04/18/23 1

Ground Resource ManagementGround Resource ManagementLuzerne County, PennsylvaniaLuzerne County, Pennsylvania

Mr. Brian Oram, PG Professional Geologist, Soil Scientist,

PASEO, Certified Geothermal Installer, Licensed Well Driller

Wilkes UniversityEnvironmental Engineering and Earth Sciences

Center for Environmental Quality http://www.wilkes.edu

http://www.water-research.net

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SupportersSupporters

Wilkes University

http://www.wilkes.edu Carbon County Groundwater Guardians

http://www.carbonwaters.org C-SAW Program - Consortium for Scientific Assistance to

Watersheds Program

http://pa.water.usgs.gov/csaw/ Pocono Northeast Resource Conservation & Development Council

http://www.pnercd.org

04/18/23 3

Why Be Concerned aboutWhy Be Concerned aboutGroundwater Quality / Quantity ?Groundwater Quality / Quantity ?

In Luzerne County - 18 % of residents serviced by private wells, but Virtually 100 % are supported by groundwater withdrawal.

Groundwater helps to maintain and sustain recreational areas and habitats, i.e., streams, lakes, wetlands, and most surfacewater features.

Over withdrawal or groundwater mining can impact existing and future uses, facilitate contamination, decrease stream aquatic habitat, and result in subsidence.

Improper planning can result in groundwater contamination, which can cause a financial burden on individuals, business, and other entities in the Community.

Changing land-usage and infiltration capacity can adversely impact both groundwater quality and quantity and cause flooding and erosion.

04/18/23 4

Without Linking Water Resource Planning to Land Without Linking Water Resource Planning to Land Development – We get more ExtremesDevelopment – We get more Extremes

(More Flooding Larger Events and More Dry Streams)(More Flooding Larger Events and More Dry Streams)

When Rainfall Rate Exceeds Infiltration -Runoff is Generated

When Runoff Occurs Groundwater - Recharge Decreases.

Dry Stream ChannelsUncontrolled Runoff Causes Erosion

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Because of increased impervious areas, over-pumping ofgroundwater sources- stream baseflows will decrease.

Deep rechargecould be reduced by 90 to 95%

Source: Mr. Paul DeBarry, PE,Borton-Lawson Engineering

Over- DevelopmentOr Over-Withdrawal

Sustainable Development

Outline of Presentation

Summary of Act 220 Marcellus Shale Issues Water Availability Water Cycle / Well Water Ordinance

– Private Well Construction Issues Geology and the Marcellus Development Water Quality Issues – Current Issues in Luzerne

County, PA Announcements and Events

Act 220

Act 220PA Water Resources Planning Act

Passed into law in 2002. Act does not allocate water – just a planning tool. Requires registration of all water users exceeding

10,000 gpd – Helping to develop a database of users.

Regional Committees meet to identify “Critical Areas” within the state.

Make Recommendations regarding long-term best practices and assessments that are needed for each area and provide other recommendations to manage the resource.

PA Act 220 – Planning Regions

We are Located in the Upper/ Middle Susquehanna Planning Area

Our Area

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Groundwater and Surfacewater Groundwater and Surfacewater Withdrawals (Who does what?)Withdrawals (Who does what?)

Depending on project size water is regulated by PADEP and River Basin Commissions - Local agencies can not allocate water.

PADEP and the River Basin Commission are not a local or county planning agency – they are state/federal permitting agencies.

PADEP Permits and Regulates – Public Water Systems Sizing and Engineering and River Basin Commission Allocates Water.

River Basin Commissions are typically involved with consumptive use or withdrawals starting at 20,000 gallons or 100,000 + gpd, but in certain areas the River Basin Commission evaluates consumptive water use at a level of 10,000 gpd.

For Marcellus Shale – SRBC allocates all water- the very first drop- no minimum.

PADEP and River Basin Commissions do not contact local planning, but require local planning approval before permits or allocations issued.

Water Use in the Planning Area is 673 million gallon per day or 470,000 gallons per minute

Primary Water User is Hydroelectric/Thermoelectric (71%) and Public Water Supply Usage is only 19% (Source: PADEP, 2003)

Upper / Middle Susquehanna Planning Region

We are located in the Upper Central Susquehanna River and the daily use is equivalent to 168 million gallons per day (25 % of regional usage).

Thermoelectric(47%)Public Water (10%)Industry (39%)

Preliminary Conclusions Toby Creek Watershed was identified as a “Potential”

Critical Water Planning Area as part of the Act 220 review.

General Recommendations– Encourage Conservation and Add Metering (not on private wells)– Control Water Loss Due to Leakage– Develop Groundwater Recharge Systems– Implement Stormwater Management Systems– Encourage Water Reuse– Remediate Contaminated or Impacted Waters, such as Mine

Drainage as Industrial Water Source.– Develop and Implement Private Well Construction Standards.– Encourage Best Management Practices for Developments,

Industry, and Agricultural Users– Develop Land Use Planning Approaches that Consider Water

Resource Issues , such as Development Rights Transfers, Infill, Conservation Subdivisions, and more.

04/18/23 15

Keys to Groundwater Resource Keys to Groundwater Resource Management and PlanningManagement and Planning

Local or County regulations related to land-use, zoning, and wellhead protection- (Need to be Linked).

Well Siting, Drilling, and Construction Standards. Groundwater Availability Analysis for Proposed

Subdivisions or Proposed Expansions of UnregulatedWater Systems.

Community Education and OutreachWater Reuse, Conservation, and Stormwater Management.

Developing a Well Ordinance as part of the Act 537 Plan and Encouraging Land-Based Wastewater Disposal.

Act 220 and Watershed Withdrawals – Susquehanna River Basin Commission.

Marcellus Shale

Geological Sequence

0 to 1.8 million years

Time

Quaternary – Glaciation

PeriodDeposit or Rock Type

sand, silt, clay, and gravel

1.8 to 290 million Tertiary to Permian Not present (eroded and weathered)

290 – 320 million Pennsylvanian

320 – 354 million

Mississippian

354 - 417 million Devonian

417 – 443 million Silurian

Catskill FormationTrimmers Rock FormationMahantango FormationMarcellus Formation(Black Shale)- TargetOnondaga Formation(calcareous sandy shale)

Mauch ChunkPocono and Spechty Kopf

Llewellyn (coal) and Pottsville ( minor coal)

OLDER

Marcellus Shale Photo

Outcrops Along theSoutheastern Border of Pike CountyAlong Route 209

Main Fracture Orientation Source: Oram, 2009

The Concerns (Partial List) Regulated on the Federal/ State Level – minimal control via local

zoning and land-use. Mineral Owner or Gas Rights Out-weigh Landowner Rights and

interests Minimal Surface Owner Control – Unless Agreements are Established Loss of Crop or Timber Value Proper Management of Waste and Waste Materials (excluding frac

water and brine) Water Resource Issues – Frac Water / Brine Disposal Air Quality – Noise Pollution- Compaction Lack of Oversight and Insufficient Staff on Local Level Assisting Non-Royalty Owners – Public deal with Gas Companies and

there Consultants Stormwater Management Issues Hauling and Road Issues

Concerns Related to Marcellus Shale

Based on Our Community Location – these could be a major concern. In general, the concerns are related to the following:

– Erosion and Sedimentation Control– Volume of Water Used In Hydrofracturing- 2 to 9 million gallons per

well.– Loss of Water from the Freshwater Aquifer or contamination by saline,

brine water, or drilling fluids/ muds.– Drilling fluids/muds may contain environmental contaminations (metals

and organics).– Impacts to Roadways, Tourism, and Ecology– Groundwater and Surface Water Contamination and Source Water

Protection– Aesthetic Issues and Lifestyle Issues

Action as a Local Agency

Bonding Roads Use Zoning Ordinances to the Maximum Extent Possible Supporting Proposed Changes to State and Federal

Regulations- Frac Act, NPDES Permits- TDS, Chloride, Sulfate Standard

Consider Supporting Severance Tax Setting Up Local Repository for Permit Applications, Third

Party Reports, and Possibly Local Hotline. Obtaining a Copy of Health and Safety Plans, MSDS

Sheets, and Emergency Response Plans. Informing Residents of EPA’s Tip Line and Sign up for

PADEP E-Notice

EPA Tip Line

EPA's Mid-Atlantic Region has a natural gas drilling tip line for reporting dumping and other illegal or suspicious hauling and/or disposal activities.

Tip line number (toll free): 1-877-919-4372 (877-919-4EPA)

URL: http://www.epa.gov/region03/marcellus_shale/tipline.htmlTip email address: eyesondrilling@epa.gov

Action as a Local Agency Encouraging Gas Companies to Host Local Education and Information

Sessions for Landowners and Residents

Encourage Gas Companies to use a multiple casement to string approach to well construction that is based on site conditions, work with Local Emergency Management Personal, Form Local Task Force or Work-Group Related to Natural Gas Development.

This Task Force should include citizens, professionals, royalty owners, municipal officials, conservation groups, and representatives from the Gas Industry- All Stakeholders should be part of this effort.

Host Local Workshops or Work Groups Related to Gas Leasing for Landowners- Send Township Engineer to PADEP Marcellus Shale Workshopshttp://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/minres/oilgas/oilgas.htm

Background Testing and Baseline(Work as a Community !)

Test wells / springs/surfacewater within at least 1000 feet (2000 feet even better) of proposed well location.

If no wells are installed or exist on the parcel with the pad, develop a baseline monitoring program surrounding the drilling pad.

Test wells/springs/surfacewater along horizontal testing leg with a minimum of 100 to 500 feet radius from horizontal leg – this depends on the extent of induced fractures.

Document static water levels, well production capacity, and spring flows

Pre Drilling Baseline – within 6 months of starting a production well. Post Drilling Testing – within 6 months of completion.. Use Baseline Testing to Identify Current Areas of Concern .

– How are we going to fix problems?– Do we need to put into place construction standards for private wells?– Do we need construction standards for geothermal or ground source wells?– Follow-up baseline testing should include parameters that actually cover the frac

chemical composition that were used.

Action as a Citizen Support proposed regulatory changes related to

Marcellus Shale Development Encourage PA State Government to Invest in Oversight,

Increase Fees, and Fines Support Proposed Changes in TDS, Chloride, and

Sulfate Discharge Regulations. Ask Municipal Officials to Work With Development

Companies to Get Information to Citizens, Set-up Information Lines

Attend Meetings and Get Educated !

Action as a Royalty Owner Get a Solid Lease with Addendums that Protect You and Surrounding

Landowners. Control how and where property is accessed. Use Bonus Payment to Establish Additional Ecological/ Environmental

Baseline, Educate Adjacent Landowners, and Leverage into Projects that generate or support local issues and community.

Avoid the use of lined pits for storing frac, stimulation, and bottom hole fluids. Encourage Driller to Use Multiple Cemented Casings (Strings), Third Party

Inspections, and Obtain Copies of Baseline Testing (Surface and Groundwater).

Encourage Developer to Disclose Emergency Response Plan related to a surface or subsurface contamination.

Prohibit on-site drilling and deep well injection for brine water disposal, require proper disclosure on water usage (cradle to grave) and frac chemicals used for the project.

Who May Have More Influence !

There may be more ways to control and influence the regional gas development by being a Royalty Owner over being a local government or citizen.

This Zone should be cemented

Typical VerticalWell

Additional CementedZones

Injection Wells – Class IIClass II wells inject fluids associated with oil and natural gas production.Most of the injected fluid is salt water (brine), which is brought to the surfacein the process of producing (extracting) oil and gas.

Regulated by:EPA - http://www.epa.gov/safewater/uic/wells_class2.htmlhttp://www.epa.gov/safewater/uic/wells_class2.html

Does the UIC Program regulate hydraulic fracturing?Sometimes. The UIC Program regulates the following activities: Well injection of fluids into a formation to enhance oil and gas

production (Class II wells). Fracturing used in connection with Class II and Class V injection

wells to “stimulate” (open pore space in a formation). Hydraulic fracturing to produce methane from coal beds in Alabama.

Note: Class V wells are shallow wells that inject water into or above a freshwater aquifer. http://www.epa.gov/ogwdw000/uic/

Getting to The Natural Gas

5000 to 7000 feet

Up to a few thousand feet

Freshwater Well

Possiblebrine/ connateWater- Trapped Into formation when deposited

Saline

Brine

Freshwater

Types of Fluids

Top hole fluids – typically the water from the freshwater aquifer. This water from the first 600 to 1200 feet.

Bottom hole fluids – brine or connate water. Stimulation Fluids – fluid used to improve

recovery (frac process) Production Fluids – water produced along the

natural gas release – similar to bottom hole fluid.

Active Marcellus Production Site – Frac Fluid

ChemistryTypically Frac Water is comprised of clean water with a low probably for scale formation, but treated effluents and other sources being evaluated. The components include:

Friction Reducer – anionic polymer high molecular weight(hold frac sand and other particles)

Wetting Agent- nonionic surfactant – reduce surface tension and improvefrac water flowback.

Biocides- control growth or regrowth of microorganisms.

Scale Inhibitor – phosphate based chemicals to inhibit precipitate formation and scale formation.

Arthur et. al., 2008 – All Consulting – “ Natural Gas Wells of the Marcellus Shale”, Presented at Groundwater Protection Council 2008 Annual Forum.

Available Frac Water Chemistry

Parameter Units ConcentrationDrinking

Water LimitMultipleAbovePWS Standard

Aluminum mg/L 1.2 0.2 6

Arsenic mg/L 0.014 0.01 1.4

Barium mg/L 410 2 205

Iron mg/L 17 0.3 56

Manganese mg/L 0.89 0.05 17.8

Hardness mg/L 1750 500 3.5

T. Dissolved Solids mg/L 31324 500 62

Nirate @ N mg/L 90.1 44 2

pH su 6.73 6.5 - 8.5 oK

Bromide mg/L 61.8 0.01 6180

Chloride mg/L 27000 250 108

Gross Alpha pCi/L 223.3 15 15

Gross Beta mrem/yr (Sr) 38.65 4 10

Radium 228 pCi/L 18.55 5 4

Radium 226 pCi/L 69.63 5 14

Source: http://www.prochemtech.com/

Good Indicaters

Flowback Water Chemistry

Flowback water is generated from drilling and it is what gets produced from the first 5% of water returned after a well is started

May contain elevated levels of trace metals, nitrogen, bromide,uranium, and hydrocarbons. Most of the dissolved solids includeschloride and sodium.

Source: http://www.prochemtech.com/

Production Water

Produced water is wasted water that accompanies oil extraction and is high in saline. Typically, separated stored onsite and then hauled to treatment/disposal facility.

May contain elevated levels of trace metals, nitrogen, bromide, uranium, and hydrocarbons. Most of the dissolved solids includes chloride and sodium.

Source: http://www.prochemtech.com/

Water Cycle / AvailabilityImpact of Development

Water Budget for PA

InPrecipitation – 42 inches

OutEvapotranspiration – 22”Total Streamflow – 20” Baseflow – 13” Surface Runoff – 7”

OtherStorage in GroundwaterAquifers over 100 inches*

* This is our “Water” Cushion.

04/18/23 39Courtesy May, U of W

Developed Conditions

04/18/23 40Courtesy May, U of W

Hydrology Under Natural Conditions

04/18/23 41

As the area is converted from a natural woodland, grassland, or forest intodeveloped lands, the amount of groundwater recharge decreases.

Source: Dr. Dale Bruns, Wilkes University

Less recharge

Possible Solutions – Conservation Subdivision andClustered Development

ft3/yr ft3/yr1 ft3 = 7.48 gallons

What About the Existing Development ?How do we turn back the clock?

1. The runoff from one acre of paved parking generates the same amount of annual runoff as:

a) 36 acres of forestb) 20 acres of grasslandc) 14 acre subdivision – 2 acre lotsd) 10 acre subdivision – 0.5 acre lots

All of the above – Does this mean we are missing a possible effective means of “turning” back the stormwater clock. Maybe we need to consider – “greening” some of the existing imperviousareas. Maybe the plan needs to include a combination of updated landDevelopment ordinances and “Greening” Strategies.

04/18/23 44

What Next ?What Next ?What Action a What Action a

Community Can Community Can Take ?Take ?

To Protect Water To Protect Water ResourcesResources

04/18/23 45

Protect Your Water SourceProtect Your Water SourceThings Local Agency Can DoThings Local Agency Can Do

Zoning and Planning Process that includes a Groundwater Availability Analysis, Encourages Groundwater Recharge, and Water Reuse.

Developing a Well Water Ordinance and Linking the Well Water Ordinance to Act 537 Planning (possible assistance with operating cost through Act 537 funding) and encourage the development of Wellhead Protection Zones

Developing Well Construction Standards and Encouraging Groundwater Recharge (Low Impact Development and Stormwater Recharge Systems for New and Existing Developments)

Start or Support a Community Based Groundwater Education Program (Carbon County Groundwater Guardians, County Conservation District, Universities, and other partners)

Encourage on-site septic and private well systems over developments with central water and sewer.

Problem – this really targets future development !Therefore – Redevelopment and Infill Development may be the answer.

04/18/23 46

Additional Options for Additional Options for Local AgencyLocal Agency

Developing Water Well Ordinance that provides construction standards and an initial water quality and yield analysis.

Developing Well Construction and Placement standards – beyond a minimum isolation distance from land-based wastewater systems, what about hazardous chemicals, manure storage, stormwater facilities, floodplains, etc.

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Why a Well Siting/ Construction Why a Well Siting/ Construction Ordinance?Ordinance?

Primary reasons for the ordinances included:Improper Well ConstructionIncidents of Well Contamination

–Improper Siting–Interconnection with Contaminated Site–Induce Contamination – Lack of Grouting–No Testing Requirements to ensure potability

Overuse of the Groundwater Aquifer.

Online Directory of Model Ordinanceshttp://www.epa.gov/owow/nps/ordinance/osm7.htm

04/18/23 48

Poor construction can affect drinking water quality for well user and regional well users

Poor construction can contribute, promote, and facilitate pollution and contamination of the groundwater aquifer

Proper construction can prolong the life and yield of the well

Why Care About Well Why Care About Well Construction ?Construction ?

04/18/23 49

Standard Well Cap Sanitary Well Cap

Allows entry for insects and small animals Sealed to prevent contamination

Well Construction Options for Private Wells

Source – Penn State University.

04/18/23 50

An Ungrouted Residential Well

A Properly Grouted Well

Source: PSU (modified by Brian Oram)

04/18/23 51

A Properly Constructed A Properly Constructed (Sanitary) (Sanitary)

Residential Water Well Has:Residential Water Well Has: casing that extends at least 15 feet into firm bedrock or 40 feet below

ground, whichever is greater

casing of adequate wall thickness (meet PADEP Requirements Community Water Supplies- recommend 19#)

a driveshoe on the bottom of the casing

annular space should be grouted and casing should have a sanitary well cap.

casing at least 12 inches above grade and 3 feet above flood elevation.

04/18/23 52

Well IsolationWell Isolation DistancesDistances

MONTGOMERY COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENTINDIVIDUAL WATER SUPPLY WELL CONSTRUCTION

SPECIFICATIONS (partial listing)

Delineated wetlands or floodplains (25 feet)Surface waters (25 feet) Storm water Systems (25 feet)

Spray Irrigation/ Septage Disposal (100 feet) Farm silos / manure storage (200 feet) Septic Systems (100 feet)

Septic Tanks/Holding Tanks (50 feet)Chemical Storage/Preparation Area (300 feet)

More Information at http://www.h2otest.com/regs/pa/montgomery/

http://www.h2otest.com/regs/pa/chester/index.html

Water Availability

Preliminary Groundwater Studies

Preliminary Tool that can be used in the planning process.

Based on a combination of published, historical, and site-specific data.

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Why Conduct a Groundwater Why Conduct a Groundwater Availability Analysis ?Availability Analysis ?

A preliminary desktop assessment could help to identify potential impacts on existing uses or other regulated facilities during the planning process and existing problems within the community.

Desktop assessments can be used to develop site-specific criteria for well construction for unregulated projects and long-term sustainability.

For larger projects, a preliminary analysis may compile enough information to show that a more comprehensive site-specific analysis would provide sufficient data to show if the withdrawal is sustainable.

Helps to provide a proactive means of managing groundwater and water resources and helps to ensure the long-term reliability, quality, and sustainability of the system.

The groundwater system helps to sustain the water cycle during droughts.

04/18/23 56

When Should a Groundwater or When Should a Groundwater or Water Availability AnalysisWater Availability Analysis

As part of planning and local approvals for new subdivisions or expansion of unregulated water systems, the applicant would conduct a groundwater availability analysis.

For the Luzerne County area, > 1 edu (equivalent dwelling unit) per acre or when the project is proposing the use of a central wastewater disposal system with a stream discharge.

Groundwater availability analysis and hydrological description should be conducted by a licensed professional geologist.

Where the desktop evaluation indicates the potential for over-pumping of the aquifer, insufficient yield, poor water quality, or withdrawal of over 60 % of baseflow.

The local regulations could require a more comprehensive hydrological analysis that could include the installation of test wells and conducting a short-term pumping test (24 to 72 hours).

Desktop Analysis

Desktop Analysis should include the following:– Review of available baseflow and geological

data,– Nature of the development (i.e., percent

impervious, wastewater disposal options, and landscape changes)

– Existing Water Withdrawals within recharge area and existing users.

Project Site Current Conditions

100 acre Forest Area- Parcel AreaAnnual Rainfall – 45 inchesEvapotranspiration – 24 inchesMean Annual Recharge – 12 ac-inches/yearDrought Year Recharge – 7 ac-inches/yearImpervious Area – 0 %

Project Site- Proposed 100 acre Tract – Proposed 85 Single-Family (Low Impact)

Residential (Low Impact Development)- Proposed Lawn/House/Driveway Area- 85*0.1 acres = 8.5 acres- Undisturbed Forest- 78.5 acres- Impervious – 5 % or 13 acres

Annual Rainfall – 45 inches

Evapotranspiration – 24 inches

Mean Annual Recharge – 12 ac-inches/year (published) Drought Year Recharge – 7 ac-inches/year (published)

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Example Desktop AnalysisExample Desktop AnalysisPost-Development- 85 Unit Post-Development- 85 Unit

(Low Impact Development Concept)(Low Impact Development Concept)

Normal Year Recharge Rate

(100-13- 8.5) acres * 12 ac-in/yr * 27154 gal/ac-in= 25,579,068 gallons per year or70,079 gallons/day or 700 gpd/acre

Drought Year Recharge Rate

(100-13-8.5) acres * 7 ac-in/yr * 27154 gal/ac-in= 14,921,123 gallons per year or40,879 gallons/day or 408 gpd/acre

Assuming an 85-unit single family residence with an average daily usage of 275 gpd or (85* 275 = 23,375 gpd), the estimated water usage is 57 % of baseflow.

If the project was proposing the use of on-lot septic systems and the use of individual on-site stormwater management systems, it is likely that this development would have a sustainable water resource.

It is likely that no additional assessments are needed.

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Example Desktop AnalysisExample Desktop AnalysisPost-Development- 85 Unit Post-Development- 85 Unit

(Central Water / Central Sewage)(Central Water / Central Sewage)

Normal Year Recharge Rate38.75 acres * 12 ac-in/yr * 27154 gal/ac-in * (1/365) = 34,593 gpd(100 – 21.25 – 15- 38.75) * 0.5* 12 * 27154 * (1/365 d) = 11,159 gpdTotal – 45,750 gpd

Drought Year Recharge Rate38.75 acres * 7 ac-in/yr * 27154 gal/ac-in * (1/365) = 20,179 gpd(100 – 21.25 – 15- 38.75) * 0.5* 7 * 27154 * (1/365 d) = 6,509 gpd

Total – 26,680 gpd

Assuming an 85-unit single family residence with an average daily usage of 275 gpd or (85* 275 = 23,375 gpd), the estimated water usage is 88 % of baseflow.

The proposed project could adversely impact groundwater system and a more detailed analysis and site-specific data would be needed. In addition, it would be advisable to consider the use on land-based disposal for wastewater and possibly stormwater recharge.

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Test Well AnalysisTest Well AnalysisModeling/ Watershed ApproachModeling/ Watershed Approach

1. Develop a Well Construction Standard for the Project.

2. Identify Geological Boundaries.

3. Use a Groundwater Model to simulate the installation of 85 wells with a withdrawal equivalent to peak daily demand.

4. Can be used to more directly evaluate existing wells and surfacewater features

Additional Evaluations

May require a modification to design.A more detailed site-specific and watershed

based hydrological evaluation.A more detailed evaluation that includes the

installation of on-site water wells.

Geology

Luzerne County was glaciated and is located within theAppalachian Plateau and the Ridge and Valley Provinces

Source: DCNR - http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/topogeo/map13/map13.aspx

GEOLOGY

Source: Luzernecounty.org

What Does This Mean?

Wisconsinan (17,000 to 22,000 yrs)Late-Illinoian (132,000 – 198,000 yrs)Pre-Illinoian (> 770,00 yrs)

GLACIATION

Source: DCNR - http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us

Appalachian Plateau Province

Broad to Narrow Broad to Narrow ValleysValleys

Rounded Hills and Rounded Hills and Valleys Associated Valleys Associated with Glaciationwith Glaciation

Valleys filled by Valleys filled by glacial fluvial glacial fluvial material material

Younger(Y)

Older

Y

O

OY

(O)

UnconsolidatedMaterial (Un)

Un

Un

Ridge and Valley Province

Bedrock has been Bedrock has been folded into a folded into a series of anticline series of anticline and synclinal and synclinal structures.structures.

O YO Y

Syncline Anticline

O

Plunging Anticlines / Synclines

Source: West Virginia Universityhttp://www.geo.wvu.edu

Geological Sequence

0 to 1.8 million years

Time

Quaternary – Glaciation

PeriodDeposit or Rock Type

sand, silt, clay, and gravel

1.8 to 290 million Tertiary to Permian Not present (eroded and weathered)

290 – 320 million Pennsylvanian

320 – 354 million

Mississippian

354 - 417 million Devonian

417 – 443 million Silurian

Catskill FormationTrimmers Rock FormationMahantango FormationMarcellus Formation(Black Shale)- TargetOnondaga Formation(calcareous sandy shale)

Mauch ChunkPocono and Spechty Kopf

Llewellyn (coal) and Pottsville ( minor coal)

OLDER

Llewellyn

MauchChunk

Pottsville

Ridge and Valley Province – Rt 309

Bedding Planes withSeepage

Mahantango Formation

Source: flickr.com/photos/ (ID – stillriverside)- Site Milford, PA

Marcellus Shale Photo

Outcrops Along theSoutheastern Border of Pike CountyAlong Route 209

Main Fracture Orientation Source: Oram, 2009

Geology of Columbia and Luzerne County

Anticline – Plunge to NE

Syncline – Plunge to NE

Anticline

Fresh Water< 1000 mg/L

Brackish1000 to < 10,000 mg/L

Brine- > 10,000 mg/L

1200 + ft

600 + ft

Younger (Y) Older (O) Younger (Y)

Water Well

TargetFormation

Sea Level

Geology of Ridge and Valley Provinces

General GeologyHorizontal Bedding

Use a Multiple Casing Approach

Geology of Appalachian Plateau Provinces

Y

O

Saline Water

Brine Water

Fresh Water

Groundwater

Surfacewater & Groundwater

They Are Related and Connected !

Local Water Divide

Confining Layer

Copyright © 1997-2009 - League of Women Voters of PA Citizen Education Fund- image edited by Mr.Brian Oram, PG Wilkes University

Fracture Zone

Primary Aquifers in PA

Most Common Aquifers

Copyright © 1997-2009 - League of Women Voters of PA Citizen Education Fund- image

edited by Mr.Brian Oram, PG Wilkes University

Target

Well Geology (Unconsolidated)

Source: Water Watch Alliance

Groundwater Moves - Slowlyfeet per year

Confining BedSea Level

Stagnant Water – no to little flow

Saline Water

Brine Water

Bedrock Fractures and Fractured Zones

High Yielding WellFractured Zone

Lower Yielding Well

Within Consolidated Rock or Bedrock Water Moves Along Bedding Planes, Joints, Fractures, and Faults.

Bedding Planes

Water Quality Issues

Why Test My Water ?A USGS survey found that 70% of private wells werecontaminated. This contamination could result in acuteor chronic health concerns.

In general, there are no regulations related to wellconstruction, placement, or required testing. It is up toyou to determine the safety of your water.

EPA recommends, at minimum, an annual water test forprivate wells.

Groundwater Luzerne County

Based on the geology of Luzerne County, the Based on the geology of Luzerne County, the commoncommon water quality problems are as follows:water quality problems are as follows:

Corrosive WaterLow pH

Soft Water (low hardness) to Moderate Hardness

Iron and Manganese Discolored Water – Reddish

to Brown TintsTotal Coliform Bacteria

Sulfur Odors and Elevated Sulfates

Air Quality Issues – Radon In Air !

Less Common Problems

These water quality conditions are not common to groundwater inThese water quality conditions are not common to groundwater inLuzerne County.Luzerne County.

Elevated Nitrate- Nitrite Levels Radiological (Uranium, Alpha Beta, and Radium)

Arsenic (local issues)

Organic ContaminationElevated Trace Metals

(except corrosion by-products like Copper, Lead, Aluminum, Zinc)

Salty or Brackish Water (very deep wells)Trihalomethanes

Pathogenic Organisms

Baseline Testing Sampling by Third Party Contractors that are experienced.

Third Party Samples Should Follow Chain-of-Custody, Meet Laboratory Preservation and Handling Requirements, and Be Capable of Providing Expert Testimony.

Testing Done by a Certified Laboratory using approved methods and protocols.

Testing Parameters should cover a range of water quality parameters that relate to freshwater, target formation water, frac chemicals and other agents.

Results should be presented to homeowner or private wellowner so they understand the findings.

Baseline Testing may identify areas with groundwater contamination prior to Marcellus Shale Development –

How do WE (Community Leaders/ Planners) act ? What action should a Citizens Take ? – You know Who They Will Call

YOU !

Private wells are not regulated by PADEP or EPA.Are YOU Prepared ?

Radon (In Air)- PA

Luzerne County in the Red Zone – Suggests indoor air radon levels greater than 4 pCi/L

http://www.dep.state.pa.us/RadiationProtection_Apps/Radon/

This is a Concern NOW!

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Presentation SponsorsPresentation Sponsors Carbon County Groundwater Guardians

http://www.carbonwaters.org C-SAW Program - Consortium for Scientific Assistance to

Watersheds Program

http://pa.water.usgs.gov/csaw/ Pocono Northeast Resource Conservation & Development Council

http://www.pnercd.org Wilkes University

http://www.wilkes.edu

AnnouncementsSusquehanna County League of Women Voters- Elk Lake School, Dimock PA (7:00 – 9:00 pm) FEBRUARY 19, 2010  * MARCELLUS SHALE:  AIR QUALITY ISSUES FEBRUARY 26, 2010  * MARCELLLUS SHALE:  WATER QUALITY ISSUES MARCH 5, 2010  * MARCELLUS SHALE:  LEGISLATION, TAXATION and

REGULATION Contact - lwvsc@frontier.com

Columbia County

Geothermal Installer Training and Certification Course – April 12 – 14, 2010 – Columbia County- Bloomsburg, PA – Contact Pocono Northeast RC&D Council

Luzerne County 2010 – Energy and Environmental Solutions Expo – Luzerne County Fairgrounds,

June 26 and 27, 2010 - Contact Pocono Northeast RC&D Councilhttp://www.pnesolutions.org

WEBINARS http://naturalgas.extension.psu.edu/Events.htm

You Asked About A Quiz

Here You GO !

Groundwater Moves

1. Which ways can groundwater move?a. Upb. Downc. Sidewaysd. All of the above

1. d. All of the aboveAlthough most movement is lateral (sideways), it can move

up or down. Groundwater simply follows the path of least resistance by moving from higher pressure zones to lower pressure zones.

Groundwater Moves2. How is the speed of groundwater movement measured?a. Feet per dayb. Feet per weekc. Feet per monthd. Feet per year

2. d. Feet per yearGroundwater movement is usually measured in feet per year. This is why a pollutant that enters groundwater requires many years before it purifies itself or is carried to a monitored well. Therefore, In 6 months water will move only a short distance.

Groundwater Moves3. How is stream flow usually measured?a. Feet per secondb. Feet per minutec. Feet per hourd. Yards per hour

3. a. Feet per secondWater flow in streams/rivers is measured in feet per second.

Groundwater Moves4. What determines how fast groundwater moves?a. Temperatureb. Air pressurec. Depth of water tabled. Size of materials

4. d. Size of materialsCoarse materials like sand and gravel allow water to move rapidly. (They also form excellent aquifers because of their holding capacity.) In contrast, fine-grained materials,like clay or shale, are very difficult for water to move through. Thus, water moves very, very slowly in these materials.

Groundwater Moves5. Can the water table elevation change often?a. Yesb. No

5. a. YesWater table elevations often fluctuate because of recharge and discharge variations. They generally peak in the winter and spring due to recharge from rains and snow melt. Throughout the summer the water table commonly declines due to evaporation, uptake by plants (transpiration), increased public use, industrial use, and crop, golf course and lawn irrigation. Elevations commonly reach their lowest point in early fall.

Groundwater Moves

6. Does aquifer storage capacity vary?a. Yesb. No

6. a. YesJust like the water level in rivers and streams, the amount of water in the groundwater supply can vary due to seasonal, weather, use and other factors.

Certificate of CompletionPresented to

Fill in Your NameIntroduction to Environmental

Issues for the Back Mountain Region

2 – hour Education Series

Presented by

Mr. Brian Oram, PG

Add Date

B.F. Environmental ConsultantsDallas, PA 18612

http://www.bfenvironmental.com

Ground Resource ManagementGround Resource ManagementLuzerne County, PennsylvaniaLuzerne County, Pennsylvania

Hydrogeological Assessments

Soils EvaluationCommunity Education Outreach

http://www.water-research.net