On Aug. 23, the US Geological Survey released an updated report that indicates a 4,100% increase in technically recoverable natural gas and a 33,900% increase in technically recoverable natural gas liquids from the Marcellus shale formation in comparison with previous USGS assessments from 2002.
Kathryn Z. Klaber, president and executive director of the Marcellus Shale Coalition, issued this statement upon reviewing the new USGS assessment:
“These new figures are further affirmation that the Marcellus Shale will continue to safely produce prolific amounts of clean-burning American natural gas for generations to come. While advent of shale gas development in the United States was only several years ago, its impact is proving to be profound and lasting.
“Gone are the days of America potentially relying on often-unstable regions and countries around the world to meet our growing natural gas demands. As this responsible development continues to expand across the Marcellus region, and the country, tens of thousands of Americans are finding work in an industry that is fundamentally strengthening our nation’s core.
“While some critics continue to question the viability of responsible domestic shale gas development, it is abundantly clear – as laid out by this new data – that the Marcellus Shale will continue to lead the way in meeting American’s energy needs for years to come.”
