DEP Closes Investigation Into Westmoreland Earthquake Near Drilling Site
The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has closed its investigation into a small earthquake that occurred in Westmoreland, near an EQT Utica drilling pad.
Utica, NY, November 10, 2026 — The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has concluded its investigation into a small earthquake that was registered in Westmoreland. The tremor occurred in proximity to an EQT Utica drilling pad.
Officials confirmed that the investigation into the seismic event has been officially closed by the DEP. The specific details regarding the findings of the investigation or any conclusions drawn were not immediately available in the provided summary. The earthquake itself was described as small, and its occurrence near a site associated with EQT’s Utica drilling operations prompted the DEP’s inquiry.
The nature of the investigation and its eventual closure indicate a formal review process undertaken by the state’s environmental regulatory body. However, without further details from the summary, it remains unclear whether the investigation determined a cause, identified any violations, or assessed potential impacts related to the drilling activities. Information regarding the timeline of the investigation, the specific dates of the earthquake, or any communications between the DEP and EQT has not been disclosed.
The DEP’s role in such matters typically involves assessing potential environmental impacts and compliance with regulations. The closure of the investigation signifies the end of the DEP’s formal review of this particular incident. The summary does not provide information on any subsequent actions, recommendations, or public statements that may have been issued by the department following the investigation’s conclusion. The location, Westmoreland, and its association with energy exploration activities have been noted in the context of this seismic event and the subsequent DEP review.
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