2.12.10 More state forestland up for gas leases

By Andrew Maykuth
Inquirer Staff Writer

In a move applauded by conservationists, Gov. Rendell on Tuesday trumpeted plans to enact a wellhead tax on Marcellus Shale natural gas that would generate $160.7 million next year and potentially billions more in the coming years.

But the governor’s office did not draw attention to another Marcellus Shale revenue source he is counting on. Buried on the 1,005th page of his proposed budget is a line item indicating the state expects to earn $180 million by leasing more state forestland for gas development.

Some Democratic lawmakers are decrying the governor’s effort to cash in on the Marcellus land rush as an affront to efforts by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) to sustainably manage 2.1 million acres of state forests. About 692,000 acres are already under lease for Marcellus production, including 32,000 acres auctioned last month.

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