EPA Says 'No Threat' to Town in Gasland Documentary

The town of Dimrock in northeastern Pennsylvania was propelled into the public eye by the documentary, "Gasland".  

In the movie, producer Josh Fox profiled families able to light their tap water on fire as well, suffering from numerous health issues and fearing their well water had been contaminated, all purportedly from shale gas drilling in the community.  The movie has been the lightening rod for the anti-shale gas movement in the United States and in Europe, despite credible scientific evidence dispelled the linkage.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has now confirmed earlier indications from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, that contested water wells in the area pose no immediate threat to human health.

"EPA has conducted a preliminary review and screening of the data provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and residents," wrote Trish Taylor, a community involvement coordinator in EPA's Philadelphia regional office.

"While we are continuing our review, to date, the data does not indicate that the well water presents an immediate health threat to users."

Taylor's note said EPA is continuing to look at the information and will work with the state authorities.