Is Shale Gas Exploration Causing Earthquakes? Today’s Texas House Committee Meeting Will Study What May Cause Rash of Texas Quakes

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Photo: WFAA

Several North Texas homeowners, especially those in Azle and near Eagle Mountain Lake, are concerned that expanded shale gas exploration and hydraulic fracturing may be causing the rash of seismic activity that has these communities all shook up.

To address these concerns, the Texas House Subcommittee on Seismic Activity is holding a hearing today at 1 p.m. The committee, headed by State Rep. Myra Crownover (R-Denton), will listen to expert testimony on the subject. Here’s what the agenda says:

“Study the current conditions surrounding the increased seismic activity in
the Barnett Shale and other areas of the State. Specifically, review the
possibility that increased exploration and disposal well activity could
impact seismic activity. The committee shall review active oil and gas
activity and injection wells in areas experiencing increased seismic
activity.”

The increased seismic activity has some homeowners worried about their home values, which has many considering updates to their homeowners insurance policies. Earthquakes, much like floods, aren’t usually covered in typical homeowners policies, so if you think your home is at risk for earthquake damage, you might want to read our piece on how fracking-related seismic activity is sending tremors through insurance companies.

Joanna England is the Executive Editor at CandysDirt.com and covers the North Texas housing market.

1 Comment

  1. Patrick on May 13, 2014 at 10:52 am

    Gee, let’s see
    Prior to fracking, no seismic activity
    Since fracking started, lots of seismic activity

    Wow – I think that’s a no brainer

    Since fracking, water levels in lakes have decreased significantly more than normal effects of droughts, due to the use of the water from said lakes, especially Cedar Creek since it’s a water source for Tarrant CO.

    Not to mention what is all this polluted water that’s being pumped into the ground doing to our aquifers and such?
    Please, oil and gas people, dont tell me it’s safe – it’s like the money the industry is making by raping and pillaging our great state is far more important than the lives of those you live here.

    Who cares about the future of our children and grandchildren – I want a big fat bank account NOW!

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