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I will not provide you with a simple yes or no answer, as I must answer your question in a factual, unbiased manner.

Drilling and fracturing the Marcellus Shale formation has been a very significant boost in the supply of natural gas in the US. There are a number of environmental issues with the drilling and hydraulic fracturing of this shale formation. I have included a Wikipedia link which gives more details.

Some of the issues are:

1. Road damage caused by the many heavy trucks that are required. Both the transport of drilling equipment and trucks to perform the fraccing are large.

2. Damage caused by compaction of road surface and land, causing runoff and other problems to the environment.

3. Fracturing requires using large quantities of water, which can impact local water resources.

4. Potential for induced seismic events (induced earthquakes). This environmental issue is highly controversial. Minor seismic distrubances that mightfelt only by instruments are termed "earthquakes" sohydraulic fracturing that sets off a minor earthquake might notbe harmful at all. In fact, some have suggested that minor earthquakes help relievelocal stresses.

Obviously, it is a complicated issue, and I recommendthis link, and others from reliable sources, be reviewed.

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12y ago

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Related Questions

Why is marcellus shale named marcellus shale?

Marcellus Shale is named after the town of Marcellus in New York, where the rock formation was first described. It is a type of sedimentary rock that is rich in natural gas and is an important source of natural gas in the United States.


How will natural gas be harnessed in the Marcellus Shale?

fracking


How does the marcellus shale impact the environment?

The Marcellus Shale impacts the environment primarily through natural gas extraction, which involves hydraulic fracturing (fracking). This process can lead to water contamination, habitat disruption, and increased greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the infrastructure required for drilling, such as roads and pipelines, can fragment ecosystems and contribute to air and noise pollution. While it provides economic benefits and energy resources, balancing these with environmental protection remains a significant challenge.


Who discovered the marcellus shale?

The Marcellus Shale was first discovered by geologists in 1839 in Marcellus, New York. The potential of the formation as a natural gas resource was later recognized, leading to its development as a major source of natural gas in the United States.


Inhibition in drilling fluids?

Inhibited drilling fluids are mainly used to prevent shale swelling during drilling operations. These drilling muds can be either oil-based or water-based. The most effective way to prevent shale swelling is using oil-based-mud (OBM), but water based muds (WBM) can also be used if such inhibitors like KCl, etc are added to the drilling fluid.


What is the marcellus shale project about?

The Marcellus Shale project refers to the extraction of natural gas from the Marcellus Shale formation, which spans parts of New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia. This project has gained significant attention for its potential to provide a substantial domestic energy supply through hydraulic fracturing (fracking). While it offers economic benefits and energy independence, it also raises environmental concerns, including water usage, pollution, and the impact on local communities. The project is a key aspect of the broader discussion on energy policy and sustainability in the United States.


What is sloughing shale?

Sloughing shale refers to the process in which layers of shale rock break off and collapse due to the pressure exerted by drilling fluids or the weight of overlying rock formations. This can lead to wellbore instability issues and challenges in drilling operations. Measures such as proper mud weight control and wellbore strengthening techniques are used to mitigate the risks associated with sloughing shale.


Shale for road building?

Shale in general is the most abundant of stratified rocks. One of the most popular forms of shale used for building roads is called Marcellus Shale. When this clay shale is nearly pure it is known as argillaceous. When it contains a lot of sand it is arenaceous. You will find that shale varies in color, reddish, very black, or grey. Shale is used mainly for top dressing on roads. To have a good road base slate is recommended.


Susquehanna Pa. gas drilling permits?

As of October 2023, Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania, continues to be active in natural gas drilling, primarily due to its location in the Marcellus Shale formation. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) issues gas drilling permits, which are subject to environmental regulations and local ordinances. The region has seen a mix of economic benefits from drilling activities, alongside concerns about environmental impacts and community health. Local governments and residents remain engaged in discussions about the balance between economic development and environmental protection.


What city has the largest natural gas field in the US?

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is home to the largest natural gas field in the US, known as the Marcellus Shale field.


How long does a Marcellus shale gas well last?

A Marcellus shale gas well can produce for several decades, with an estimated average production life of 20-30 years. Production rates typically decline over time, but some wells can remain productive for longer periods with proper maintenance and technological advancements.


Horizontal gas drilling by Chesapeake?

Chesapeake is on of the major players in the horizontal gas drilling market with lots and lots of wells in the Barnett shale of north Texas. http://www.energyindustryphotos.com/how_oil_and_gas_wells_are_drille.htm