Pa. agency considering fee for water extraction, removal
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PITTSBURGH (AP) — The head of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission says he’s considering seeking a new fee on water extracted by industry and permanently removed from the environment.
Commission executive director John Arway said that he’s looking to reduce a $9 million budget shortfall expected in 2017.
Officials say a fee on “consumptive use” of water, with revenues going to the commission and the state Department of Environmental Protection, may have legal precedent.
The state Senate is considering a resolution to study the idea.
The International Bottled Water Association says it welcomes industry regulation but opposes that kind of state fee.
The Marcellus Shale Coalition says drilling operations are among the least water-intensive industries and new technology has further reduced the industry’s need for water.