The Oklahoma Oil and Gas Association is calling an agreement between the state and SandRidge Energy a “positive outcome” in the move to reduce injection well operations suspected of causing earthquakes in northern Oklahoma.
“The processes at the Corporation Commission have worked exactly as they were intended,” said Chad Warmington, President of the Association. “SandRidge was able to work with the OCC using an extensive review of data and science in order to achieve a very positive outcome.”
SandRidge had initially declined an OCC request in December to reduce operations of dozens of wells around Cherokee and Medford, saying it wanted scientific support that the wells might be causing a new surge in stronger earthquakes. Talks resumed last week and on Wednesday, the Commission announced an agreement had been reached.
“It clearly demonstrates that the oil and gas industry takes our responsibilities seriously as corporate citizens and community partners to develop and use the most current science available to ensure we are making smart and responsible decisions regarding our operations. Again, this is a very positive outcome,” added Warmington. He said the significant new data collection program created as part of the agreement will mean smarter, more informed and impactful regulatory decisions.
