Stray Poison

Introduction

High levels of methane and other stray gases have been found in water wells near fracking sites in Marcellus shale region of Pennsylvania. An analysis of 141 drinking water samples from private wells across northeastern Pennsylvania revealed that methane concentrations were six times higher and ethane concentrations 23 times higher in water wells within a kilometer of a shale gas well.

Propane was detected in 10 samples, all of them from homes within a kilometer of drilling. The study shows that proximity to drilling sites and geological factors can impact groundwater quality near shale gas sites. 

Source

Down To Earth, July 2013