Drilling states explore man-made earthquakes

COLUMBUS (AP) — Ohio is leading a group of drilling states working with seismology experts at energy companies, government agencies and universities across the U.S. on how best to detect and regulate human-induced earthquakes.

The initiative follows Ohio’s discovery in April of a probable link between the drilling practice called hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, and five small tremors in eastern Ohio, a first in the Northeast.

In 2012, Gov. John Kasich halted disposal of fracking wastewater surrounding a well site nearby after a series of earthquakes later tied to a deep-injection well.

Ohio Oil & Gas Chief Rick Simmers tells The Associated Press state regulators seek up-to-date information in developing appropriate detection procedures and regulatory practices.

One environmentalist, Teresa Mills, says ending fracking is the most-effective way to halt the quakes.