SEISMIC TESTING FOR
MARCELLUS SHALE

Seismic testing is used to help determine the geological characteristics below the surface of the ground before a drill is ever started. Marcellus Shale seismic testing usually uses 2D or 3D imaging. In conjunction with this testing, seismic companies often bore holes 20-feet deep in a set pattern where they can place 2 lbs to 4 lbs dynamite charges for later detonation while seismic equipment in the area is monitoring the shock waves.

SEISMIC CREW AHEAD

The first sign of seismic testing is usually a series of orange spray painted markings or wooden surveyor stakes along a roadway, often accompanied by small orange flags. At some in this process, wires (that look like electric extension cords) are run between the holes where charges are to be detonated.

At points where wiring needs to cross roadways the wires are duct-taped to the road surface. When activity is intense, there may even be an orange road sign indicating "Seismic Crew Ahead."

ADVICE FROM PENN STATE

There are no regulations to protect water supplies from seismic testing. If 3D seismic testing with small explosives is going to occur on your property, make sure to stipulate that each shot hole is immediately filled to prevent groundwater contamination by surface water. If seismic testing is to be done close to your water supply, you may want to stipulate that water quantity conditions be documented in your well or spring by a professional water well contractor or hydrogeologist before allowing the seismic exploration.

Source:
College of Agricultural Sciences • Cooperative Extension
Water Facts #28 Rev. March 2, 2010

While some companies use tracked vehicles resembling 'snow cats' like you see grooming ski slopes, other seismic companies use "thumper trucks" for the testing. These trucks usually travel in groups of three trucks that are spaced 10 feet apart. All three trucks will stop at a set location, lower a large plate onto the highway that puts most of the weight of the truck on the surface, and then set off a series of vibrations into the ground. After a few minutes they move forward 60 to 80 feet and repeat the process. Below are photos of seismic testing activities around Marcellus Shale.

PENNSYLVANIA BULLETIN - Jan. 7, 2012

ACTIONS ON BLASTING
ACTIVITY APPLICATIONS

Actions on applications under the Explosives Acts of 1937 and 1957 and 25 Pa. Code § 211.124. Blasting activity performed as part of a coal or noncoal mining activity will be regulated by the mining permit for that coal or noncoal mining activity.

Blasting Permits Actions
Greensburg District Mining Office: Armbrust Professional Center, 8205 Route 819, Greensburg, PA 15601, 724-925-5500

63114009. Dawson Geophysical (508 W. Wall Street, Suite 800, Midland TX 79701). Blasting activity permit for seismic exploration activity to the Hopewell 3D, located in Robinson, etc. Townships, Washington County and North Fayette Township, Allegheny County. The duration of blasting is expected to last eight months. Blasting permit issued: December 16, 2011.

26114008. Appalachian Geophysical Services, LLC (2659 State Route 60, P. O. Box 426, Killbuck, OH 44637). Blasting activity permit for seismic exploration activity to the M-MAWC-1 and M-MAWC-2R located in Springfield Township, Fayette County. The duration of blasting is expected to last one year. Blasting permit issued: December 16, 2011.

PHOTOS OF SEISMIC TESTING ACTIVITIES
AROUND THE MARCELLUS SHALE PLAY