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The fourth in a series of statewide public forums to discuss the facts surrounding the Marcellus Shale industry was held on Monday, Nov. 14 in Wyomissing, Pa.

“Marcellus Shale Forum: Opportunities and Answers for Pennsylvanians” featured a panel of public and private-sector environmental and energy experts who addressed a number of topics related to the industry, including environmental protection and oversight; economic opportunities; the drilling environment in Pennsylvania versus other drilling states; the drilling process itself; and how natural gas fits into the state’s and nation’s overall energy mix.

Co-hosted by the PA Chamber Educational Foundation, the event served as the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s Grassroots Issue Series Luncheon. The program was moderated by Ellen Horan, president and CEO, Greater Reading Chamber. Panelists included Gene Barr, president and CEO, Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry and member of Gov. Tom Corbett’s Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission; Patrick Henderson, Pennsylvania energy executive; Gene Pine, subsurface activities division chief, Department of Environmental Protection; Bradley Hall, president, UGI Energy Services; and Richard Ranger, senior policy advisor, American Petroleum Institute.

The panelists agreed that natural gas drilling presents an enormous economic advantage for the Commonwealth, based on both the size of Pennsylvania’s Marcellus Shale field (the second largest in the world) and the presence of the Utica Shale beneath it. They highlighted current efforts to ensure that public health and safety are protected, while also ensuring that the industry remains competitive. A commitment to growing the industry in a responsible manner was a common theme expressed by panelists.

Following a question and answer session with attendees, local business leaders testified about how the presence of the Marcellus Shale has benefitted their companies. Alfred Guiseppe, water resources manager, SSM Group, described his company’s “green approach” to the industry through design of water reuse facilities, among other permitting responsibilities.

John DeMartino, partner, E.J. Breneman L.P., explained how paving technology has allowed his company to reinforce and stabilize roadways that have been impacted by Marcellus Shale trucks and equipment.

Marty Muggleton, vice president of marketing and client development, Larson Design, detailed his organization’s role with Marcellus Shale well pads, surface water withdrawal, water impoundment projects and site investigation since 2008.

The next forum will take place on Friday, Nov. 18 and will be co-hosted by the Bucks County Chamber of Commerce.

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Founded in 1916, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is the state's largest broad-based business association, with its membership comprising businesses of all sizes and across all industry sectors. The PA Chamber is The Statewide Voice of Business.