Hi. I wasn't sure any on this distribution list was aware of this Symposium occurred?   It was held in November. Presentations from the symposium are available (see links below)

Peggy ----------------------------------------------------------------

Health Effects of Shale Gas Extraction Focus of Symposium - November 19, 2010 The University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health is convening a meeting today of  experts from across the country meeting to explore what is known and not known about the health impacts of extracting, refining and delivering natural gas from shale deposits, including the Marcellus Shale. The conference will identify issues for which timely research studies can be used to support sound policy decisions. Presenters also will discuss the latest research findings on water management and economics related to gas extraction.

Natural gas plays a key role in the nation's clean energy future and energy independence. Over the past few years, several key economic and energy policy developments have spurred increased gas extraction and the use of hydraulic fracturing to recover gas over diverse geographic regions and geologic formations. However, as with any technology that involves management of potentially toxic substances, questions have been raised about the impact of increased hydraulic fracturing and other gas extraction procedures on drinking water resources, air quality, public health and the environment in the vicinity of gas extraction facilities.

"Given recent concerns voiced over gas extraction procedures such as those at the Marcellus Shale, it is essential and timely to bring together experts to share information and shape the focus of future research," said Dr. Conrad Dan Volz, director of The Center for Healthy Environments and Communities at the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health (GSPH) and assistant professor, GSPH's department of environmental and occupational health.

The symposium, sponsored by the Heinz Endowments and the R. K. Mellon Foundation, will take place from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the University Club, 123 University Place, Oakland, CA.

Presentations will be made available on the website after the conference. http://www.eoh.pitt.edu/marcellus.asp#presentations

For more information, http://www.eoh.pitt.edu/marcellus.asp.