"Everyone can and should do something to protect groundwater. Why? We all have a stake in maintaining its quality and quantity.
For starters, 95 percent of all available freshwater comes from aquifers underground. Being a good steward of groundwater just makes sense.
Not only that, most surface water bodies are connected to groundwater so how you impact groundwater matters.
Furthermore, many public water systems draw all or part of their supply from groundwater, so protecting the resource protects the public water supply and impacts treatment costs.
If you own a well to provide water for your family, farm, or business, groundwater protection is doubly important. As a well owner, you are the manager of your own water system. Protecting groundwater will help reduce risks to your water supply.
Groundwater protection
There are two fundamental categories of groundwater protection:
1. Keeping it safe from contamination
2. Using it wisely by not wasting it.
Before examining what you can do to protect groundwater, however, you should know that sometimes the quality and safety of groundwater is affected by substances that occur naturally in the environment.
Naturally occurring contamination
The chemistry of the groundwater flowing into a well reflects what’s in the environment. If the natural quality of groundwater to be used for human consumption presents a health risk, water treatment will be necessary.
Examples of naturally occurring substances that can present health risk are:
Microorganisms (i.e., bacteria, viruses, and parasites; these tend to be more common in shallow groundwater) - in oue AREA this would include most undeveloped springs, poorly constructed wells, and hand dug wells
Radionuclides (i.e., radium, radon, and uranium) - not a major problem in our area - but radon in air /water may be high
Heavy metals (i.e., arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, and selenium).- arsenic, iron, manganese are more common problems for our area.
Public water systems are required to treat drinking water to federal quality standards. However, it is up to private well owners to make sure their water is safe.
Contamination caused by human activities
Human activities can pollute groundwater, and this is where every person can help protect groundwater — both in terms of groundwater quality and quantity.
Some common human causes of groundwater contamination are:
Improper storage or disposal of hazardous substances
Improper use of fertilizers, animal manures, herbicides, insecticides, and pesticides
Chemical spills
Improperly built and/or maintained septic systems
Improperly abandoned wells (these include water wells, groundwater monitoring wells, and wells used in cleaning contaminated groundwater)
Poorly sited or constructed water wells.
An emerging concern in recent years is the occurrence of pharmaceuticals and personal care products in water. Much research remains to be done to assess the health risks of trace amounts of these items. Nevertheless, disposal strategies for these substances are increasingly being advocated. Do not pour prescription drugs down the drain. Check out http://www.smarxtdisposal.net/
Water conservation
Americans are the largest water users, per capita, in the world. In terms of groundwater, Americans use 79.6 billion gallons per day — the equivalent of 2,923 12-oz. cans for every man, woman, and child in the nation.
Agricultural irrigation is far and away the largest user of groundwater in America at 53.5 billion gallons a day followed by public use via public water systems or private household wells at a combined total of 18.3 billion gallons per day. More efficient use of water in either of these areas could save a huge amount. In our area, the largest users of water are nuclear plants.
At the household level, the greatest amount of water used inside the home occurs in the bathroom. The remainder of indoor water use is divided between clothes washing and kitchen use, including dish washing, according to the U.S. EPA. Calculate your water footprint - http://www.waterfootprint.org/
Depending on where in the country you live, outdoor water use can vary widely.
If you want to get an ever better idea how much water you use, find out your “water footprint” by calculating the amount of water it takes to produce some of the food you consume.
ACT — acknowledge, consider, take action
On Protect Your Groundwater Day, NGWA urges you to ACT. Use this day to begin doing your part for protecting one of our most important natural resources — groundwater!
1. Acknowledge the causes of preventable groundwater contamination —
Everyone
There are hazardous substances common to households - Most household water use occurs in a few areas around the home.
If you own a water well
Wellheads should be a safe distance from potential contamination
Septic system malfunctions can pollute groundwater
Poorly constructed or maintained wells can facilitate contamination
Improperly abandoned wells can lead to groundwater contamination.
Get your water tested - http://www.carbon-filtration.com/
2. Consider which apply to you —Everyone
What specific hazardous substances are in and around your home?
Where do you and your family use the most water?
If you own a water well
Is your wellhead a safe distance from possible contamination?
Is your well/septic system due for an inspection?
Are there any abandoned wells on your property?
3. Take action to prevent groundwater contamination —Everyone
When it comes to hazardous household substances:
Store them properly in a secure place
Use them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations
Dispose of them safely.
When it comes to water conservation
Modify your water use (more water saving tips)
Install a water-saving device.
If you own a water well
Move possible contamination sources a safe distance from the wellhead
Get current on your septic system inspection and cleaning
Get your annual water well system inspection
Properly decommission any abandoned wells using a professional.
For more information on Protect Your Groundwater Day, contact NGWA Public Awareness Director Cliff Treyens at 800 551.7379, (614 898.7791), ext. 554, or ctreyens@ngwa.org."
To learn more - go to
Carbon County Groundwater Guardians
http://www.carbonwaters.org/
National Groundwater Association
http://www.ngwa.org/public/pygd.aspx
Get Your Water Tested
http://www.carbon-filtration.com/
Conserve Water- Community Online Mall - Living Green
www.webdesignpros.net/shopping/living-green.htm
Article was not written by me - the source - http://www.ngwa.org/public/pygd.aspx - it was reposted with more detail about local concerns and organizations.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Thursday, July 22, 2010
EPA Announces a Schedule of Public Meetings on Hydraulic Fracturing Research Study; August 12 Meeting to be Held in Binghamton, N.Y.
"EPA Announces a Schedule of Public Meetings on Hydraulic Fracturing Research Study; August 12 Meeting to be Held in Binghamton, N.Y.
source: http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/0/5AB7FAB1665A0D698525774600606AFE
(New York, N.Y.) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is hosting four public information meetings on the proposed study of the relationship between hydraulic fracturing and its potential impacts on drinking water. Hydraulic fracturing is a process that drills vertical and horizontal cracks underground that help withdraw gas or oil from coalbeds, shale and other geological formations. By pumping fracturing fluids (water and chemical additives) and sands into rock formations, fractures are created in the formation from which natural gas or oil can be more easily extracted. The meetings will provide public information about the proposed study scope and design. EPA will solicit public comments on the draft study plan.
The public meetings will be held on:
July 8 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. CDT at the Hilton Fort Worth in Fort Worth, Texas
July 13 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. MDT at the Marriot Tech Center’s Rocky Mountain Events Center in Denver, Colo.
July 22 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. EDT at the Hilton Garden Inn in Canonsburg, Pa.
August 12 at the Anderson Performing Arts Center at Binghamton University in Binghamton, N.Y. for 3 sessions - 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. EDT
Natural gas plays a key role in our nation’s clean energy future and hydraulic fracturing is one way of accessing this vital resource. However, serious concerns have been raised about hydraulic fracturing’s potential impact on drinking water, human health and the environment. To address these concerns, EPA announced in March that it will study the potential adverse impact that hydraulic fracturing may have on drinking water.
To support the initial planning phase and guide the development of the study plan, the agency sought suggestions and comments from the EPA Science Advisory Board (SAB)—an independent, external federal advisory committee. The agency will use this advice and extensive stakeholder input to guide the design of the study.
Stakeholders are requested to pre-register for the meetings at least 72 hours before each meeting."
More information on the meetings: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/uic/wells_hydrofrac.html
source: http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/0/5AB7FAB1665A0D698525774600606AFE
(New York, N.Y.) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is hosting four public information meetings on the proposed study of the relationship between hydraulic fracturing and its potential impacts on drinking water. Hydraulic fracturing is a process that drills vertical and horizontal cracks underground that help withdraw gas or oil from coalbeds, shale and other geological formations. By pumping fracturing fluids (water and chemical additives) and sands into rock formations, fractures are created in the formation from which natural gas or oil can be more easily extracted. The meetings will provide public information about the proposed study scope and design. EPA will solicit public comments on the draft study plan.
The public meetings will be held on:
July 8 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. CDT at the Hilton Fort Worth in Fort Worth, Texas
July 13 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. MDT at the Marriot Tech Center’s Rocky Mountain Events Center in Denver, Colo.
July 22 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. EDT at the Hilton Garden Inn in Canonsburg, Pa.
August 12 at the Anderson Performing Arts Center at Binghamton University in Binghamton, N.Y. for 3 sessions - 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. EDT
Natural gas plays a key role in our nation’s clean energy future and hydraulic fracturing is one way of accessing this vital resource. However, serious concerns have been raised about hydraulic fracturing’s potential impact on drinking water, human health and the environment. To address these concerns, EPA announced in March that it will study the potential adverse impact that hydraulic fracturing may have on drinking water.
To support the initial planning phase and guide the development of the study plan, the agency sought suggestions and comments from the EPA Science Advisory Board (SAB)—an independent, external federal advisory committee. The agency will use this advice and extensive stakeholder input to guide the design of the study.
Stakeholders are requested to pre-register for the meetings at least 72 hours before each meeting."
More information on the meetings: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/uic/wells_hydrofrac.html
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Issue of Chloride in discharge Permits
"State rule targets chloride levels
By Robert Swift (Harrisburg Bureau Chief)
Published: July 17, 2010
HARRISBURG - A proposed state rule to limit the concentration in waterways of a salt compound produced by the Marcellus Shale drilling process is under challenge.
The proposal by the Department of Environmental Protection would align the state standard for allowable chloride levels with national criteria used to protect freshwater plant and animal species. The existing state chloride standard was developed mainly to protect water supplies
Fish and aquatic life can't survive when high levels of chloride are present. Chloride can corrode metals and affect the taste of food products.
The rule is being considered by the Environmental Quality Board as environmentalists warn that increased drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus Shale formation will produce wastewater contributing to high levels of chloride to streams and groundwater.
Chloride occurs naturally in ancient rock formations that once formed seabeds and are reached by the drilling for deep gas pockets.
But chloride can also contaminate waterways through agricultural runoff and discharges from industries and wastewater treatment plants.
The chloride rule is a separate issue from a broader rule to limit pollution in wastewater from natural gas drilling in the final stages of regulatory action. The rule gives drillers several options to treat wastewater.
Under the chloride rule, the DEP would follow toxicity data on the impact of chlorides on plant aquatic life set by the federal Environmental Protection Agency in a 1988 study.
Both environmental and industry groups argue the 1988 data is outdated.
A coalition of environmental groups, including Clean Water Action and the Delaware Riverkeeper Network, note that DEP has the authority to adopt standards more stringent than federal criteria. They want new studies on chloride contamination that focus on aquatic life in Pennsylvania.
The Pennsylvania Coal Association suggests other industries are adversely affected by the focus on Marcellus Shale drilling.
"The proposed regulation does have the potential to again sweep in a wide range of many other Pennsylvania industries, including the mining industry, who to date have not been generally required, to sample for, or treat, chloride in their wastewater discharges," the association said.
This week the state Independent Regulatory Review Commission urged DEP to rewrite the proposal.
"We agree that basing the new criteria on outdated data when more recent data is available is not reasonable," the commissioners said.
rswift@timesshamrock.com"
This is not my work,but here are my comments:
1. I have commented on NPDES Discharge Permits - I think it is critical we take a hard look at the permit limits we set for parameters such as chloride and sulfate.
2. We should be concerned with applying this very conservative limit to all industries - for example it could be very difficult to treat mine drainage if this standard had to be meet.
3. If this standard was applied to all NPDES permits - it may be a challenge to manage stormwater runoff and may require us to change how we deal with snow.
4. I would strongly recommend we take into consider the side effects of regulation.
5. If the concern is in-stream levels of contamination - we should also target and be concerned about urban runoff and the increasing the amount of groundwater recharge that sustains stream baseflows
My thoughts
PS: I will approve only comments that are constructive - so if you want to just vent - post on your own blog
By Robert Swift (Harrisburg Bureau Chief)
Published: July 17, 2010
HARRISBURG - A proposed state rule to limit the concentration in waterways of a salt compound produced by the Marcellus Shale drilling process is under challenge.
The proposal by the Department of Environmental Protection would align the state standard for allowable chloride levels with national criteria used to protect freshwater plant and animal species. The existing state chloride standard was developed mainly to protect water supplies
Fish and aquatic life can't survive when high levels of chloride are present. Chloride can corrode metals and affect the taste of food products.
The rule is being considered by the Environmental Quality Board as environmentalists warn that increased drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus Shale formation will produce wastewater contributing to high levels of chloride to streams and groundwater.
Chloride occurs naturally in ancient rock formations that once formed seabeds and are reached by the drilling for deep gas pockets.
But chloride can also contaminate waterways through agricultural runoff and discharges from industries and wastewater treatment plants.
The chloride rule is a separate issue from a broader rule to limit pollution in wastewater from natural gas drilling in the final stages of regulatory action. The rule gives drillers several options to treat wastewater.
Under the chloride rule, the DEP would follow toxicity data on the impact of chlorides on plant aquatic life set by the federal Environmental Protection Agency in a 1988 study.
Both environmental and industry groups argue the 1988 data is outdated.
A coalition of environmental groups, including Clean Water Action and the Delaware Riverkeeper Network, note that DEP has the authority to adopt standards more stringent than federal criteria. They want new studies on chloride contamination that focus on aquatic life in Pennsylvania.
The Pennsylvania Coal Association suggests other industries are adversely affected by the focus on Marcellus Shale drilling.
"The proposed regulation does have the potential to again sweep in a wide range of many other Pennsylvania industries, including the mining industry, who to date have not been generally required, to sample for, or treat, chloride in their wastewater discharges," the association said.
This week the state Independent Regulatory Review Commission urged DEP to rewrite the proposal.
"We agree that basing the new criteria on outdated data when more recent data is available is not reasonable," the commissioners said.
rswift@timesshamrock.com"
This is not my work,but here are my comments:
1. I have commented on NPDES Discharge Permits - I think it is critical we take a hard look at the permit limits we set for parameters such as chloride and sulfate.
2. We should be concerned with applying this very conservative limit to all industries - for example it could be very difficult to treat mine drainage if this standard had to be meet.
3. If this standard was applied to all NPDES permits - it may be a challenge to manage stormwater runoff and may require us to change how we deal with snow.
4. I would strongly recommend we take into consider the side effects of regulation.
5. If the concern is in-stream levels of contamination - we should also target and be concerned about urban runoff and the increasing the amount of groundwater recharge that sustains stream baseflows
My thoughts
PS: I will approve only comments that are constructive - so if you want to just vent - post on your own blog
Friday, July 16, 2010
Pennsylvania - Failure of Well Control - New Well Control Guidelines in response to Clearfield Accident
"Untrained personnel and the failure to use proper well control procedures were the principal causes of a June 3 natural gas well blowout in Clearfield County, according to an independent investigation released today by the Department of Environmental Protection.
DEP Secretary John Hanger said the blowout, which allowed natural gas and wastewater to escape from the well uncontrollably for 16 hours, was the result of failures by the well's operator, EOG Resources. The company and its contractor, C.C. Forbes LLC, lost control of the well while performing post-fracturing well cleanout activities.
"The blowout in Clearfield County was caused by EOG Resources and its failure to have proper barriers in place. This incident was preventable and should never have occurred," said Secretary Hanger, who added that EOG Resources has been ordered to take nine corrective actions; C.C. Forbes ordered to take six corrective actions and both companies were fined more than $400,000, collectively.
Following a 40-day suspension of operations in Pennsylvania, EOG Resources and C.C. Forbes were permitted to resume all well completion activities. EOG Resources, formerly known as Enron Oil & Gas Co., operates approximately 297 active wells in Pennsylvania, 139 of which are in the Marcellus Shale formation.
The report was compiled by John Vittitow, whom DEP hired to conduct a thorough and independent investigation into all aspects of EOG's drilling operation based on his respected reputation in the industry as an experienced petroleum engineer. The investigation was conducted alongside, but independently of, DEP's investigation.
"Make no mistake, this could have been a catastrophic incident," Secretary Hanger said. "Had the gas blowing out of this well ignited, the human cost would have been tragic, and had an explosion allowed this well to discharge wastewater for days or weeks, the environmental damage would have been significant."
In light of the investigation's findings, Secretary Hanger said his agency has written each company drilling into the Marcellus Shale to ensure they understand proper well construction and emergency notification procedures. The letter stated that:
-- A snubbing unit, which prevents pipes from ejecting uncontrollably from a well, may be used to clean out the composite frac plugs and sand during post-fracturing (post-frac) if coil tubing is not an option.
-- A minimum of two pressure barriers should be in place during all post-frac cleanout operations.
-- Any blowout preventer equipment should be tested immediately after its installation and before its use. Records of these tests should be kept on file at the well site or with the well site supervisor.
-- A sign with DEP's 24-hour emergency telephone number and local emergency response numbers, including 911 and the county communications center, should be posted prominently at each well site.
-- At least one well site supervisor who has a current well control certification from a recognized institution should be on location during post-frac cleanout operations. These certifications should be in possession at all times.
-- A remote-controlled, independently powered blowout preventer unit, which allows workers to control what's happening on the rig at a safe distance, must be located a minimum of 100 feet from the well and operational during all post-frac cleanout operations.
The fines assessed to EOG Resources and C.C. Forbes—for $353,400 and $46,600, respectively—will cover the cost of DEP's response to the incident and the investigation. In addition to the financial penalties, DEP ordered EOG Resources to implement practices and take nine corrective actions to avoid a repeat of this incident. C.C. Forbes was ordered to implement similar practices and to take six corrective actions".
Get the Reports
http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/minres/oilgas/PunxsutawneyHuntingClub36HWell%20Report/EOG.htm
Letters to Operators
http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/minres/oilgas/PunxsutawneyHuntingClub36HWell%20Report/15.Gas%20Well%20Operators.pdf
The Upside
1. We are finally seeing real fines.
2. The state is standing up to the industry - identifing weaknesses and improving the safety of the process.
3. In addition, I am hoping that on top of the fines the drillers should may for the cost of the investigation and any environmental damage.
More Work Needed
1. Maybe the state will consider requiring drillers to at least complete some type of formal training specifically related to drilling for Marcellus shale and other shale plays in PA - before allowing a company to drill.
Source: PA Environmental Digest -
http://paenvironmentdaily.blogspot.com/2010/07/dep-releases-report-on-clearfield.html
DEP Secretary John Hanger said the blowout, which allowed natural gas and wastewater to escape from the well uncontrollably for 16 hours, was the result of failures by the well's operator, EOG Resources. The company and its contractor, C.C. Forbes LLC, lost control of the well while performing post-fracturing well cleanout activities.
"The blowout in Clearfield County was caused by EOG Resources and its failure to have proper barriers in place. This incident was preventable and should never have occurred," said Secretary Hanger, who added that EOG Resources has been ordered to take nine corrective actions; C.C. Forbes ordered to take six corrective actions and both companies were fined more than $400,000, collectively.
Following a 40-day suspension of operations in Pennsylvania, EOG Resources and C.C. Forbes were permitted to resume all well completion activities. EOG Resources, formerly known as Enron Oil & Gas Co., operates approximately 297 active wells in Pennsylvania, 139 of which are in the Marcellus Shale formation.
The report was compiled by John Vittitow, whom DEP hired to conduct a thorough and independent investigation into all aspects of EOG's drilling operation based on his respected reputation in the industry as an experienced petroleum engineer. The investigation was conducted alongside, but independently of, DEP's investigation.
"Make no mistake, this could have been a catastrophic incident," Secretary Hanger said. "Had the gas blowing out of this well ignited, the human cost would have been tragic, and had an explosion allowed this well to discharge wastewater for days or weeks, the environmental damage would have been significant."
In light of the investigation's findings, Secretary Hanger said his agency has written each company drilling into the Marcellus Shale to ensure they understand proper well construction and emergency notification procedures. The letter stated that:
-- A snubbing unit, which prevents pipes from ejecting uncontrollably from a well, may be used to clean out the composite frac plugs and sand during post-fracturing (post-frac) if coil tubing is not an option.
-- A minimum of two pressure barriers should be in place during all post-frac cleanout operations.
-- Any blowout preventer equipment should be tested immediately after its installation and before its use. Records of these tests should be kept on file at the well site or with the well site supervisor.
-- A sign with DEP's 24-hour emergency telephone number and local emergency response numbers, including 911 and the county communications center, should be posted prominently at each well site.
-- At least one well site supervisor who has a current well control certification from a recognized institution should be on location during post-frac cleanout operations. These certifications should be in possession at all times.
-- A remote-controlled, independently powered blowout preventer unit, which allows workers to control what's happening on the rig at a safe distance, must be located a minimum of 100 feet from the well and operational during all post-frac cleanout operations.
The fines assessed to EOG Resources and C.C. Forbes—for $353,400 and $46,600, respectively—will cover the cost of DEP's response to the incident and the investigation. In addition to the financial penalties, DEP ordered EOG Resources to implement practices and take nine corrective actions to avoid a repeat of this incident. C.C. Forbes was ordered to implement similar practices and to take six corrective actions".
Get the Reports
http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/minres/oilgas/PunxsutawneyHuntingClub36HWell%20Report/EOG.htm
Letters to Operators
http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/minres/oilgas/PunxsutawneyHuntingClub36HWell%20Report/15.Gas%20Well%20Operators.pdf
The Upside
1. We are finally seeing real fines.
2. The state is standing up to the industry - identifing weaknesses and improving the safety of the process.
3. In addition, I am hoping that on top of the fines the drillers should may for the cost of the investigation and any environmental damage.
More Work Needed
1. Maybe the state will consider requiring drillers to at least complete some type of formal training specifically related to drilling for Marcellus shale and other shale plays in PA - before allowing a company to drill.
Source: PA Environmental Digest -
http://paenvironmentdaily.blogspot.com/2010/07/dep-releases-report-on-clearfield.html
Wilkes University - Homeowner Outreach Program - Harveys Lake Area
Drinking water well testing offered
Published: July 9, 2010
http://citizensvoice.com/news/drinking-water-well-testing-offered-1.882822
Harveys Lake Environmental Advisory Council, in partnership with Wilkes University, is offering a package of drinking water well tests to borough residents at a discounted price.
Wilkes University's Water Quality Laboratory will measure residents' water for pH, conductivity, turbidity, total dissolved solids, total coliform, fecal coliform, fecal streptococcus, sodium, potassium, copper, iron, manganese, zinc, chloride, sulfate, nitrate-nitrite, and phosphate. Additional parameters will be tested this year.
However, residents should note that the testing is for informational and educational purposes only and does not meet the legal requirements for baseline water testing related to natural gas drilling.
EAC Vice President Catherine Link said the council offers the testing about every two years, as a public service to the community.
The tests are as comprehensive as the ones that cost more: residents are charged $75 for the package, which has a retail value of at least $180, according to Link.
Interested residents should register with EAC Administrative Assistant Denise Sult by calling 639-1042. Participants can pick up water sampling kits at the Harveys Lake Borough Building between July 12 and 24.
Water samples must be dropped off between 10 a.m. and noon on July 24 in the borough building's meeting room, where scientists will perform certain tests immediately.
Confidential final test results will be mailed to participants directly from the Wilkes laboratory within two weeks of the testing date. Payment in full for the testing is due on July 24
A free follow-up question-and-answer session on water well systems and non-point source pollution issues will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 14, by Brian Oram, a professional geologist and director of the Wilkes University Center for Environmental Quality Water Lab.
The next Harveys Lake Environmental Advisory Council meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the borough building. Meetings are open to the public.
http://www.wilkes.edu/water
New Publication is Online
*****
Comment - attend the August 14 session to learn more about wellhead protection, baseline monitoring, well construction, and non-point source pollution control.
Other informational water testing services
http://www.carbon-filtration.com/
Published: July 9, 2010
http://citizensvoice.com/news/drinking-water-well-testing-offered-1.882822
Harveys Lake Environmental Advisory Council, in partnership with Wilkes University, is offering a package of drinking water well tests to borough residents at a discounted price.
Wilkes University's Water Quality Laboratory will measure residents' water for pH, conductivity, turbidity, total dissolved solids, total coliform, fecal coliform, fecal streptococcus, sodium, potassium, copper, iron, manganese, zinc, chloride, sulfate, nitrate-nitrite, and phosphate. Additional parameters will be tested this year.
However, residents should note that the testing is for informational and educational purposes only and does not meet the legal requirements for baseline water testing related to natural gas drilling.
EAC Vice President Catherine Link said the council offers the testing about every two years, as a public service to the community.
The tests are as comprehensive as the ones that cost more: residents are charged $75 for the package, which has a retail value of at least $180, according to Link.
Interested residents should register with EAC Administrative Assistant Denise Sult by calling 639-1042. Participants can pick up water sampling kits at the Harveys Lake Borough Building between July 12 and 24.
Water samples must be dropped off between 10 a.m. and noon on July 24 in the borough building's meeting room, where scientists will perform certain tests immediately.
Confidential final test results will be mailed to participants directly from the Wilkes laboratory within two weeks of the testing date. Payment in full for the testing is due on July 24
A free follow-up question-and-answer session on water well systems and non-point source pollution issues will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 14, by Brian Oram, a professional geologist and director of the Wilkes University Center for Environmental Quality Water Lab.
The next Harveys Lake Environmental Advisory Council meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the borough building. Meetings are open to the public.
http://www.wilkes.edu/water
New Publication is Online
*****
Comment - attend the August 14 session to learn more about wellhead protection, baseline monitoring, well construction, and non-point source pollution control.
Other informational water testing services
http://www.carbon-filtration.com/
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Delaware River Basin - Marcellus Shale Status Agency to reconsider natural gas drilling stoppage
Not may work - just posting email received - please go to original article.
"Agency to reconsider natural gas drilling stoppage
By GEOFF MULVIHILL and MARC LEVY (AP) –
http://www.kansascity.com/2010/07/14/2084138/agency-to-reconsider-natural-gas.html
WEST TRENTON, N.J. — The Delaware River Basin Commission agreed Wednesday to hold hearings in northeast Pennsylvania on whether to strengthen or weaken its moratorium on natural gas drilling deep below the river basin.
At issue the quality and quantity of water in the Delaware River watershed, a mile beneath which lies the vast and natural gas-rich Marcellus Shale formation, most of it in New York and Pennsylvania. The gas is extracted by hydraulic fracturing or "fracking," a horizontal drilling process using millions of gallons of water mixed with chemicals and sand — with the potential, critics say, to pollute and deplete the region's water resources.
Nearly 600 residents attended Wednesday's daylong DRBC meeting to plead their clashing cases: that drilling is needed not only to produce relatively clean energy but to save economically desperate communities — or that the process threatens groundwater and surface water pollution and could deplete streams and aquifers.
Landowners like Judy Ahrens of Hanesdale, Pa., argued that they should be able to lease the mineral rights to their land.
"It enables those of us who have farms to keep our farms so they can be passed on to our families so they don't have to be split up and developed," she said. Ahrens has sold the mineral rights on her 120-acre hay farm to a gas company.
Opponents say they are concerned about the chemicals used in fracking, some of them toxic and suspected human carcinogens.
"If we can't protect our drinking water, at what point are we letting corporate America just take over?" asked Carmen Barnes, of New York City, before the meeting.
In a related development Wednesday, one of the leading natural gas drillers in Pennsylvania disclosed the chemicals it uses in fracking, saying it wants to defuse the growing controversy about the industry's secrecy over the chemicals.
"We believe strongly that there's nothing to hide and the way to demonstrate it is to show it," said Matt Pitzarella, a spokesman for Range Resources Corp.
The Fort Worth, Texas-based company, which has permits to drill hundreds of wells in Pennsylvania's Marcellus Shale, does not use carcinogenic materials in its process, Pitzarella said.
The Marcellus Shale has drawn a stampede of natural gas drilling companies to Pennsylvania in the last two years, lured by higher prices for natural gas and the ability to use the fracking process to extract huge amounts of the fuel. Last year, the DRBC declared a moratorium on drilling in the Delaware River basin while it works on regulations; without a permit to withdraw water, drilling companies can't operate.
That moratorium was extended in May to exploratory drilling as well. But Wednesday, it voted to allow two new exploratory wells in a part of Wayne County, Pa.
The commission said it expects to have a draft of its proposed regulations later this summer and a final vote by the end of the year.
Some gas interests are calling for the commission to overturn the moratorium entirely.
The DRBC, a compact representing the federal government and the states of Delaware, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, has legal authority for water quality and quantity issues in the Delaware River basin.
While Pennsylvania does allow natural gas drilling by hydraulic fracturing, New York has declared a moratorium while it adopts its own state regulations.
Critics of the fracking process point to a major blowout on June 3 in Clearfield County, Pa., where gas and wastewater spewed out of control for 16 hours before the well was capped. On Tuesday, Pennsylvania's Department of Environmental Protection slapped a $400,000 penalty on the driller, EOG Resources Inc., and its contractor on the job, for failing to use a proper backup system when it hooked the well to a pipeline.
The Range Resources announcement was well-received by the nonprofit environmental group Clean Water Action.
"This has been the most responsive thing we've seen industry do," said Myron Arnowitt, the group's Pennsylvania state director. "It sounds like they are starting to get what would be helpful for people."
Pitzarella, the Range Resources spokesman, said the company provided to The Associated Press the complete list of hazardous chemicals it uses in its Pennsylvania drilling operations. The hazardous chemicals are heavily diluted with water and sand, he said, and make up no more than 0.04 percent of everything pumped into the ground.
"At that dilution, they pose little and probably zero health impacts," Pitzarella said. Still, Arnowitt said he worries that the chemicals are not diluted enough to be safe for human exposure.
State environmental regulators, as well as industry officials, say they know of no examples of fracking chemicals poisoning underground drinking water sources in Pennsylvania or elsewhere. However, environmental advocates contend that not enough research has been done to come to that conclusion.
Arnowitt said he needed time to study the list and concentrations.
"The concentrations are certainly high enough that ... I don't think anyone looking at this could say, 'Oh yeah, this looks fine,'" Arnowitt said.
The chemicals include hydrochloric acid, glutaraldehyde, ethylene glycol, methanol, ethanol, propargyl alcohol, sodium hydroxide and n-alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride.
The Sierra Club congratulated Range Resources on the "first step" and then called on other gas drilling companies to disclose their chemicals used in each state.
Levy reported from Harrisburg."
Comments
1. Threat to water resources - non-point source pollution and uncontrolled urban runoff and lack of recharge is our biggest threat to our water resources. This means - agricultural runoff, urban runoff, etc. In addition, the endocrin disruptors and cancer treatment drugs and medications are entering our streams and watersheds through improper disposal, wastewater discharges, poor non-point source pollution control, and uncontrolled discharges from CSOs (combined sewer overflows). Professionally speaking - I believe that CSOs, poorly treated wastewater and uncontrolled urban/ agriculutural runoff are significant threats to our watersheds.
2.I believe in full disclosure on chemicals that are used and volumes used and I would hope that the industry would attempt to use chemicals that are efficient and environmentally benign as possible - this should be regulated by the State and not a federal agency. I do not have a problem with the frac process being part of a regulatory review and permitting - but since this is not deep well injection - this permit should be handled by the PADEP.
3. I do not believe the River Basin should delay permits in this manner over this activity - Deep well injection is covered by the EPA and fracking is not deep well injection- I do not believe they have the authority to regulate and there is no need to get an NPDES permit for the frac process.
4. I believe state regulations need to be changed, we need more disclosure.
Just my thoughts
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Metering Private Wells to Control Drought ???
WHAT GOOD DOES IT DO TO KNOW HOW MUCH WATER IS USED WHEN YOU DON'T KNOW HOW MUCH WATER YOU HAVE?
http://www.tnonline.com/node/115528
Nesquehoning needs to meter all wells
Reported on Tuesday, July 13, 2010
By CAROL ZICKLER TN Correspondent tneditor@tnonline.com
Nesquehoning resident Tom Merman has not given up on his quest to find out about metering the wells in the community.
At Monday night's meeting of the Nesquehoning Borough Water Authority, Merman did not get a chance to ask the big question once again. The authority's solicitor Robert Yurchak spoke up first notifying Merman and the board that there is an ordinance requiring metering of all water wells in the borough. "But it's up to the borough council to enforce the law," said Atty. Yurchak.
Merman replied, "They should not be controlling the water authority, you should be controlling them." He wants "all" the wells metered so that the water authority will then know how much water is being used. He said especially during the drought season when others are restricted on water usage.
Frank Parano said there is a meeting of the Carbon County Drought Task Force this Wednesday. Parano serves on the board. He asked Merman if he wants the water authority to be the watch dogs.
Board president David Hawk reminded Merman that Nesquehoning does have ordinances in town. Merman said he is looking for protection for everyone.
****
1. Comments
a. Private wells should not be metered in this fashion.
b. The local agency does not have the authority to allocate or control private water use - only the river basin commission can allocate water and they do not allocate private water use.
c. This metering concern was the reason the PA State Law related to private well construction standards failed.
d. I do not believe the authority has the right to enforce this type of use.
e. The Authority indirectly controls private water usage through other ordiances, i.e. subdivision and land development.
f. The answer is not meters - but education and awareness, water conservation etc.
http://www.tnonline.com/node/115528
Nesquehoning needs to meter all wells
Reported on Tuesday, July 13, 2010
By CAROL ZICKLER TN Correspondent tneditor@tnonline.com
Nesquehoning resident Tom Merman has not given up on his quest to find out about metering the wells in the community.
At Monday night's meeting of the Nesquehoning Borough Water Authority, Merman did not get a chance to ask the big question once again. The authority's solicitor Robert Yurchak spoke up first notifying Merman and the board that there is an ordinance requiring metering of all water wells in the borough. "But it's up to the borough council to enforce the law," said Atty. Yurchak.
Merman replied, "They should not be controlling the water authority, you should be controlling them." He wants "all" the wells metered so that the water authority will then know how much water is being used. He said especially during the drought season when others are restricted on water usage.
Frank Parano said there is a meeting of the Carbon County Drought Task Force this Wednesday. Parano serves on the board. He asked Merman if he wants the water authority to be the watch dogs.
Board president David Hawk reminded Merman that Nesquehoning does have ordinances in town. Merman said he is looking for protection for everyone.
****
1. Comments
a. Private wells should not be metered in this fashion.
b. The local agency does not have the authority to allocate or control private water use - only the river basin commission can allocate water and they do not allocate private water use.
c. This metering concern was the reason the PA State Law related to private well construction standards failed.
d. I do not believe the authority has the right to enforce this type of use.
e. The Authority indirectly controls private water usage through other ordiances, i.e. subdivision and land development.
f. The answer is not meters - but education and awareness, water conservation etc.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Getting the Waters Tested - Informational and Educational Program in Luzerne County, PA
On Saturday morning, July 24, a comprehensive package of drinking water tests will be offered once again at a deeply discounted price to Harveys Lake residents by Wilkes University together with the Harveys Lake EAC.
On Saturday morning, August 14, a free follow-up Q&A session on water well systems and non-point source pollution issues will be held. This discussion will also include a summary of the available water quality data, regional water quality, and the other regional issues.
The test package will remain priced at $75 (compared to a retail value of at least $180), but additional parameters will be tested this year. The Wilkes University Water Quality Laboratory will measure residents' water for pH, conductivity, turbidity, total dissolved solids, total coliform, fecal coliform, fecal streptococcus, sodium, potassium, copper, iron, manganese, zinc, chloride, sulfate, nitrate-nitrite, and phosphate. (This testing is being done for informational and educational purposes only and does not meet the requirements of a legal baseline.) The purpose of this testing is to help you, the citizen, identify or explain current water quality problems, evaluate your existing treatment system, and to help understand the quality of the water as it relates to the longer management of the lake, i.e., nutrient loading.
Interested residents should register with Denise, at 639-1042. Participants can pick up water sampling kits at the Harveys Lake Borough Building between July 12 and 24. Water samples must be dropped off between 10am and noon on July 24 at the Borough Building’s meeting room, where scientists will perform certain tests immediately. Confidential final test results will be mailed to participants directly from the Wilkes laboratory within two weeks of the testing date. Payment in full for the testing is due on July 24.
The well water and non-point source pollution Q&A session will be conducted at 10AM on August 7 by Brian Oram, a professional geologist and Director of the Wilkes University Center for Environmental Quality Water Lab. Brian will make an informative presentation and then take questions from the public. Brian’s past Q&A sessions here at the lake have been greatly appreciated by all attendees.
Additional supports of the Q&A program and educational outreach are The Consortium for Scientific Assistance to Watersheds (C-SAW), the Pocono Northeast Resource Conservation and Development Council and Wilkes University.
If you are looking to conduct a baseline water quality assessment - this water testing is not for you, but the information session on August 7, 2010 may be helpful. If you are looking for a certified testing laboratory, please consider downloading this spreadsheet.
The Wilkes University - Water Quality Website is http://www.wilkes.edu/water
A new free publication is available to the Community.
On Saturday morning, August 14, a free follow-up Q&A session on water well systems and non-point source pollution issues will be held. This discussion will also include a summary of the available water quality data, regional water quality, and the other regional issues.
The test package will remain priced at $75 (compared to a retail value of at least $180), but additional parameters will be tested this year. The Wilkes University Water Quality Laboratory will measure residents' water for pH, conductivity, turbidity, total dissolved solids, total coliform, fecal coliform, fecal streptococcus, sodium, potassium, copper, iron, manganese, zinc, chloride, sulfate, nitrate-nitrite, and phosphate. (This testing is being done for informational and educational purposes only and does not meet the requirements of a legal baseline.) The purpose of this testing is to help you, the citizen, identify or explain current water quality problems, evaluate your existing treatment system, and to help understand the quality of the water as it relates to the longer management of the lake, i.e., nutrient loading.
Interested residents should register with Denise, at 639-1042. Participants can pick up water sampling kits at the Harveys Lake Borough Building between July 12 and 24. Water samples must be dropped off between 10am and noon on July 24 at the Borough Building’s meeting room, where scientists will perform certain tests immediately. Confidential final test results will be mailed to participants directly from the Wilkes laboratory within two weeks of the testing date. Payment in full for the testing is due on July 24.
The well water and non-point source pollution Q&A session will be conducted at 10AM on August 7 by Brian Oram, a professional geologist and Director of the Wilkes University Center for Environmental Quality Water Lab. Brian will make an informative presentation and then take questions from the public. Brian’s past Q&A sessions here at the lake have been greatly appreciated by all attendees.
Additional supports of the Q&A program and educational outreach are The Consortium for Scientific Assistance to Watersheds (C-SAW), the Pocono Northeast Resource Conservation and Development Council and Wilkes University.
If you are looking to conduct a baseline water quality assessment - this water testing is not for you, but the information session on August 7, 2010 may be helpful. If you are looking for a certified testing laboratory, please consider downloading this spreadsheet.
The Wilkes University - Water Quality Website is http://www.wilkes.edu/water
A new free publication is available to the Community.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
LEED-AP Certification, LEED Prep Exam, Green Associate and Sustainable Design
Become a LEED-Accredited Professional, Green Building Design, LEED and Sustainable System Design Implementation and Training / Certification Programs
B.F. Environmental Consultants Inc. of Dallas, Pennsylvania has collaborated with online training centers to make available quality distance learning courses in alternative and renewable energy, alternative energy training, energy efficiency, Green Building Design, LEED AP, and Sustainability Analysis. This program is part of our workforce development, green career training programs, and our licensed professional training programs.
Courses meet USGBC guidelines and have been designed and our approved to assist with exam preparation and credential maintenance. The programs are a wonderful source for LEED and green building knowledge – whether a professional is preparing for a LEED exam, maintaining their credential, seeking support while working on a LEED project, or simply looking to expand their LEED and green building knowledge.
http://www.bfenvironmental.com/leedtrain.php
B.F. Environmental Consultants Inc. of Dallas, Pennsylvania has collaborated with online training centers to make available quality distance learning courses in alternative and renewable energy, alternative energy training, energy efficiency, Green Building Design, LEED AP, and Sustainability Analysis. This program is part of our workforce development, green career training programs, and our licensed professional training programs.
Courses meet USGBC guidelines and have been designed and our approved to assist with exam preparation and credential maintenance. The programs are a wonderful source for LEED and green building knowledge – whether a professional is preparing for a LEED exam, maintaining their credential, seeking support while working on a LEED project, or simply looking to expand their LEED and green building knowledge.
http://www.bfenvironmental.com/leedtrain.php
Chapter 78 Oil & Gas Regs Pennsylvania aim to increase drinking water protection attend a meeting
4 DEP Public Comment Meetings about Proposed Chapter 78 changes to provide stronger regulations for Oil and Gas Wells (including Marcellus wells): please review the proposed regs (see link below) and offer comments, as the intention of these regs according to the first paragraph, is to offer increased protection for public and private drinking water supplies in Pennsylvania.
LEGAL NOTICE The PA Department of Environmental Protection will hold four meetings during the month of July 2010 to receive comments on the proposed changes to 25 Pa. Code Chapter 78. The new and amended sections are §§78.1, .51, .71 - 73, .81 - .85, .88, .89, .91 - .96, .121 and .122.
The meetings will begin at 7:00 p.m. at each location.
They will be held July 19 at the Tunkhannock Area High School Auditorium in Tunkhannock, PA;
July 21 at Lycoming College Heim Science Center Building, Room G-11 at Williamsport, PA;
July 22 at DEPs Northwest Regional Office, 1st Floor Conference Room in Meadville, PA; and
July 22 at DEPs Southwest Regional Office, Waterfront Conference Room A and B, in Pittsburgh, PA.
If you need an accommodation due to a disability and want to attend the meeting, please contact Millie Raudabaugh directly at 717-772-2199, or through the Pennsylvania AT&T Relay Service at 1-800-654-5984 at least 24 hours in advance so arrangements can be made.
ADVANCED NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULEMAKING dealing with Oil and Gas Wells:
http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/minres/oilgas/Oil%20&%20Gas%20Documents/CHAPTER%2078%20Revisions%20January%2027%202010.pdf
From DEP Website:
Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking: Oil and Gas Wells
Published PA Bulletin Notice http://www.pabulletin.com/secure/data/vol40/40-5/183.html
Proposal
http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/minres/oilgas/Oil%20&%20Gas%20Documents/CHAPTER%2078%20Revisions%20January%2027%202010.pdf
Things you can do
1. Review Proposal.
2. Comment
3. Attend Public Meeting
LEGAL NOTICE The PA Department of Environmental Protection will hold four meetings during the month of July 2010 to receive comments on the proposed changes to 25 Pa. Code Chapter 78. The new and amended sections are §§78.1, .51, .71 - 73, .81 - .85, .88, .89, .91 - .96, .121 and .122.
The meetings will begin at 7:00 p.m. at each location.
They will be held July 19 at the Tunkhannock Area High School Auditorium in Tunkhannock, PA;
July 21 at Lycoming College Heim Science Center Building, Room G-11 at Williamsport, PA;
July 22 at DEPs Northwest Regional Office, 1st Floor Conference Room in Meadville, PA; and
July 22 at DEPs Southwest Regional Office, Waterfront Conference Room A and B, in Pittsburgh, PA.
If you need an accommodation due to a disability and want to attend the meeting, please contact Millie Raudabaugh directly at 717-772-2199, or through the Pennsylvania AT&T Relay Service at 1-800-654-5984 at least 24 hours in advance so arrangements can be made.
ADVANCED NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULEMAKING dealing with Oil and Gas Wells:
http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/minres/oilgas/Oil%20&%20Gas%20Documents/CHAPTER%2078%20Revisions%20January%2027%202010.pdf
From DEP Website:
Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking: Oil and Gas Wells
Published PA Bulletin Notice http://www.pabulletin.com/secure/data/vol40/40-5/183.html
Proposal
http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/minres/oilgas/Oil%20&%20Gas%20Documents/CHAPTER%2078%20Revisions%20January%2027%202010.pdf
Things you can do
1. Review Proposal.
2. Comment
3. Attend Public Meeting
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