Earthquakes Halt Fracking Operation

COLUMBUS, OH –   Ohio officials have confirmed that a recent series of small earthquakes in Southeast Ohio are tied to oil and gas activity in the region.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) have linked the seismic events to hydraulic fracturing near the Bears Pad in Noble County.

According to news outlets, ODNR says it was the only active fracking site near the epicenter at the time of the earthquakes. ODNR also noted the presence of one deep injection well within five miles of the Bears Pad.

That well has been in operation since the 1980s and is used to dispose of wastewater from oil and gas extraction — a process that has previously been associated with induced seismic activity in Ohio and other states.

ODNR uses its OhioSeis monitoring network to evaluate seismic activity and determine whether it’s naturally occurring or potentially triggered by nearby oil and gas operations. The data is also shared with the USGS to aid in nationwide monitoring.

While shale drilling occurs well below the depth of drinking water sources, ODNR reiterated that Ohio’s well construction standards are designed to protect groundwater.

Officials say they are continuing to monitor the area for additional seismic activity but stopped short of making any predictions about future quakes.

ODNR also emphasized ongoing coordination with federal scientists to better understand the cause and implications of the recent tremors.

On Thursday, ODNR said that fracking has been stopped.