The Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission says two natural gas exploration companies have agreed to extend the shutdowns of two injection wells as researchers study whether they are linked to a recent increase in earthquakes in central Arkansas.
The commission announced Wednesday that Oklahoma City-based Chesapeake Energy Corp. and Clarita Operating LLC asked to postpone a scheduled April 26 hearing on the shutdowns until a commission meeting on May 24. This is the second time the companies have requested a continuance.
The commission agreed to the continuance on the condition the companies extend the shutdown of the two wells in Faulkner County until the May hearing.
State seismologist Scott Ausbrooks says the area has experienced a noticeable decrease in seismic activity since the injection wells first closed March 4.