Lycoming College will host a scientific research summit (Jan. 29) on the environmental consequences of Marcellus Shale development. This symposium is organized by the Susquehanna River Heartland Coalition for Environmental Studies.  Stay tuned for additional details by visiting http://www.srhces.org

Presentations:

Geology and Drilling

An overview of the Marcellus formation and its similarities and differences to other formations. The process of drilling the formation

Dr. John Way, Pennsylvania Geologic Survey (retired), Lock Haven University (retired)

Geo-Chemistry

Do the brine and radon pose problems? How can groundwater and surface water be monitored for contamination? Is Pennsylvania’s geology conducive to deep well injection?

Dr. Carl Kirby, Bucknell University

Steve Platt or Dave Rectenwald, EPA

Bryan Swistock, Penn State Cooperative Extension

Water Withdrawal

SRBC update on their withdrawal monitoring efforts. Report from The Nature Conservancy’s summer research on low flow impacts to aquatic habitat. The difference between groundwater withdrawals and flowing water withdrawal impacts.

Susquehanna River Basin Commission

The Nature Conservancy

Deb Nardone, Trout Unlimited Coldwater Partnership

Water Treatment

Can fracing water be treated to the point of being “clean?” What has been the Brockway Sewer Authority’s experience in treating frac water?

Dr. Kevin Gilmore and Dr. Tom DiStefano, Bucknell University

Tom Keister, Pro Chem Tech

Information

Cost is $10.00 per person, or $5.00 for students; this fee covers continental breakfast, lunch, and handouts.

Register for the symposium electronically by Jan. 26.

for additional updates and details.