This report quantifies the amount of carbon sequestered and offset within the Frontenac Arch Biosphere (FAB) region. The report analyzes six key indicators of carbon sinks and offsets: 1) forest cover, 2) wetland cover, 3) renewable energy projects, 4) sustainable farming practices, 5) abandoned farmland, and 6) community education and outreach groups. Geographic information systems (GIS) are used to analyze land cover data and determine the percentages of different land types within the FAB. Academic research is then used to estimate the carbon sequestration or offset potential of each indicator. The results indicate that forest cover has the largest sequestration potential, absorbing 1.8-
The document summarizes eco-tourism efforts in South America, specifically Chile. It discusses how Chile is promoting more environmentally friendly practices and renewable energy sources to preserve its natural wilderness areas popular with eco-tourists. It provides examples of organic farms and initiatives that balance agricultural production with environmental protection to support eco-tourism industries. However, a proposed hydroelectric dam project could negatively impact the environment and tourism if approved.
The Effects of Marcellus Shale Natural Gas Development on HuntingRoxann Steelman
This document summarizes a thesis that examines the effects of Marcellus Shale natural gas development on hunting, fishing, and other recreational activities throughout Pennsylvania. The thesis discusses biological, recreational, and economic issues associated with natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale formation. It also reviews Pennsylvania's existing regulations for oil and gas activity on state forest lands. The thesis argues that a new environmental policy paradigm is needed that recognizes the environment as an ecosystem with intrinsic value essential to human well-being, rather than the current market paradigm that assigns monetary values to natural resources.
Forgotten People and NGS - Securing Economic & Climate Justiceen3pro
The document discusses the environmental and health impacts of the Navajo Generating Station, a coal-fired power plant on Navajo land. It calls for a transition to clean energy sources rather than retrofitting the plant, citing concerns about toxic coal ash, greenhouse gas emissions, and unreliable water and coal supplies. Public health problems in nearby communities are detailed, and recommendations are made to install emissions controls, redesign infrastructure to accommodate renewable energy, and provide water access to western Navajo communities.
Forgotten People and NGS: Securing Environmental and Climate Justiceen3pro
The document discusses the environmental and health impacts of the Navajo Generating Station, a coal-fired power plant on Navajo land. It calls for a transition to clean energy sources rather than retrofitting the plant, citing concerns about toxic coal ash, greenhouse gas emissions, and unreliable water and coal supplies. Public health problems in nearby communities are detailed, and recommendations are made to install emissions controls, redesign infrastructure to accommodate renewable energy, and provide water access to western Navajo communities.
Bottom Line Ministries that Matter: Congregational Stewardship with Energy Ef...Z8Y
The document discusses how congregations can save money and help the environment by improving energy efficiency and utilizing clean energy technologies. It provides examples of congregations that have cut costs significantly through efficiency upgrades like lighting replacement. The document also outlines the Christian call to be good stewards of creation and notes how fossil fuel use contributes to health and environmental issues disproportionately impacting vulnerable communities. Finally, it estimates potential energy and cost savings for congregations on a state-by-state basis if common energy-using devices are replaced with efficient alternatives.
This report quantifies the amount of carbon sequestered and offset within the Frontenac Arch Biosphere (FAB) region. The report analyzes six key indicators of carbon sinks and offsets: 1) forest cover, 2) wetland cover, 3) renewable energy projects, 4) sustainable farming practices, 5) abandoned farmland, and 6) community education and outreach groups. Geographic information systems (GIS) are used to analyze land cover data and determine the percentages of different land types within the FAB. Academic research is then used to estimate the carbon sequestration or offset potential of each indicator. The results indicate that forest cover has the largest sequestration potential, absorbing 1.8-
The document summarizes eco-tourism efforts in South America, specifically Chile. It discusses how Chile is promoting more environmentally friendly practices and renewable energy sources to preserve its natural wilderness areas popular with eco-tourists. It provides examples of organic farms and initiatives that balance agricultural production with environmental protection to support eco-tourism industries. However, a proposed hydroelectric dam project could negatively impact the environment and tourism if approved.
The Effects of Marcellus Shale Natural Gas Development on HuntingRoxann Steelman
This document summarizes a thesis that examines the effects of Marcellus Shale natural gas development on hunting, fishing, and other recreational activities throughout Pennsylvania. The thesis discusses biological, recreational, and economic issues associated with natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale formation. It also reviews Pennsylvania's existing regulations for oil and gas activity on state forest lands. The thesis argues that a new environmental policy paradigm is needed that recognizes the environment as an ecosystem with intrinsic value essential to human well-being, rather than the current market paradigm that assigns monetary values to natural resources.
Forgotten People and NGS - Securing Economic & Climate Justiceen3pro
The document discusses the environmental and health impacts of the Navajo Generating Station, a coal-fired power plant on Navajo land. It calls for a transition to clean energy sources rather than retrofitting the plant, citing concerns about toxic coal ash, greenhouse gas emissions, and unreliable water and coal supplies. Public health problems in nearby communities are detailed, and recommendations are made to install emissions controls, redesign infrastructure to accommodate renewable energy, and provide water access to western Navajo communities.
Forgotten People and NGS: Securing Environmental and Climate Justiceen3pro
The document discusses the environmental and health impacts of the Navajo Generating Station, a coal-fired power plant on Navajo land. It calls for a transition to clean energy sources rather than retrofitting the plant, citing concerns about toxic coal ash, greenhouse gas emissions, and unreliable water and coal supplies. Public health problems in nearby communities are detailed, and recommendations are made to install emissions controls, redesign infrastructure to accommodate renewable energy, and provide water access to western Navajo communities.
Bottom Line Ministries that Matter: Congregational Stewardship with Energy Ef...Z8Y
The document discusses how congregations can save money and help the environment by improving energy efficiency and utilizing clean energy technologies. It provides examples of congregations that have cut costs significantly through efficiency upgrades like lighting replacement. The document also outlines the Christian call to be good stewards of creation and notes how fossil fuel use contributes to health and environmental issues disproportionately impacting vulnerable communities. Finally, it estimates potential energy and cost savings for congregations on a state-by-state basis if common energy-using devices are replaced with efficient alternatives.
The document provides an annual report from the Nebraska Forest Service for 2012. It summarizes the devastating wildfire season of 2012 in which nearly 500,000 acres burned. It describes how proactive forest management helped protect Chadron State Park and its infrastructure from the fires. It also discusses ongoing threats from tree pests and diseases to Nebraska's trees that require assistance from the Forest Service.
An update to a study originally published in 2008. This new study (2012), titled "Selected Economic & Demographic Indicators in Particular Counties in the Barnett, Fayetteville and Marcellus Shale Play" is published by a consortia of colleges in northeastern Pennsylvania called the Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development. The data show the dramatic impact shale gas drilling has had in NE PA on employment and median income. It also shows counties where drilling does not happen have far less of an impact (no surprise there).
This proposal requests funding from the Bureau of Land Management to support forest management efforts on both public and private lands. The objectives are to provide training for foresters, address issues like wildfires and endangered species, and support regional forestry cooperation. The technical approach involves collaborating with BLM, USDA, and others to advance stewardship. The applicant has experience with forestry programs and resolving land disputes. Forests are important for mitigating climate change and the proposal aims to prepare a campground for a forestry convention.
Mountaintop removal mining (MTR) is a surface mining practice that involves blasting off mountaintops to access coal deposits. It permanently changes the landscape and is harmful to both the environment and human health. The MTR process involves clearing trees, blasting away rock and soil with explosives, digging up coal with giant machines, dumping waste from mining in valleys which buries over 2,000 miles of streams, and attempting to reclaim the land through reforestation. However, the reclaimed land is often unable to fully support healthy tree growth and wildlife. MTR has significant negative impacts through pollution, destruction of biodiversity, and health risks for nearby communities.
The 2018 wildfire season in California was the deadliest and most destructive on record. Fueled by large amounts of dead trees, high winds, and accidental ignitions from power lines, over 8,500 fires burned nearly 2 million acres. The Camp Fire destroyed the town of Paradise and was the costliest disaster of 2018. Despite prevention efforts, more homes are being built in high risk areas, leading to greater damage. Future strategies include maintaining fuel breaks and placing power lines underground. Federal agencies supported state recovery through debris removal and flexibility for health services.
In 2008, I produced a magazine called "Kentucky Coal and the Environment," A 36-page, eight-article, full-color magazine on mining and reclamation. From the moment I approached the client - cold -and pitched the idea, through collection and editing of articles, designing layout with my colleague and friend, artist Eugene Williams, to 5000 copies printed and delivered on time, took less than three weeks! Plus, I raised $10,000 in advertising and donations for the magazine.
This document discusses coal mining in Kentucky and its environmental impacts. It covers several topics:
1) Reclaimed mine lands are providing new habitat for wildlife, with research showing that grassland species are thriving on reclaimed sites. Wildlife agencies are working with mines to incorporate wildlife-friendly plant mixes into reclamation.
2) Coal mining is one of the most regulated industries, with extensive permitting requirements at local, state, and federal levels that can take years and over $100,000 to complete for a new mine site. Mines face numerous inspections, taxes, and fees on an ongoing basis.
3) Stream reconstruction techniques and buffer zones allow streams impacted by mining to be restored to pre-mining conditions
Western Resource Advocates' (WRA) 2007 annual report summarizes the organization's work over the past year to protect land, air, water, and ecosystems in the Western United States. The report highlights WRA's efforts to promote clean energy alternatives to coal power, encourage responsible motorized recreation on public lands, influence oil and gas development policies, and implement water conservation strategies in urban areas. Through advocacy, litigation, and partnerships with other groups, WRA achieved victories such as blocking new coal plants, protecting roads and lands from off-road vehicle damage, passing legislation to safeguard wildlife from drilling impacts, and influencing several municipalities to adopt water conservation measures. The report outlines WRA's goals and strategies across its key program
Penn State Cooperative Extension conducted a survey of 940 school districts to elicit feedback on how Marcellus shale gas drilling is affecting their students and their schools.
The document discusses greening up the Kewa Gas station owned by the Santo Domingo Pueblo tribe in New Mexico. It describes how the gas station currently relies on fossil fuels but exploring renewable energy alternatives could reduce emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. This could be done through installing electric vehicle charging stations and switching to biofuels like biodiesel to help green the gas station. The tribe aims to pursue more sustainable energy sources for economic development while preserving their cultural traditions.
The document provides an annual report from the Nebraska Forest Service for 2012. It summarizes the devastating wildfire season of 2012 in which nearly 500,000 acres burned. It describes how proactive forest management helped protect Chadron State Park and its infrastructure from the fires. It also discusses ongoing threats from tree pests and diseases to Nebraska's trees that require assistance from the Forest Service.
An update to a study originally published in 2008. This new study (2012), titled "Selected Economic & Demographic Indicators in Particular Counties in the Barnett, Fayetteville and Marcellus Shale Play" is published by a consortia of colleges in northeastern Pennsylvania called the Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development. The data show the dramatic impact shale gas drilling has had in NE PA on employment and median income. It also shows counties where drilling does not happen have far less of an impact (no surprise there).
This proposal requests funding from the Bureau of Land Management to support forest management efforts on both public and private lands. The objectives are to provide training for foresters, address issues like wildfires and endangered species, and support regional forestry cooperation. The technical approach involves collaborating with BLM, USDA, and others to advance stewardship. The applicant has experience with forestry programs and resolving land disputes. Forests are important for mitigating climate change and the proposal aims to prepare a campground for a forestry convention.
Mountaintop removal mining (MTR) is a surface mining practice that involves blasting off mountaintops to access coal deposits. It permanently changes the landscape and is harmful to both the environment and human health. The MTR process involves clearing trees, blasting away rock and soil with explosives, digging up coal with giant machines, dumping waste from mining in valleys which buries over 2,000 miles of streams, and attempting to reclaim the land through reforestation. However, the reclaimed land is often unable to fully support healthy tree growth and wildlife. MTR has significant negative impacts through pollution, destruction of biodiversity, and health risks for nearby communities.
The 2018 wildfire season in California was the deadliest and most destructive on record. Fueled by large amounts of dead trees, high winds, and accidental ignitions from power lines, over 8,500 fires burned nearly 2 million acres. The Camp Fire destroyed the town of Paradise and was the costliest disaster of 2018. Despite prevention efforts, more homes are being built in high risk areas, leading to greater damage. Future strategies include maintaining fuel breaks and placing power lines underground. Federal agencies supported state recovery through debris removal and flexibility for health services.
In 2008, I produced a magazine called "Kentucky Coal and the Environment," A 36-page, eight-article, full-color magazine on mining and reclamation. From the moment I approached the client - cold -and pitched the idea, through collection and editing of articles, designing layout with my colleague and friend, artist Eugene Williams, to 5000 copies printed and delivered on time, took less than three weeks! Plus, I raised $10,000 in advertising and donations for the magazine.
This document discusses coal mining in Kentucky and its environmental impacts. It covers several topics:
1) Reclaimed mine lands are providing new habitat for wildlife, with research showing that grassland species are thriving on reclaimed sites. Wildlife agencies are working with mines to incorporate wildlife-friendly plant mixes into reclamation.
2) Coal mining is one of the most regulated industries, with extensive permitting requirements at local, state, and federal levels that can take years and over $100,000 to complete for a new mine site. Mines face numerous inspections, taxes, and fees on an ongoing basis.
3) Stream reconstruction techniques and buffer zones allow streams impacted by mining to be restored to pre-mining conditions
Western Resource Advocates' (WRA) 2007 annual report summarizes the organization's work over the past year to protect land, air, water, and ecosystems in the Western United States. The report highlights WRA's efforts to promote clean energy alternatives to coal power, encourage responsible motorized recreation on public lands, influence oil and gas development policies, and implement water conservation strategies in urban areas. Through advocacy, litigation, and partnerships with other groups, WRA achieved victories such as blocking new coal plants, protecting roads and lands from off-road vehicle damage, passing legislation to safeguard wildlife from drilling impacts, and influencing several municipalities to adopt water conservation measures. The report outlines WRA's goals and strategies across its key program
Penn State Cooperative Extension conducted a survey of 940 school districts to elicit feedback on how Marcellus shale gas drilling is affecting their students and their schools.
The document discusses greening up the Kewa Gas station owned by the Santo Domingo Pueblo tribe in New Mexico. It describes how the gas station currently relies on fossil fuels but exploring renewable energy alternatives could reduce emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. This could be done through installing electric vehicle charging stations and switching to biofuels like biodiesel to help green the gas station. The tribe aims to pursue more sustainable energy sources for economic development while preserving their cultural traditions.
1. Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Skrapits, The Citizens’ Voice
Graphic by Heidi Ruckno
B IG
SI NE $$
BU
The Economic Impact
of the Marcellus Shale boom
in Northern Pennsylvania
A Professional Contribution
by
Heidi E. Ruckno
M.A. candidate
Marywood University
Class of 2011
2. About the
Marcellus Shale RegioN
The Marcellus Shale region is the largest nat-
ural gas play in the United States, spanning
95,000 square miles in Pennsylvania, New
York and West Virginia, along with parts of
Maryland, Ohio and Virginia. Conversely,
the Barnett natural gas field in Texas, cur-
rently the most productive American natu-
ral gas field, spans 5,000 square miles.
It is estimated that the Marcellus Shale re-
gion has 489 trillion cubic feet of recover-
able natural gas, and only a fraction of that,
or 14 trillion cubic feet, will be recovered by
2015. This abundance could make the re-
gion a major energy player for generations
to come.
Bradford County in the Northern Tier of
Pennsylvania is in the heart of the Marcellus
Photos by Heidi Ruckno Shale boom, along with the nearby counties
of Susquehanna and Tioga. During the sec-
Potential Economic Impact ond half of 2010, those three counties pro-
duced a third of the state’s natural gas.
The extraction of natural gas from underneath the Marcel-
lus Shale involves a process called hydraulic fracturing, more
commonly known as “fracking.” During fracking, millions of
gallons of chemically treated water are blasted thousands of
feet underground. The pressure cracks the shale, releasing the
natural gas.
The Marcellus Shale Coalition, a lobbying group for the drill-
ing industry, said the industry has directly or indirectly created
more than 88,000 jobs. It takes about 410 individuals, working
at 150 occupations in order to drill one well, and an average of
20 to 30 contract companies will be utilized in the process. Source: Northeast Driller
3. Growing
Industries
Column graphics by Heidi Ruckno
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Many industries are currently seeing growth that could
be directly attributed to the Natural Gas industry. The
Mining and Logging industry has added nearly 4,000 jobs in the last six months alone. Construction is
also trending upward, as is job growth in the Trade, Transportation and Utilities sectors. Also seeing
significant gains is the Education sector, as more institutions scramble to offer gas-friendly curricula.
4. Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Skrapits, The Citizens’ Voice
Environmental Concerns
vs. Economic Benefit
The natural gas industry has been heavily criticized by environmental advocates who believe the
fracking process contaminates the drinking water supply. In 2009, the Pennsylvania Department of
Environmental Protection cited Cabot Oil and Gas for violating a variety of environmental regula-
tions, resulting in a settlement that left Cabot on the hook for more than $120,000 in fines. Fifteen
residents of Dimock Township, Susquehanna County, subsequently sued Cabot in Federal court.
The high-profile case prompted many Northeastern Pennsylvania lawmakers, including State Rep.
Phyllis Mundy, D-Kingston, to advocate for a moratorium on gas drilling while state regulators
scramble to catch up to the ever-increasing need for their services. DEP has diligently expanded its
regulatory force over the last few years, but the agency has trouble recruiting and retaining quali-
fied employees. Many of them are lured away from the public sector by more lucrative opportuni-
ties with private sector energy companies.
The concerns of opponents are valid, if not warranted, but the economic benefit far outweighs
any environmental risks. Energy companies are investing billions into the region, hiring people
and opening corporate offices. Rural Northern Tier counties used to have unemployment rates far
higher than the state average, but now they enjoy some of the lowest unemployment rates in the
state. Mining, construction and transportation jobs are being created, and the region’s educational
instutions are adapting their curricula to meet the employment needs of the energy companies.