- Pennsylvania's oil and gas wells produce wastewater brine that is highly salty and contains radium, which was historically used for dust control and ice melting on roads.
- The state DEP halted the practice in 2018, but a new permit in May 2026 could allow brine to be sold as a commercial product for road maintenance without proof of effectiveness.
- Research by Penn State professors shows that oil and gas brine is ineffective as a dust suppressant, often no better than rainwater, and can actually increase dust and road degradation.
- The brine contains radioactive radium, heavy metals, and other contaminants that can wash into streams, harm wildlife, corrode infrastructure, and potentially contaminate drinking water.
- Regulations rely on self-reporting and do not require measuring radium concentrations or demonstrating that the brine works for its intended purpose.
- A state bill for a complete ban on road-spreading of oil and gas brine has passed committee and awaits floor consideration.