On August 11, 2015, the Delaware RiverKeeper Network,
a non-profit organization, released a study
entitled “The Potential Environmental Impact from Fracking in the Delaware
River Basin.” The study provides estimates and projections concerning the
potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing in the Basin where Marcellus Shale
development can reasonably be expected – assuming that the active moratorium on
hydraulic fracturing would be lifted.
Based on geospatial analysis and statistical modeling
to determine the most probable locations for the placement of unconventional
wells, researchers examined the potential effects and concerns of shale
development in the Basin on environment and public health.
The study concludes by stating that if “natural gas
development occurs as projected, natural gas infrastructure will become a
widespread and prominent feature of the landscape in the Upper [Delaware River
Basin]” while adverse effects resulting from such activity would create a broad
range of issues including forest fragmentation, water withdrawal and wastewater
discharge, hydrologic and water-quality changes, air emissions, and potential
health impacts.
According to the researchers, this study is “intended
to help decision-makers and the public understand the scale of the potential
impacts.” In November 2011, the Delaware River Basin Commission issued draft
regulations on natural gas development in the Basin, but their adoption has
been indefinitely postponed to allow for additional review and consideration of
the proposed rules.
Further information on these draft regulations is
available at
Written by Chloe Marie - Research Fellow
08/12/2015
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