Bursic, 2:00
L09
THE CONTROVERSY SURROUNDING MARCELLUS SHALE DRILLING
Taylor Williams (tew38@pitt.edu)
INTRODUCTION
In recent years, no issue within the field of engineering
has been as prevalent in the Appalachian Valley as the
controversy surrounding Marcellus Shale drilling. With new
wells and drilling points being constructed in both rural and
suburban areas throughout the area, the Marcellus Shale
Project has become the source of great debate. As an
aspiring civil or environment engineer, the Shale has always
been personally interesting. In the upcoming report, I will
discuss the basis of the Marcellus Shale drilling project,
explore both sides of the controversial dispute, and address
the project’s impact on engineering-based education and
how it follows the discipline-specific codes of ethics.
WHAT IS THE SHALE?
The natural resource-rich Appalachian Valley (Western
Pennsylvania, Southern New York, Eastern Ohio, West
Virginia and south into Kentucky) sits upon a vast region of
sedimentary rock that dates back to the Devonian Age.
Carbon dating proves the black shale throughout the area is
over four hundred million years old. Underneath the shale
lies a massive deposit of natural gas, making the area very
attractive for energy development [1]. The area contains
over 34 million acres of land that consist of at least fifty feet
of organic-rich section [2].
THE MARCELLUS SHALE
Geographical and Topographical Representation [1]
University of Pittsburgh, Swanson School of Engineering 1
WHAT IS THE MARCELLUS SHALE
PROJECT?
The project began over four years ago, in the early
months of 2008. Geoscience professor Terry Engelder of the
nationally acclaimed Pennsylvania State University
estimated that the Appalachian Valley area may contain
deposits of over 500 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. A
startling projection, it was also predicted that at least ten
percent (approximately fifty trillion cubic feet) was mineable
[1]. This amount of natural gas is equivalent to how much
gas is used by the entire country over a span of more than
twenty years [3]. However, after months of basic drilling and
tests, Engelder’s estimation changed greatly, currently
predicting there to be over 360 trillion cubic feet of
recoverable natural gas throughout the 34 million acres of
gas-rich land [2]. An astounding discovery, it is
hypothesized that such an amount alone could supply the
United States with gasoline for nearly fourteen years [4].
Since the discovery, hundreds of square miles around the
Appalachian Valley area have been leased for drilling, as the
industry booms. It has also allowed for the progression of
technology within the fracturing and drilling industry. Most
notable is the process of horizontal hydrofracking, also
known as hydraulic fracturing, in which the well is drilled
horizontally after reaching the shale. Water under extremely
high pressure is released from the well, blasting through the
surrounding rock. Thus, it is much easier to extract the
valuable natural gasoline that lies far below the surface of
the earth [5].
HORIZONTAL HYDROFRACKING
Side View [1]
Taylor Williams
conservation industry. Such natural gas industry expansion
boosts local real estate markets, as companies, workers, and
families flock to Marcellus Shale drilling areas in seeking
the riches of the industry [6]. This also may affect gas prices
for the better, as shale gas can be converted for efficient use
in vehicles. Without needing to import as much gas, price
per gallon of gasoline could drop, saving citizens money at
the pumps. Plus, with Dr. Engelder’s projection of additional
natural gas in untapped true reserves, the Marcellus Shale
will be contributing to the energy development of the United
States for years to come [3]. Such impact on the economy,
on both a national and local scale, more than compensates
for the potential minor environmental issues that accompany
shale drilling.
WHY THE CONTROVERSY?
The extensive drilling operations have the potential to
affect the surrounding environment. In some cases, it already
has. In Pennsylvania, a state known for its extensive
selection of natural resources, most notably natural gas,
some waterways have become polluted by the drilling
process. Currently, the most effective way to reach the oil is
through the process of hydrofracking, which draws water
from surrounding streams and rivers. This has the potential
to pollute local fresh water sources and endanger wildlife
habitats [5]. In addition, the uncertainty of what lies beneath
the shale has caused some unrest, as some areas may contain
naturally occurring radioactive material. Yet pro-shale
drillers promise unparalleled economic benefits and a less
eco-unfriendly future. Technological developments ensure
the safety of the environment in the future. It is an extensive
debate, with efficient information to support an argument
from both sides of the dispute.
FUTURE IMPROVMENTS
Efforts to minimize, or even eliminate the harm caused
by the Marcellus hydrofracking are already in effect. For
example, drilling companies have partnered with local
environmental organizations to monitor and prevent
pollution of waterways. In attempt to ensure Marcellus Shale
drilling is operating at an efficient and ethical level, the
Susquehanna River Basin Commission and the Delaware
River Basin Commission frequently inspect all drilling sites
within the area. This includes water trafficking and the
disposing of materials used in the drilling process. In New
York, the State Department of Environmental Conservation
is extremely active in the regulation of shale drilling and its
potential harmful effects. The organization enforces strict
permit laws, and rules that require correct safety procedures
for drilling and for disposal. These environmentally-strict
safety measures, accompanied with future developments in
drilling safety, should reassure those who oppose shale
drilling for environmental reasons. Shale drilling will
continue to be a more “green” process, becoming an
increasingly safe, environmentally ethical, and efficient
project for years to come [4].
ECONOMIC IMPACT
Despite the many potential issues, both environmental
and social, accompanying such an extensive operation, I
strongly believe the Marcellus Shale drilling project is
hugely beneficial to not only the United States, but the
world. As previously stated, it is estimated that the
Marcellus Shale alone contains enough natural gas to supply
the United States for fourteen years [1]. From an economic
standpoint, this is extremely vital. According to a study by
the Green Lifestyle Consulting Group, the United States
spent approximately $460 billion on imported gas in 2011
[10]. With a source of natural gasoline as large as Marcellus
within United States borders, the country will be able to
diminish the amount of gas imported. Thus, during harsh
economic times in which the US has piled up immense
foreign debts, additional money can be saved and allocated
to other areas of financial importance. This may include the
national debt, which has skyrocketed to over $16 trillion
[11].
CODE OF ETHICS
In addition, land leasing allows royalties for
landowners and farmers who permit drilling on their land.
This is the case in areas surrounding my grandparent’s
residence. Their neighbors leased their land for Shale
drilling, allowing for additional income alongside their
earnings as farmers. Relying on farming alone is potentially
an inefficient source of income, and monetary gain from the
drilling lease allows for security should an unexpected event
hinder a farmer’s revenue [6].
The extensive project that is the Marcellus Shale can be
classified as both a civil and an environmental engineering
development. First, shale drilling falls into the civil category
for the drilling site design, construction of drilling wells,
geological studies, access roads, and site restoration. Shale
drilling is also considered an environmental project for its
impact on the environment and the measures taken to ensure
the safety of nature. Conveniently, however, environmental
engineering is considered a division of the civil discipline.
Thus, the American Society of Civil Engineers’ Code of
Ethics includes the proper standards of environmental
engineering. The Code of Ethics states that civil engineers
“uphold and advance the integrity, honor and dignity of the
engineering profession by using their knowledge and skill
ENERGY IMPACT
Another important benefit of extracting natural gas from
the Marcellus Shale is the impact on the international energy
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Taylor Williams
for the enhancement of human welfare and the
environment.” While this is just one of the several canons
that apply to the field of civil engineering, it is extremely
important that a project of such magnitude, the Marcellus
Shale, adheres to the regulations. In many ways, shale
drilling is potentially harmful to the environment, and thus
could violate the code of conduct established not only by the
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCC), but also by
the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE).
However, while the shale drilling is a source of vast
controversy, I believe it adheres to both the ASCC and
NSPE codes of morality for the advancements in
environmental protection and international welfare in
addition to the other canons of civil and environmental
engineering [7][8].
EDUCATION
ETHICAL EDUCATION
As prospective engineering students, it is extremely
important to become educated on the various ethical codes
before entering a specific field. Such fundamental pillars, or
canons, include holding safety, health and welfare in the
highest esteem, performing only within areas of competence,
and maintaining an honest, honorable relationship with both
peers and the profession. These regulations have been
adopted by the National Society of Professional Engineers,
and are modified to suit each engineering discipline. In
terms of educating future engineers, nothing is more
important than instilling a foundation of great work morals
[8]. Engineering has such a vast impact across the
population, and the effects of engineering-related decisions
are felt around the globe on a daily basis. Whether the
engineering feats of the Panama Canal or the Golden Gate
Bridge, or more subtle works such as the elevators we ride
daily, engineering is the backbone of society. A slight error
in calculation, judgment, design, or construction could be the
difference between a successful project and a tragedy.
Prospective engineering students need to realize the
importance of this profession and thus education based on
professional ethics is essential. I have learned a great deal
from my research regarding ethics and morals within
engineering, and I now understand the necessity of ethics
upon entering the engineering workforce. I will continue to
apply these ethics throughout my tenure as a student at the
University of Pittsburgh, and subsequently into my career as
an engineer [9].
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND
ADVANCEMENTS
As stated previously, the current method of shale drilling
(hydrofracking) can have adverse effects on the natural
surroundings, including water and wildlife. Due to these
possibly harmful events, extensive measures are taken to
ensure that the Marcellus Shale drilling project remains
ethical, following each area of the ASCC’s Code of Ethics.
The frequent inspections conducted by wildlife preservation
committees and progressive technological advancements in
the field to safeguard the integrity of the project. In the
coming years, the Marcellus Shale project will be nearly free
of any potential negative effects on the environment.
Presently, the negative effects are still few and far between.
Workers must abide by the canons in order to maintain safe
drilling practices. Should an incident occur, drilling crews
take quick and attentive action to prevent any harm on any
and all surroundings. The direction in which shale drilling is
headed promises a safe and ethical future for natural gas
extraction [4].
MARCELLUS SHALE EDUCATION
In addition to general education regarding engineering
ethics, it is also paramount to educate future engineers
regarding the Marcellus Shale drilling project. No other
issue in the current world of engineering is as important as
the Marcellus Shale. The impact on the general engineering
industry and international economy is just too large to
overlook. With shale drilling estimated to continue for the
next few decades, it is safe to assume many current
engineering students could find work in the drilling industry.
With enough natural gas to supply power to the entire
country for years to come, the Marcellus Shale is clearly a
topic that should be discussed nationwide. Plus, by adhering
to all moral regulations and ethical codes, the Marcellus
Shale is a hallmark for teaching how to follow important
codes of ethics when enduring a massive engineering
project.
WELFARE
In addition to the aspect of safety in the American
Society of Civil Engineers’ Code of Ethics, it is also
paramount that the project must be for the “enhancement of
human welfare.” Economically, the Marcellus Shale drilling
project adheres to this canon extremely well. The substantial
amount of natural gas within the Shale is predicted to
contain enough energy to supply the United States for
fourteen years [1]. This saves the United States trillions of
dollars, as it is estimated the US imports $460 billion in
natural gas per year [10]. Besides the economic benefits, the
further expansion of the project across the Appalachian
Valley allows for numerous job openings and opportunities.
With these extremely important benefits, I believe the
Marcellus Shale project clearly abides by the ASCC Code of
Ethics in terms of welfare.
CLOSE TO HOME
On a personal level, as a resident of the northern (more
rural) suburban areas of Pittsburgh, I have become quite
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Taylor Williams
familiar with the Marcellus Shale and what the project
entails. In Harmony, Pennsylvania, a mere thirty minutes
from Pittsburgh, several drilling sites have been constructed
and are in use today. In fact, less than one hundred yards
from my grand-parents residence, a well was constructed in
the summer of 2012. As an aspiring civil or environmental
engineer, the structure was quite fascinating. At times I
would walk to explore the drilling site, admiring the
extensive assembly from afar. I became particularly
interested in the Shale project. Having only a brief
knowledge prior to the erection of the site near my relative’s
house, I began researching the Marcellus Shale and quickly
learned of the controversy surrounding the development.
After learning a great deal from my readings, I have formed
a firm opinion on the subject, strongly supporting the
Marcellus Shale Project.
http://www.postgazette.com/stories/local/marcellusshale/the-marcellusboom-origins-the-story-of-a-professor-a-gas-driller-andwall-street-288098/
[4] Gill, Brad. (2011). “The Facts About Natural Gas
Exploration of the Marcellus Shale” IOGA of New York.
(Online
Report).
www.marcellusfacts.com/pdf/homegrownenergy.pdf
[5] (2010) “What Is Hydrofracking?” Onondaga Peace
Council
(Online
Report).
http://www.peacecouncil.net/NOON/hydrofrac/HdryoFrac2.
htm
[6] Thompson, David. (2008) “Gas Exploration – Pros and
Cons.”
The
Sun
Gazette..
(Online
Article).
http://www.sungazette.com/page/content.detail/id/513070.ht
ml?nav=5011
[7](2012) “Code of Ethics.” American Society of Civil
Engineers (Online Article). http://www.asce.org/Leadershipand-Management/Ethics/Code-of-Ethics/
[8](2012) “NSPE Code of Ethics for Engineers.” National
Society of Professional Engineers (Online Article).
http://www.nspe.org/Ethics/CodeofEthics/index.html
[9]Harris Jr., Charles Edwin, Michael Davis, Michale S.
Pritchard, and Michael J. Rabins. (1996) “Engineering
Ethics: What? Why? How? And When?” Journal of
Engineering
Education
(Online
Article).
http://jee.org/1996/april/101.pdf
CONCLUSION
Aspiring for a future career in engineering, the Marcellus
Shale Project is a topic I have become progressively more
interested in. Since my initial curiosity, I have done
numerous hours of research and have developed a strong
opinion regarding the controversy surrounding Marcellus
Shale drilling. Due to the significantly positive impact on the
economy and conservation of energy, as well as
environmentally-safe improvements to the process, I
strongly believe the Marcellus Shale drilling project is very
beneficial. Marcellus Shale drilling provides an excellent
source of energy, as well as a positive contribution to the
economy. Plus, with advancements in technology and
increased safety measures, future drilling will come at no
cost to the environment. Therefore, it will eliminate any
argument posed that states that shale drilling is poor for
nature. Aside from the economic contributions and
technological developments, the Marcellus Shale drilling
project also follows the NSPE and ASCC ethical codes. In
my opinion, the Marcellus Shale is a wonderful contribution
to not only the United States’ sources of energy, but to the
international economy, ensured by the project’s adherence to
the multiple codes of ethics.
ADDITIONAL SOURCES
[10] “How much did the US spend on imported oil in 2011?”
(2011). Green Lifestyle Consulting. (Online Report).
http://www.greenlifestyleconsulting.com/2012/03/howmuch-did-us-spend-on-imported-oil.html
[11] Kim, Susana. (2012) “The National Debt: How We Got
There.”
ABC
NEWS.
(Online
Article).
http://abcnews.go.com/Business/nationaldebt/story?id=17159803#.UHIre03A9JM
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
I would like to thank the fantastic people at the writing
center for their help in the final touches of this report. Also,
thanks to my good friends for their help in the proofreading
and editing stage, especially Derek Lammers. In what was
an enriching experience, I learned a great deal about an
interesting engineering topic, and thus would like to thank
the engineering department for the stimulating assignment.
REFERENCES
[1] King, Hobart. (2012). “Marcellus Shale – Appalachian
Basin Natural Gas Play.” Geology.com (Online Article).
http://geology.com/articles/marcellus-shale.shtml
[2] Engelder, Terry and Gary G. Lash. (2008) “Marcellus
Shale Plays Vast Resource Potential Creating Stir in
Appalachia.” The American Oil and Gas Reporter (Online
Article/Publictation).
http://www3.geosc.psu.edu/~jte2/references/link150.pdf
[3] Silver, Jonathan D. (2012). “The Marcellus
Boom/Origins: the story of a professor, as gas driller and
Wall Street.” Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (Online Article)
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