Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin announced this afternoon that a Brazilian petrochemical company, Odebrecht, has chosen a site in Wood County to explore the possible…
Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin announced this afternoon that a Brazilian petrochemical company, Odebrecht, has chosen a site in Wood County to explore the possible location of an ethane cracker plant and three polyethlene plants.
The governor was disappointed when Shell announced a few years ago it was choosing Pennsylvania over West Virginia for a cracker plant. And he’s wanted one ever since.
“Literally from the first day of my administration I’ve made it a priority to take advantage of the vast resources of the Marcellus and Utica shale gas reserves to do more than just extract them and ship them out somewhere else but to create manufacturing jobs here in the Mountain State,” Tomblin said at the announcement in Parkersburg.
The complex will be called Ascent, short for Appalachian Shale Cracker Enterprise.
An official with Odebrecht says the company is moving cautiously. David Peoples said he didn’t want to raise expectations unnecessarily. But he was frank when he talked about needing a skilled and trained workforce.
“I was talking to the union representatives this morning and we have a lot of jobs,” Peoples said. “We have over 180,000 employees world wide and here in the United States one of the issues we have is drugs. And there’s a drug testing policy. For all of the young or even for the senior citizens like myself you do not get hired if you do not pass the drug testing policy.”
Ascent’s feasibility will depend on several important variables, including the contracting of long-term ethane supply, as well as financing, regulatory approvals, and appropriate governmental support.
The Smoke Hole area of Pendleton County, W.Va. that was struck by a forest fire nearly two weeks ago will reopen to the public on Sunday now that the fire is fully contained.
A news release says the public will be free to enter the Monongahela National Forest area where the fire was beginning Sunday morning, Nov. 24, 2013.
The fire burned 1,611 acres.
The release says visitors to the area should be aware that there are still ongoing monitoring and fire patrol efforts and that while the majority of firefighters have gone home, several crews, engines, and a helicopter continue to work in the area.
Update: Sunday, November 17, 2013 at 10 a.m.
The forest fire at the Smoke Hole area of Pendleton County has grown to about 1,600 acres but firefighters are also finding more success in fighting it. According to a news release the fire is 50 percent contained.
The fire started a week ago on private land adjacent to the Monongahela National Forest 11 miles southwest of Petersburg, W.Va. and three miles northeast Seneca Rocks. The cause is under investigation.
The news release says about 190 firefighters and support staff, including four crews, two modules, six engines, two bulldozers, and one helicopter are assisting with the fire.
The release says: Crews had a safe, productive day yesterday. The south and east flanks are being mopped up and patrolled. Some minimal fire activity occurred along the crest of North Fork Mountain along the northwest section of the fire.
Plans for today call for direct attack on any remaining active fire. In areas where the fire is not actively burning, crews are strengthening the completed line.
A cold front moving into the area in late afternoon may bring a chance of thunderstorms with gusty winds and additional rain.
Update: Friday, November 15, 2013 at 9 a.m.
Credit Submitted Photo / W.Va. Division of Forestry
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W.Va. Division of Forestry
The U.S Forest Service and West Virginia Division of Forestry report the fire in the Smoke Hole area of Pendleton County, W.Va. is about 30 percent contained.
The fire is burning on about 1,400 acres of national forest land and adjacent private property 11 miles southwest of Petersburg and three miles northeast of Seneca Rocks.
Here is the latest information from a news release issued this morning:
Approximately 150 firefighters and support staff, including four crews, one module, five engines, two bulldozers, and a helicopter are assisting with the Smoke Hole Fire.
Another safe and challenging day yesterday. Crews had a great day, improving containment and maintaining their safety record. The south end is being mopped up and patrolled, east side is cooling down nicely. Today, crews can expect continued low fuel moisture and warm weather.
Firefighters will be fighting directly and aggressively on all fronts, particularly on the northern edge of the fire.
The following areas are closed under an emergency order: Redman Run Trail (Trail #507) from the North Fork Mountain Trail (Trail #501) to Smoke Hole Road (Grant County Road 23). National Forest System Lands (NFS) in Pendleton County between Highway 28/55, Pendleton County Road 23 to Eagle Rock. NFS lands north of Dry Hollow Creek. At the end of Dry Hollow Creek to the northeast boundary of Seneca Rocks Area. NFS lands and Seneca Rocks Area boundary to the northwest boundary of NFS lands and Seneca Rocks on the Cheat/Potomac Ranger District of the Monongahela National Forest.
Update: Thursday, November 14, 2013 at 11 a.m.
Firefighters continue battling a 1,400 acre forest fire in the Smoke Hole area of Pendleton County.
A news release says: Wednesday was a very productive day, with good progress made along the southeastern edge of the fire.
Credit Submitted Photo / W.Va. Division of Forestry
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W.Va. Division of Forestry
Helicopters are being used to fight the Smoke Hole Fire in Pendleton County, W.Va.
Solid progress was made establishing an indirect fire line around the western and northern edges of the fire. This is a long-duration fire and a containment date is not predicted at this time.
There will be more than 150 people on location at the fire today with resources from approximately 18 states.
Crews will construct and improve new lines as well as patrol and secure existing lines. A helicopter is being used for reconnaissance and water drops.
Wednesday there was minimal activity with little smoke visible. Today’s forecast is for the high 50s, significantly warmer than the past few days.
The warmer weather and unseasonably low humidity can produce a change in fire behavior. The surrounding area may see more smoke today due to winds and continuing fire suppression activities.
Anywhere from two inch to 20 foot flames are possible, depending on the fuel types and weather conditions.
Today’s objectives are to provide for firefighter and public safety, provide protection to communities within the fire area, and to protect natural and cultural resources to the extent possible.
Update: Wednesday, November 13, 2013 at 8:30 p.m.
Access to the Monongahela National Forest in the area of the Smoke Hole fire is now restricted.
Credit Submitted Photo / W.Va. Division of Forestry
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W.Va. Division of Forestry
Firefighters are fighting a forest fire in the Smoke Hole area of Pendleton County, W.Va. that started Sunday afternoon.
A press release by the U.S. Forest Service and West Virginia Division of Forestry says an emergency closure order restricting access took effect Wednesday.
“This action is being taken to provide for public and firefighter safety while we work to protect National Forest property and resources and private structures.” Troy Waskey, District Ranger of the Cheat-Potomac Ranger District, said.
The closure order will remain in effect for the next 120 days unless otherwise rescinded by the Forest Supervisor.
Everyone is prohibited from entering national forest land described below unless specifically authorized.
Redman Run Trail (Trail #507) from the North Fork Mountain Trail (Trail #501) to Smoke Hole Road (Grant County Road 23).
National Forest System Lands (NFS) in Pendleton County between Highway 28/55, Pendleton County Road 23 to Eagle Rock.
NFS lands north to Dry Hollow Creek.
At the end of Dry Hollow Creek to the northeast boundary of Seneca Rocks Area.
NFS lands and Seneca Rocks Area boundary to the northwest boundary of NFS lands and Seneca Rocks on the Cheat/Potomac Ranger District of the Monongahela National Forest.
Violations area punishable by a fine of up to $500 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization. Violators also face a prison sentence of not more than six months. Update: Wednesday, November 13, 2013 at 11 a.m.
The wildfire burning in the Smoke Hole area of the Monongahela National Forest in Pendleton County, W.Va. has spread and now at least 1,400 acres is burning on National Forest and nearby private land.
A news release from the West Virginia Division of Forestry and the U.S. Forest Service says the fire is about 20 percent contained.
The release says firefighters made good progress Tuesday suppressing it on the southern end.
“This is an unusual fire,” Operations Chief Pete Irvine said this morning. “There was fire burning actively against the wind in a snowstorm.”
The fire started Sunday about 12:30 p.m. Robert Beanblossom, public information officer for the incident, said the initial attack occurred later that afternoon and Monday crews were able to work on the south perimeter of the fire and “made real substantial progress” on the south end.
Beanblossoom said no structures were threatened as of Tuesday afternoon but there are people monitoring to make sure it doesn’t spread in a direction that threatens structures.
The fire is burning in a predominately oak and hickory forest. The North Fork Mountain Trail was closed Tuesday from its intersection with the Redmond Run Trail south to its terminus at U.S. Rte. 33.
Forest Rd. 79 is also closed to the public. North Fork Mountain Trail is closed at the intersection with the Landis Trail (#502) and south until US Route 33. An area wide emergency closure order will be in place on Wednesday.
The area of Pendleton County affected by the fire didn’t receive any snowfall Tuesday morning and Beanblossom said there were winds, with gusts up to 25 mph, which hampered firefighting efforts. But he said there was also good cloud cover and high relative humidity and that helps firefighters.
About 80 personnel were fighting the fire Tuesday with units from the Franklin, Seneca Rocks, Upper Tract and Petersburg fire departments as well as units from the West Virginia Division of Forestry.
Peter Fischer, Monongahela National Forest fire management officer, said in a news release this is the largest wildfire in the Forest since the 1940’s or 1950’s. The cause is under investigation.
More information is available at the Cheat-Potomac Ranger Station, 304-257-4488 extension 28.
The term “TransTech” has been floating around for about five years, according to Carl Irwin, creator of the TransTech Energy Program at the National Research Center for Coal and Energy.
It refers to technologies that try to transition the nation’s energy portfolio into something that’s more economically sustainable, while at the same time, being competitive and using lower amounts of carbon. Carl Irwin says the public plays an important part in recognizing transitional technologies.
“The average consumer sees the price of fuel, sees what the gas bill is at the home. They are going to be out looking for, what are the new technologies, are there ways that biomass can reduce the pollution of a coal-fired power plant. I’m hoping these become more prevalent in the general public for sure,” Irwin said.
Ideas presented by the entrepreneurs include one company who wants to distribute nano-engineered “Frac balls” that are designed to keep natural gas wells from getting clogged. Another wants to develop better technologies for piping at natural gas pumping stations. Irwin says the sky is the limit when trying to develop these new ideas.
“This is the future of the state, it’s new jobs, continuing to use our research, to use our innovative people, and create new businesses and new jobs. I think that’s very important for all of us,” said Irwin.
One person who came looking for inspiration is Abigail Morrisey. She’s a WVU student that’s involved with a special academic program at the university known as “EQuad.” This program brings together elements of energy, the environment, entrepreneurship, and economics. Morrisey says she wants to work in the farm and agricultural industry, and this event got her thinking about new ideas.
“Agriculture has always been a big part of my life, so I’ve always wanted to do something with that,” she said.
“Having the EQuad Major, and that opportunity, here at the university, has really broadened everything I can do.”
While natural gas and shale technologies were hot topics at the conference, biomass technologies were also discussed. Researchers at the National Research Center for Coal and Energy have been looking at how biomass can help reduce carbon emissions in burning coal, amongst other methods.
Executive Director Steve Nadel says many states are doing more and more each year, and they must constantly improve to retain their rankings.
Joining West Virginia among the most improved are Mississippi, Maine, Kansas and Ohio.
The report says that after years of virtually no activity, West Virginia utilities have begun to roll out some small-scale efficiency programs for its customers.
With residential consumers facing dramatic price increases, the report says energy efficiency is starting to gain traction as a way to lower energy bills.
Lawmakers showed interest in 2011, but proposed legislation failed.
The waste is a byproduct of the drilling process, and it can include both man-made chemicals and naturally occurring heavy metals and radiation. The waste fluids are currently stored at drilling sites or transported by truck or train to treatment plants and deep underground injection disposal wells. The Coast Guard says some companies want to use barges instead of trucks to move the waste to disposal sites.
One such company, GreenHunter Water, recently purchased an 11-acre barge terminal site in Wheeling that sits along the Ohio River. The company is converting the former gasoline storage facility into a shale wastewater handling and storage site designed to recycle and/or dispose of gas drilling water.
Phase two of the company’s plans will use river barges to transport waste fluids to various injection disposal sites, but those plans are contingent upon the Coast Guard permitting the transport of fracking waste on inland waterways.
Some environmental groups says the comment period should be longer than 30 days and that the proposal is flawed because it doesn’t mention environmental safeguards. The Coast Guard is accepting comments until Nov. 29. The official title of the proposal is Carriage of Conditionally Permitted Shale Gas Extraction Waste Water in Bulk.
The Marcellus water resources and water footprint report takes a critical look at water-use data provided by natural gas drillers over the past couple years to the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection—data operators are required to provide under the Horizontal Well Control Act of 2011.
The study interprets that data as well as compares it to the data reported in Pennsylvania, where the gas industry is substantially more developed. The president of Morgantown-based environmental firm Downstream Strategies, Evan Hansen, began his explanation by showing an image of what once was a pit where waste fluid from a fractured hydraulic well used to be stored.
“This is a waste pit that’s located in West Virginia and you’ll notice that there’s no waste in it,” Hansen explained. “And that’s because it was recently pumped dry. And that plastic liner is being removed. The reason is that in this case the flowback fluid that was stored there was draining through cracks in the liner directly into the bedrock that underlies this pit and contaminating the drinking water aquifer.”
Hansen went on to explain that ground water monitoring data was collected before, during, and after development of the site. That data confirms pollution levels increased in the drinking water. He says it’s a cautionary tale that underscores the importance of diligent attention to water issues related to oil and gas development.
Wet Footprint
Hansen says there are about 2000 well sites in West Virginia and 9000 in Pennsylvania. He says the average Marcellus well in West Virginia injects about 5 million gallons of water into wells as fracking fluid. One of the key findings in the report is that “the amount of water used per well is higher than previously estimated for Marcellus Shale wells.”
“And by far most of the water comes from surface water—it’s about 81 percent—plus a portion of purchased water. That’s water purchased from local water utilities,” Hansen said.
Hansen found that 8 percent of the 5 million gallons that goes into each well comes back up.
Flowback
Hansen says the DEP and industry should be applauded for adopting new recycling practices so about 75% of that flowback is now being reused. He says the remainder is disposed of in deep well injections.
“That’s important because every gallon of water that comes from reuse rather than withdrawal is protective of the environment,” Hansen said.
He added that tracking this waste water should continue to be a priority. West Virginia already sees 100-million gallons of waste water each year and PA, across the border where the industry is significantly more developed, sees nearly a billion gallons of waste each year.
Wet Footprint
Hansen’s report also indicates a need to improve data collection and reporting requirements.
Hansen says one of his biggest concerns is that West Virginia’s state law only requires operators to report flowback water. It’s a different story in Pennsylvania where flowback only accounts for 38% of reported waste.
“In Pennsylvania, all types of waste are reported,” Hansen said. “And not only are all types of waste reported, they are reported every six months. So there’s a good, full accounting of the waste generated from Marcellus operations in Pennsylvania. It’s different in West Virginia.”
Operators in West Virginia are required to submit data once a year, but according to the study, only about a third comply. Moreover, errors in data submissions are common.
“Roughly one third of the data we found to be suspect and so we decided to eliminate it before we crunched our numbers because we wanted to be sure that the data that we used for our analysis was reliable.”
