PUBLIC RESPONSE TO MIDCONTINENT INDUCED SEISMICITY

Beginning in 2009, the U.S. midcontinent experienced an unprecedented level of seismic activity. Attention quickly focused on large-volume disposal wells that pumped waste (primarily saltwater) into the deep subsurface as part of oil and gas production. This man-made (or “induced”) seismicity was particularly notable in Oklahoma, but also occurred in Kansas, Arkansas, Texas, and other states. For the most part, damage from these earthquakes was minor, though the largest events (including a 5.8 M earthquake near Pawnee, Oklahoma) did damage buildings and produce injuries. Still, the number and size of these events, particularly in areas such as south-central Kansas that were not previously earthquake-prone, were far more than a nuisance to local residents, who were genuinely upset and concerned. Listening to those concerns, and taking visible steps to address those concerns, were important to earthquake mitigation and response. Determining liability for damage and injury, however, was more difficult and is still ongoing.