Induced seismicity (earthquakes) from energy extraction activity in North Texas: A community perspective

Purpose: To examine induced seismic events in Irving, Farmer's Branch and Dallas, Texas between 2002 and 2015 and energy extraction activity associated with these events. Potential impacts to critical infrastructure and perception to the public is examined. Methods The U.S Geologic Survey Earthquake Hazard Program database was searched for seismic events in Irving, Farmer's Branch and Dallas occurring 2002-2015. Well locations were retrieved from Texas Railroad Commission database. Studies related to impacts of earthquakes on infrastructure, and perception of hazard were searched in Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science and PubMed. Results Between 2002-2015, 83 earthquakes occurred in the Irving, Farmer's Branch, Dallas area. 86% of earthquakes (71) occurred in Irving. In January 2015, 25 earthquakes occurred within a 2-mile radius of the Old Texas Stadium. Potential structural damage to critical infrastructure including roadways, bridges, tunnels, water and gas lines, and buildings can occur. Smaller earthquakes are not life-threatening but studies confirm a public perception of fear, anxiety, physical harm, and decreased property values related to earthquakes frequency. Conclusion Induced seismicity was consistent with energy extraction activity. The area with highest earthquake activity exists at the intersection of 2 geologic fault; the Muenster Arch and Ouachita Fault. Frequency of earthquakes within a short time interval in this area is consistent with features of induced seismicity.