Environmental Law

Secretary Krancer Lays Down the Law Before Congress

By Joel Bolstein

In testimony delivered last week before a Congressional Subcommittee in Washington, D.C., PADEP Secretary Michael Krancer did what a thoughtful judge should do.  He set forth both the facts and the law on the subject of Pennsylvania's regulation of the Marcellus Shale. 

In 19 single-spaced pages, Secretary Krancer systematically debunks every myth about fracing, frac fluids, water usage and water impacts arising from natural gas development.   Unlike the emotional appeals of drilling opponents, his testimony relies on unbiased real facts based on actual evidence gathered in the field.  His review of Pennsylvania's laws governing oil and gas well operations is detailed and thorough.  Anyone reading his testimony will surely agree that  Pennsylvania possesses all of the tools that it needs to protect its citizens and the natural resources of the Commonwealth from the risks associated with Marcellus shale exploration and development.   His summation, addressed to those that think EPA can do a better job regulating the Marcellus shale than PADEP, is eloquent and to the point.  He stated:  "Simply put, because of our long history of oil and gas development and comprehensive regulatory structure, Pennsylvania does not need federal intervention to ensure an appropriate balance between resource development and environmental protection is struck."   Well said Secretary Krancer. 

I would urge everyone active in the development of the Marcellus shale to read Secretary' Krancer's testimony.  It presents as compelling a defense as you will read for Pennsylvania being able to control its own economic destiny.        

Full post as published by PA Brownfields Environmental Law on November 21, 2011 (boomark / email).