Lawmakers Study Increased Seismic Activity In Oklahoma

The cause of Oklahoma's increased seismic activity continues to stir debate. Are the quakes the result of Hydraulic Fracturing or is it something else? That's the question state lawmakers are making the center of a study during the legislative intersession.

The Oklahoma Geological Survey (OGS) estimates nearly 4,200 quakes shook the state so far in 2014. The increased number of earthquakes has lawmakers questioning whether it's a manmade problem that needs to be addressed.

On Tuesday, Oklahoma policy makers and experts in this field met at the Capitol discussing the issue. The study was proposed by Representatives Jason Murphey and Cory Williams.

One expert said, in his opinion, there is no one blanket statement that can be made at this time determining the reason for the increased number of earthquakes. He believes it's a combination of manmade and natural problems.

“Based on this study Oklahoma policy officials will know that the legislature is engaged. That we are ensuring that they are analyzing the data there, they are coming back to see if there is a correlation and that we are standing ready to ensure due process is followed,” said Murphey, R - District 31.

OGS told News 9 at this time they've documented two earthquakes that are a result of hydraulic fracking, but the quakes were not large enough to cause any damage.

Depending on the results of the study there could be potential change to drilling guidelines. That's something legislators would look at next session.