HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has issued its first Shale Gas Monitoring Report specifically related to gas drilling in state forests. Among many findings the report noted, “Overall, approximately 1,486 acres of forest have been converted to facilitate shale-gas development. This included 161 miles of new or improved roads, 191 pads (of all types), and 104 miles of new or widened pipelines.”

In addressing air quality specifically, the report says, “There are both positive and negative effects on air quality from shale-gas development. Short-term studies have demonstrated that gas-related compounds, particularly odor-causing compounds, are present in the vicinity of shale-gas operations. However, these short-term studies were not able to offer conclusive evidence about the long-term or cumulative impacts of shale-gas development on air quality. DEP [the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection] is in the midst of a long-term study that will address these concerns. DEP continues to regulate air emissions from shale-gas operators, primarily through industry-specific permit exemptions and general permits.

Go to www.dcnr.state.pa.us to view the entire 268-page report.