Natural gas drilling in Pennsylvania's Marcellus Shale formation has made news repeatedly this past year. As I have stated before, the mass tort, environmental and real estate/contract litigation arising from Marcellus Shale gas exploration and mining is a very pressing legal issue to many in Pennsylvania.
Until now, Wayne County has remained removed from the controversies associated with drilling, but according to today's Times-Tribune that will soon change. Exploratory wells are planned for this summer, and production is anticipated to begin in 2011 if developers receive their permits.
Some citizens oppose the drilling. The group Damascus Citizens for Sustainability, for example, insists that, "people have a constitutional right to clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the natural, scenic, historic and esthetic values of the environment." Their website lists numerous instances in which drilling has led to water contamination.
Given the potential for water pollution, it remains to be seen whether the Delaware River Basin Commission, a multi-state regulatory agency, will clear the way for production drilling to begin.
If you or someone you know has been affected by this formation in any way, or may be affected in the future, then you should seek representation from Marcellus Shale attorney Patrick M. Rogan as soon as possible to make sure your rights are protected. Contact Rogan Law today.