FRANKLIN, Pa. — A Marcellus shale well site reclamation field day will be held Sept. 10 by the Pennsylvania Game Commission and Phillips Exploration Inc. at the Edward Gaw Farm, 411 May Lane, Evans City, Butler County.
The event, which will run from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., will demonstrate techniques that accelerate well site reclamation and wildlife habitat.
This free field day will include lunch provided by Phillips Exploration.
At the field day, visitors can expect to learn how a wildlife habitat management plan can be integrated into the well site reclamation process.
Site reclamation process
The event will include a tour of a Marcellus shale well site in which reclamation targets accelerated vegetation recovery and wildlife habitat.
“We have created a model restoration site focused on reintroducing forest habitat and natural succession,” said Tim Hoppe, Game Commission Northwest Region Wildlife Diversity Biologist, who has worked with Gaw to develop wildlife habitat plans on his property since 2007. “The principles applied involve the restoration of topography, hydrology, and vegetation.”
Hoppe noted that, over the last 19 months 3,470 Marcellus Shale well permits have been issued throughout Pennsylvania. Cumulatively, the foot print of the associated well pads has the potential to affect more than 17,350 acres of habitat.
“Landowners have received a wealth of information across the state on leasing, but little attention has been paid to reclamation and habitat recovery,” Hoppe said. “This field day will provide that much-needed information, and help restore the land in a way that will specifically benefit wildlife.”
Experts
In addition to the tour, participants will be able to speak with a panel of experts from Philips Exploration, the Game Commission, the Department of Environmental Protection, the Appalachian Regional Reforestation Initiative, Penn State Cooperative Extension, Drop-Tine Wildlife Consulting, the Ruffed Grouse Society, Whitetail Institute Seed, and John Deere (Maple Mountain).
“The panel will be able to provide definitive answers to questions that landowners may have about Marcellus shale reclamation, which should shorten the learning curve for those preparing for a similar project on their property,” Hoppe said.
Registration
While there is no cost to attend, pre-registration is required by Sept. 3, to ensure proper arrangements.
To register, contact Tim Hoppe via e-mail thoppe@state.pa.us or call 814-860-8123.
