Seldom a day goes by that the term Marcellus Shale isn't being tossed about by economists, politicians, gas and oil exploration companies, environmentalists, government agencies and private landowners.

Landowners are faced with the opportunity to lease their land to developers and should consider a variety of issues, including whether to lease, under what conditions, with whom and what to do afterward.

This isn't an easy decision for any responsible land owner who wants the greatest economic opportunity a well site provides with the least environmental impact.

Issues with hydrology, vegetation, topography, road conditions, discharge from the drilling process and wildlife habitat all come to mind when we toss around concerns.

One consideration should be the benefits to the population of the state, such as employment opportunities, economic benefits to local businesses and communities, new tax resources for government and a plentiful resource of new energy.

Greater minds than mine are debating the Marcellus issue on a regular basis and I am sure that it will all be settled somewhere in the middle before it is decided what is best for all interests.

I once decided that there are many kinds of people on this earth: some are idealists, some are realists, while others can be optimistic, pessimistic and opportunistic!

I think it's best when we have a blend of all of these characteristics — with a little caution thrown in to temper our enthusiasm.

We would have to be complete fools not to be concerned about water and the environment when such a large-scale production is about to descend upon us in the coming decades.

The Gulf Coast issues remain fresh in my mind as to why we should always look out for ourselves and not depend on the integrity of big business.

Then again, sometimes groups take proactive stances and provide educational opportunities through workshops and sharing information developed by panels of experts.

Over the last 19 months, 3,470 Marcellus well permits have been issued. Cumulatively, the footprint of these well pads has the potential to affect more than 17,350 acres of habitat, according to Tim Hoppe, a wildlife biologist with the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

In response to this challenge, a Marcellus Shale well site reclamation field day will be held on Sept. 10.

Organized by the Game Commission and sponsored by Phillips Exploration, the field day will demonstrate innovative techniques that accelerate well site reclamation and wildlife habitat.

This free field day will take place at the Gaw Farm, 411 May Lane, Evans City. (Off Route 68 on the Mars-Evans City Road). The event runs from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., with lunch provided.

At the field day, expect to see how wildlife habitat can be integrated into the well site reclamation process.

Representatives from Phillips Exploration, the Game Commission, the state Department of Environmental Protection, the Appalachian Regional Reforestation Initiative, Drop Tine Wildlife Consulting, the Whitetail Institute and John Deere (Maple Mountain) will appear.

This panel can provide definitive answers to your questions, shortening the learning curve and preparing you for your property project.

Don't miss out on this opportunity. Landowners have received a wealth of information across the state on leasing, but little attention has been paid to reclamation and habitat recovery.

There is no cost to attend, but pre-registration is required by Sept. 8.

To register, e-mail thoppe@state.pa.us or call Tim Hoppe at 814-860-8123.

It doesn't cost anything to listen and it might cost the environment a great deal if you don't!