Protecting Water

To the editor:

More and more, Pennsylvanians are becoming aware of the many environmental threats posed by drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus Shale.

In recent months, gas drilling in Pennsylvania has led to toxic pollution in nearby streams and rivers, and local communities’ drinking water supplies being contaminated.

We need to make sure that if gas drilling is taking place, it’s done in ways that protect public health and our environment.

Luckily, the public has an opportunity to have its voice heard on this important issue. The Pa. Dept. of Environmental Protection (DEP) is asking for comments to see how gas drilling should be addressed in Pennsylvania.

We need DEP to implement strong health-based standards for chemicals associated with drilling activities and the waste water being produced. We also need these standards implemented as quickly as possible.

Erika Staaf PennEnvironment

Pittsburgh