The Allegheny woodrat is the center of attention for oil and gas drillers in southwestern, southcentral and northcentral Pennsylvania counties, according to the Penn Live.

The woodrat, once considered a common resident of Pennsylvania, is now protected under the Game and Wildlife Code. Because of its protected status, the woodrat’s habitat in the Tiagaghton State Forest must be replaced if it’s destroyed or disturbed during the drilling process.

So far, three wells have been permitted in and near the Tiagaghton State Forest. The permits belong to Pennsylvania General Energy Co., an oil and gas producer.

Rather than plant new trees, the company was required to cut back trees, allowing more light to reach the forest floor– which promotes sapling growth.

For more information, read the entire article at Penn Live.

» Via: Penn Live › Protecting the woodrat means Marcellus Shale gas drillers must cut trees