The more information that is disseminated, the more negativity seems to surround the potential of Marcellus Shale drilling for natural gas in Murrysville.

Two representatives from the School of Forest Resources at Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences were on hand June 16 to provide information and answer questions during a Marcellus Shale informational session at Murrysville's council chambers.

Residents have packed this and similar sessions since representatives from Range Resources announced in the spring that they intend to look into setting up a well site near the intersection of Logans Ferry and Saltsburg roads.

Many have had questions regarding the potential impact to the community and environment.

Gary Sheppard, director of Penn State's Westmoreland County Extension, discussed property leasing issues. His colleague, Dana Rizzo, Penn State Westmoreland County Extension educator, lectured the audience on how the drilling could affect the area's water supply.

"The first Marcellus Shale gas well was drilled in Pennsylvania five years ago," Mr. Sheppard said. "We don't know everything. We're in the process of educating ourselves on this subject too."

The Marcellus Shale is a layer of rock located one to two miles below the Earth's surface. Most energy experts believe it contains up to 300 trillion cubic feet of natural gas.

With that resource comes the expectation of a financial bonanza that can be reaped by area gas companies. Murrysville and other communities in Westmoreland County and some in Washington County are now targeted by those companies.

Mr. Sheppard stressed that if area residents are approached by gas company representatives, they should seek legal counsel, especially if there is a desire on the property owner's part to enter into a lease agreement.

"These leases will contain a whole lot of legal language and terms," Mr. Sheppard said. "You should get an attorney with knowledge regarding this topic to guide you through the process."

He added that many residents in the region with these wells are not receiving as much in royalties as they should.

"This is something that needs to be discussed," he explained. "Why that is the case, we don't know. That is why more research must be done by those who are thinking about doing business with the gas companies."

Mr. Sheppard said information can be found on the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection website.

"The land owner is in control up until the lease with the gas company is signed," Mr. Sheppard explained. "Items such as noise barriers and what kind of infrastructure can be put on the site should be included in the lease. That is why it is important to gain the service of an attorney."

Ms. Rizzo said the state does regulate where a well can be drilled in regard to a water supply. According to state regulations, a well cannot be drilled within 200 feet from a supply of drinking water such as a well, spring or reservoir.

She added that property owners should have their water supply tested by a third party before and after drilling.

"Bringing a bottle of water will not hold up in court," Ms. Rizzo said.

One resident said she believed the duo from Penn State was marketing the drilling process. Mr. Sheppard assured the resident his organization did not receive a dime from the gas industry.

"This is simply an informational session," said Murrysville municipal council president Joan Kearns. "Should you be approached by the gas company, get a lawyer and talk to your neighbors and do your due diligence."

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