The article “Limits on commercial water use at Beaver Run Reservoir sought by environmental group” (April 16, TribLive) regarding water withdrawals by energy companies from Beaver Run Reservoir suggests that these companies are not subject to the same limitations as other users. This simply is not the case.
Pennsylvania’s natural gas industry is highly regulated. One of these requirements mandates that each company submit a water management plan for review and approval by the state Department of Environmental Protection. This plan covers where water is to be sourced, how any wastewater will be recycled and processed, and criteria to ensure that other water users are not negatively impacted.
These water management plans include requirements for withdrawal rates and steps to mitigate impacts during times of low flow or low reservoir levels, such as droughts.
Many operators go above and beyond these safeguards. CNX Resources, for example, voluntarily stops water withdrawals prior to any official advisories being issued for the Beaver Run Reservoir. Companies work to time their withdrawals during times of high-water limits and stage them close to their operations. And companies have done a tremendous job working together to capture and recycle their wastewater to limit the need for fresh water. State environmental data shows that over 93% of water used by the natural gas industry is recycled.
Natural gas operators recognize their responsibility to be good stewards of our shared natural resources. Residents can be assured that operators will continue to prioritize and respect the needs of their fellow community members.
Jim Welty
Robinson