Ascent Resources Utica LLC - Wassmann Oil Extraction Facility, Bellaire, Ohio

Ascent Resources Utica LLC - Wassmann is an oil extraction facility located on New Cut Rd in Bellaire, Belmont County, Ohio. The facility is operational and plays a role in the development of the Utica Shale, a significant hydrocarbon formation in the Appalachian Basin. As part of the United States' domestic oil production, it supports the country's energy infrastructure. The facility operates under U.S. environmental regulations, including the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act, which govern emissions and water management for oil extraction sites. The Utica Shale region is known for horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing techniques, which are typical for extracting oil and natural gas from tight rock formations. These operations are subject to state-level oversight by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. The Wassmann facility contributes to the local economy and energy supply in Belmont County. Its operational status indicates ongoing production, which aligns with the broader U.S. trend of increased domestic oil output. The site's location in a rural area near Bellaire underscores the integration of extraction activities with surrounding communities.

Oil extraction in the Utica Shale involves hydraulic fracturing, which raises considerations around water usage and potential groundwater contamination. The facility's location in Ohio's Appalachian region means it operates in an area with diverse ecosystems, including forests and waterways. Spill risks and air emissions from volatile organic compounds are managed through regulatory compliance with the EPA and state agencies. The site's proximity to the Ohio River also necessitates attention to surface water protection.