The Department of Environmental Protection has scheduled two more public hearings on proposed changes to Chapter 78 drilling regulations and extended the comment period to March 14.

The two hearings will be held on the following dates starting at 6:00 p.m.--

-- February 10: Troy High School, 150 High St., Troy, Bradford County; and

-- February 12: Warren County Courthouse, 204 4th Ave., Warren

"One of the clear messages we’ve been getting through this hearing and comment process, from both industry and environmental groups, is that we should hold additional hearings and extend the comment period," DEP Secretary Chris Abruzzo said. "Public participation is a key component when crafting these regulations, and we are happy to accommodate this extended period.”

This brings the total number of hearings to nine on the Chapter 78 proposal, more hearings than the agency has ever held on a regulatory proposal since its creation in 1971.

“Nine public hearings and a total of 90 days for public comment is unprecedented; we are committed to understanding the concerns of all Pennsylvanians on this important state regulation,” Abruzzo said.

Members of the public wishing to present verbal testimony are requested to contact the EQB to reserve time by either calling 717-787-4526 or using the address listed below. Those who are not able to sign-up in advance of the hearing will be given the opportunity to sign-up at the hearing and will be called upon to speak after those who pre-registered.

All relevant written and oral comments that are received at a public hearing will be considered when finalizing the regulation.

Witnesses are limited to five minutes of testimony and are requested to submit three written copies of their testimony to the hearing chairperson at the hearing. Organizations are limited to designating one witness to present testimony on their behalf at each hearing.

Individuals in need of accommodations as provided for in the Americans with Disabilities Act should contact the EQB to discuss their needs at 717-787-4526 or make accommodations through the Pennsylvania AT&T Relay Service at 800-654-5984 (TDD) or 800-654-5988 (voice users).

The remaining hearings already scheduled include-- January 27 in Tunkhannock, Wyoming County.  Click Here for time and location.

For more information on how to offer comments, visit DEP’s Oil and Gas Regulations webpage.  The deadline for comments is now March 14.

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1/27/2014