NY takes action against Pa. driller over pollution

On January 26, 2012 — No comments

Environmental regulators said Tuesday they are seeking $187,500 in fines against a natural gas drilling company for polluting a trout stream in New York’s Allegany State Park while drilling in Pennsylvania.

The state Department of Environmental Conservation said it has filed an administrative complaint against U.S. Energy Development Corp. alleging that storm water runoff from its roads and well pads in Pennsylvania’s Allegheny National Forest washed a large quantity of mud into nearby waterways. It said the mud fouled the water of Yeager Brook in New York’s park.

The DEC also is requiring the suburban Buffalo-based company to install storm water and erosion controls to prevent any future water quality damage in New York.

U.S. Energy spokesman William Albert said the DEC has no jurisdiction over drill sites in Pennsylvania.

“The wells are in Pennsylvania and the company’s operations are regulated there by the Department of Environmental Protection,” Albert said by email. “U.S. Energy is not aware of any issues at the wells in question.”

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