Seismic Testing

Seismic testing is performed and/or reviewed by gas company geologists and other professionals in order to determine the existence and location of natural gas reservoirs. Gas companies also use the seismic testing results to establish the most effective drilling plan in an area.

Seismic testing involves seismic waves emitted from a source such as underground explosions underground or "thumper" trucks on the surface. These seismic waves travel down towards the center of the earth, but also reflect back towards the surface from the different underground layers. Geologists use sensitive equipment, called geophones, to record these reflections to identify and map underground geology. The geophones transmit the test data to seismic recording trucks which is then interpreted by geologists, geophysicists, and petroleum reservoir engineers.

Geologists seek to accurately map the underground formations with particular emphasis on the formation(s) associated with natural gas reserves. In Pennsylvania the current obvious focus is the Marcellus Shale formation. However, we are absolutely aware that gas companies are looking to explore other, and even deeper, formations from which they can extract natural gas. Seismic testing and mapping allows the geologists and companies to pin point areas to drill for gas production and is an invaluable tool for the gas company.

When approached by a company requesting to conduct seismic testing on your property, we recommend that you determine if the seismic testing company is working directly for the gas company that holds your gas lease. The seismic testing firm may be acting independently and not on behalf of the company who holds the gas lease for your land. Whether to permit seismic testing on your property is an individual choice that may or may not be authorized by your gas lease. Before agreeing to permit seismic testing, we recommend that you ask probing questions and determine whether you are obligated to comply with the seismic testing under the terms of your gas lease. If you are not obligated to agree to the testing, you must inquire as to what benefit is it to you to allow the seismic testing to occur.