Union Twp. OKs independent well site tests
Union Township supervisors authorized a third-party company to conduct air quality, water quality and sound studies at EQT’s Trax Farm well pad in response to resident complaints.
Officials voted to authorize Professional Service Industries, Inc., based in Pittsburgh, to conduct random testing at the site on an unannounced date. The vote was unanimous with the exception of Charles Trax, who abstained.
Board Chairman Larry Spahr said EQT was cooperating with the township and submitted its own air and sound tests in recent months.
“Where we had problems, they’ve tried to adjust them,” he said.
Township resident Gary Baumgardner, of Cardox Road, vocally protested EQT’s fracking operations. He complained the air quality near his home was compromised and he and his wife are unable to sleep at night because of the noise.
Linda Robertson, spokeswoman for EQT, said the company welcomes the township to conduct its own tests.
“EQT has worked closely with Union Township supervisors, attended township meetings and visited the production site on multiple occasions to address reported issues and determine possible causes,” she said in an email.