Scott Institute for Energy Innovation

Seminar on the impacts on water quality from oil and gas wastewater management

November 03, 2017

4:00 p.m. - 5:20 p.m. ET

Scott Hall 5201 Marquis Conference Room

Join the Scott Institute and the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department for a seminar by Nathaniel Warner, Assistant Professor at The Pennsylvania State University in the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department. 

Abstract

There has been a dramatic increase in the extraction of hydrocarbons from O&G formations across the US over the past 10 years, with greatest activity in CA, CO, ND, PA, and TX. This growth in O&G development has raised concerns about potential impacts to human health and the environment, including possible risks associated with wastewater management. An increase in the volume of O&G produced water has accompanied the overall increase in O&G production. Much of this wastewater is reinjected to enhance production or as a disposal option, yet a significant volume has historically been treated and discharged to surface water or beneficially used on unpaved roads as a dust suppressant, or to supplement stream supply in PA, CO, and WY. Some O&G wastewaters contain contaminants of concern (e.g., metals, radionuclides, bromide) that are not removed prior to beneficial use or disposal. Here, investigations into the possible impact of increased O&G development on groundwater, surface water, and biota will be explored. Areas of discussion will include effects on water quality, sediment, and biota from beneficial use or discharge of O&G water in PA, WV, WY, and AR.

This is a free event that is open to the public. 

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