image description

Marcellus Shale Discussion In Maryland Heating Up

January 9th, 2012 by WCBC Radio

The Marcellus shale discussion in Maryland has been taking the form of weighing the potential economic benefits versus environmental concerns- and the debate is heating up. In order to get the gas trapped in Marcellus shale to the surface, chemicals, water and sand are pumped underground to break apart rock formations and free the gas. The process is called hydraulic fracturing.  Marcellus shale formations throughout the eastern U.S. contain vast untapped natural gas resources. The Cumberland Times News, University of Maryland Extension staff numbers show that the total value of the natural gas in Allegany County’s Marcellus shale could be close to $15.72 billion, with the average well earning $65,000 to $524,000 yearly. Governor Martin O’Malley has placed a moratorium on any drilling until a committee he appointed finalizes its work in 2014.  Local lawmakers feel the Governor and other downstate legislators with visions of national office are placing politics ahead of what’s good for western Maryland. State Senator George Edwards…





One Response to “Marcellus Shale Discussion In Maryland Heating Up”

  1. January 10, 2012 at 8:49 am, Linda Shipway said:

    Isn’t this the same procedure used in Ohio which caused recent earthquakes?

    Reply

Leave a Reply to Linda Shipway