HEI publishes new report investigating potential linkages between unconventional oil and gas development and water contamination in Southwestern Pennsylvania

HEI has published a new report Hydrocarbon Extraction and Risk to Groundwater in Pennsylvania: Part 1. Using Geoscientific Analysis and Community Engagement to Analyze Exposures to Potential Groundwater Contamination Related to Hydrocarbon Extraction in Southwestern Pennsylvania, led by Dr. Jennifer Baka at the Pennsylvania State Univerty. Baka and colleagues combined existing water quality data with geostatistical modeling to evaluate whether unconventional oil and gas development has contaminated groundwater in southwestern Pennsylvania. Their analysis indicated that spills and leaks of wastewater (produced water) were a potential source of contamination, though no chemicals were identified in any water samples at concentrations of concern for human health. The team’s novel approach represents an important contribution to understanding how unconventional oil and gas activities influence drinking water quality, particularly in regions with long histories of hydrocarbon extraction. The methodology and findings may also guide similar assessments in other areas where sufficient data are available. Community focus groups played a role in shaping the study design and underscored the value of local knowledge in exposure research. Overall, this study improves our understanding of unconventional oil and gas development-related groundwater contamination and potential exposures through water and provides an approach to predict possible contamination hotspots.