Does production of oil, and things associated, have a role in earthquakes that have occurred in the southern part of Kansas, notably Harper and Sumner counties?
While the jury still may be out, the Associated Press reported Wednesday state geologists say it’s no coincidence that a reduction in drilling activity has resulted in fewer earthquakes. What they don’t know, the AP added, is how much of that is caused by a slowdown in the use of disposal wells for waste saltwater created as a byproduct of drilling.
The Earth is a tough critter, but its surface also has a certain fragility.
The geologists pointed out that as oil drilling slowed the past several months, only 15 earthquakes of any significance had been reported in the two counties since April 1, and none in July. In the eight months previous to April 1, there were 52.
What does that portend?
Drilling slowed because the price of oil more than halved in the past year. When the price increases, rigs now idle will be back to work. Meanwhile, there may be a move afoot to refine how production occurs, but only if the incidence of earthquakes categorically can be tied to oil production. That won’t be an easy task.
Theory will have to be replaced by specifics; statistical conjecture doesn’t provide enough evidence.
— Bob Johnson
Profit motive trumps theory
