Oklahoma Corporation Commission Takes New Earthquake Actions

The Oklahoma Corporation Commission is adding new oil and natural gas wastewater disposal wells to the list of wells that can potentially trigger earthquakes.

The agency issued a directive in March involving more than 300 disposal wells that inject into an Oklahoma geologic formation. The region includes 21 counties that have experienced high earthquake activity. The latest directive expands the areas covered and applies to 211 more disposal wells.

Operators have until Aug. 14 to prove they are not injecting below the formation. Seismologists believe disposal below the formation poses a potential risk of causing earthquakes, as it puts the well in communication with the "basement" rock.

The Oklahoma Geological Survey says it's likely some earthquakes in the state are being triggered by the injection of wastewater into the wells.

Governor Mary Fallin applauded the Oklahoma Corporation Commission for expanding regulations regarding wastewater disposal wells (see Corporation Commission release below for more details).

Governor Fallin released the following statement:

“The Corporation Commission is taking active and appropriate steps to address seismic activity.  Hundreds of disposal wells have already been plugged back or had their volumes reduced. The directive from the Commission today will affect over 200 more wells.

Reducing seismic activity requires a cooperative effort. The energy industry understands the need to protect homes and businesses and is voluntarily providing the Oklahoma Geological Survey and the Governor’s Coordinating Council on Seismic Activity with data and research assistance. The industry has also voluntarily cut injection rates at many wells. The state will continue to work with all parties to pursue sound, scientifically-driven policy to reduce earthquakes in Oklahoma and protect homeowners.”