ODNR: Eric Vendel to head Division of Oil and Gas Resource Management
Monday, March 16, 2020
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources recently announced it’s selected Eric Vendel to become the new chief of the Division of Oil and Gas Resource Management, according to Shale Ohio.
Vendel has served as lead attorney for the ODNR’s Division of Oil and Gas Resource Management since 2012. In his previous role, Vendel has “drafted and reviewed oil and gas rules and regulations, Chief’s orders, contracts, and compliance agreement,” among other duties. He holds a J.D. from Capital University Law School, a master’s degree in organic chemistry from The Ohio State University and a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Wittenberg University.
ODNR Director Mary Mertz made the announcement of Vendel’s selection, saying his “extensive legal and administrative experience in oil and gas regulation” make him the “ideal candidate,” according to the ODNR release to announce his appointment.
Learn more: Shale Ohio > Vendel named Chief of ODNR’s Division of Oil and Gas Resource Management
Leave a Comment
Marcellus & Utica Shale Well Map
Additional Shale Maps
Shale FAQ
What is fracking?
Fracking is a slang term for hydraulic fracturing. Fracturing is a process by which highly pressurized fluid is pumped thousands of feet into the ground to fracture rock formations. The goal is to release the natural gas that’s locked inside the rock.
Is it safe?
What most concerns people about fracturing is ground water contamination. The worry is that fractures underground, caused by the process, will extending upwards and into aquifers, releasing gas and chemicals into the ground water supply. There’s been no confirmed reports of such a thing happening. Though surface spills and drill site blowouts can lead to localized environmental concerns.
Will my water catch on fire?
Flammable water is caused by the release of methane gas into a drinking water supply. Methane gas occurs naturally and can be released by any kind of drilling, including water wells. In Pennsylvania officials fined Chesapeake Energy $1 million for contaminating ground water with methane. It was determined that the company had not properly cemented it’s boreholes and gas migrated up the well, between rock and into aquifers.