top of page
Family Picnic

Our Work

We work in communities across Westmoreland and eastern Allegheny counties impacted by unconventional oil and gas development.

What We Do

Using grassroots organizing, policy analysis, environmental science, and community education, and legal advocacy, we work to protect our public health and preserve our natural environment here in southwest PA. 

​

We collaborate with a diverse network of non-profit organizations as well as local and state government officials to enact change that benefits local residents.

Legal Advocacy

Our legal team works to protect Pennsylvanian's right to clean air and pure water, as as acknowledged under the Pennsylvania Constitution, Article 1 Section 27.

Focus Areas

Penn Township

Protect PT's home base, Penn Township, has had significant levels of unconventional oil and gas development in the past decade, including over ten proposed well pads and two compressor stations.

Beaver Run Reservoir

Located in Westmoreland County, Beaver Run is a public water source for 150,000 people in the 39 surrounding townships. More than 50 wells are located near the reservoir; many less than 1,000 feet from the water's edge.

Westmoreland Sanitary Landfill

This landfill produces significant health and environmental impacts to nearby residents in Rostraver, Monessen, and Belle Vernon.

Pitcairn

Community members in Pitcairn have been experiencing smell events for years, characterized by a strong odor that causes burning of the eyes and throat. The source of the odor, usually presented in colder conditions, is unknown.

Upper Burrell Data Center

As of early 2025, Protect PT has begun working around a proposed data center located in Upper Burrell Township that would negatively impact residents.

Plum Injection Well

The Plum Injection Well is situated near the Allegheny River, the drinking water source for the city of Pittsburgh and surrounding communities. A leak from the injection well could impact hundreds of thousands of residents. 

Blurry Forest

Additional Resources

1. Fracking 101

Learn what fracking is and how it can impact you, your family, and your community.

2. Leasing Information

Learn everything you need to know before you consider signing a lease.

3. Permitting and Violations

Stay up to date about new permits and operator violations near you.

Support our Work

Become a member of Protect PT and help us continue providing essential programs that protect our environment and public health here in southwest PA.

bottom of page