Apr 6, 2017 2 min read

With an increase in the oil and gas industry in Rostraver Township, commissioners Wednesday adopted an ordinance regulating geophysical testing operations, effective immediately.

Solicitor Albert Gaudio said the ordinance is a proactive move for the safety and welfare of township residents. Gas companies often conduct seismic testing using heavy trucks or blasting to help determine the rock strata beneath the surface and whether the area is conducive to drilling.

Resident Cheryl Myers thanked commissioners for adopting the ordinance. She added she recently had an incident with a person looking to access her property.

“I live alone and it is a concern,” she said. “A man came last week, no identification, nothing on his truck, no zippy do da. All he had was an orange vest on and a clipboard. I told him I wasn’t interested. He didn’t want to leave right away. All week, this same man, same truck was driving up and down the road and stopping at homes where there was no one home. This is a worrisome situation.”

The ordinance states a nonrefundable permit fee of $2,500 is required and the township has the right to deny the testing permit. Company representatives must carry identification and give notification to the township.

The ordinance outlines specific guidelines for blasting, thumper trucks and other testing material. Permits are for one year and may not exceed one six-month extension. Thumper trucks must be 75 feet from a building, explosive charges must be 300 feet from a water well or building and charges must be 600 feet from an occupied building. The township must be notified if equipment exceeds 10 tons. Work may be performed Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to dusk or 7 p.m., whichever falls earlier, and 9 a.m. to dusk on weekends. Violations carry fines of $2,000 per day.