>Feb. 10, 2011
After hearing the concerns voiced by constituents and meeting with industry groups and state officials, Del. Wendell R. Beitzel (R- Dist. 1A) and Sen. George C. Edwards (R-Dist. 1) have introduced a measure in the General Assembly regarding the establishment of regulations on Marcellus shale natural gas exploration.
“Our goal is to put in place a clear framework for permitting so the drilling and fracturing operations are properly regulated to minimize environmental risks,” Beitzel said.
The proposed legislation (House Bill 411/Senate Bill 422) would require the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) to submit regulations to the Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review regarding natural gas exploration and production in the Marcellus shale formation no later than Dec. 31.
“Gov. O’Malley spoke today (Feb. 3) of the need to streamline the permitting process without compromising our environment,” Edwards said. “This bill is accomplishing the exact balance the governor spoke of in his State of the State.”
The bill outlines a number of issues that MDE would have to address. These issues include requirements relating to the following:
1. A water testing plan to ensure drinking water resources are protected, including requirements for surface well casing, grouting, and inspections.
2. The containment and disposal of fluid used in hydraulic fracturing processes.
3. The identification of all chemicals and materials used in hydraulic fracturing processes.
4. Prohibiting the unregulated discharge of drilling materials and fluids into streams, ponds, and other bodies of water for which the discharge has not been approved by the department.
5. Site reclamation and bonding.
The Marcellus shale runs from West Virginia to New York and is located in Garrett and Allegany counties.
