Water Consumption for Drilling a Concern in Summer Months

The Marcellus Shale natural gas industry in northern Pennsylvania is projected to require up to 30 million gallons of water a day for drilling purposes. Public concern over seasonal low flows and requirements for drilling has led to an increase in complaints on water withdrawal.

The Susquehanna River Basin Commission is responsible for managing locations and volumes for drawing water, as well as handling public concern. The commission finds that most complaints are due to confusion concerning where the industry may legally draw water.

Compared to public and power plant consumption, the industry uses relatively little water and less than the amount allocated by the commission.

Read the complete article at Buffalo News.