2012 Marcellus Shale Workshop – October 22, 2012

Water Resources Monitoring and Marcellus Shale Gas Development in Western Maryland: What Do We Have, What Do We Need ?

The Maryland Water Monitoring Council is sponsoring a workshop on Water Resources Monitoring and Marcellus Shale Gas Development in Western Maryland: What Do We Have, What Do We Need? The day-long event will be held in the Auditorium (Building #700) at Garrett College, 687 Moser Road, McHenry MD 21541.

The workshop will present an overview of threats potentially-posed by shale gas development to surface and groundwater resources. Speakers will describe the water monitoring information that has been and is being collected by agency staff and citizen scientists in Garrett and Allegany counties. The limitations of Maryland's water monitoring databases will be discussed, and experts will offer recommendations on sampling designs, equipment, and protocols that can be used to close these gaps, if adequate funding becomes available. Perspectives on water monitoring and shale gas development in other mid-Atlantic states and best management practices will also be described. (Click HERE for the Workshop Agenda).

The workshop won't be a "Town Meeting" to discuss the pros and cons of Marcellus Shale gas development in western Maryland. The workshop won't be an introductory course in hydraulic fracturing (fracking), although it will be mentioned. The workshop will not develop a recommended list of regulations or permit requirements that should be adopted to protect drinking water supplies and the environment.

The early-bird registration fee is $30, if paid by October 8. After October 8, the registration fee doubles to $60. To register, use the 2012 Workshop Registration Form. See the link on the Registration Form for directions to Garrett College.
Garrett College is located near the northern shore of scenic Deep Creek Lake, a pleasant 3-1/2 hour drive from Baltimore and Washington, DC. For overnight accommodations, a block of rooms is available at a special conference rate at Wisp Resort for the nights of October 21 and 22 (Click HERE for Lodging Information).

For any additional information on the workshop, contact Ron Klauda (410-260-8615 or rklauda@dnr.state.md.us").