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Updated: May 13, 2026
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Evaluating the Impact of Hydraulic Fracturing on Streams using Microbial Molecular Signatures
Published on: April 4, 2021
Shale gas development impacts on surface water quality in Pennsylvania
Sheila M Olmstead1, Lucija A Muehlenbachs, Jhih-Shyang Shih
1Resources for the Future, Washington, DC 20036, USA. olmstead@rff.org
Summary
Shale gas development impacts surface water. Treated wastewater increases chloride, while wells raise total suspended solids, affecting water quality in Pennsylvania.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Water Quality Assessment
- Natural Gas Extraction Impacts
Background:
- Scientific literature expresses concern regarding the environmental effects of natural gas extraction from shale formations.
- Previous studies suggest potential impacts on groundwater quality, but empirical analysis of surface water quality degradation is lacking.
- Regulatory approaches in some US states have been influenced by the potential for large-scale surface water quality degradation, despite limited evidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a large-scale examination of shale gas development's effects on surface water quality.
- To estimate the impact of shale gas wells and treated waste disposal on downstream chloride (Cl(-)) and total suspended solids (TSS) concentrations.
- To provide empirical data to inform policy and voluntary measures for protecting surface water quality.
Main Methods:
- Large-scale examination focusing on the Marcellus Shale in Pennsylvania.
- Statistical analysis of downstream concentrations of chloride (Cl(-)) and total suspended solids (TSS).
- Controlling for other relevant environmental and operational factors.
Main Results:
- Treatment of shale gas waste by facilities significantly increases downstream chloride (Cl(-)) concentrations.
- Shale gas wells within a watershed significantly increase downstream total suspended solids (TSS) concentrations.
- Neither activity significantly affected the other measured parameter (i.e., wells did not affect Cl(-), and treatment did not affect TSS).
Conclusions:
- Shale gas waste treatment and well presence have distinct impacts on surface water quality parameters.
- Findings can inform regulatory policy and industry best practices for mitigating environmental impacts.
- This research provides crucial empirical evidence for managing the environmental implications of increasing shale gas development.
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