Jean Smolen, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Director, Environmental
Science Program Areas Taught: Chemistry, Environmental and
Sustainability Studies, Environmental Science Expertise: Safety
of Drinking Water, Environmental Impact of Chemical Spills, Tap
Water Filters Identifying Threats to Drinking Water and the
Environment The impact of natural gas drilling in Pennsylvania
has stirred its share of controversy. Water quality expert Jean
Smolen, Ph.D., associate professor of chemistry and director of
the University’s environmental science program says her
“concerns are the unknowns.” The deep drilling at the Marcellus
Shale that uses millions of gallons of water, sand and most
worrisome of all proprietary chemicals to extract natural gas
could have long-term impact on the water table. “I see water as
a limited resource in many ways,” she says, urging caution over
shale exploration. “We have to go the extra mile to protect
water. It’s essential to life. We need it. We shouldn’t gamble
with it.” An even bigger thre