drillers

By RALPH NARDONE Times Leader Correspondent

LEHMAN TWP. -- Despite negative feedback in recent months from anti-“fracking” groups concerning Marcellus Shale gas drilling, supervisors on Monday night expressed their support for the industry, as did several township residents.

Fracking refers to the drilling process of hydraulic fracturing, which uses water and chemicals under pressure to liberate natural gas from the shale deposits. Many have expressed concern that the process could impact drinking water wells.

Carl Kern, who owns trucks that service drillers in Bradford County, said the public should listen to the positive side of drilling instead of the protest.

For example, he said the companies are maintaining the roads they use. In Lehman Township, if a road repair is necessary, the supervisors can call the company and it will fix it, he said.

Board Chairman Dave Sutton concurred, adding that if the township must repair a road in an emergency situation, it will be reimbursed by the drillers.

“It’s nice to hear something positive,” Sutton said.

Kern discussed his support with state Sen. Lisa Baker and believes she is doing what she can to ensure the drilling “is done right.”

Vice Chairman Ray Iwanowski said drilling sites have less environmental impact than housing developments. He said the amount of negative environmental issues with developments are significant with respect to water runoff and the leaching of salt and oil from local roadways into water supplies.

Todd DeRosa, a township resident who is leasing land for drilling, said he worries the anti-drilling effort may “spook” companies out of the area, taking with them economic benefits.

He and several other lease holders are in the process of formalizing a local gas industry support group.

Tweet	Follow @TLnews

Send Question or Remark to the Publisher