While there is no evidence of any major destructive earthquakes in Alberta’s history, hundreds of low- to moderate-magnitude earthquakes have occurred since 1950. Studies have shown that certain operations, such as hydraulic fracturing, geothermal, disposal injection, and carbon capture, can cause earthquakes depending on the geological conditions. It is important to understand why this happens so we can manage it.
Scientists at the Alberta Geological Survey (AGS), a branch of the AER, use over 50 monitoring systems to measure and research seismic activity across Alberta.
Where We Monitor Earthquakes
We monitor seismic activity across the province. In areas with a higher likelihood of earthquakes, we have developed monitoring and reporting requirements that companies must follow. Companies that do not comply with our requirements will face enforcement action. In certain situations, we will shut down operations until we are convinced it is safe to resume operations.
We have various regulatory tools for induced seismicity management (see below).
Regulatory tools addressing hydraulic fracturing in the Duvernay Formation
Regulatory tools addressing other oil and gas activity known to caused induced seismicity
- geothermal operations (Directive 089)
- brine-hosted mineral extraction activities (Directive 090)
- disposal injection
The AER has created specific seismic protocols for some areas to limit the impact and potential of induced earthquakes. Each protocol sets different “traffic light” systems for these areas based on their geology and surface structures (e.g., hydroelectric dams), which companies must follow for monitoring and reporting seismic activity to the AER.
Monitoring Technology
To monitor earthquakes, we use the Regional Alberta Observatory for Earthquake Studies Network (RAVEN) monitoring stations in conjunction with networks operated by other research organizations, including Natural Resources Canada, the University of Alberta, the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, the University of Western Ontario, and the University of Calgary.
At the heart of each monitoring station is a seismometer to measure ground vibrations. Vibrations are digitally recorded and processed by the AGS to determine the location and magnitude of the event. Next, we analyze earthquake locations, magnitudes and trends using state-of-the-art techniques to discern the nature of these quakes.
Information about seismic events in Alberta can be found on the Alberta Geological Survey’s website, as well as on the Alberta Interactive Seismic Events Map.
