Authors Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring
License CC-BY-NC-ND-4.0
Version 3.2: September 2016
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring
Shale Gas Extraction:
Volunteer Monitoring Manual
Visit ALLARM’s Shale Gas Database to input/view data, research and
for training resources, presentations and videos: ALLARMwater.org
© 2016 Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring. Shale Gas Extraction: Volunteer Monitoring Manual. Is licensed
under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license.
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
If you would like to use this content in other ways, please email us.
Primary Authors:
• Candie C. Wilderman, professor of Environmental Science at Dickinson College and ALLARM Founder and
Science Advisor, wilderma@dickinson.edu.
• Jinnieth J. Monismith, ALLARM Assistant Director, monismij@dickinson.edu.
Contacts for Workshops:
• Julie Vastine, ALLARM Director, vastine@dickinson.edu.
• Holden Sparacino, ALLARM Outreach Manager, sparacih@dickinson.edu, (717) 245-1678.
Note: This manual is designed to be a dynamic document. The most up-to-date version can be found on
ALLARM’s Shale Gas Database ALLARMwater.org. We expect changes as we conduct training workshops across
the region and continue to learn from our interactions with professionals in the field and with volunteers. Please
feel free to send us your comments, corrections, and suggestions!
Since June 2010 and May 2016, ALLARM conducted 64 Shale Gas monitoring workshops, some of which were in
collaboration with the following organizations: Trout Unlimited, Delaware Riverkeeper Network, PA Association
for Sustainable Agriculture, Sierra Club, Mountain Watershed Association, West Virginia University Water
Resources Institute, Creek Connections, and Protect PT. Approximately 2,000 volunteers have been trained. The
map above shows the counties in Pennsylvania, New York, and West Virginia where ALLARM has conducted
workshops during the past six years.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 2
Table of Contents
Background on ALLARM ........................................................................................................................................................ 4
Protocol and Monitoring Goals ............................................................................................................................................. 5
The Monitoring Process ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
Shale Gas Background ........................................................................................................................................................... 6
Marcellus and Utica Shale ....................................................................................................................................... 6
Frack Water ............................................................................................................................................................. 6
Flowback Water....................................................................................................................................................... 6
Protocol Overview................................................................................................................................................................. 7
Visual Observations ................................................................................................................................................. 7
Chemical Monitoring ............................................................................................................................................... 7
Stage Monitoring ..................................................................................................................................................... 8
Choosing Site Locations ........................................................................................................................................................ 9
Baseline Monitoring Sites ........................................................................................................................................ 9
Locating and Mapping Shale Gas Wells ................................................................................................................. 10
Active Drilling Monitoring Sites ............................................................................................................................. 11
Weekly Monitoring ............................................................................................................................................................. 12
Visual Observations ............................................................................................................................................... 12
Chemical Monitoring ............................................................................................................................................ 13
Stage Monitoring ................................................................................................................................................... 16
Semiannual Analysis............................................................................................................................................................ 18
Quality Assurance/Quality Control ....................................................................................................................... 18
Barium and Strontium Monitoring ........................................................................................................................ 19
Data Management .............................................................................................................................................................. 20
Individual Data Sheets ........................................................................................................................................... 20
Field Data Log ........................................................................................................................................................ 20
Database (ALLARMwater.org) .............................................................................................................................. 20
Data Interpretation ............................................................................................................................................................. 21
Visual Observations ............................................................................................................................................... 21
Chemical Monitoring ............................................................................................................................................. 21
Chemical, Physical and Pipeline Decision Trees .................................................................................................... 22
Reportable Event ................................................................................................................................................................ 25
Action Steps ........................................................................................................................................................... 25
Who to Contact ..................................................................................................................................................... 25
References .......................................................................................................................................................................... 26
Acknowledgements............................................................................................................................................................. 26
Appendix A: Agency Contact Information .......................................................................................................................... 27
Appendix B: Visual Observations Checklist ........................................................................................................................ 28
Appendix C: Chemical and Stage Monitoring Data Sheet .................................................................................................. 29
Appendix D: LaMotte Tracer PockeTester Directions ........................................................................................................ 30
Appendix E: Quality Assurance/Quality Control Form ....................................................................................................... 31
Appendix F: Field Data Log ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………32
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 3
Background on ALLARM
The Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM) is a project of the Environmental Studies Department at
Dickinson College. Since its founding in 1986, ALLARM has become a nationally recognized technical and
programmatic support center for community organizations interested in watershed assessment, protection, and
restoration. ALLARM’s program goals are to:
1) Enhance local action for the protection and restoration of Pennsylvania watersheds by empowering
communities with scientific knowledge and tools to implement watershed assessments;
2) Provide Dickinson College students with opportunities to participate in community-based participatory
research thereby enhancing the quality of undergraduate science education; and
3) Be the leader in volunteer monitoring in Pennsylvania and a national model for college-community
partnerships.
Through the work of student and professional staff, ALLARM offers comprehensive services to enable groups to
use critical scientific tools to enhance environmental quality and fully participate in community decision-making.
The program staff includes a Director, two Assistant Directors, a faculty Science Director, and 12-14
undergraduate student staff. For more information on ALLARM please visit: dickinson.edu/ALLARM or email:
ALLARM@dickinson.edu or mail:
Dickinson College/ALLARM
P.O. Box 1773
Carlisle, PA 17013
717.245.1565
ALLARM’s Shale Gas Study Design and Protocol
In 2010, ALLARM developed a monitoring program for volunteers to learn more about shale gas extraction
activities and to detect and document contamination events/disturbances caused by those activities. A study
design and protocol describing the program was released in June 2010. This document can be accessed off of
ALLARM’s Database: Shale Gas Extraction: A study design and protocol for volunteer monitoring.
This revised manual is a condensed version of that document and
reflects the many lessons learned, changes, and additions that
have occurred over the years.
ALLARM’s shale gas resources can be accessed off of ALLARM’s
Database: ALLARMwater.org. This manual describes many of the
resources available on the Database and provides links within the
text for easy access. Along with housing monitor data, the
Database also offers related information, such as research,
instructional videos and presentations:
• Fracking 101
• Shale Gas Workshop Presentations
• Monitoring Resources and Forms
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 4
Protocol and Monitoring Goals
The goals of ALLARM’s Shale Gas Volunteer Monitoring Protocol include:
1. Detect contamination in small streams and the surrounding area caused by gas extraction activities.
2. Document the stream quality and changes over time.
3. Educate individuals in the community about monitoring and impacts related to shale gas extraction.
The Monitoring Process
The monitoring process can be broken down into six main categories
1. Permit Tracking:
The process for monitoring the
impacts of shale gas extraction
starts with the identification of
active, inactive, and proposed
drilling and infrastructure sites.
Volunteers are trained to access this
information from a number of
online sources.
2. Monitoring Site Location:
Documentation of extraction
activities allow volunteer monitors
to locate sites for monitoring and
will provide information on any
impacts that might occur due to
these activities. The number and
location of sites depends on the
resources of the group.
3. Monitoring
3a. Weekly Monitoring
3b. Biannual Collection
4. Data Management and Analysis:
Throughout the monitoring process,
data are entered into a data
management program and carefully
scrutinized for indications of impact.
5. Action:
If significant deviations from
baseline conditions are
documented, volunteers will take action as they see fit.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 5
Shale Gas Background
Marcellus and Utica Shale
Depth of Marcellus and Utica Shale: http://www.marcellus.psu.edu/resources/maps.php
Frack Water
In the hydrofracking process, a large amount of solution is injected into the
well under pressure to fracture the rock and create openings for the gas to
migrate to the surface. The water used is called the frack water. It contains
fresh or recycled water and a large number of additives, which includes:
proppant (such as sand), scale inhibitors (such as ethylene glycol),
surfactants (such isopropanol), antibacterial agents (biocides), corrosion
inhibitors, and friction reducers.
Flowback Water
The frack water mixes with a natural underground brine found in the shale
and 20 – 80% returns to the surface. That water, known as flowback water
often contains high concentrations of chlorides, sodium and sulfates, metals
(such as barium, iron, manganese, arsenic, strontium, lead, cadmium,
chromium, and aluminum), naturally occurring radioactive materials (such
as uranium, radium, and radon), methane, and bacteria.
Frack and Flowback water can reach the environment and contaminate water resources through well casing leaks,
surface spills and leaks, incomplete treatment of flowback water in wastewater treatment plants, and migration
through bedrock. Water quantity problems can also occur since withdrawal of water for fracking may decrease
the flow in a stream, whereas the illegal discharge of flowback water may increase the flow. Both conditions can
cause harm to the stream’s habitat and/or biota.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 6
Protocol Overview
In order to fully document stream quality and detect multiple types and sources of pollution, three types of
monitoring must occur: 1) visual observations, 2) chemical monitoring, and 3) stage monitoring.
Visual Observations
Recording visual observations is a powerful tool that is used to document the impact shale gas extraction activities
have on the physical conditions of the ecosystem. This protocol uses visual observations as a way of identifying
and documenting physical changes in the watershed. Volunteers systematically make and record observations
related to land disturbances, spills and discharges, gas migration and/or leakages, and pipeline development.
Impacts are documented on paper and through photography.
Chemical Monitoring
Chemical monitoring is used as a way to determine stream water quality. This protocol measures indicator
parameters (conductivity and total dissolved solids) on a weekly basis and signature parameters (barium and
strontium) on a semiannual basis. Both measurements are needed to achieve the goals of this protocol,
specifically to determine if a pollution event is related to shale gas extraction activities. Quality assurance/quality
control procedures are integrated within the protocol to ensure that data are credible and of a known value.
Indicator Parameters: Conductivity and Total Dissolved Solids
Since there are hundreds of different chemicals found in the waters associated with gas extraction, it is not
possible to test for each possible constituent. This protocol uses two indicator parameters: conductivity and
total dissolved solids (TDS) as a way of monitoring changes in water quality in small streams. Conductivity and
TDS values of flowback water are extremely high. Therefore, a large increase in conductivity/TDS indicates that a
stream has been impacted – potentially by spills, leaks, or other activities associated with shale gas extraction.
Signature Parameters: Barium and Strontium
While an increase in conductivity/TDS could be the result of a shale gas pollution event, it could also be the result
of another type of pollution. Therefore, it is important to also monitoring signature parameters – the parameters
that identify flowback water as the cause of the increase in conductivity/TDS. Although the composition of
flowback water varies quite a bit, two parameters are almost always found: barium (Ba) and strontium (Sr).1 This
protocol uses two signature parameters: barium and strontium as a way of determining whether or not
flowback water is the source of pollution. Conductivity and TDS values of flowback water are extremely high.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 7
Therefore, a large increase in conductivity/TDS
indicates that a stream has been impacted –
potentially by spills, leaks, or other activities
associated with shale gas extraction.
Although increases in barium and strontium
indicate pollution from flowback water, it is not
practical for volunteers to test these two
parameters on a regular basis. Therefore, it is
important to incorporate both indicator and
signature parameters into the monitoring program.
The following table is adapted from the New York
State Department of Environmental Conservation’s
(NY DEC) Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement On the Oil, Gas and Solution Mining Regulatory
Program, and is based on flowback water samples from Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Notice the very high
concentrations of the indicator and signature parameters in flowback water (highlighted yellow) in comparison to
water quality criteria in PA.
Parameter Median concentration PA water PA drinking Potential health &
of flowback sample quality criteria water criteria environmental effects
(mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L)
Total Dissolved Solids 93,200 500 500 Variable; includes many chemicals
Barium 661 10 2 Increase in blood pressure
Strontium 821 0.050 none Musculoskeletal toxicant
Quality Assurance/Quality Control
It is important to incorporate steps to assure that information collected from any monitoring program will meet
the data quality objectives. This protocol includes several quality assurance/quality control measures: training
requirements, documentation of procedures, care and calibration of equipment, field replicates, and external
QA/QC analysis. These procedures will help to create data of known quality and value.
Stage Monitoring
The volume of water that flows past a given point during a given time period is
called flow or discharge. Simply put, this is the amount of water in the stream.
Knowledge of water quantity is critical in evaluating the normal relationship
between the concentration of conductivity/TDS and the amount of water in the
stream. Understanding this relationship helps to decide whether increases or
decreases in conductivity/TDS are simply due to changes in water quantity, or to
a contamination event.
Although flow measurements are valuable in stream monitoring, it is not
practical for volunteers to measure on a regular basis. This protocol uses stage
(the height of the water) as a way of measuring the change in amount of water
in the stream in order to establish a relationship to conductivity/TDS
measurements. The stage value is not relevant beyond this protocol.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 8
Choosing Site Locations
In order to choose an appropriate place to monitor, it is important to think through the different aspects of your
watershed, as they will impact where you choose your monitoring site. When thinking about your watershed, try
to identify whether or not there are:
1. Sources of elevated conductivity/TDS (aside from shale gas extraction activities)
• Municipal buildings that house road salt
• Salted road during snow season
• Stormwater outflow pipes
• Wastewater treatment facilities
• Acid mine drainage
• Permitted discharger – check National Pollution Discharge Elimination Systems (NPDES)
2. Special protection waters
• High Quality or Exceptional Value: www.pacode.com/secure/data/025/chapter93/chap93toc.html
• Class A Wild/Wilderness Trout Streams: http://fishandboat.com/waters_trout.htm
3. Special areas of interest
• Swimming holes
• Fishing areas
• Forested or pristine areas
• Areas with endangered or high value species
4. Drinking water withdrawal points
The best way to make note of these locations is to mark them on a large watershed or county map. County maps
of Pennsylvania can be purchased at a number of locations, including from US Geological Survey at: USGS County
Maps. They may also available through your County Conservation District. Another good, yet smaller option is
the Pennsylvania Gazetteer, which can also be purchased many places.
Baseline Monitoring Sites
Collecting baseline data (normal conditions before drilling activities occur) is important in understanding the
typical values of conductivity/TDS in your watershed and where the sources are located. In an ideal scenario, you
will be able to collect a year’s worth of baseline data, however this is not always possible.
When choosing a baseline monitoring site, keep the considerations above in mind as well as other factors that are
important to you/your group. If monitoring with a group that has multiple sites, you will want to be strategic in
how you choose your sites to account for both baseline conditions and drilling activities. Even if drilling activities
have begun in your watershed, it is still necessary to choose a few static monitoring sites – permanent sites that
never change regardless of changes in drilling activities. You should identify at least two static monitoring sites:
1. Tributary: reference site that you do not anticipate any activity to occur (baseline unimpacted site)
2. Mainstem: site near the mouth/bottom of the watershed (cumulative impact site)
The number of baseline/static monitoring sites you choose will be dependent on your resources (volunteers and
equipment) as well as how much activity has already begun. For example, it is not practical to choose 10
monitoring sites if there are only three people monitoring, sharing two kits. Be realistic when choosing sites.
ALLARM recommends that new volunteers start with one site, adding additional sites after the volunteer is used
to the monitoring protocol and is comfortable with a larger time commitment.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 9
If drilling has not occurred, you may be able to set up additional baseline monitoring sites where you anticipate
wells to be drilled. This information could come from word of mouth locally or via the Pennsylvania Department
of Environmental Protection (PA DEP).
Locating and Mapping Shale Gas Wells
It is important to locate and map the unconventional gas wells in your watershed. The location of these wells will
influence where you choose to monitor.
http://www.depgis.state.pa.us/PaOilAndGasMapping/
Permitted Shale Gas Wells
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) oversees all drilling operations in
Pennsylvania and information on drilling permits of shale gas wells is available to the public. The information can
be assessed two ways:
1. Subscribe to eNotice (PA DEP’s electronic notification system): http://www.ahs.dep.pa.gov/eNOTICEWeb/
2. Use PA DEP’s Oil and Gas Mapping Tool: http://www.depgis.state.pa.us/PaOilAndGasMapping/
3. Use a third-party site such as FracTracker: fractracker.org
Directions on how to navigate and use both eNotice and PA DEP’s Oil and Gas Mapping tool are available in
ALLARM’s Shale Gas Monitoring Workshop binder and on ALLARM’s Shale Gas Database. Both options contain a
lot of information on the permit, however your main goal is to access and record the location information
(latitude and longitude coordinates) for each of the permitted wells in your watershed.
Once you know the location of all of the permitted wells in your watershed, you should label them on a map. This
can be done on the county/watershed map used to label your baseline monitoring sites and/or electronically
using an online map, such as Google maps (http://maps.google.com/maps). The advantage of using a paper copy
is that you can record and label the permitted wells and your monitoring sites very easily. The advantage of using
an online map is that you can see the satellite imagery and zoom in to see exactly where the well will be drilled.
The best case scenario is to use both – record your sites on the county/watershed map and zoom in on the online
map to see more detail and learn more about the surrounding landscape.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 10
Lessons Learned
Drilled Shale Gas Wells
You may know where wells have been drilled in your watershed through It often works well for one
local information. PA DEP also publishes information on well sites when person in the group to
drilling begins (Spud Data Report). It is important to check it regularly to monitor, locate, and map all
know when drilling begins for each well site in your watershed. of the wells permitted and
drilled in the watershed.
Active Drilling Monitoring Sites
Once you know where wells are permitted to be drilled in your watershed, This person can keep the
you should choose monitoring sites that are near those permitted wells group updated on all of the
(keeping in mind your other areas of interest). Be realistic when choosing well development in the
sites and be aware of your resources. It is possible to choose monitoring watershed and reach out to
sites that can pick up impacts from several well sites. Additional a monitor when a well near
information on choosing monitoring sites is included in the ALLARM Shale their monitoring site is being
Gas Workshop Binder. When you know that drilling is occurring at a drilled.
particular well, you may want to monitor more frequently, since many of
the potential water quality impacts will take place during this time.
You may decide to monitor a new site as additional wells are drilled in the watershed. You can also monitor a site
for a short time while drilling is taking place. However, it is important to always monitor your baseline/static sites.
When choosing any monitoring site, keep in mind the following considerations:
1. Accessibility:
You should be able to access your site easily during all seasons. If possible, try to monitor from public
land or a bridge. If you need to access the stream from private property, you need to get the landowner’s
permission. An example Landowner Permission Form is available on ALLARM’s Database.
2. Safety:
You should be able to wade safely into the stream. Remember, this protocol is designed to monitor small
streams. In order to collect a representative water sample, you should collect it from the center of the
stream. If you cannot access the center of the stream safely, you will need to use a sampling pole or
monitor from a bridge.
Once you have determined your monitoring sites, you should document the exact locations and name them. You
can use Global Positional System (GPS) devices to obtain latitude and longitude coordinates. If GPS is not
available, you can also use Google maps to get your coordinates. Directions of how to do this are found in the
ALLARM Shale Gas Monitoring Workshop Binder and on the Online Toolkit.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 11
Weekly Monitoring
Stream monitoring should take place once a week to collect data on chemical, stage, and visual parameters.
The more data you are able to collect before drilling activities begin, the better understanding you will have about
the current health of the stream. Even if you are unable to begin monitoring before drilling begins in your
watershed, your group should still try to monitor both your baseline/static sites and your active sites on a weekly
basis. When wells are being drilled near your site, you may want to increase the frequency of monitoring.
Likewise, when drilling has ended, you may wish to monitor less frequently or choose a new monitoring site.
Monitoring for leaks and spills is challenging, especially since the stream chemistry may only be impacted for a
very short period of time as the pollution moves downstream and becomes diluted. However, visual observations
may reveal longer-lasting clues of recent contamination events, such as impacts on instream habitat.
Monitoring Type Parameter(s) Method Frequency
Gas Related Earth Disturbances
Spills and Discharges
Visual Observation Visual observations Weekly
Gas Migration and Leakages
Pipelines
Conductivity
Meter Weekly
Total Dissolved Solids
Chemical
Barium
Certified lab analysis Semiannual*
Strontium
Stage Stage Depth Weekly
*If you suspect a pollution event, collect a water sample and send to a local certified lab for confirmation.
Visual Observations
Visual documentation of drilling activities is a powerful way for volunteers to help provide needed oversight of
drilling activities. This visual observation method consists of a checklist of possible observations that indicate
impact from shale gas extraction activities. It is divided into four sections: land disturbances, spills and
discharges, gas migration and leakages, and pipelines. Each section includes a list disturbances and impacts that
can be observed. A detailed Visual Observation Checklist is found in Appendix B on page 28.
Visual Observation Directions Additional Resources
Many of the impacts associated with shale gas development have been
identified and documented through visual observations. It is important to ALLARM created two narrated
make these observations each week and record your results. You may videos that review the basics of
wish to record the conductivity and TDS results on your Field Data Log chemical monitoring:
(Appendix F, page 32) before recording data on ALLARMwater.org. Even if 1) Meter Training
you do not observe any issues, it is still necessary to document that you
2) Weekly Monitoring Steps
performed the assessment. If you do see something listed on the Visual
Assessment Checklist, take a picture and record the date, time, and
These videos and more can be
location the picture was taken.
seen on our YouTube page:
j.mp/allarmyoutube
Gas Related Earth Disturbances
Land disturbance for drilling pads, access roadways, and connecting
pipelines can cause accelerated runoff and soil erosion. This adds to the
sediment loading of nearby streams and can increase stream bank erosion. Deposition of sediments into the
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 12
stream adversely affects stream biota. An erosion and sedimentation control plan incorporating best
management practices must be prepared and followed for all land disturbances associated with oil and gas
development. In general, these measures do a good job of holding soil erosion in check. However, sometimes
improperly installed or maintained erosion and sediment control measures can lead to accelerated erosion. Most
often access roadways are the problem, as they frequently are built on steep slopes, and routine maintenance is
not a priority once a well is installed and producing. If you find any of the features in this checklist, there is a high
probability that the company is violating its sedimentation and erosion plan.
Spills and Discharges
Discharges of polluted water to streams, whether intentional or not, can have a significant impact on water
quality and stream biota. In extreme cases, fish kills can occur. Every producing gas well also produces some
water, which is stored in a tank at the well site and periodically trucked to a treatment facility as required by
Pennsylvania law. But spills do occur; and regrettably, “midnight dumping” occasionally does take place. These
events can occur and important evidence can disappear before anyone takes notice, especially on more remote
streams. Early detection and prompt reporting are crucial.
Gas Migration and Leakages
Leakage of natural gas into soil, springs, and waterways results from a pipeline break or a breech in the gas well
casing. This is not so much an environmental problem as a concern for human health and welfare. As it is
colorless and odorless, it may not be detected if migrating directly out of the ground. Natural gas mixes with
atmospheric oxygen, and any spark or flame can ignite the mixture. This situation is particularly dangerous when
someone’s potable water supply is contaminated. When gas is routed to a pipeline, mercaptan compounds are
added to provide an odor for detection.
Pipelines
It can be difficult to track pipeline development as routes can change during the development process. However,
if your site is next to a pipeline right-of-way or stream crossing, or you know of an accessible location, physical
monitoring can be done by looking for visual observations. For example, erosion and sedimentation control
measures should be in place around a right-of-way to prevent earth disturbances.
Chemical Monitoring
There are two chemical parameters you will be testing on a weekly basis – conductivity and total dissolved solids,
which are measured using the LaMotte Tracer PockeTester. Directions on how to calibrate and use the meter are
found in Appendix D on page 30 and on the Database at: LaMotte Tracer PockeTester Directions.
Conductivity and Total Dissolved Solids
Conductivity measures the ability of water to pass an electrical current, which is possible by the presence of
charged particles (ions) that are dissolved in the water. Inorganic solids (i.e. chloride and sodium) are better
conductors of electricity than organic compounds (i.e. oil and alcohol), and therefore have a higher conductivity
value. Conductivity is affected by temperature – the warmer the temperature, the higher the conductivity.
Total dissolved solids (TDS) measures the amount of matter (i.e. calcium and nitrogen) dissolved in the water. The
materials dissolved in the water are essential for aquatic life, however too many dissolved solids can be toxic to
organisms.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 13
Conductivity and total dissolved solids in streams is affected
primarily by the geology of the area through which the water
flows. Areas with inert bedrock types (i.e. granite) contribute
fewer ions to the stream than areas with reactive bedrock
types (i.e. limestone). Dissolved particles added to a stream
from point sources (i.e. manufacturing plant) and non-point
sources (i.e. road salt) increase conductivity and total
dissolved solid in streams.
Equipment
Conductivity and TDS are measured using the LaMotte Tracer PockeTester. This meter was compared to many
other similar meters by ALLARM, and is recommended for this monitoring program because of its leading scores
in the accuracy, precision, and ease of use categories. During the ALLARM Shale Gas Monitoring Workshop, you
will learn how to calibrate and use the LaMotte Tracer PockeTester. Monitoring equipment may be purchased
through ALLARM at cost (see table below).
Item Cost Weekly Materials List:
Shale Gas Monitoring Kit $99
• LaMotte Tracer PockeTester 1) Meter
• Calibration solution (1,413 µS/cm) 2) Data sheets
• Distilled water wash bottle 3) Stream testing bottle
• Stream testing bottle 4) Distilled water wash bottle
• QA/QC bottles (2) 5) Reportable event bottle
• Reportable event bottle 6) Gage stick
Gage Stick (water depth) $5
*An additional charge will be added if items need to be shipped to a monitor’s home address.
Calibration
The LaMotte Tracer PockeTester should be dual-calibrated each week before use with 84 and 1,413 µS/cm
calibration solutions. Directions on how to calibrate and use the meter are found in Appendix D on page 30. A
video reviewing the calibration and measurement procedures is available on ALLARM’s Shale Gas Database.
Life Expectancy
• The PockeTester’s electrode has a life expectancy of five years with reasonable care (LaMotte). A
replacement electrode can be purchased from LaMotte for $51, about half of the price of a new meter.
• The batteries in the PockeTester will need to be replaced every 2-5 years (or sooner), depending on use
(LaMotte). There is a low battery indicator on the meter that displays “BAT” when the batteries become
weak. Replacement batteries (CR2032) can be found at any local box/grocery/home improvement store
or online for less than $1. As a side note, ALLARM has replaced the batteries in some of the workshop
training meters when the readings were not stabilizing quickly (> 5 minutes).
• The calibration solution will need to be replaced every 1 – 2 years, depending on use.
• The remaining equipment should last indefinitely.
Troubleshooting
If you have trouble calibrating or using your meter, ask other monitors in your group for help, or contact ALLARM
for tips and suggestions. LaMotte offers the following steps to reset the meter:
1. Turn the meter off.
2. Simultaneously press the ON/OFF, CAL, and MODE buttons. “Dflt” will be displayed on the screen.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 14
Care
Do not use hand soap, dishwashing soap, laundry detergent, or any other cleaners to “clean” the monitoring
equipment. Each monitoring location should have a designated bottle/bucket. Prior to collecting a water sample,
rinse your bottle/bucket with stream water three times (pour the rinse water downstream). After you record your
results, rinse your equipment with distilled water (can be purchased at your local grocery store for ~$1) and shake
dry.
Chemical Monitoring Directions
You may monitor conductivity and total dissolved solids by inserting the meter directly into the
stream, collecting a water sample and inserting the meter into the stream testing bottle, or
collecting a water sample from a bridge. Before you collect a water sample, you should rinse
your stream testing bottle and cap three times with stream water, pouring the rinse water
downstream.
Monitoring Streamside
If monitoring streamside, enter the stream downstream from your sampling location. Wade as close to the center
of the stream as possible (be safe!), face upstream, and either insert the meter directly into the stream or collect
a water sample in your stream testing bottle (remember to rinse). Measure/collect the water from an area of
flowing water – do not sample stagnant water. If using your stream testing bottle, try to collect water from every
depth of the stream by tilting the opening of the bottle towards you before lowering it into the water. You may
wish to record the conductivity and TDS results on your Field Data Log (Appendix F, page 32) before recording
data on ALLARMwater.org.
Monitoring from a Bridge
If monitoring from a bridge, find the mid-point of the stream (or where the water is flowing swiftly) and lower a
bucket over the bridge to collect a water sample (rinse the bucket three times and pour the rinse water
downstream). Insert your meter into the bucket to measure conductivity and TDS. You may wish to record the
results on your Field Data Log (Appendix F, page 32) before recording data on ALLARMwater.org. If you choose to
monitor from a bridge using a bucket, purchase a new bucket and designate it for sample collection only, just as
you would a sample collection bottle. New buckets can be purchased from a local home improvement store for
~$2-3.
Replicates
All parameters should be tested at least two times. Taking replicate samples of conductivity, stream stage, and
total dissolved solids is a method used for quality control, which ensures that the data are credible and meet the
standards of the ALLARM Shale Gas Volunteer Monitoring Protocol. Most monitoring equipment has accuracy
and precision standards for achieving comparable results, and replicates should fall within the following criteria:
Parameter Range Acceptable difference between replicates
Conductivity 0 – 19,990 µs/cm +/- 10% or 10 µs/cm, whichever is greater
Stream Stage N/A +/- 0.1 feet
Total Dissolved Solids 0 – 9,990 mg/L +/- 10 mg/L
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 15
Replicates should be averaged. The online database will average these values for you. If the two replicates do not
fall within the “acceptable difference between replicates” criteria, test a third time. The two values that fall within
the criteria should be averaged for a final value. See the sample data in the table below:
Parameter Units Replicate #1 Replicate #2 Average
Conductivity µS/cm 230 234 232
Total Dissolved Solids mg/L 160 160 160
Stream Stage ft 4.6 4.6 4.6
Stage Monitoring
Stream stage (change in water depth) is measured every week using a gage stick, staff gage, or measuring tape.
This measurement is used as a proxy for the amount of water in the stream.
Stage
Stream stage is the level of the water relative to a reference point. Since the amount of water in the stream can
affect the conductivity (concentration or dilution of ions), it is necessary to establish the relationship between the
two parameters. This proxy measurement can only be used to compare values at a given site and cannot be used
to compare stage between sites.
Selecting a Monitoring Site
You can measure stage by directly entering the stream, stream-side, or from a bridge. When choosing a site, find
an area that is easy to access. If you choose to measure stage by entering the stream be sure to find a spot that is
wadable under most flow conditions. Find an identifiable point such as next to a boulder or tree that you can
come back to easily through changes in water depth and seasons. Stage is monitored best where the stream
channel is straight and has a uniform depth across the width of the cross-section. Stage can be measured slightly
upstream or downstream of where you monitor water quality, but should be measured at the same location using
the same method each time.
Stage Monitoring Directions
It is very important to measure stream stage each time you monitor in order to
Additional Resources
understand the relationship between conductivity and water quantity. It is very
difficult to detect a pollution event without stage data. ALLARM suggests measuring
There is a narrated
stage one of three ways. You should choose the option that works best for you. It is
important to choose one option and stick with it. The relationship between
stage monitoring
conductivity and water quantity cannot be made if you switch your stage monitoring video that explains
method. If you were trained prior to June 2012 to measure cross-sectional area the three options of
instead of stream stage, you should continue using that method. Detailed directions measuring stage on
on cross-sectional area can be found on the ALLARM Shale Gas Database. An overview ALLARM’s YouTube
of the water quantity monitoring methods is available on the Database. page.
If you change your monitoring method permanently, be sure to alert ALLARM of the change so the database can
be updated. If there is a significant change in the shape of the stream channel (i.e. high flow event), note this
when submitting data. For example, if the spot where you are sampling undergoes some scouring after a
significant rain event, your depth measurements will not be directly comparable to the ones you took prior to the
scouring event. However, if you note this in the database, ALLARM can help you to adjust your data.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 16
Option #1: Gage Stick
A gage stick is measuring tool that is calibrated in tenths of feet. You may purchase
a gage stick from ALLARM or make your own using the directions in ALLARM’s
Study Design and Protocol Document.
1. Choose a site that is easy to access – you should be able to enter and exit
the stream safely during different flow conditions and during all seasons.
2. Choose a spot in the stream that you can identify and return to regularly.
Be sure that the location is covered by water, even during low flow
conditions. Find some reference points (i.e. rocks, trees, etc.) that will help
you locate the spot, even under different flow conditions.
3. Lower the gage stick into the water at the spot you selected. Turn the
calibrated side of the stick downstream and read the stage of the water.
4. Record the value.
5. Return to that spot each time to measure stage.
Option #2: Staff Gage
A staff gage is measuring tool that is calibrated in tenths of feet and is permanently
mounted in the stream. There are several ways to install a staff gage so that you
can easily read the depth of the stream every week. The advantage of this method
is that you do not have to enter the stream each week. It does however require
more work in construction, and staff gages can be washed away in high flows if
they are not installed and secured well. Directions can be found in ALLARM’s Study
Design and Protocol Document.
1. Choose a spot in the stream that you can see and access regularly, even
under different flow conditions.
http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/measuref
2. Read the stage of the water from the installed staff gage. low.html
3. Record the value.
Option #3: Bridge
ALLARM recommends measuring stage from a bridge if you are fortunate enough to
have a bridge cross the stream at/near your monitoring site. This method is easy to
execute – you do not have to enter the water and will have easy access year-round
and during all flow conditions. Therefore, it will have the opposite relationship to
conductivity than if measuring stage with a gage stick or staff gage (options #1 & #2).
Because you will still be able to record changes in water depth accurately, this will
make no difference in using the data to determine the relationship and identifying
pollution events.
1. Choose a bridge that is easy to access and safe to stand on when measuring
stage. Do not choose a bridge where you will be in jeopardy.
2. Choose a spot on the bridge (as close to mid-stream as possible) that you can
identify and return to every week. This could be a permanent fixture of the bridge or you can create a
reference point with a marker.
3. Attach a weight to the end of a tape measure and lower it from a bridge until it touches the water surface.
4. Record the distance from the marked spot to the water height.
5. Record the value.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 17
Semiannual Analysis
In addition to weekly monitoring, monitors should send a water sample to ALLARM twice a year for quality
assurance/quality control and barium/strontium analysis during the baseline data collection period.
Quality Assurance/Quality Control
Quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) is a vital component of any monitoring protocol. ALLARM’s QA/QC
procedure is the plan used to ensure that the data collected meet the standards of quality outlined in ALLARM’s
Shale Gas Monitoring Protocol. Quality control is the process of determining whether the quality assurance plan
was implemented effectively, thereby producing data that is valid and useful. Some of the quality assurance
objectives for this protocol include training requirements, documentation of procedures, care and calibration of
equipment, field duplicates, and external QA/QC analysis.
All monitors must participate in ALLARM’s Shale Gas Monitoring QA/QC Program. The program is designed to
ensure that the data collected are useful and of known quality. Monitors submit water samples to ALLARM for
QA/QC twice a year, and samples are analyzed by the ALLARM laboratory for conductivity and TDS using the
LaMotte Tracer PockeTester and a Fisher Scientific benchtop meter. The monitor’s results are compared to
ALLARM’s results for precision. Passing the ALLARM QA/QC program indicates that the monitor is using the
equipment correctly and that the equipment is working properly.
QA/QC Directions
You should submit a water sample to ALLARM for QA/QC twice during your first
year of monitoring – once within the first month of monitoring and again a few
months later. Ideally, you will send in one sample that was collected when your
stage value was low and one sample when the stage is high. At a minimum, send
in one sample during a low-stage event (little to no rain and low water level). After
the first year, you should send in a water sample once a year to verify your results.
Step 1: Collect Water Sample
Enter the stream and wade as close to the center as possible (be safe!), face
upstream, and rinse your QA/QC bottle and cap three times with stream water,
pouring the rinse water downstream. Tilt the opening of the bottle towards you
and lower it into the flowing water. Try to collect water from every depth of the
stream if possible. Cap the bottle and record the information on the label – the date, your name, and the stream
name (you may have to wait for the label to dry).
Step 2: Fill out Quality Assurance/Quality Control Form
Fill out your QA/QC form completely (Appendix E, page 31). ALLARM cannot process your water sample without
the monitor information, sample information, and monitoring results.
Step 3: Mail Water Sample
Pack a small box (do not send water sample in an envelope) with your water sample and QA/QC form. ALLARM
will process your water sample and send you your results via e-mail or mail. Mail the box to:
ALLARM
Dickinson College
5 N Orange Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 18
Barium and Strontium Monitoring
Barium and strontium are heavy metals that are naturally found deep underground. When a shale gas well is
developed, flowback water returns to the Earth’s surface containing portions of frack water and materials the
frack water came in contact with such as barium, strontium, salts, minerals, and NORMS. Barium and strontium
are toxic when found in high concentrations.
Barium and strontium play an integral role in ALLARM’s Shale Gas Monitoring Protocol. These two parameters
help to determine whether or not a pollution event was caused by the fracking process (flowback water entering
the stream). Studies of flowback water (http://scholar.dickinson.edu/student_work/44/) show high
concentrations of both parameters. If/when conductivity values increase, barium and strontium can be used to
identify flowback water as the source of pollution. There are two situations when you will need to collect a water
sample for barium and strontium analysis – 1) during baseline conditions to evaluate background concentrations,
and 2) if you suspect a drilling-related contamination event to determine if flowback water is the source of
pollution.
Baseline Monitoring: Collecting a Water Sample
You do not have to take any additional steps to monitor for barium and strontium under baseline. When you send
your QA/QC sample to ALLARM, ALLARM will process the sample for QA/QC, and then send it to a Pennsylvania
certified lab for barium and strontium analysis (if funding is available). By collecting your QA/QC sample at both
low and high flow conditions, you will be able to see the range of background levels of barium and strontium in
your stream. These values will also serve as a reference when determining if a drilling-related chemical pollution
event has occurred. Once ALLARM receives the results from the certified lab, they will be sent to you by e-
mail/mail. If you change your monitoring site at any time, send in a water sample for barium and strontium
analysis. If you need additional bottles, contact ALLARM.
Pollution Event: Collecting a Water Sample
If you believe a chemical pollution event has occurred as a result of drilling activities, carefully collect a water
sample following the “Collect a Water Sample” directions (page 18). Send/drop off the water sample at a local PA
certified lab – do not mail your water sample to ALLARM. In order to confirm a pollution event, the sample must
be analyzed as soon as possible and will take too long to reach ALLARM. You may want to locate a lab when you
begin monitoring so you know who to contact if a pollution event occurs.
Use the Chemical Monitoring Decision Tree (page 24) to determine if you should collect a water
sample to send to a PA certified lab for barium and strontium analysis.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 19
Data Management
In order to detect impacts of gas extraction activities and act in a timely manner, monitors must carefully record
data each week as they are collected. Data can be temporarily recorded on your Field Data Log (Appendix F, page
32) or submitted each week through ALLARMwater.org. The database creates graphs and can find trends in the
data in real-time. For a tutorial on using the database, visit ALLARM’s YouTube page (j.mp/allarmyoutube)
ALLARM will also discuss using the database at the workshop.
Resource Use Available at:
Appendix B and C, pages 28-29
Data Sheets Record raw data (field)
ALLARMwater.org
Temporarily compile raw data
Appendix F, page 32
Field Data Log for multiple sampling events or
ALLARMwater.org
multiple sites
Record raw data, download and
view data from across the state,
ALLARMwater.org ALLARMwater.org
find monitoring resources and
create graphs for site data.
Individual Data Sheets (Appendix B and C, pages 28-29)
Individual data sheets are available to document chemical monitoring and visual assessment observations, and
can be brought into the field each week. These are especially helpful the first time a new volunteer goes
monitoring, as they include more details about the parameters and measurements being collected. Because the
individual datasheets are one page each, they are not practical for long-term data collection. The ALLARM Shale
Gas Monitoring Workshop binder has copies of data sheets with the Chemical and Stage Monitoring Data Sheet
on the front and the Visual Observation Checklist on the back. After collecting raw data on the data sheet, please
be sure to submit the data to ALLARMwater.org as well.
Field Data Log (Appendix F, page 32)
This data log lets monitors record multiple sites or events on one page. This Additional Resources:
may be more practical for experienced monitors, and monitors who have
multiple sites. After collecting raw data on the data sheet, please be sure to
ALLARM has developed
submit the data to ALLARMwater.org as well.
several resources for data
management and
Database (ALLARMwater.org) interpretation. These
The online database is a great new tool for monitors to keep track of and resources are available on
understand their data. Monitors can view and create graphs not only for ALLARM’s Shale Gas
data from their sites but sites across Pennsylvania. Furthermore, all of Monitoring Online Toolkit:
ALLARM’s shale gas resources and research are available under the
‘resources’ tab for convenience. All data collected, including observations
ALLARMwater.org.
collected for QA/QC samples, should be submitted through the database.
For a tutorial on using the database, visit ALLARM’s YouTube page:
j.mp/allarmyoutube
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 20
Data Interpretation
The data you collect need to be interpreted weekly to determine if follow-up action is needed. After submitting
data, ALLARMwater.org will alert volunteers if follow-up is needed from submitted data, and will notify ALLARM
that additional support might be needed. ALLARM has created several resources to help with the process of
identifying and reporting shale gas-related pollution events.
Resource Use Available at:
Interpret data & determine Shale Gas Manual - Decision Trees (page 22-
Decision Trees
further action steps 24)
Contact appropriate entities
Contacts Appendix A (page 27)
about reportable events
Visual Observations
If visual observations indicate an impact from shale gas extraction activities, use the Visual Assessment Decision
Tree (page 22) and Pipeline Decision Tree (page 23) to determine if follow-up action is needed.
Chemical Monitoring
Data need to be interpreted immediately after monitoring to determine if there is a reportable event – pay close
attention to conductivity measurements each week. Use the next section to determine what an actionable level
for your stream is. Conductivity values will fluctuate over time and are influenced by the amount of water in the
stream, however large increases in conductivity from one week to the next are suspicious. If you observe a large
increase in conductivity, use the Chemical Monitoring Decision Tree (page 24) and section below to determine if
follow-up action is needed, and if so, who to contact. If you are unsure if you have found a reportable event and
would like assistance, reach out to ALLARM.
If Baseline Data is Available
If you measure a spike in conductivity, compare the value in question to the baseline data. Identify other weeks
when the stage value was comparable (within 0.2 feet) to the current week, and if the conductivity value is:
• Three times greater than (> 3x) the baseline conductivity value(s) for those weeks, collect a water sample
using your reportable event bottle. Drop the bottle off at a local PA certified lab for barium/strontium
analysis and contact ALLARM.
• Less than three times greater (< 3x) than the baseline conductivity values, no further action is needed.
If Baseline Data is Not Available
If you are new to monitoring and you measure a spike in conductivity, travel upstream and measure the
conductivity of the same stream upstream from the gas well. If the downstream conductivity value is more than
double the upstream value, or more than double than the previous week’s conductivity value at a comparable
(within 0.2 feet) stage, collect a water sample using one of the ALLARM QA/QC bottles. Drop the bottle off at a
local PA certified lab for barium/strontium analysis and contact ALLARM. If the conductivity value is less than two
times greater than the upstream or previous week’s values, no further action is needed.
Identifying a Reportable Event
The certified lab should be able to analyze the water sample for barium and strontium and contact you with the
results within a day or two. If the Ba/Sr results are three times greater than the baseline Ba/Sr results, refer to
Reportable Event on page 25 and Chemical Monitoring Decision Tree on page 24.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 21
VOLUNTEER MONITORING FOR SHALE GAS IMPACTS
Visual Observations Decision Tree
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 22
VOLUNTEER MONITORING FOR SHALE GAS IMPACTS
Pipeline Decision Tree
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 23
VOLUNTEER MONITORING FOR SHALE GAS IMPACTS
Chemical Monitoring Decision Tree
Baseline Data Available No Baseline Data Available
Is conductivity result
Is conductivity result
3X greater than the
3X greater than
previous week’s conductivity
baseline conductivity
or 2X greater than upstream
at a similar stage?
conductivity?
N Y Y N
O E E O
S S
Not a • Collect a water sample and give it Not a
reportable to a local PA certified lab for reportable
event – no event – no
barium and strontium analysis
further action further action
needed • Contact ALLARM needed
If lab Ba & Sr results are
3X greater than
baseline values
Contact:
• PA DEP Regional Office
• PA Fish & Boat Commission
• ALLARM
• EPA Region 3 Tipline
• County Conservation District
• Local Community/Environmental Group
• Facility Owner/Operator
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 24
Reportable Event
Reportable events are those events that require action, such as collecting a water sample for barium/strontium
analysis by a PA certified lab or calling the appropriate agency to report a shale gas impact. Reportable events are
identified by criteria outlined in the decision trees. If you have questions determining whether or not an event is
reportable, contact another monitor or ALLARM.
Action Steps
The type of reportable event you observed will inform your follow-up action steps. For example, if you observe a
spike in conductivity 3x greater than baseline conditions at a comparable flow, you will collect a water sample to
drop off at a local PA certified lab for barium and strontium analysis. However, if you observe a pipeline incident,
you do not need to collect a water sample and will instead contact the appropriate agencies/groups.
Who to Contact
Anytime you witness a reportable event, be sure to contact ALLARM as well as the other agencies/groups listed in
the decision tree. When contacting an agency, be sure to:
1. Identify yourself as someone who has been trained by the Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring at
Dickinson College to monitor impacts from shale gas extraction.
2. Explain that you have been collecting baseline data and are aware of what constitutes healthy conditions
of the stream.
3. State that you have followed the protocol’s quality control procedures and have passed the ALLARM
quality control program to ensure that the data you collect are credible.
4. Describe the reportable event.
Example:
Hello, Mr. Bradley. My name is Jinnie Monismith and I live in Cumberland County and I have been trained by the
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring at Dickinson College to monitor impacts from shale gas extraction. I
have been collecting baseline data on the Letort Spring Run for 13 months and have developed an understanding
of the normal and healthy conditions of the stream. I have followed the quality assurance/quality control
procedures outlined in the ALLARM Shale Gas Volunteer Monitoring Protocol, and have passed ALLARM’s QA/QC
Program, so I know that the data I have been collecting for these past 13 months are credible. On March 2, 2013 I
observed a conductivity reading of 8,360 µS/cm, when typical values range from 560 – 680 µS/cm when the stage
is 3.0 feet. 8,360 µS/cm is greater than 3x the conductivity values at the same stage, which as outlined in the
ALLARM Protocol, makes this a reportable event. My monitoring site is located off of Shady Lane road at
coordinates 40.1234 N latitude and -77.9876 W longitude. How can follow-up on the status of this report?
For PA agency contact information, see Appendix A (page 27)
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 25
References
ALLARM, 2012. Shale Gas Extraction: A Study Design and Protocol for Volunteer Monitoring (Version 2.0), available
online at: http://blogs.dickinson.edu/marcellusmonitoring/files/2014/02/Shale-Gas-Volunteer-Monitoring-
Manual-2.0-updated-links-2014.pdf
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Division of Mineral Resources. 2009. DRAFY
Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement On The Oil, Gas and Solution Mining Regulatory Program,
available online at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/energy/58440.html
Penn State Marcellus Center for Outreach and Research (MCOR). 2016. Resources: Maps and Graphics, available
online at: http://www.marcellus.psu.edu/resources/maps.php
River Network and PA DEP Citizen Volunteer Monitoring Program. 2001. Designing Your Monitoring Program: A
Technical Handbook for Community-Based Monitoring in Pennsylvania.
Schlimm, Helen and (ALLARM), Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring, "Hydraulic Fracturing Flowback Water
Chemical Composition Research" (2015). Student Scholarship & Creative Works By Year. Paper 44.
http://scholar.dickinson.edu/student_work/44
Zerbe, F. and C. Wilderman, 2010. Monitoring Impacts of New Gas-drilling Technologies, The Volunteer Monitor,
21(1), Spring 2010.
EPA, 2016. Drinking Water Contaminants – Standards and Regulations, available online at:
https://www.epa.gov/dwstandardsregulations
Acknowledgements
Throughout the process of developing this manual, the authors have worked with numerous people and
organizations across the shale region gathering information from them, asking their opinions, and getting
permission to use their materials. ALLARM would especially like to acknowledge the following people and
organizations for their invaluable contributions to this manual:
Debra Nardone and Robert Volkmar of PA Trout Unlimited;
Mike Lovegreen and Scott Mollnar of Bradford County Conservation District;
Julie Vastine, Director of ALLARM;
Jinnie Monismith, Assistant Director of ALLARM;
Candie Wilderman, Scientific Advisor and Founder of ALLARM;
Benson Ansell, Vallie Edenbo, Anna Farb, Vinca Krajewski, Kerri Oddenino, Simona Perry, Katie Tomsho, and
Maunette Watson, of Dickinson College;
Jim Weaver of Waterdogs;
Steve Penningroth of Community Science Institute; and
Faith Zerbe of Delaware Riverkeeper.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 26
Appendix A: PA Agency Contact Information
County PA DEP PA Fish & Boat County Conservation
Regional Office Regional Office District Office
Town Number Town Number Town Number
Allegheny Pittsburgh 412.442.4000 Somerset 814.445.8974 Pittsburgh 412.241.7645
Armstrong Pittsburgh 412.442.4000 Somerset 814.445.8974 Kittanning 724.548.3425
Beaver Pittsburgh 412.442.4000 Somerset 814.445.8974 Aliquippa 724.378.1701
Bedford Harrisburg 717.705.4700 Newville 717.486.7087 Bedford 814.623.8099
Blair Harrisburg 717.705.4700 Newville 717.486.7087 Hollidaysburg 814.696.0877
Bradford Williamsport 570.327.3636 Sweet Valley 570.477.5717 Towanda 570.265.5539
Butler Meadville 814.332.6945 Meadville 814.337.0444 Butler 724.285.5515
Cambria Pittsburgh 412.442.4000 Somerset 814.445.8974 Ebensburg 814.472.2120
Cameron Williamsport 570.327.3636 Bellefonte 814.359.5250 Emporium 814.486.2244 x 5
Carbon Wilkes-Barre 570.826.2511 Sweet Valley 570.477.5717 Lehighton 610.377.4894 x 4
Centre Williamsport 570.327.3636 Bellefonte 814.359.5250 Bellefonte 814.355.6817
Clarion Meadville 814.332.6945 Meadville 814.337.0444 Clarion 814.226.4070
Clearfield Williamsport 570.327.3636 Bellefonte 814.359.5250 Clearfield 814.765.2629
Clinton Williamsport 570.327.3636 Bellefonte 814.359.5250 Mill Hall 570.726.3798
Columbia Williamsport 570.327.3636 Sweet Valley 570.477.5717 Bloomsburg 570.784.1310
Crawford Meadville 814.332.6945 Meadville 814.337.0444 Meadville 814.763.5269
Dauphin Harrisburg 717.705.4700 Newville 717.486.7087 Dauphin 717.921.8100
Elk Meadville 814.332.6945 Bellefonte 814.359.5250 Ridgway 814.776.5373
Erie Meadville 814.332.6945 Meadville 814.337.0444 Erie 814.825.6403
Fayette Pittsburgh 412.442.4000 Somerset 814.445.8974 Lemont Furnace 724.438.4497
Forest Meadville 814.332.6945 Meadville 814.337.0444 Tionesta 814.755.3450
Franklin Harrisburg 717.705.4700 Newville 717.486.7087 Chambersburg 717.264.5499
Fulton Harrisburg 717.705.4700 Newville 717.486.7087 McConnellsburg 717.485.3547
Greene Pittsburgh 412.442.4000 Somerset 814.445.8974 Waynesburg 724.852.5278
Huntingdon Harrisburg 717.705.4700 Newville 717.486.7087 Huntingdon 814.627.1627
Indiana Pittsburgh 412.442.4000 Somerset 814.445.8974 Indiana 724.471.4751
Jefferson Meadville 814.332.6945 Bellefonte 814.359.5250 Brookville 814.849.7463
Juniata Harrisburg 717.705.4700 Newville 717.486.7087 Mifflintown 717.436.8953
Lackawanna Wilkes-Barre 570.826.2511 Sweet Valley 570.477.5717 Mayfield 570.281.9495
Lawrence Meadville 814.332.6945 Meadville 814.337.0444 New Castle 724.652.4512
Lebanon Harrisburg 717.705.4700 Newville 717.486.7087 Lebanon 717.272.3908 x 4
Luzerne Wilkes-Barre 570.826.2511 Sweet Valley 570.477.5717 Shavertown 570.674.7991
Lycoming Williamsport 570.327.3636 Bellefonte 814.359.5250 Montoursville 570.433.3003
McKean Meadville 814.332.6945 Bellefonte 814.359.5250 Smethport 814.887.4001
Mercer Meadville 814.332.6945 Meadville 814.337.0444 Mercer 724.662.2242
Mifflin Harrisburg 717.705.4700 Newville 717.486.7087 Burnham 717.248.4695
Monroe Wilkes-Barre 570.826.2511 Sweet Valley 570.477.5717 Stroudsburg 570.629.3060
Montour Williamsport 570.327.3636 Bellefonte 814.359.5250 Danville 570.271.1140
Northumberland Williamsport 570.327.3636 Bellefonte 814.359.5250 Sunbury 571.286.7114 x 4
Perry Harrisburg 717.705.4700 Newville 717.486.7087 New Bloomfield 717.582.8988 x 4
Pike Wilkes-Barre 570.826.2511 Sweet Valley 570.477.5717 Hawley 570.226.8220
Potter Williamsport 570.327.3636 Bellefonte 814.359.5250 Coudersport 814.274.8411 x 4
Schuylkill Wilkes-Barre 570.826.2511 Lititz 717.626.0228 Pottsville 570.622.3742 x 5
Snyder Williamsport 570.327.3636 Bellefonte 814.359.5250 Middleburg 570.837.3000
Somerset Pittsburgh 412.442.4000 Somerset 814.445.8974 Somerset 814.445.4652 x 5
Sullivan Williamsport 570.327.3636 Sweet Valley 570.477.5717 Dushore 570.928.7057
Susquehanna Wilkes-Barre 570.826.2511 Sweet Valley 570.477.5717 Montrose 570.278.4600 x 280
Tioga Williamsport 570.327.3636 Bellefonte 814.359.5250 Wellsboro 570.724.1801 x 5
Union Williamsport 570.327.3636 Bellefonte 814.359.5250 Lewisburg 570.524.3860
Venango Meadville 814.332.6945 Meadville 814.337.0444 Franklin 814.676.2832
Warren Meadville 814.332.6945 Meadville 814.337.0444 Warren 814.726.1441
Washington Pittsburgh 412.442.4000 Somerset 814.445.8974 Washington 724.228.6774
Wayne Wilkes-Barre 570.826.2511 Sweet Valley 570.477.5717 Honesdale 570.253.0930
Westmoreland Pittsburgh 412.442.4000 Somerset 814.445.8974 Greensburg 724.837.5271
Wyoming Wilkes-Barre 570.826.2511 Sweet Valley 570.477.5717 Tunkhannock 570.836.2589
Other Contact Information:
ALLARM 717.245.1565 ALLARM@dickinson.edu
EPA Region III Marcellus Shale Natural Gas Drilling Tipline: 877.919.4372 eyesondrilling@epa.gov
Federal Regulatory Energy Commission (FERC): 888.889.8030 hotline@ferc.gov
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 27
Appendix B: Visual Observations Checklist
VOLUNTEER MONITORING FOR SHALE GAS IMPACTS
Visual Observations Checklist
Be sure to submit data at ALLARMwater.org after recording your data in the field.
Site Information Sample Information
Monitor’s Name Assessment Date
Site Location Assessment Time
Earth Disturbances:
Stream: Yes No Pipeline Photo
Sediment enters stream, pond, or other water body
Access Road: Yes No Pipeline Photo
Banks are not stabilized (no mulch, seeding, vegetation, etc.)
Crosses stream and drainage from road empties into stream
Not stabilized with clean substrate material (i.e. gravel)
Drainage/mud/sediment from access road enters road ditch
Drainage/mud/sediment from access road travels to main road
Drill Pad, Storage Pond & Staging Area: Yes No Pipeline Photo
Earth disturbed at edge of water; no controls to stop/filter runoff
Clean water enters the site from uphill with no diversion ditch
Sediment BMP outlets empty into water body without filtering runoff
Sediment BMP outlets are not stabilized (no mulch, seeding, vegetation, etc.)
Spills and Discharges:
Stream: Yes No Pipeline Photo
Unusual odor
Discolored water (i.e. oily film)
Persistent foam/bubbles (where there isn’t normal agitation
Dead fish/organisms
Evidence of illegal dumping
Gas Migration and Leakages:
Stream: Yes No Pipeline Photo
Gas bubbling to surface
Unusual gas-like odor (mercaptan)
Description of Observation(s):
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 28
Appendix C: Chemical and Stage Monitoring Data Sheet
VOLUNTEER MONITORING FOR SHALE GAS IMPACTS
Chemical and Stage Monitoring Data Sheet
Be sure to submit data at ALLARMwater.org after recording your data in the field.
1. Record your site and sample information in the boxes below:
Site Information Sample Information
Stream Name Monitor’s Name
Site Location Collection Date
Latitude Coordinate Collection Time
Longitude
County Monitored
Coordinate
2. Check the description that best matches your observation:
Weather Precipitation Precipitation Last 48 Hours
Sunny Light rain None
Partly Cloudy Heavy rain Light
Cloudy Snow Heavy
3. Record your results in the boxes below:
Parameter Units Replicate #1 Replicate #2 Average Result
Conductivity µS/cm
Total Dissolved
mg/L
Solids
Stage feet
Inches to feet conversion:
Inches 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Feet 0.08 0.17 0.25 0.33 0.42 0.50 0.58 0.67 0.75 0.83 0.92
4. Did you calibrate your meter this week? Yes No
5. How much time did you spend monitoring? __________ hours
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 29
Appendix D: LaMotte Tracer PockeTester Directions
VOLUNTEER MONITORING FOR SHALE GAS IMPACTS
LaMotte Tracer PockeTester Directions
Measure the conductivity and total dissolved solids using the LaMotte Tracer PockeTester.
For more detailed instructions, including troubleshooting the meter, visit ALLARMwater.org.
1. Calibrate the Meter (at home or in the field)
(A) Turn the meter on – press the ON/OFF button.
(B) Take the cap covering the electrodes off.
(C) Set the meter to conductivity mode – µS will be displayed above the reading (see diagram
for symbols). To change modes, press and hold the MODE button for ~3 seconds. Repeat
until µS is displayed on the screen.
(D) Place the electrodes in ~20 mL of 84 µS/cm calibration solution. Press and hold the CAL
button in for ~2 seconds. CAL will appear on the bottom of the screen and 84 will flash while
the meter is calibrating. SA and End will then briefly flash and the meter will return to the
conductivity measurement mode. SA will not flash if the calibration fails.
(E) Rinse the electrodes with distilled water, and shake dry.
(F) Repeat steps 1(D) and 1(E) with ~20 mL of 1413 µS/cm calibration solution. Always calibrate
with 84 µS/cm calibration solution first. Turn the meter off – press the ON/OFF button.
(G) Make a note on your data sheet that you calibrated your meter – step #4 on the ALLARM
Chemical and Stage Monitoring Data Sheet.
Note: If monitoring multiple sites in one day, only one calibration is needed. Calibrate the meter
once for each day you monitor.
2. Measure Conductivity (in the field)
(A) Turn the meter on – press the ON/OFF button.
(B) Take the cap covering the electrodes off.
(C) Set the meter to conductivity mode – µS will be displayed above the reading
(see diagram for symbols). To change modes, press and hold the MODE button.
Repeat until µS is displayed on the screen.
(D) Place the electrodes into the water so that they are fully covered – either directly
into the stream or a sample collected in the stream testing bottle.
(E) Allow the reading to stabilize – this may take up to two minutes.
(F) Record the conductivity measurement on your data sheet.
3. Measure Total Dissolved Solids (in the field)
(A) Without removing the meter from the water, change the meter to total dissolved solids
mode. Press and hold the MODE button for ~3 seconds – Tds will flash on the bottom of
the screen and PPm will now be displayed above the reading (see diagram for symbols).
(B) Allow the reading to stabilize.
(C) Record the total dissolved solids measurement on your data sheet.
4. Replicates & Wrap-up (field)
(A) Repeat steps #2 and #3 to measure the second replicates for each parameter.
(B) Press and hold the MODE button for ~3 seconds to switch from TDS to salinity.
(C) Press and hold the MODE button again for ~3 seconds to change from salinity to
conductivity mode (µS will be displayed above the reading).
(D) Average the conductivity and TDS values and record the results on your data sheet.
(E) Rinse the meter with distilled water, shake dry, and turn the meter off – press the ON/OFF
button.
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 30
Appendix E: Quality Assurance/Quality Control Form
SHALE GAS VOLUNTEER MONITORING PROGRAM
Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) Form
1. Fill out the label on your QA/QC bottle (shown to the right).
2. Enter the stream and face upstream. Fill your QA/QC bottle and pour the rinse
water out downstream. Rinse your bottle and cap three times. Fill your QA/QC
bottle completely with stream water and close it tightly with the cap.
3. Record your data in the chart below, as well as on ALLARMwater.org:
Parameter Units Replicate #1 Replicate #2 Average Result
Conductivity µS/cm
Total Dissolved Solids mg/L
Stage feet
4. Fill out the information in the boxes below:
Monitor Information Sample Information
Site ID or
Monitor’s Name
Stream Name
Latitude Coordinate
Mailing Address
Longitude Coordinate
Email Address Collection Date
County
Collection Time
Monitored
Equipment Used
Affiliation (i.e. LaMotte meter)
(if applicable)
Bottle # (on label):
5. Pack a small box with your QA/QC bottle and this QA/QC form. Secure the bottle so it cannot move
around during shipment. Mail the box to ALLARM for QA/QC processing at: ALLARM
Dickinson College
5 N Orange Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 31
Appendix F: Field Data Log
Be sure to also submit data via ALLARMwater.org
Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), 2016 Page 32