The Marcellus Shale drilling efforts in Butler County are increasing, with more permits being submitted and drilling occurring on more properties.

A common concern for landowners is the impact on their property and the appearance of the land after drilling.

A Marcellus Shale well site reclamation field day will be held Sept. 10 at the Gaw Farm, 411 May Lane, Evans City, where Tim Hoppe, a wildlife biologist with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, worked with the gas exploration company and the landowner to reclaim the site.

The workshop will demonstrate innovative reclamation techniques that accelerate well site recovery and wildlife habitat. The principles applied involve the restoration of topography, hydrology and vegetation.

The field day panel will include experienced consultants, agency and industry representatives.

In addition to representatives from the state Department of Environmental Protection, the state Game Commission, the Appalachian Regional Reforestation Initiative and others, Penn State Cooperative Extension educators will be on hand to answer questions.

The program is scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch will be provided. The program is free to interested individuals. Pre-registration is requested to help with preparations for the field day. E-mail thoppe@state.pa.us or call Tim Hoppe at 814-860-8123 to register or for answers to questions regarding the field day. Registration deadline is Sept. 3.

A two-day environmental stewardship short course focusing on pasture and manure management is being planned for horse owners.Details are still in the works, but it's not too soon to mark the dates of Sept. 18 and 25 on your calendar.The program will include discussion on forage growth and management, soil fertility, weed management, nutrient management regulations, balancing rations to reduce excess nutrients, and storing, composting and spreading stall waste.Hold the dates and stay tuned for additional program and registration information.<B><I>This material is submitted by Donna Zang, extension director, and the staff of the Penn State Extension office at the Sunnyview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center complex.</I></B>