Postcard from Pennsylvania: lessons learned during successful fight over Marcellus Shale operations that may have applicability to Australian discussion

Abstract

This article explores the recent history and significance of unconventional natural gas development in the Marcellus region of Pennsylvania, including a look at the state’s historical background on hydrocarbon production, the effect of political and social media campaigns against development activities and the outlook for the future. In consultation with industry and environmental groups, Pennsylvania’s state government has crafted rules and regulations allowing responsible development to proceed, helping industry secure and retain its licence to operate in the process. This success was further made possible by an early and robust public engagement strategy that refuted misinformation and provided proper context for both the benefits and challenges inherent in resource development. However, in neighbouring states like New York and Maryland, similar public strategies and campaigns in support of development were not as quickly assembled and mobilised. The contrasting histories (and final results) help provide a template of lessons learned for other areas considering shale development, including an opportunity to avoid the kinds of mistakes that have led to moratoria, bans or other restrictions on specific well stimulation technologies, such as hydraulic fracturing.