Unconventional gas extraction, particularly in the Marcellus Shale, has transformed our energy supply; yet this transformative process is not without controversy. To date, a limited number of studies in the scientific literature have documented localized stream and well water contamination due to improper disposal and/or leakage of flowback and produced waters from drilled wells. However, discerning impacts of hydraulic fracturing activities at a regional level has been hindered by the lack of baseline data and the lack of regional sampling networks. Here we attempt to address these knowledge gaps through the analysis of stream and groundwater samples collected from 40 small watersheds (&lt;10 mi<sup>2</sup>) in north central Pennsylvania (Bradford, Wyoming and Susquehanna Counties) from 2013-2015. The samples were analyzed for the presence of Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Cd, Ba, and Pb using inductively coupled mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Sample concentrations were statistically compared to a variety of factors for each watershed, including relative land use patterns, number of hydraulic fracturing well pads, spud dates, and number of drilling related violations. A statistically-significant correlation between Ba concentrations and the number of wells spudded in each watershed was identified for the 2014 and 2015 dataset. In addition, many stream and groundwater samples exhibited metal concentrations in excess of USEPA guidelines for freshwater quality and/or drinking water. These results suggest more studies are needed to evaluate the impacts of hydraulic fracturing activities on surface water quality.

Determining the relationship between hydraulic fracturing activities and streamwater trace metal concentrations in North-Central Pennsylvania watersheds

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.