United Shale Advocates (USA), a grassroots web-based initiative launched by the Marcellus Shale Coalition (MSC), plans to build support for Pennsylvania’s oil and natural gas industry by offering an online outlet for other proponents, including consumers and labor groups. MSC has close to 300 industry members and associate members that share best practices to develop the Appalachian play and provide outreach. USA takes those outreach efforts beyond industry confines to hear from consumers and groups representing economic development, labor, small business, agriculture and conservation may “further engage in the increasingly important energy and public policy debate.” The website plans to use letters to editors and public rallies in the state and in Washington, DC, to inform lawmakers about drilling policy, said MSC President David Spigelmyer. The first rally is scheduled for May 6 in Harrisburg, PA. “It’s an opportunity for us to engage folks from broad segments of the community, folks that are looking for an outlet to have their voices heard,” Spigelmyer said. He formerly headed Chesapeake Energy Corp.‘s outreach in the region.