In part 2 of this interview series, we gained insight into the positive and negative impacts of gas drilling in Pennsylvania. We continue, in part 3 of this interview, with Towanda resident David Pelachik:
There was a spill last year near Canton where drilling fluid flowed into Towanda Creek. Was there any damage as a result of the spill? Have you fished that section of the creek after the spill?
“The LeRoy, PA gas blow-out affected a very small part of Towanda Creek. There was minimal damage to the fishery, but we were very, very lucky. The saving grace was the heavy rain run-off during the spill - Alba Creek and Towanda Creek were high and swollen at the time of the spill. So any apparent problems due to the spill had enough dilution to mitigate the problem.”
Has the Susquehanna changed any since drilling started?
“Believe it or not, it really hasn't changed. The water chemistry is the same: PCB's and mercury stemming from SUPERFUND sites upstream from the PA border. The monthly "eat risk” is the same as it's been for 20 years: 1 fish a month, unless you’re pregnant or a child, where it’s no fish consumption. More water truck withdrawal sites have sprung up in the 76 miles of river in my county but it hasn't made much of an impact. I've counted 8 sites from Sayre, PA to Wyalusing, PA either on the Susquehanna or on a stream tributary within 1,000 yards from the river. The Susquehanna River Basin Committee has a new field office in Athens Township, PA and to my knowledge; they keep a very close eye on the health of the river. The Susquehanna River seems to stay resilient to the encroachment. I still see beaver, turkey, turtles, mink, deer, herons, and eagles. I did see a smaller class of crayfish last year but I can't be certain that can be blamed on the drilling. Young of the year smallmouth bass classes still seem to be above average on the North Branch, although the catch rate for smallmouth was down last year, but the flooding took away almost a month of prime fishing in September and October. I'm looking at the 2012 season as a "benchmark" year to really take the pulse of the fishery. As for trout fishing, I found the trout fishing improved drastically after the flood - go figure! The pike and muskie fishing was above average than in 2010. I think the river is still doing well - for now, that is.”
What do you think New Yorkers should do?
“Keep a vigilant eye for any small changes to your watersheds. These small events are usually a precursor to identifying major problems that may crop up unexpectedly. Do not sign a gas lease unless you really read the fine print. I highly suggest consulting with an attorney before allowing the gas companies to operate on your property. Take "before and after" pictures and document any processes the gas drillers start on your land. Get your water tested for heavy metals, IOC's, VOC's, and especially Methane/Barium levels prior to the gas drillers touching your land/water table.”
Bradford County resident Dave Pelachik provided some interesting insight on gas drilling in this interview. A summary of his comments and insight from other sources will be compiled in another article on this controversial topic in the near future.
Comments