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Web Mapping


Narrative
The Water Quality Mapping utility posts pre-drilling water quality variations as they exist across NE Pennsylvania.  Sources of this information include independent pre-drilling water quality baselines and federal/state agency water quality data that have been collected in the past, prior to adjacent gas-drilling.  We want to emphasize that Appalachia is an independent environmental consulting firm that does not work on behalf of the natural gas industry and accordingly, has no interest in that regard.  We are committed to providing scientific data.......objectively (i.e. the data is what it is).  

When you access the mapping utility, you will notice that we have plotted the most widely-sought after constituents:  barium, chloride, methane and TDS.  This may be expanded upon in the future.  We also will be regularly updating the existing data-sets to include additional locations.  You can view the constituents' distribution by individually clicking on the appropriate layer in the legend pane, located on the left side of the utility.  You will need to expand it in order to see the selectable data-sets.  Explore the utility by clicking on the various tools and on the map directly....you won't hurt it!

Scientists and laypersons should understand that the natural variations you see in the mapping utility are dependent on a number of factors, including:
  • The type and nature of media the water passes through (i.e. type of bedrock and/or sediments, presence of faults, structural lineaments, etc.),
  • The residence time of the groundwater (i.e. How long has the groundwater been in contact with the media?) and
  • The types of bio-geochemical processes that have taken place from the water's place of origin to its sampling point.
In short, these variables change based on the sample's location/depth and result in variations of natural water quality.  Interpretations of the water quality should be conducted by TRAINED hydrogeologists, geochemists and scientists familiar with the factors listed.  We strongly urge laypersons to step back and bear in mind these considerations, prior to reaching their own conclusions.

Disclaimer
The information and content provided by our web maps is compiled from various sources and is subject to constant revision.  Therefore, this service is for general informational purposes only and is provided AS IS without any warranties or conditions, expressed or implied, including, but not limited to, warranties for data quality and/or accuracy, or suitability to a particular purpose or use.  The user of the web maps assumes ALL risk and liability resulting from the use of this service and the data it provides and agrees to indemnify Appalachia Hydrogeologic and Environmental Consulting, Inc. (Appalachia), its employees and subcontractors from any direct, incidental or consequential damages incurred whatsoever, including, but not limited to, loss of revenue, profit or other economic loss.  

By accessing the links on this page, you (the user) agree that you understand, acknowledge and accept the Disclaimer statement above.

Water quality data files have been added to the web-mapping application GIS Cloud, which provides both geographic locations and attributes, such as constituent concentrations, sampling date, the source sampled and more.  Appalachia does not provide technical support; however, it should only require a few minutes to explore the interface's functions.  Also, the interface has a help menu for those requiring assistance.  The water quality data is updated on an approximate bi-monthly basis.