Welcome to a new chapter in responsible Marcellus Shale development in our Commonwealth. The Delaware Valley Marcellus Association (DVMA) has been formed to communicate the value of this vast, domestic, cleaner energy source to Delaware Valley businesses, professionals, investors, and suppliers.

Marcellus Shale development is transforming the economy of Pennsylvania, creating enormous opportunities. Its game-changing potential is already resonating throughout the state. No doubt, the first impact has been felt on the ground — in Western and Northern Pennsylvania where the shale is located some 8,000 feet below ground. Here in the Delaware Valley, the potential is just now being realized, as Pennsylvania emerges as a major energy producer — regionally, nationally and not too far in the future, internationally.

That’s why we have formed the Delaware Valley Marcellus Association, which is dedicated to networking and educating local businesses on this once in a lifetime opportunity to improve America’s energy future and transform our national economy. Formed by local businesses and services firms, including Duane Morris LLP, Gregory FCA, KPMG LLP, and ModSpace, the DVMA will educate and inform through a pro-responsible development voice here in the Delaware Valley.

Right now, the misconceptions about Marcellus Shale are many. Anti-development groups have done a remarkable job of planting suspicion and misinforming the public about the risks and rewards of natural gas development. A number of industry groups, including The Marcellus Shale Coalition, Pennsylvania Independent Oil and Gas Association, Energy In Depth, and others, have been instrumental in educating and informing the public and working with our legislature to nurture, instead of overburden, this fledgling industry.

We plan to work in cooperation with these groups, producers, and suppliers to tell that story throughout the Delaware Valley and serve as their southeastern flank to advance the positives of this vital American natural resource, and voice our concerns when falsehoods arise.

So, we are just getting underway. Our first official meetings is now scheduled. We will have much to share with you over the upcoming weeks and months. For now, we just wanted to introduce ourselves and welcome you to learn more about the Marcellus, a transformational event in the history of our Commonwealth.