This past Tuesday I went to a fracking meeting on Laurel Ridge held by the Mountain Watershed Association (MWA) in Normalville, PA. There was a turnout of more than 20 people. They were discussing a proposed Shannon Compton Well Pad on Laurel Ridge. Presented below is the video of the meeting. Below that are downloadable slides from the meeting.
The Shannon Compton Well Pad is located near the Pennsylvania Cross Country Ski Center on Laurel Ridge. Most homes around there rely on well water for drinking, cooking and cleaning. The fracking process could contaminate the well water.
Key Takeaways
For those who were unable to attend, here are a few key takeaways from the fracking meeting on Laurel Ridge (provided by MWA):
- DEP (Department of Environmental Protection) issued the Drill and Operate permit and the Erosion and Sedimentation permit to PH Masterline. There are a few missing pieces before fracking can begin in earnest, including DEP approval of a Water Management Plan (WMP) and an air permit. Neither a WMP nor an air quality permit application have been submitted at this point.
- Because the regulations on Oil & Gas permitting in PA are industry-friendly, the permitting process is largely administrative. MWA is shifting its focus toward advocating for new protective zoning ordinances in Fayette County. Please let us know if you are interested in joining our Zoning Working Group!
- Ensure that you get your private water supply tested by a state-certified lab as soon as possible. If you are within 2500 feet, make sure to request that the operator test your water supply. The operator is required to offer testing to all property owners with water supplies within 2500 feet before drilling begins. Let us know if you are unsure of your distance from the well pad, or use our interactive map.
- MWA can assist in funding a community monitoring program for air, water, or both through the Direct Support Fund. While DSF is cannot used for individual requests, it can help fund a group’s background water samples, air monitor purchases, and more. If you have any questions about DSF, let us know! The application form is attached.
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The project is close to fruition. MWA is doing its best to address local resident’s concerns.
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