West Virginia University says it is conducting the first-ever long-term, comprehensive field study of the burgeoning shale-energy industry.

The Morgantown school says the study is part of a five-year, $11 million agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy. It will also work with Ohio State University on the project.

Officials say the agreement will allow the research team to create and manage the Marcellus Shale Energy and Environment Laboratory, a field site and dedicated research laboratory at the Morgantown Industrial Park.

The team will include geoscientists, hydrologists, engineers, ecologists, social scientists and public health professionals.

They'll identify and demonstrate technologies required for best practices in environmentally responsible shale development.

The lab also will offer real-world education and training for undergraduate and graduate students.