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State Says NE Ohio Well Linked to Earthquakes Has Way to Reopen

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YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (AP) – The state has suggested a shuttered injection well linked to two small earthquakes in northeast Ohio could resume operations if the owner submits an acceptable plan.

The Ohio Division of Oil & Gas Resources Management has urged Ohio’s Supreme Court not to hear an appeal from American Water Management Services regarding its well near Youngstown. The state told the Supreme Court in an October filing the case doesn’t present issues of statewide interest and the well could re-open if a comprehensive plan is submitted for safely restarting it.

The well pumped wastewater from hydraulic fracturing operations. The division shut it down after earthquakes were detected below ground in 2014. The company argued the state abused its discretion.

The 10th District Court of Appeals affirmed the state’s position.