Pennsylvania is looking at tremendous economic opportunity in the form of the Marcellus Shale Natural Gas. While we must explore all possible ways to take advantage of this valuable natural resource, we must also make sure that extraction of the gas is done in a way that is safe to both people and the environment. That means protecting everything from drinking water to our waterways along with the infrastructure of those communities where drilling is being conducted. Well sites must be monitored. More inspectors hired and trained. Proper emergency measures must be in place.

Pennsylvania's General Assembly must use common sense in providing the tools needed for proper oversight, while directing the growth of this industry in the Commonwealth.

In the past few months, I've had the chance to attend public hearings and seminars on the extraction of Marcellus Shale Natural Gas. I have discussed the resposibilities of all sides with various individuals. I support the Ennvironmental Protection Agency's review of the hydraulic fracturing process so that we can determine the effects of the fracking process and what steps are ecessary to ensure the safety of our environment. Yes, we need to move sowly with this chance of a lifetime economic opportunity.

We can learn from the mistakes made by earlier generations when the coal industry came into NEPA and left much of our land scarred and permanently damaged. We must do our homework and get it right this time. I have and will continue to do my homework.