The new earthquake directives implemented last fall by the Oklahoma Corporation Commission appear to be working. Figures from the U.S. Geological Survey indicate the number of 3.0 magnitude or higher earthquakes in April 2017 totaled 29 compared to 60 recorded in April 2016.
The directives were put into effect in September 2016 following a 5.8 magnitude earthquake in Pawnee. The OCC ordered the shut down of Arbuckle disposal wells that fell within a 725 square mile area of Osage County. At least 37 wells were affected by the order.
The action came after the Oklahoma Geological Survey determined the majority of earthquakes in central and north-central Oklahoma were likely triggered by the injection of produced water in disposal wells.
In 2016, Oklahoma recorded 623 earthquakes measuring 3.0 magnitude or higher.
