Stephen J. Sullivan, IV, a Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering Student at West Virginia University discusses how the environmental, technical, and economic issues surrounding natural gas extraction in the Marcellus Shale region have all affected him personally.

As a native Pennsylvanian who hopes to forge a career in natural gas drilling and production, natural gas development has already impacted me on several different levels. I grew up camping, fishing, and hiking in the beautiful and wild Northern Tier of Pennsylvania and I have fallen in love with the natural beauty of this area. I am familiar with the small towns and the pace of life in these areas and I appreciate the rugged beauty and tranquility of this region.

Unfortunately, behind this veil of beauty there is a visible and palpable sense of loss and decay in the region. Shuttered businesses and decaying homes dot the landscape. I realize how critical the natural gas industry is to the families and businesses that choose to call these areas home. As a student who aspires to work as a petroleum engineer, I wish to see natural gas production activities expand in this region so it can help this region thrive and help its inhabitants improve their quality of life.

http://eidmarcellus.org/marcellus-shale/why-im-pursuing-a-natural-g...