Exploring Shale Development across the Entire County: Insights Gleaned from Jefferson County, Ohio
In response to increased drilling activity, the Board of County Commissioners in Jefferson County, Ohio, formed an advisory committee in fall 2011. Known as the Jefferson County Oil and Gas Committee, this group has been instrumental in guiding community planning around oil and gas development. The experiences of this committee have led to the identification of 11 Lessons Learned to guide other community leaders facing changes associated with rapid growth in the oil and gas industry.
Engage Stakeholders Early and Often
One key lesson is the importance of engaging stakeholders early and often. Transparent communication among residents, industry, and regulators ensures that everyone is informed and involved in the decision-making process.
Conduct Thorough Impact Assessments
Assessing the potential impacts of oil and gas development is crucial. This includes environmental, health, infrastructure, and economic effects. Understanding these impacts allows communities to make informed decisions and take proactive measures.
Develop Local Regulations and Policies
Balancing economic benefits with protection of public health and the environment is a delicate task. Developing local regulations and policies that reflect the community's values is essential in this process.
Invest in Infrastructure Upgrades
Increased activity requires upgraded infrastructure. Investing in roads, water, and emergency services ensures that the community can handle the increased activity safely.
Monitor Environmental and Health Indicators
Continuous monitoring of environmental and health indicators is necessary to identify and mitigate issues promptly. This proactive approach helps maintain the community's well-being.
Plan for Workforce Development and Economic Diversification
Sustaining the community beyond oil and gas booms requires planning for workforce development and economic diversification. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the community remains vibrant and viable in the long term.
Foster Partnerships with Academic and Research Institutions
Accessing data and best practices from academic and research institutions can greatly benefit community leaders. These partnerships provide valuable insights and resources to guide decision-making.
Form Committees and Create Plans that Reflect Local Viewpoints
Local leaders can manage the potential impacts of shale development by forming committees and creating plans that reflect local viewpoints, strengths, weaknesses, and visions of the future.
Update Local Plans to Include the Community's Ideas
Updating local land use, economic development, and other plans to include the community's ideas about how shale might positively and negatively alter future development is another important lesson.
Understand the Limits of Local Government's Control
The oil and gas industry is subject to global prices and supply and demand, not local governments. Understanding this limitation is crucial in setting realistic expectations and goals.
Embrace Oil and Gas Development as Part of Community Planning
Oil and gas development should be an integral part of any ongoing community planning efforts, focusing on pre-existing assets and the long-term vision for the community.
The efforts of the Jefferson County Oil and Gas Committee have not gone unrecognised. In June 2012, they were awarded a $49,900 grant to build a website connecting local entities and addressing communication and education gaps related to oil and gas development. This commitment to transparency and education sets a strong example for other communities facing similar challenges.
Jefferson County, Ohio, lies over at least two shale plays with potential for oil and gas development: Marcellus Shale and Utica/Point Pleasant Shale. As the industry continues to evolve, the lessons learned by the Jefferson County Oil and Gas Committee will undoubtedly serve as a valuable guide for other communities navigating this complex landscape.
Strengthen Partnerships with the Financial Sector
Collaborating with financial institutions can provide opportunities for investing in infrastructure and workforce development, as well as promoting economic diversification.
Address Energy Needs through Local Solutions
Communities can benefit from exploring local energy alternatives, such as renewable energy sources, to reduce reliance on oil and gas. This strategy fosters sustainability and energy independence.
Leverage the Oil-and-Gas Industry for Economic Growth in Other Sectors
The oil-and-gas industry can have spin-off benefits for related businesses, such as manufacturing and transportation. Developing these sectoral linkages can contribute to long-term economic growth.