1. Ground Resource Management Luzerne County, Pennsylvania
Mr. Brian Oram, PG Professional Geologist, Soil Scientist, PASEO, Certified Geothermal Installer, Licensed Well Driller
Wilkes University Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences
Center for Environmental Quality
4/17/2017

2. Supporters Wilkes University http://www.wilkes.edu
Carbon County Groundwater Guardians
C-SAW Program - Consortium for Scientific Assistance to Watersheds Program
Pocono Northeast Resource Conservation & Development Council
4/17/2017

3. Why Be Concerned about Groundwater Quality / Quantity ?
In Luzerne County % 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.
4/17/2017

4. Uncontrolled Runoff Causes Erosion
Without Linking Water Resource Planning to Land Development – We get more Extremes (More Flooding Larger Events and More Dry Streams)
Uncontrolled Runoff Causes Erosion
Dry Stream Channels
When Rainfall Rate Exceeds Infiltration -Runoff is Generated When Runoff Occurs Groundwater - Recharge Decreases.
4/17/2017 4

5. Because of increased impervious areas, over-pumping of
groundwater sources- stream baseflows will decrease.
Over- Development
Or Over-Withdrawal
Sustainable Development
Deep recharge
could be reduced
by 90 to 95%
Source: Mr. Paul DeBarry, PE,Borton-Lawson Engineering
4/17/2017 5

6. 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

7. Act 220

8. Act 220 PA 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.

9. PA Act 220 – Planning Regions
Our Area
We are Located in the Upper/ Middle Susquehanna Planning Area

10. Groundwater and Surfacewater 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.
4/17/2017

11. Upper / Middle Susquehanna Planning Region
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)

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

14. 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.

15. Keys to Groundwater Resource Management 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 Unregulated
Water Systems.
Community Education and Outreach
Water 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.
4/17/2017

16. Marcellus Shale

17. Quaternary – Glaciation
Geological Sequence
Deposit or Rock Type
Time
Period
sand, silt, clay,
and gravel
Quaternary – Glaciation
0 to 1.8 million years
1.8 to 290 million
Tertiary to Permian
Not present (eroded and
weathered)
O L D E R
290 – 320 million
Pennsylvanian
Llewellyn (coal) and Pottsville ( minor coal)
320 – 354 million
Mississippian
Mauch Chunk
Pocono and Spechty Kopf
Catskill Formation Trimmers Rock Formation Mahantango Formation
Marcellus Formation (Black Shale)- Target
Onondaga Formation (calcareous sandy shale)
million
Devonian
417 – 443 million
Silurian 17

18. Marcellus Shale Photo Outcrops Along the Southeastern Border
of Pike County
Along Route 209
Source: Oram, 2009
Main Fracture Orientation 18

19. 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 19

20. 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 20

21. 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

22. 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):
( EPA) URL: Tip address:

23. 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 Workshops

24. 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. 24

25. 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 !

26. 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.

27. 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.

28. Typical Vertical Well
Additional Cemented
Zones
This Zone should
be cemented

29. Injection Wells – Class II
Class 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 surface
in the process of producing (extracting) oil and gas.
Regulated by:
EPA -
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. 29

30. Getting to The Natural Gas
Freshwater
Well
Freshwater
Saline
Brine
5000 to feet
Possible
brine/ connate
Water- Trapped
Into formation
when deposited
Up to a few thousand feet 30

31. 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. 31

32. Active Marcellus Production Site – Frac Fluid Chemistry
Typically 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 improve
frac water flowback.
Biocides- control growth or regrowth of microorganisms.
Scale Inhibitor – phosphate based chemicals to inhibit precipitate formation
and scale formation. 32

33. Arthur et. al., 2008 – All Consulting – “ Natural Gas Wells of the Marcellus Shale”, Presented at Groundwater Protection Council Annual Forum. 33

34. Available Frac Water Chemistry
Parameter
Units
Concentration
Drinking
Water Limit
MultipleAbove
PWS Standard
Aluminum
mg/L
1.2
0.2 6
Arsenic
0.014
0.01
1.4
Barium
410 2
205
Iron 17
0.3 56
Manganese
0.89
0.05
17.8
Hardness
1750
500
3.5
T. Dissolved Solids
31324 62 N
90.1 44 pH su
6.73 oK
Bromide
61.8
6180
Chloride
27000
250
108
Gross Alpha
pCi/L
223.3 15
Gross Beta
mrem/yr (Sr)
38.65 4 10
Radium 228
18.55 5
Radium 226
69.63 14
Good
Indicaters
Source: 34

35. 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 includes
chloride and sodium.
Source: 35

36. Production Water Produced water is wasted water that accompanies oil
extraction and is high in saline. Typically, separated stored on
site 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: 36

37. Water Cycle / Availability Impact of Development

38. Water Budget for PA In Precipitation – 42 inches
Out Evapotranspiration – 22” Total Streamflow – 20”
Baseflow – 13” Surface Runoff – 7”
Other
Storage in Groundwater Aquifers over 100 inches*
* This is our “Water” Cushion.

39. Developed Conditions
When land is developed, the frequency, volume and rate of flow of surface runoff increases dramatically. This is because of increased impervious areas, such as roads, driveways and buildings. The reduction of vegetation from development also decreases the amount of rainfall returning to the atmosphere through evapotranspiration and the amount that infiltrates to the ground. This increased volume of runoff and reduction in groundwater recharge destabilizes stream channels and in-stream habitat. The amount of sediments and pollutants also increases, which further degrades the habitat.
4/17/2017 39
Courtesy May, U of W 39

40. Hydrology Under Natural Conditions
Forest Hydrology continued
Under natural conditions about 40% of the water from each rainfall event is intercepted by the forest and returned to the atmosphere through evapotranspiration or trapped on the forest floor and slowly infiltrated into the ground. There is very little surface runoff. The water that infiltrates is critical to maintaining the base flows of streams. The temperature, volume, and quality of this baseflow is crucial to helping maintain the habitat for sensitive species (trout).
4/17/2017 40
Courtesy May, U of W 40

41. developed lands, the amount of groundwater recharge decreases.
As the area is converted from a natural woodland, grassland, or forest into
developed lands, the amount of groundwater recharge decreases.
Less recharge
4/17/2017 41
Source: Dr. Dale Bruns, Wilkes University

42. Possible Solutions – Conservation Subdivision and
Clustered Development
ft3/yr
ft3/yr
1 ft3 = 7.48 gallons

43. What About the Existing Development ? How do we turn back the clock?
The runoff from one acre of paved parking generates the same amount of annual runoff as:
36 acres of forest
20 acres of grassland
14 acre subdivision – 2 acre lots
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 impervious
areas. Maybe the plan needs to include a combination of updated land
Development ordinances and “Greening” Strategies.

44. What Next ? What Action a Community Can Take ? To Protect Water Resources
4/17/2017

45. Protect Your Water Source Things 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.
4/17/2017 45

46. Additional Options for Local 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.
4/17/2017

47. Why a Well Siting/ Construction Ordinance?
Primary reasons for the ordinances included:
Improper Well Construction
Incidents 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 Ordinances
4/17/2017

48. Why Care About Well Construction ?
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
Each bulleted item will appear separately, allowing time to discuss why each construction requirement is important to the quality of ground water produced from the well.
4/17/2017

49. Well Construction Options for Private Wells
Standard Well Cap Sanitary Well Cap
The bentonite grout has filled the entire well bore up to the ground surface for proper decommissioning.
Allows entry for insects and small animals
Sealed to prevent contamination
Source – Penn State University.
4/17/2017

50. An Ungrouted A Properly Residential Well Grouted Well
These two diagrams show how not to and how to construct a residential water well. A laser pointer may be used to draw attention to each design element as it is described.
Source: PSU (modified by Brian Oram)
4/17/2017

51. A Properly Constructed (Sanitary) 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.
Each bulleted item will appear separately, allowing time to discuss why each construction requirement is important to the quality of ground water produced from the well.
4/17/2017

52. Well Isolation Distances
MONTGOMERY COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
INDIVIDUAL 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
4/17/2017

53. Water Availability

54. Preliminary Groundwater Studies
Preliminary Tool that can be used in the planning process.
Based on a combination of published, historical, and site-specific data.

55. Why Conduct a Groundwater 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.
4/17/2017

56. When Should a Groundwater or Water 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).
4/17/2017

57. 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.

58. Project Site Current Conditions
100 acre Forest Area- Parcel Area
Annual Rainfall – 45 inches
Evapotranspiration – 24 inches
Mean Annual Recharge – 12 ac-inches/year
Drought Year Recharge – 7 ac-inches/year
Impervious Area – 0 %

59. 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 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)

60. It is likely that no additional assessments are needed.
Example Desktop Analysis Post-Development- 85 Unit (Low Impact Development Concept)
Normal Year Recharge Rate
( ) acres * 12 ac-in/yr * gal/ac-in= 25,579,068 gallons per year or
70,079 gallons/day or 700 gpd/acre
Drought Year Recharge Rate
( ) acres * 7 ac-in/yr * gal/ac-in= 14,921,123 gallons per year or
40,879 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.
4/17/2017

61. Example Desktop Analysis Post-Development- 85 Unit (Central Water / Central Sewage)
Normal Year Recharge Rate
38.75 acres * 12 ac-in/yr * gal/ac-in * (1/365) = 34,593 gpd
(100 – – ) * 0.5* 12 * * (1/365 d) = 11,159 gpd
Total – 45,750 gpd
Drought Year Recharge Rate
38.75 acres * 7 ac-in/yr * gal/ac-in * (1/365) = 20,179 gpd
(100 – – ) * 0.5* 7 * * (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.
4/17/2017 61

62. Test Well Analysis Modeling/ 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
4/17/2017

63. 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.

64. Geology

65. Luzerne County was glaciated and is located within the
Appalachian Plateau and the Ridge and Valley Provinces
Source: DCNR - 65

66. G E O L Y
What Does This Mean?
Source: Luzernecounty.org 66

67. Pre-Illinoian (> 770,00 yrs)
G L A C I T O N
Wisconsinan (17,000 to 22,000 yrs) Late-Illinoian (132,000 – 198,000 yrs)
Pre-Illinoian (> 770,00 yrs)
Source: DCNR - 67

68. Appalachian Plateau Province
Younger (Y)
Broad to Narrow Valleys
Rounded Hills and Valleys Associated with Glaciation
Valleys filled by glacial fluvial material Un
Older
(O) Y O Un Y
Unconsolidated Material (Un) O 68

69. Ridge and Valley Province
Bedrock has been folded into a series of anticline and synclinal structures. Y O O Y O
Anticline
Syncline 69

70. Plunging Anticlines / Synclines
Source: West Virginia University 70

71. Quaternary – Glaciation
Geological Sequence
Deposit or Rock Type
Time
Period
sand, silt, clay,
and gravel
Quaternary – Glaciation
0 to 1.8 million years
1.8 to 290 million
Tertiary to Permian
Not present (eroded and
weathered)
O L D E R
290 – 320 million
Pennsylvanian
Llewellyn (coal) and Pottsville ( minor coal)
320 – 354 million
Mississippian
Mauch Chunk
Pocono and Spechty Kopf
Catskill Formation Trimmers Rock Formation Mahantango Formation
Marcellus Formation (Black Shale)- Target
Onondaga Formation (calcareous sandy shale)
million
Devonian
417 – 443 million
Silurian 71

72. Ridge and Valley Province – Rt 309
Llewellyn
Pottsville
Mauch Chunk
Bedding Planes with Seepage

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

74. Marcellus Shale Photo Outcrops Along the Southeastern Border
of Pike County
Along Route 209
Source: Oram, 2009
Main Fracture Orientation 74

75. Geology of Columbia and Luzerne County
Anticline – Plunge to NE
Syncline – Plunge to NE 75

76. Geology of Ridge and Valley Provinces
Younger (Y)
Older (O)
Younger (Y)
Anticline
Water Well ft
Fresh Water < 1000 mg/L
600 + ft
Brackish 1000 to < 10,000 mg/L
Sea Level
Brine- > 10,000 mg/L
Target Formation
Geology of Ridge and Valley Provinces 76

77. General Geology Horizontal Bedding
Saline Water
Brine Water
Fresh Water Y O
Use a Multiple Casing Approach
Geology of Appalachian Plateau Provinces 77

78. Groundwater

79. Surfacewater & Groundwater They Are Related and Connected !
Local Water Divide
Confining Layer
Fracture Zone
Copyright © League of Women Voters of PA Citizen Education Fund-
image edited by Mr.Brian Oram, PG Wilkes University 79

80. Primary Aquifers in PA Most Common Aquifers Target
Copyright © League of Women Voters of PA Citizen Education Fund- image edited by Mr.Brian Oram, PG Wilkes University 80

81. Well Geology (Unconsolidated)
Source: Water Watch Alliance 81

82. Groundwater Moves - Slowly feet per year
Confining Bed
Sea Level
Saline Water
Brine Water
Stagnant Water – no to little flow 82

83. Bedrock Fractures and Fractured Zones
Lower Yielding Well
High Yielding Well
Fractured Zone
Bedding
Planes
Within Consolidated Rock or Bedrock Water Moves
Along Bedding Planes, Joints, Fractures, and
Faults. 83

84. Water Quality Issues

85. Why Test My Water ? A USGS survey found that 70% of private wells were
contaminated. This contamination could result in acute
or chronic health concerns.
In general, there are no regulations related to well
construction, placement, or required testing. It is up to
you to determine the safety of your water.
EPA recommends, at minimum, an annual water test for
private wells. 85

86. Groundwater Luzerne County
Based on the geology of Luzerne County, the common water quality problems are as follows:
Corrosive Water
Low pH
Soft Water (low hardness) to Moderate Hardness
Iron and Manganese
Discolored Water – Reddish to Brown Tints
Total Coliform Bacteria
Sulfur Odors and Elevated Sulfates
Air Quality Issues – Radon In Air ! 86

87. Organic Contamination
Less Common Problems
These water quality conditions are not common to groundwater in
Luzerne County.
Elevated Nitrate- Nitrite Levels Radiological (Uranium, Alpha Beta, and Radium) Arsenic (local issues)
Organic Contamination
Elevated Trace Metals
(except corrosion by-products like Copper, Lead, Aluminum, Zinc) Salty or Brackish Water (very deep wells)
Trihalomethanes
Pathogenic Organisms 87

88. Private wells are not regulated by PADEP or EPA.
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 ?

89. Radon (In Air)- PA This is a Concern NOW!
Luzerne County in the Red Zone – Suggests indoor air radon levels greater than 4 pCi/L 89

90. Presentation Sponsors
Carbon County Groundwater Guardians
C-SAW Program - Consortium for Scientific Assistance to Watersheds Program
Pocono Northeast Resource Conservation & Development Council
Wilkes University
4/17/2017 90

91. Announcements Susquehanna 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 -
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, Contact Pocono Northeast RC&D Council
WEBINARS

92. You Asked About A Quiz
Here You GO !

93. Groundwater Moves
1. Which ways can groundwater move? a. Up b. Down c. Sideways d. All of the above
d. All of the above Although 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.

94. Groundwater Moves
2. How is the speed of groundwater movement measured? a. Feet per day b. Feet per week c. Feet per month d. Feet per year
2. d. Feet per year Groundwater 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.

95. Groundwater Moves
3. How is stream flow usually measured? a. Feet per second b. Feet per minute c. Feet per hour d. Yards per hour
3. a. Feet per second Water flow in streams/rivers is measured in feet per second.

96. Groundwater Moves
4. What determines how fast groundwater moves? a. Temperature b. Air pressure c. Depth of water table d. Size of materials
4. d. Size of materials Coarse 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.

97. Groundwater Moves
5. Can the water table elevation change often? a. Yes b. No
5. a. Yes Water 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.

98. Groundwater Moves 6. Does aquifer storage capacity vary? a. Yes b. No
6. a. Yes Just 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.

99. Certificate of Completion
Presented to
Fill in Your Name
Introduction to Environmental Issues for the Back Mountain Region
2 – hour Education Series
Presented by
Mr. Brian Oram, PG
Add Date
B.F. Environmental Consultants Dallas, PA 18612

100. Ground Resource Management Luzerne County, Pennsylvania
This slide is a good opportunity to describe the work that the speaker’s company does concerning the location and construction of residential water wells. The speaker should describe his/her experience with these subjects.
Soils Evaluation
Community Education Outreach
Hydrogeological Assessments
100