Geology 300: Physical Geology

Geology 301: Physical Geology Lab

Geology 305: Earth Science

Geology 306: Earth Science Lab

 

Instructor: Arthur Reed

 

 

July 2019 Earth Sciences topics/events making news…

 ...with emphasis on California news

Remember the principles of the scientific method when evaluating news stories!

 

(link to 2018 news articles)

(link to 2016 news articles)

(link to 2012 news articles

(link to 2017 news articles)

(link to 2015 news articles)

(link to 2011 news articles)

(link to 2014 news articles)

(link to 2010 news articles)

(link to 2013 news articles)

(link to 2009 & older news articles)

 

CLIMATE CHANGE

 

$50 billion worth of Bay Area homes at risk of rising seas by 2050, says report

Tens of thousands of Bay Area homes worth about $50 billion are at grave risk of chronic coastal flooding by 2050, according to a new analysis by Zillow and Climate Central. By 2100, the crisis deepens. As the ice caps continue to melt in the wake of global warming, experts project that 81,152 Bay Area homes with a current value of more than $96 billion, may be swamped. If greenhouse gas emissions go unchecked and seas continue to rise as expected, a wide swath of Bay Area real estate will be endangered. Coveted beach houses may well turn into disasters.

Bay Area News Group, 7-31-19

 

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 

Conflict of Interest -- local oil, gas regulators invested in oil companies

Documents leading to last month’s ousting of Ken Harris, the top oil regulator in the state, also reveal that state officials overseeing Ventura County’s oil and gas operations have investments in oil companies. Consumer Watchdog obtained the documents, called 700 forms, for various state oil and gas regulators. All public employees in decision-making positions are required to fill out a 700 form to report significant assets and investments. Reporting by the Desert Sun newspaper on the contents of those forms led to Gov. Gavin Newsom calling for Harris, then head of the California Department of Conservation (DOC), Division of Oil, Gas and Geothermal Resources (DOGGR), to be fired. Jason Marshall has been named interim head of DOGGR.

Ventura County Reporter, 7-31-19

 

 Investigation Finds No Definitive Source for Goleta Oil Spill During Well-Abandonment Work

The investigation into the May oil spill at Goleta’s 421 Pier did not find a conclusive source for the barrels of crude oil that were released onto the beach and into the water, according to the State Lands Commission. 

On May 28, a spill of two or three barrels of crude oil was reported at Haskell’s Beach, where crews were working to abandon the historic wells at the piers on the beach.  

Santa Barbara Noozhawk, 7-31-19

 

Don’t let state regulators limit energy choice in California

As mayors of Diamond Bar, Rosemead and West Covina, we collectively represent more than 200,000 constituents in the San Gabriel Valley — constituents who work hard to provide for their families, and in some cases, their businesses. Like most Californians, one of the top concerns of San Gabriel Valley residents is affordability. It’s no secret that the California dream is getting more and more expensive, which is why it troubles us that the California Public Utilities Commission plans to force Californians to eliminate natural gas from their homes and go all-electric.

Pasadena Star-News commentary, 7-30-19

         

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

 

Appellate Court finds San Diego County Erred in Approving Subdivision of Ranchland Near Julian

Late last week, California’s Fourth District Court of Appeal published a decision that reverses a Superior Court ruling in the case Cleveland National Forest Foundation et al. v. County of San Diego. The July 25th decision held that San Diego County officials acted wrongly when they approved a map for the subdivision of the 1,400-acre Hoskings Ranch near Julian. The court found the subdivision would have set the stage to replace ranching with residential development on the property, all while allowing the property owner to enjoy tax breaks intended to keep the land in agriculture.

OB Rag, 7-31-19

 

WATER

 

California 1st state to require notification of toxic 'forever' chemicals in water

California on Wednesday became the first state in the nation to require water suppliers who monitor a broad class of toxic "forever chemicals" to notify customers if they're present in drinking water. That could include sites from Los Angeles International Airport to military bases across the desert to refineries and other industry in low income neighborhoods.

Palm Springs Desert Sun, 7-31-19

 

DIVISION OF OIL GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 

Nearly 28,000 barrels of oil, water removed from Cymric oil seepage

Cleanup efforts at an oil seepage have recovered nearly 28,000 barrels of oil and briney water from an oilfield near McKittrick.

          KGET (Bakersfield television), 7-30-19

 

Not permitted: County denies drilling plan

Five years after it was filed and following two appeals, on Tuesday, July 23, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors denied an application to expand the Cabrillo Oil Field on the Oxnard Plain, and has stopped the drilling of four new oil and gas wells in an area recognized by California as a disadvantaged community.

          Ventura County Reporter, 7-24-19

 

Net zero natural gas plant – the game changer

Included in a group of technologies known as carbon capture and sequestration (CCS), zero-emission fossil fuel plants have been a dream never realized in practice, as it always seems to cost a lot, adding between 5¢ and 10¢ per kWh. But this new technology completely changes the steps and the approach from the ground up. It is based on the Allam Cycle, a new, high-pressure, oxy-fuel, supercritical CO2 cycle that generates low-cost electricity from fossil fuels while producing near-zero air emissions.

          Forbes, 7-31-19

 

Op-Ed: Berkeley banned natural gas. The rest of California should too

By becoming the first city in the nation to ban natural gas in new low-rise buildings and homes, Berkeley did something momentous in mid-July: It signaled the beginning of the end of the natural gas era. This is an altogether good thing.

Los Angeles Times, 7-31-19

 

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

 

California farmers are planting solar panels as water supplies dry up

Solar energy projects could replace some of the jobs and tax revenues that may be lost as constrained water supplies force California’s agriculture industry to scale back. In the San Joaquin Valley alone, farmers may need to take more than half a million acres out of production to comply with the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, which will ultimately put restrictions on pumping.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-31-19

 

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

Sea of Galilee earthquakes triggered by excessive water pumping

One evening in September 2013, windows rattled and ceiling fans swayed in northeastern Israel as a small earthquake rumbled beneath the Sea of Galilee—the water Jesus is said to have walked on—also known as Lake Kinneret. Four more tremors struck over the next 4 days. Then, in July 2018, a dozen small earthquakes shook the same spot beneath the lake on a fault—the slip surface along which an earthquake ruptures.

Science, 7-26-19

 

CLIMATE CHANGE

 

Kamala Harris and Jay Inslee's new climate plans target 'environmental injustice'

Virtually every Democrat running for president wants to do something about climate change. Some of them are trying to distinguish themselves from the scrum by proposing plans to ensure pollution does not disproportionately fall on poor neighborhoods. On Monday, two contenders, Sen. Kamala Harris of California and Gov. Jay Inslee of Washington, released climate plans aimed at ensuring communities already facing an exceptionally large amount of pollution don't get saddled with any more. 

Washington Post, 7-30-19

 

GENERAL

 

In a blow to the bullet train, California might shift billions to L.A. and Bay Area projects

Key California lawmakers have devised a plan to shift billions of dollars from the Central Valley bullet train to rail projects in Southern California and the Bay Area, a strategy that could crush the dreams of high-speed rail purists.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-30-19

 

 DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 

Can this pretty pink flower stop the Arroyo Grande Oil Field expansion?

Environmentalists are turning to a rare and powerful plant in their battle against plans to expand oil drilling at the Price Canyon Oil Field in Arroyo Grande. It’s rare because the annual herb only grows in fine sandy soils between Edna Valley and Arroyo Grande. It’s powerful because the plant has stopped development before.

San Luis Obispo Tribune, 7-29-19

 

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

Trona Residents Face Challenges in Earthquake Aftermath

After major earthquakes on July 4 and July 5 near Ridgecrest, residents of small towns like Trona are left to face structural damages and limited access to water and other resources. Sara Davies shares the situation of her aunt and uncle, 40-year Trona residents whose insurance is currently unsupportive due to an issue with the cracked paint on their eaves.

KCET (Los Angeles radio), 7-30-19


DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

 

The Yolo Bypass: It’s a Floodplain! It’s Farmland! It’s an Ecosystem!

California’s biggest river—the Sacramento—needs a lot of room to spread in big water years. A floodplain project called the Yolo Bypass allows it to flood naturally, while also providing habitat for waterbirds, fish, and other aquatic species. We talked to Ted Sommer, lead scientist for the Department of Water Resources (DWR), about this versatile landscape.

Public Policy Institute of California, 7-29-19

 

CLIMATE CHANGE

 

Worried about wildfires, Californians ready to spend, vote to fight climate change

The majority of Californians believe global warming is happening now and that it’s a serious threat to the Golden State’s future, according to the results of a poll released today. What’s more, Californians are ready to cast their votes and spend their money to fight it.  The findings from the Public Policy Institute of California, a non-partisan think tank that’s asked Californians for their take on environmental issues for nearly two decades, suggest Californians place a high value on the environment and want the state to fight to protect it.

CalMatters, 7-29-19

 

Seal Beach planning for sea level rise with vulnerability assessment

The sand berm that goes up every year in Seal Beach is an annual reminder that the coastal community is at risk for flooding. But a new city assessment shows how rising sea levels could make the city even more vulnerable.

Seal Beach Sun, 7-26-19

 

FORESTS & WATERSHEDS

 

Lawsuit filed to prevent forest clearing near Frazier Park

Conservation groups have filed a lawsuit to stop the U.S. Forest Service from cutting down trees in the Frazier Park as a way of reducing the risk of wildfire. A group calling itself the Mountain Communities for Fire Safety, joined by Los Padres ForestWatch and the John Muir Project, filed the lawsuit Monday in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles.

Bakersfield Californian, 7-20-19

 

Mendocino National Forest gets 3,000 acres of land from the Trust for Public Land

The Trust for Public Land, a national conservation non-profit organization, has donated 3,000 acres to the Mendocino National Forest, according to the U.S. Forest Service. The donated land was given on the condition that it will be incorporated into the Yuki Wilderness, next to the Mendocino National Forest. The donation will help protect critical habitat for the threatened Northern California steelhead.

KRCR (Redding television), 7-29-19

 

WATER

 

To better manage groundwater, first understand it

It may be out of sight, but it should not be out of mind. Water hidden beneath the earth’s surface comprises 98% of the planet’s fresh water. On average, this groundwater provides a third of all total water consumed, and its preciousness is ever more palpable since Cape Town’s water crisis sent shock waves rippling around the world.

Cosmos, 7-29-19

 

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 

California’s biggest oil spill in decades brings more defiance than anger from locals

The residents of McKittrick, population 145, understand why people are upset by the images. Also, there’s no avoiding the worry that prolonged exposure to crude oil might one day trigger health issues. But judging from the rowdy talk over cold beers and a blaring jukebox at Mike and Annie’s Penny Bar — a watering hole for thirsty oil field hands that has over a million pennies glued to the bar, floors, walls, television and entrance — the locals see a different story playing out.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-28-19

 

Community Voices: Newsom needs to take care of us better

Chevron’s ongoing oil spill in the Cymric Oil Field, near McKittrick, has been occurring over the last two months and is a major threat to the environment. But it is best understood as a symptom of bigger issues in the oil and gas industry. As an environmental justice organizer in Kern County I see firsthand the need for Gov. Gavin Newsom to require transparency, accountability and community protections from the oil and gas industry, as well as more responsible oversight by the agencies tasked with regulating it.

          Bakersfield Californian, 7-27-19

 

Cleanup has removed 25,000 barrels from Cymric spill

The California Department of Fish and Wild released an update Friday night on the cleanup underway at the side of a large oil spill in the Cymric Oilfield near McKittrick.

          Taft Midway Driller, 7-27-19

 

Chevron faces violation notice in Kern County spill, million gallons of oil, water recovered

Cleanup operations at the Cymric Oil Field, 35 miles west of Bakersfield near the small town of McKittrick, continued over the weekend after Gov. Gavin Newsom toured the site earlier this week. The massive oil spill began May 10 and has led to a violation notice being handed to the Chevron company, who was operating the site.

           Fresno Bee, 7-27-19

 

Town at center of Kern County oil spill: ‘You don’t really think a lot about it’

Even though the oil spill is the largest in California since 1990, the site is accessible solely via a private road manned by a security guard. If you live or work nearby, chances are you can’t see the oil spill, you can’t smell it and oil is not in the water.  

KQED (San Francisco TV/radio), 7-26-19

 

Cleanup efforts continue in Kern County oil spill, more than 1M gallons collected

Cleanup efforts continued Friday at an abandoned Chevron-owned well in the Cymric oil field in the Kern County town of McKittrick — about 35 miles outside of Bakersfield. According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, more than 1 million gallons of fluid — a mixture of 30% oil and 70% water — have been recovered from the site since the spill was first reported in May, but one section of the site continued to release fluid.

          KCBS (Los Angeles television), 7-27-19

 

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

3.8 earthquake registered near Hollister, Calif.

A magnitude 3.8 earthquake was reported Saturday morning at 2:37 a.m. Pacific time eight miles from Hollister, Calif., according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-27-19

 

Eight killed after earthquakes hit Philippines

Eight people were killed after back-to-back earthquakes struck the northern Philippines Saturday morning, according to CNN Philippines, citing a disaster official.

          CNN, 7-27-19

 

Everything you thought you know about earthquake insurance is wrong

After the recent series of quakes over the Fourth of July weekend in Los Angeles, insurance agents throughout the state were inundated with requests for information on earthquake insurance. Some people quickly abandon their earthquake insurance pursuits because the coverage has a reputation for being expensive and ineffective, thanks to super-high deductibles. But these are misperceptions.

          San Francisco Chronicle, 7-28-19

 

At least 8 people killed in norther Philippines earthquakes

Two strong earthquakes hours apart struck a group of sparsely populated islands in the Luzon Strait in the northern Philippines early Saturday, killing at least eight people, injuring about 60 and causing substantial damage.

          CBS News, 7-26-19

 

We used a 3-D printer to map the power of the Ridgecrest earthquake

Numerous maps have been created to show the power of the magnitude 7.1 earthquake that hit Ridgecrest this month. But to better understand the biggest quake to hit Southern California in nearly two decades, we used a 3-D printer to produce a 3-D map of the shaking intensity across a wide swath of Southern California.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-26-19

 

Earthquake: 3.3 quake felt near Avenal, Calif.

A magnitude 3.3 earthquake was reported Sunday afternoon at 4:51 p.m. Pacific time one mile from Avenal, Calif., according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-28-19

 

CLIMATE CHANGE

 

US agriculture needs a 21st-century New Deal (commentary)

As scholars who study agroecology, agrarian change and food politics, we believe U.S. agriculture needs to make a systemwide shift that cuts carbon emissions, reduces vulnerability to climate chaos and prioritizes economic justice. We call this process a just transition – an idea often invoked to describe moving workers from shrinking industries like coal mining into more viable fields. But it also applies to modern agriculture, an industry which in our view is dying – not because it isn’t producing enough, but because it is contributing to climate change and exacerbating rural problems. Two elements are essential: agriculture based in principles of ecology, and economic policies that end overproduction of cheap food and reestablish fair prices for farmers.

          San Francisco Chronicle, 7-26-19

 

GENERAL

 

How California keeps blocking Trump’s environmental rollbacks

California’s sweeping deal with four major automakers this week to boost gas mileage standards and cut tailpipe emissions wasn’t the first time the Golden State has outmaneuvered the Trump administration. Rather than a one-time tactic, the agreement announced Thursday between the state and Ford, Honda, Volkswagen and BMW is the latest in a growing list of ways that California has blunted, blocked or shut down entirely nearly all of the Trump administration’s major efforts to rewrite environmental policies in California from the moment he took office.

          Bay Area News Group, 7-27-19

 

California bullet train authority gets U.S. permission to handles its environmental reviews

The California bullet train authority said earlier this year that federal bureaucrats have slow-walked approval of its environmental documents, contributing to delays in the project. But this week the Federal Railroad Administration, which oversees billions of dollars in grants for the project, assigned authority for such environmental reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act to the state — giving the rail authority its long-sought status

          Los Angeles Times, 7-26-19

 

California’s troubled bullet train project getting one of the biggest management upheavals in years

The California bullet train project is going through one of its biggest personnel upheavals in years, several months after Gov. Gavin Newsom vowed he would be “getting rid of a lot of consultants.”

          Los Angeles Times, 7-26-19

 

California has already started building a high-speed rail system. But should it continue? (commentary)

California Influencers this week answered one or both of the following the questions: Should California continue to develop a statewide high-speed rail system, or what better ways are there to utilize the state’s available transportation funding?

          Sacramento Bee, 7-28-19

 

 DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 Spill draws attention to steam-based oil extraction

When the news broke, in the second week of July, that nearly 800,000 gallons of oil and water had spilled into a dry creek bed from an oil production facility in Kern County, California, it sounded rare and dramatic. But the spill — which Ted Goldberg at KQED news discovered while researching a different story — was unique only in its magnitude.

          KCET (Los Angeles television), 7-25-19

 Chevron appeals state order on oil leak near McKittrick

Taking the position it needs more specific instructions from regulators, Chevron has filed an appeal of a state order calling on the company to "take all measures" to prevent further flows of oil and water at California's largest and most visible petroleum-related accident in years.

          Bakersfield Californian, 7-26-19

 MINING

 Project eyed for moving gravel near Big Chico Creek

A major gravel-removing project could be taking place near Big Chico Creek and the Sacramento River. The M&T/Llano Seco Ranch share a pumping facility that has come under threat from accumulating gravel and sediment on the river. This would be the third major project to take place since 2001 near the pumping facility. The pumping plant in question serves as one of the area’s most important water distribution facilities, according to the manager of M&T Ranch, Les Heringer.

Chico Enterprise-Record, 7-26-19

 CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 California earthquake damage estimated at $200M

The powerful earthquake that rocked California earlier this month caused an estimated $200 million in damage.

          Fox Business, 7-25-19

 GENERAL

 Restoring natural fire regimes can yield more water downstream

Research in Yosemite National Park offers a new benchmark for understanding water balance changes in a mountainous basin 4 decades after its natural wildfire regime was reestablished.

          Earth & Space Science News, 7-22-19

 California’s troubled bullet train project getting one of biggest management upheavals in years

The California bullet train project is going through one of its biggest personnel upheavals in years, several months after Gov. Gavin Newsom vowed he would be “getting rid of a lot of consultants.”

          Los Angeles Times, 7-26-19

 Wind is outpacing coal as a powers source in Texas for the first time

Wind power has surpassed coal for the first time in Texas, according to a new report. The numbers cap an enormous rise in wind power in the nation's top energy-producing state over the past decades.

          CNN, 7-25-19

 

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 

Governor promises balanced approach after touring McKittrick-area oil leak

Gov. Gavin Newsom, speaking with reporters in western Kern after a tour of California's largest oil spill in years, withheld judgment on the incident Wednesday and said he must balance the state's low-carbon future with the needs of communities economically dependent on petroleum production.

          Bakersfield Californian, 7-25-19

 

Lawmakers push to give Newsom power to call fracking moratorium, setting stage for oil industry battle

Nearly two weeks ago, the day after Gov. Gavin Newsom fired California's top oil and gas regulator, the governor said he does not have the legal authority to impose a moratorium on permits for hydraulic fracturing, known as fracking. Now, two key lawmakers — the chairs of the state Senate and Assembly committees overseeing large parts of the oil industry — say they're open to giving Newsom the power to bring new fracking operations to a halt in California, setting up what could be a significant battle with the powerful oil industry.

          KQED (San Francisco TV-radio), 7-25-19

 

Touring oil spill site, Newsom calls for greater oversight of California petroleum industry

Gov. Gavin Newsom, in the Central Valley on Wednesday for a firsthand look at one of the largest oil spills in California history, vowed to go beyond the state’s already aggressive efforts to curtail the use of fossil fuels and seek a long-term strategy to reduce oil production.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-24-19

 

California governor encouraged by oil spill cleanup effort

Gov. Gavin Newsom said Wednesday that he is encouraged by Chevron’s efforts to clean up what has turned into the state’s largest oil spill in decades.

          Associated Press, 7-24-19

 

Kern County Chevron oil spill keeps growing

One of the largest oil spills in California in decades is still growing. Chevron told state regulators on Monday that large quantities of crude oil and water continue to flow from a well site in Kern County.

                    KQED (San Francisco TV-radio), 7-24-19

 

After tour of massive oil spill, Gov. Newsom calls for answers; critics quick to finger new, lax regulations

Newsom, speaking at a local elementary school in the oil-dominated town of McKittrick three miles from the spill, could not be reached by The Desert Sun for questions. But in a briefing there, he said California officials have requested Chevron’s data on the cause, and were doing their own investigation. He said regulations might be toughened as a result of the giant spill, but until a cause was verified, he was going to be cautious.

          Palm Springs Desert Sun, 7-24-19

 

Kern County oil seep exceeds a million gallons; Newsom pays a  visit

An oil seep in Western Kern County has now grown to more than a million gallons in size. On Wednesday, for the first time since the spill was reported, Governor Gavin Newsom paid a visit to the site near the community of McKittrick

          KVPR (Fresno radio), 7-25-19

 

Unified command established for emergency response regarding Cymric oil field seepage

A unified command has been established to address the more than one million gallons of oil that have seeped from the ground in an oil field north of McKittrick, according to the state Department of Conservation’s Division of Oil, Gas, and Geothermal Resources.

          KGET (Bakersfield television), 7-25-19

 

Newsom tours kern Co. oil spill as locals call for health & safety protections

At a time when oil and gas drilling continues to expand in California, Governor Gavin Newsom on July 24 visited the site of a big oil spill in Chevron’s Cymric oilfield in Kern County.

San Francisco Bay Area Independent Media Center, 7-25-19

 

Cymric oilfield site's oil and water seepage has now reached over 1 million gallons

As crews cleanup the Cymric oilfield incident, north of McKittrick, the Department of Conservation has released an updated report stating that the oil and water spill has now reached over a million gallons.

          ABC 23, 7-25-2019

 

Governor Gavin Newsom in McKittrick for oil seepage site visit

A massive oil spill in Kern County has gotten the attention of the Governor.

KERO (Bakersfield television), 7-24-19

 

‘Looks like things are subsiding,’ Governor Newsom tours oil spill in Kern County

Governor Gavin Newsom spent Wednesday afternoon touring the Cymric Oil Field site, where Chevron officials said more than 900,000 gallons of oil and water flowed to the surface following a spill that took place in May. “I saw progress in the right direction I saw the mitigation now that clean up is beginning it looks like things are subsiding,” Governor Gavin Newsom said.

KERO (Bakersfield television), 7-24-19

 

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

San Andreas fault is a 730-mile monster. Ridgecrest earthquake was a tiny taste of possible destruction

Faults crisscross California, producing deadly earthquakes. Scientists knew almost immediately that two large quakes that hit near Ridgecrest earlier this month did not come from the San Andreas. But ever since, they’ve been studying whether the quakes could cause more seismic activity from other faults — including the San Andreas nearly 100 miles away.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-25-19

 NASA: Southern California July earthquake moved the ground this much

A 7.1-magnitude earthquake shook, rattled and rolled Southern California early in July. It did more than slosh water out of swimming pools and bring Disneyland to a halt. It also redecorated the landscape.

          CNET, 7-25-19

 

The rarest fish on Earth rode out 10-foot waves when Ridgecrest earthquake hit

The rarest fish on Earth swam for their lives when a powerful earthquake rattled Ridgecrest earlier this month. In Death Valley National Park — some 70 miles away from where the earthquake was centered — 10-foot waves erupted inside Devils Hole, a 10-foot-wide and 25-foot-long pool that is the sole home to the endangered Devils Hole pupfish.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-25-19

 

3.1 magnitude earthquakes rattles southern Monterey Co.

The 3.1 magnitude earthquake was located right on the county line, directly east of Camp Roberts and north of Shandon, located in San Luis Obispo County.

          KSBW (Salinas television), 7-24-19

 

Earthquakes can dry water supply. California must prepare

Recent earthquakes have us all thinking about emergency preparedness. Critical to any earthquake kit is bottled water. This is because an earthquake may damage local pipelines or water treatment facilities, leaving us with contaminated water or no service at all.

          CalMatters, 7-25-19

 

Navy, region remain vigilant on earthquake awareness

Two major earthquakes with magnitudes of 6.4 and 7.1 and series of small temblors near Ridgecrest, Calif., over the Fourth of July weekend not only disrupted everyday life for the town and surrounding area but also ceased most operations at the massive Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake 325 miles southwest of Fallon.

          Nevada Appeal, 7-24-19

 

CLIMATE CHANGE

 

The regime of glaciers is headed to its end

Glaciers have carved out many of our mountain ranges, scoured out plains and prairies, and birthed rivers and lakes. Today, in many parts of the world, mountain glaciers preside over vast empires of fresh water that reach from the highest peaks to the coast. But as the world gets warmer, glaciers’ influence in many regions is waning.

          High Country News, 7-19-19

 

Solving climate change is possible, we already have the tools, says energy expert Hal Harvey

The impacts of a warming climate are happening now, with higher temperatures, more extreme droughts, larger forest fires, melting ice caps, more erratic weather and rising sea levels. Things look grim. But to Hal Harvey, the founder and CEO of Energy Innovation, a San Francisco firm that studies clean energy and other climate policies, the best approach is to view the challenge of climate change as one big math problem.

          Bay Area News Group, 7-25-19

 

Eureka annexes coastal property that faces sea-level rise dilemma

The city has annexed its first piece of property since the 1980s, but there may be issues with flooding on the property down the line.

          Eureka Times Standard, 7-24-19

 

ALISO CANYON

 

California changes SoCalGas Aliso natgas storage withdrawal rules

California utility regulators changed the rules governing when Southern California Gas Co (SoCalGas) can withdraw natural gas from its Aliso Canyon storage facility in Los Angeles to address energy reliability and price impacts in Southern California. The state has limited how SoCalGas can use Aliso, its biggest storage field, following a massive leak at the facility between October 2015 and February 2016.

          Reuters, 7-24-2019

 

CLIMATE CHANGE

 

As climate change threatens California, officials seek ‘sustainable insurance’

California regulators are teaming up with the United Nations to develop “sustainable insurance” guidelines that would help address climate-change-related disasters such as coastal flooding and larger wildfires — the first such partnership of its kind between the international organization and a U.S. state, officials announced Tuesday.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-23-2019

 

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

 

California, Wary of More Wildfires, Is Paying for Them Already

Two thousand homes lost and two-thirds of the land burned: The residents of Lake County, a sparsely populated area north of Napa Valley, understand better than most the devastating cost of wildfires in recent years. Yet few people in Lake County, or in many other fire-prone parts of California, could have anticipated the millions they are now spending this summer on wildfires, even before the first big one ignites.

          The New York Times, 7-22-2019

 

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

More than 80,000 aftershocks and counting: Ridgecrest earthquakes keep shaking

More than 80,000 earthquakes have been recorded in the Ridgecrest area since July 4 — the aftermath from two of the biggest temblors to hit California in nearly a decade.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-23-2019

 

New satellite images show dramatic view of Ridgecrest earthquake

New satellite images are offering a dramatic view of the power of the magnitude 7.1 quake that struck Southern California on July 5, 2019.

          ABC 7, 7-22-2019

 

3.7 earthquake strikes off Northern California coast

The USGS reported a magnitude 3.7 earthquake struck off the Northern California coast around 10:08 a.m.  The quake was centered about 46 miles west of Eureka.

          SF Gate, 7-22-2019

 

DIVISION OF MINE RECLAMATION

 

Malakoff Diggins State Park to be completely solar-powered by end of year

This California park was the site of one of the most destructive mining operations in the state. Now, it's making the former mining area an example of restoration. By the end of this year, Malakoff Diggins will be the first state park in California to be completely solar-powered.

          ABC 10, 7-23-2019

 

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 

As Chevron Gets Ready to Appeal State Order, Kern County Spill Continues to Grow

Chevron told state regulators on Monday that large quantities of crude oil and water continue to flow from a well site in Kern County. Chevron plans to appeal an order from regulators ordering the company to "take all measures" to stop the flow and prevent a recurrence of the releases. The company says the directive from the state Division of Oil, Gas and Geothermal Resources is lacking in specifics.

          KQED, 7-23-2019

 

Kern County oil field receives $320M investment for 275 new wells (full article below)

One of California's biggest energy companies is slated to receive $320 million to drill 275 wells in Kern County.

          Politico, 7-23-2019

 

One of California's biggest energy companies is slated to receive $320 million to drill 275 wells in Kern County.

 

California Resources Corp. announced today that it entered into a joint venture with Los Angeles-headquartered Colony Capital to fund a three-year expansion at the Elk Hills field, located west of Bakersfield. Elk Hills, which spans 75 square miles, generates over half of the state's natural gas production, according to the company, and produced the equivalent of 52,000 barrels of oil per day in 2018.

 

The CEO of Colony Capital is Tom Barrack, who chaired President Donald Trump's inaugural committee.

 

Elk Hills already has more than 3,000 wells, according to CRC, and the company said the 275 new wells are "pre-approved." CRC spokesperson Margita Thompson said Elk Hills already has an inventory of permits issued by Kern County and the state Division of Oil, Gas, and Geothermal Resources, and the company routinely applies for more.

 

CRC touts the establishment of an 8,000-acre conservation area near Elk Hills, along with the future development of an additional 17,500 acres. But environmentalists still criticized the deal.

 

"You can't be a leader on climate change and keep adding new oil and gas wells to your state," said Center for Biological Diversity senior attorney Hollin Kretzmann, who cited an ongoing oil leak at the nearby Chevron Cymric field. "Every major oil field is going to have spills and accidents; that's a fact of extraction."

 

"This is an opportunity for the governor to show he's serious about making progress on climate change," said Kretzmann, who added that the 275 wells should at least receive increased scrutiny from the state. Gov. Gavin Newsom this month fired the head of DOGGR and is examining conflict-of-interest allegations at the regulatory agency.

 

ALISO CANYON

 

Researchers release report tying methane to air toxins in Aliso Canyon gas leak

UCLA researchers found higher than average levels of various toxic air pollutants in residential areas near the largest gas leak in U.S. history.

          Daily Bruin, 7-21-2019

 

Los Angeles County officials meet with community about Marina del Rey gas blowout

Several months after an oil well on a construction site in Marina del Rey blew open, sending natural gas about 100 feet in the air, Los Angeles County officials met with angry residents to discuss the dangers posed by gas wells.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-21-2019

 

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 

Chevron’s Oil Spill Endangers Kern County

A massive oil spill even bigger than the Plains All American Pipeline disaster off Refugio Beach in Santa Barbara County in 2015 has occurred in Kern County, as first reported by Ted Goldberg at KQED. The latest disaster has spilled more than 798,000 gallons of combined oil and wastewater into the surrounding area over the past couple of months.

          Counter Punch, 7-19-2019

 

Chevron injected steam near well work before oil leak near McKittrick

Chevron records show the large, McKittrick-area oil leak that has shone an unflattering light on Kern County petroleum production probably originated with an idle well being worked on at the same time the company was injecting high-pressure steam just 360 feet away, a combination that industry people say should not have been performed simultaneously in such close proximity and which possibly contributed to the release.

          Bakersfield Californian, 7-21-2019

 

OUR VIEW: Oil industry is not the ‘bad guy’ in this story (opinion)

Should California’s oil industry be regulated by financially self-serving bureaucrats? No! Should California’s oil industry be shut down? No! The temptation to link the two questions is just plain wrong-headed. California needs an economically strong, productive oil industry. It also needs ethical professionals to regulate it.

          Bakersfield Californian, 7-21-2019

 

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

Mathews: Why Californians secretly love earthquakes (opinion)

The unspoken truth is that we love earthquakes, as well we should. Quakes inspire us to dream, ground us in reality, shape our culture, and bind us together.

          Bakersfield Californian, 7-21-2019

 

 

ALISO CANYON

 

California’s new Public Utilities Commission president must lead us to a gas-free future

Clean energy is winning because it’s a safer and more affordable option. But getting to 100% clean and affordable energy is about more than closing gas plants. Bringing these zero-emission resources on to the grid requires innovation, new ways of thinking and a strong dose of political will. This is the hard work facing Marybel Batjer, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s newly appointed president of the California Public Utilities Commission.

          CalMatters, 7-18-2019

 

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 

After 800,000-gallon spill, Chevron site is still leaking oil

On the same day Sen. Dianne Feinstein chastised Chevron Corp. for keeping an 800,000-gallon spill outside Bakersfield “under wraps,” California officials confirmed Thursday that the site was once again seeping a hazardous mix of oil and water.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-18-2019

 

‘Low rate’ flow resumes at Chevron oilfield leak near McKittrick

A "low rate" flow of oil and water resumed Wednesday at Chevron's months-old Cymric Oil Field leak near McKittrick, the company said Thursday. Resumption of the flow came five days after the California Division of Oil, Gas and Geothermal Resources ordered Chevron to "take all measures" to prevent the leak from starting again.

          Bakersfield Californian, 7-18-2019

 

Key state lawmakers to call for hearing into Chevron oil spill

The two top California lawmakers that oversee the state's oil industry plan to call for hearings into a recent, massive oil spill in Kern County and revelations that officials at the agency that regulate oil wells held investments in the companies they were supposed to keep watch over.

          KQED, 7-18-2019

 

As Empire St Rlty Tr (ESRT) Share Price Rose, Resolution Capital LTD Has Boosted Position; Dowling & Yahnke Position in Sempra Energy (SRE) Has Trimmed by $722,125 as Stock Value Rose

Dowling & Yahnke Llc decreased its stake in Sempra Energy (SRE) by 17.05% based on its latest 2019Q1 regulatory filing with the SEC. The institutional investor held 28,101 shares of the natural gas distribution company at the end of 2019Q1, down from 33,878 at the end of the previous reported quarter. SoCalGas lifts estimated cost of Aliso Canyon natural gas leak to $954 million.

 

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

How two big earthquakes triggered 16,000 more in Southern California

The two powerful earthquakes that rocked the Mojave Desert this month were part of a swarm of thousands of other earthquakes, many too weak to be felt, that continue to hit the area every few minutes. Mapping aftershocks in the area reveals how such large quakes change the stresses in the ground around them and set off other earthquakes nearby.

          The New York Times, 7-19-2019

 

San Francisco residents are fleeing to what may be the most earthquake-proof city in California

It's tough to live in San Francisco these days. Add to that the threat of impending earthquakes and you have a recipe for a mass exodus. Between 2010 and 2018, San Francisco County lost nearly 3,000 net domestic residents — a sign that locals are steadily fleeing their neighborhoods.

          Business Insider, 7-18-201

 

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

Major Crude Spill at Chevron Well Site in Kern County

State oil and gas regulators have released a series of photos of a Kern County well site where about 800,000 gallons of crude oil and water have spilled from a Chevron well site. The area fouled by the incident is in the Cymric Oil Field, near the town of McKittrick and 35 miles west of Bakersfield. Photographs, including an image from a state Department of Conservation drone, show the spill has inundated a roughly 1,000-foot stretch of an unnamed dry creek bed.

KQED (San Francisco TV/radio), 7-17-18

 

Chevron oil spill ignites debate over Kern's leading industry

The latest oil regulator shakeup and Chevron’s latest oil spill are revealing tensions between California’s fiercest environmental groups and one of Kern’s leading industries. Friday, Chevron confirmed a steam injection pump leaked more than18,000 barrels of an oily-water mixture into a dry streambed on the Cymric oilfield.

KBAK (Bakersfield television), 7-15-19

California needs real climate leadership. Here’s how Gov. Newsom can step up

Last week, two public watchdog groups revealed that the state agency in charge of regulating California’s oil and gas industry is rife with conflicts of interest. While the incoming administration was still learning the ropes in Sacramento, agency employees quietly doubled the rate of hydraulic fracturing (or “fracking”) permits issued to oil companies. It turns out that several of those employees have investments in the same oil companies they are supposed to regulate.

Sacramento Bee commentary, 7-17-10

 

Oilfield wastewater may trigger earthquakes for 'decades'

Wastewater from oil and gas production injected deep into wells could cause earthquakes strong enough to be felt on the surface for years to come, according to new research published Tuesday.

Agency France Presse, 7-16-19

 

Berkeley first city in California to ban natural gas in new buildings

The city of Berkeley will no longer allow natural gas pipes in many new buildings starting Jan. 1, 2020. It’s the first city in California to pass such a law, officials said. The Berkeley City Council voted unanimously Tuesday night in favor of the legislation, put forward by downtown Councilwoman Kate Harrison’s office and council co-sponsors Cheryl Davila, Ben Bartlett and Sophie Hahn.

Berkelyside, 7-17-19

 

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

Calif. cities and towns least threatened by earthquakes

After a 4.3 earthquake rattled the Bay Area on Tuesday, with experts warning a bigger one could soon follow, you might be wondering which parts of California are least threatened by earthquake danger. When it comes to big, populous cities, experts say, the options for those looking to avoid the risk of a big shake are limited. San Francisco and Los Angeles are, of course, seriously earthquake-threatened. There are seven "significant fault zones" in the Bay Area, including the dreaded San Andreas. In Los Angeles, there are faults that geologists haven't even discovered yet.

San Francisco Chronicle, 7-16-19

 

Geologists: Sacramento’s Location Provides A Safety Nest From Earthquakes

Multiple quakes hit across California on Tuesday. All of them were a 3.5 magnitude or greater. But one area is significantly safer than the rest of the state. “You’re in earthquake country. About 90% of our population lives within 10 to 20 miles of a damaging earthquake fault,” Cynthia Pridmore, an engineering geologist, said.

KOVR (Sacramento television), 7-16-19

 

Recent earthquakes could mark end of California ‘earthquake drought,’ professors say

For some, this year’s Fourth of July was a day of barbeques, celebration with family and fireworks. For residents of Ridgecrest, northeast of Los Angeles, it was a day of discomfort and fear after an earthquake — the largest in decades — resulted in power outages and damaged infrastructure and homes. The same region was rattled by an even larger earthquake the next day. The two earthquakes — with magnitudes of 6.4 and 7.1 — jolted southern California and have policymakers and scientists concerned over what could follow. 

Stanford Daily, 7-15-19

 

Two earthquakes 13 minutes apart shake the East Bay

A pair of earthquakes jolted East Bay residents Tuesday afternoon, raising concerns that more, bigger tremors are on the way, like the ones Southern California experienced two weeks ago.

San Francisco Chronicle, 7-16-19

 

4.3 magnitude earthquake centered near Blackhawk felt throughout Bay Area

A 4.3 magnitude earthquake shook Contra Costa County at 1:11 p.m. on Tuesday afternoon.  The earthquake's epicenter was about 7.5 miles east of Blackhawk near the Los Vaqueros Reservoir according to the USGS. The earthquake was initially reported as a 4.4 magnitude, but was then downgraded to a 4.2. A few minutes later the USGS said it was a 4.3 magnitude.

KTVU (Oakland television), 7-16-19

 

Two earthquakes 13 minutes apart shake the East Bay

A 4.3-magnitude quake struck between Blackhawk and Brentwood at 1:11 p.m., followed by a 3.5-magnitude shaker 13 minutes later, according to the United States Geological Survey. No damage or injuries were reported, but residents in Martinez, Pittsburg and as far west as Berkeley reported light shaking.

MSN, 7-16-19

 

Is 'The Big One' next? California was shaking again Tuesday, with six earthquakes of 3.5 or greater

magnitude 4.3 earthquake shook the eastern San Francisco Bay area at 1:11 p.m. Tuesday. Four minutes later, a magnitude 4.5 quake hit near Ridgecrest, which, earlier this month, was rattled by a pair of massive temblors, including the most powerful shaker (a magnitude 7.1) to strike California in 20 years.

USA Today, 7-16-19

 

4.5 quake near Ridgecrest, Calif.

A magnitude 4.5 earthquake was reported Tuesday afternoon at 1:15 p.m. Pacific time seven miles from Ridgecrest, Calif., according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The earthquake occurred 35 miles from California City, 62 miles from Tehachapi, 66 miles from Rosamond and 67 miles from Barstow.

Los Angeles Times, 7-16-19

 

Ridgecrest Earthquake Aftershocks Move Toward Major Faults, Prompting Concerns of Triggered Temblors

Aftershocks of the magnitude 7.1 earthquake near Ridgecrest have been creeping into areas close to two major earthquake faults, a development that is generating interest and some concern among seismologists over whether it could trigger another huge temblor.

Los Angeles Times, 7-16-19

 

Magnitude 3.5 quake rattles Morgan Hill

A magnitude 3.5 earthquake rattled Morgan Hill Monday afternoon. The tremblor struck 16 kilometers north of Morgan Hill at 1:46 p.m., according to the United States Geological Survey. There were no initial reports of injuries or damage, according to the Morgan Hill Police Department.

Bay Area News Group, 7-15-19

 

CLIMATE CHANGE

Central Valley could see more ‘dangerously hot’ days from climate change. Here’s how many

California’s Central Valley is no stranger to heat, but human-caused climate change could soon see the region hitting boiling temperatures at greater frequency than before. That’s the finding of the Union of Concerned Scientists, a nonprofit organization founded “to use the power of science to address global problems and improve people’s lives,” according to the group’s website.

Sacramento Bee, 7-16-19

 

Heat waves likely to become longer, more intense — even in Bay Area, study shows

Summers in San Francisco may soon feel more like the warmer East Bay. The East Bay may soon feel more like Sacramento. And Sacramento — well, it might just be too hot to stick around any longer.

San Francisco Chronicle, 7-16-19

 

Don't say retreat when talking about sea rise in California

Who knew back in 1977, when the Coastal Act was passed, that the sea would rise so quickly? Now, cities and the agency formed to protect the coastline, must deal with it - and with each other. A workshop on July 12 brought together the League of Cities, California State Association of Counties, local government officials, and the California Coastal Commission. Sea level rise was a key topic, along with one of the most controversial tools in the arsenal.

San Diego Reader, 7-16-19

 

 

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 

State orders Chevron to ‘take all measures’ to prevent further leaks of oil, water near McKittrick

California's top oil regulator, losing patience with Chevron's response to the uncontrolled release of thousands of barrels of oil near McKittrick, has ordered the company to "take all measures" to make sure petroleum, water and steam do not resume rising to the surface after previous efforts to stop the flow there proved temporary.

          Bakersfield Californian, 7-15-19

 

State orders Chevron to stop massive crude oil release from Kern county well

Saying that Chevron has failed to do all it should have to stop a massive release of crude oil at a Kern County well site, state regulators have ordered the company "to take all measures" to stop the flow and prevent a recurrence.

          KCBX, 7-15-19

 

Fracking under fire in California

Fracking for oil and gas in California is about to get a lot more difficult. Last week, California Governor Gavin Newsom fired the state’s top oil regulator after the Desert Sun reported that fracking permits in California doubled in the first six months of this year without the Governor’s knowledge. Meanwhile, Chevron – another top permit recipient in the state – has come under fire for a massive oil spill in Kern County that has been ongoing since May.

          Oil Price, 7-15-19

Spi_mappixel

Most California Oil, Gas Permits Said Issued for Reworking Wells, Not New Ones

Permits to drill using hydraulic fracturing (fracking) are not growing at an unprecedented rate in California, contrary to reports last week by state officials in explaining the ouster of the oil and gas supervisor.

NGI Shale Gas Daily, 7-16-19

 

California orders Chevron to ‘take all measures’ to halt massive spill of oil-water mixture

About 800,000 gallons of an oil-water mixture has spilled in the last two months at a Chevron operation in the Cymric Oil Field in California's Kern County Canyon. On Friday, California's Department of Conservation ordered Chevron to immediately "take all measures" to the stop the flow and "prevent any new surface expressions" near the well site.

CNN 7-15-19

 

In wake of report citing SoCalGas issues in Aliso Canyon gas leak, lawmakers plan hearing

State Sen. Henry Stern and Assemblymember Christy Smith said this week they will hold a public hearing in the wake of a report detailing the root cause of the 2015 Aliso Canyon gas leak. The meeting will be held Tuesday, Aug. 6 at Porter Ranch Community School, 12450 Mason Avenue.

Los Angeles Newspaper Group, 7-12-19

 

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

Aftershocks keep rattling: More than 70 measuring 4.0+ since Ridgecrest earthquakes

It’s been more than a week since two of the largest earthquakes to hit Southern California in nearly two decades hit, and the aftershocks keep coming. There have been more than 70 earthquakes of magnitude 4 and greater since July 4, when a magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck on Independence Day; a day later, a much larger magnitude 7.1 earthquake hit.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-15-19

 

Living in California is living on the edge

To live in California is to make a wary peace with an existential dichotomy: breathtaking weather, astounding natural beauty, bounteous food and wine, stimulating multiculturalism and … the possibility of imminent, unpredictable disaster. Depending on where we live, Californians are just one spark, one mudslide, or, yes, one earthquake away from severe destruction.

          The Atlantic, 7-15-19

 

CLIMATE CHANGE

 

Planting ‘Billions of Trees” isn’t going to stop climate change

Planting billions of trees is the most effective way to combat climate change. At least that’s what a recent Science study claimed. Its findings were initially celebrated by a wave of articles, but the response is being met with a flood of criticism—from Indigenous activists, policy experts, and climate scientists.

          Vice, 7-15-19

 

California’s wildfires are 500 percent larger due to climate change

A new study, published this week in the journal Earth’s Future, finds that the state’s fire outbreak is real—and that it’s being driven by climate change. Since 1972, California’s annual burned area has increased more than fivefold, a trend clearly attributable to the warming climate, according to the paper.

          The Atlantic, 7-16-19

 

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 California’s other drought: A major earthquake is overdue

The earthquake situation in California is actually more dire than people who aren’t seismologists like myself may realize. Although many Californians can recount experiencing an earthquake, most have never personally experienced a strong one. For major events, with magnitudes of 7 or greater, California is actually in an earthquake drought.

          Salon, 7-13-2019

 Ridgecrest aftershock prognosis: They won’t stop for years, and another strong one is possible

A 4.9-magnitude earthquake in the Ridgecrest area early Friday drove home what seismologists have been telling Southern Californians for the past week: In the wake of two strong quakes July 4 and 5, that area is likely to keep shaking for years.

          The Mercury News, 7-12-2019

 Earthquakes shake up Yucca Mountain nuke dump talk in Nevada

Recent California earthquakes that rattled Las Vegas have shaken up arguments on both sides of a stalled federal plan to entomb nuclear waste beneath a long-studied site in southern Nevada.

          The Associated Press, 7-13-2019

 ‘We are coming back even stronger’

“We are in a very positive mood today,” Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division Commander Rear Adm. Scott Dillon told some 500 who gathered to hear an update after last week’s 6.4- and 7.1-magnitude earthquakes rendered their host at Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake “non mission operable.” While most buildings have not sustained serious damage, officials are in the beginning stages of clearing structures as safe and sound to enter.

          The News Review, 7-12-2019

 At least 4 fires in wake of earthquakes

At least four fires broke out in the Ridgecrest area immediately following the earthquakes that shook the high desert during the week of July 4 according to the Kern County Fire Department. Kern County Fire Stations 74 and 77 handled multiple calls immediately after the 6.4- and 7.1- magnitude quakes on July 4 and 5 respectively.

          The News Review, 7-12-2019

 Water restored to Trona after quakes

“You guys have water today,” announced Searles Domestic Water Co. Manager Audrey Schuyler during a Trona Town Hall on July 10. Hundreds of Searles Valley residents, still reeling from the 6.4- and 7.1-magnitude earthquakes last week, packed the Trona High School Gym Wednesday morning where they heard from San Bernardino County, state and federal representatives as well as officials representing public health, tax, construction, insurance and emergency services.

          The News Review, 7-11-2019

 July 5th 7.1 Searles Valley earthquake caused 8’ shift of earth’s surface

A recent photo of surface faulting from the Friday, July 5, 2019, 7.1 Searles Valley earthquake was shared by the USGS recently. The Searles Valley region has had thousands of aftershocks, but the Friday July 5th earthquake literally shifted the earth approximately 8 feet, as seen on the dirt path in the photo.

          24/7 Headline, 7-13-2019

 

Ridgecrest earthquake packed the power of 45 nuclear bombs, but its impact was muted

When the magnitude 7.1 earthquake ruptured the earth in the Mojave Desert, it packed the energy of 45 nuclear bombs of the type that fell on Hiroshima. But a variety of factors lessened the potency and impact of what was the most powerful Southern California earthquake in nearly two decades.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-13-2019

 A 4.9-magnitude earthquake hits Ridgecrest one week after powerful temblor

A 4.9-magnitude earthquake was reported near Ridgecrest, California, on Friday morning — one week after a 7.1-magnitude temblor struck Southern California, the US Geological Survey said.

          Q13 Fox, 7-12-2019

 Earthquakes leaves dozens of home unfit for living in Trona

More than 30 homes have been red-tagged as uninhabitable and 51 were yellow-tagged due to serious damage in Trona and surrounding San Bernardino County communities following two large earthquakes last week, according to initial damage assessments by state and local officials.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-13-2019

 California Big One: Would California earthquake cause a tsunami?

California has recently seen a surge of seismic activity, as powerful earthquakes course through the state. Would the California ‘big one’ cause a tsunami?

          Express, 7-13-2019

 Here’s what you should know about the Hollywood Fault

The Hollywood Fault spans about nine miles long from Atwater Village to West Hollywood. In our lifetime, there's no record of a significant earthquake caused by the Hollywood Fault but seismologists know it's still active. Seismologists predict that Hollywood Fault will only be disastrous if it erupts in conjunction with the Raymond Fault or the Santa Monica Fault.

          ABC7, 7-11-2019

 Another earthquake in California just hours after a quake near Seattle

California residents felt another earthquake Friday morning, with a 4.9-magnitude quake registering Friday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. That wasn't the only unusual seismic activity that happened on the West Coast Friday morning, as a 4.6-magnitude quake hit 40 miles northeast of Seattle Friday morning, registering just southwest of Three Lakes, Washington.

          ABC News, 7-12-2019

 West Coast residents seriously underestimate the threat of a catastrophic earthquake, survey finds

As last week’s major earthquakes in Southern California reminded us, we humans are still at the mercy of the geologically-active planet we live on. But despite the ever-present seismic threat, there’s a lot more West Coast cities could be doing to prepare their infrastructure and citizens for disaster, like implementing stricter building codes and restrictions and better early warning systems.

          Gizmodo, 7-12-2019

 3 questions seismologists are asking after the California earthquakes

A week after two large earthquakes rattled southern California, scientists are scrambling to understand the sequence of events that led to the temblors and what it might tell us about future quakes.

          Science News, 7-12-2019

 Rippling rainbow map shows how California earthquakes moved the earth

Curious how much the ground shifted after the two large earthquakes last week in Southern California? NASA has just the map for that question — and it happens to look like beautiful, psychedelic art.

          NPR, 7-12-2019

 7.1 earthquake leaves long-standing Cal State Long Beach building red-tagged

A building at Cal State Long Beach that had fallen into disrepair was further damaged by last week's magnitude 7.1 earthquake, the biggest to strike Southern California in nearly 20 years. The Soroptimist House was red-tagged this week, barring people from venturing inside. The building had been used during the academic year as an interfaith center and had been vacated before the temblor.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-12-2019

 4.9 aftershock rattles Ridgecrest in aftermath of two major quakes

A magnitude 4.9 aftershock tumbled east of Ridgecrest, Calif., on Friday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The temblor occurred in an area that was struck by a pair of strong earthquakes just a week ago and has been rattled by thousands of aftershocks.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-12-2019

 Ridgecrest earthquakes caused major damage at China Lake naval base

Last week's back-to-back earthquakes hit the Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake with such violent force that they damaged the base's elementary school and created the largest surface chasms caused by the recent temblors in Southern California's high desert area, according to state officials.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-12-2019

 Afraid of the Big One? Consider Sacramento, which avoids the worst California quakes

Want to be safe from earthquakes in California? You'd need to endure summer scorchers, winter flood threats and full-time politicians. But temblors don't threaten people living in Sacramento. In the state capital — River City, Sacramento, City of Trees — earthquakes are seen only on TV. Here, you'll escape the Big One.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-15-2019

 

L.A.’s ShakeAlert earthquake warning app worked exactly as planned. That’s the problem

More than 500,000 people have downloaded Los Angeles County's new ShakeAlertLA app to warn them of impending earthquakes. So when the two strongest earthquakes in almost two decades hit Southern California this month, those residents were surprised by what they saw on their smartphones: nothing. Officials were quick to explain to outraged app users that the shaking in the county wasn't strong enough to trigger an alert. But that rationale hasn't mollified the public.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-15-2019

 

California Navy base known for WWII bomb tests may get big check for earthquake repairs

The U.S. House unanimously approved a measure to authorize $100 million for repairs to the Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, which was near the epicenter of last week’s California desert earthquakes. The sprawling 1.1 million acre station, which tests and develops military technology, sustained significant damage in the 6.4 and 7.1 magnitude quakes which struck the Southern California desert on July 4 and 5. While flight operations resumed Wednesday, the base remains closed to non-essential personnel, but may re-open as early as July 15.

          The Sacramento Bee, 7-12-2019

 

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 Cleanup continues on large oil spill in Kern County

Conservation groups are calling for a ban on new drilling as crews assess the damage from a large oil spill in Kern County. Chevron reports that one of its wells near McKittrick has leaked more than 500,000 gallons of oil and wastewater into a dry creek bed. The leak started in May and continued intermittently until crews sealed it last week.

          Public News Service, 7-15-2019

 

After Aliso Canyon, a gas pipeline exploded – costing Californians $1 billion

Two years after methane gas began leaking from Southern California Gas Co.’s Aliso Canyon storage field, one of the company’s key pipelines exploded, starting a fire in the desert and leaving a smoking crater in the ground. Nobody was hurt, but the damaged pipeline was taken out of service — severely constraining gas supplies in Southern California, especially with storage at Aliso Canyon restricted. Together, those infrastructure failures would fuel higher energy prices across the state, ultimately costing California ratepayers at least $1 billion.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-11-2019

 Chevron spills 800,00 gallons of oil, water in California

Officials began to clean up a massive oil spill Friday that dumped nearly 800,000 gallons of oil and water into a California canyon, making it larger — if less devastating — than the state's last two major oil spills.

          U.S. News, 7-12-2019

 Gov. Gavin Newsom fires top official over fracking permits – but won’t ban the oil wells

Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday defended firing California’s top oil industry regulator for issuing too many hydraulic fracturing permits, but offered no details on whether he plans to ban or limit the oil extraction process in the state.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-12-2019

 Spill 35 miles west of Bakersfield spills nearly 800,000 gallons of oil, wastewater

California authorities are preparing to start cleanup on an oil spill that dumped nearly 800,000 gallons of oil and water on land about 35 miles west of Bakersfield. Chevron spokesperson Veronica Flores-Paniagua says oil has been seeping from the ground since May, but it’s the first time the public is hearing about it.

 Chevron has spilled 800,00 gallons of crude oil and water into a California canyon since May

California officials ordered Chevron Friday "to take all measures" to stop a release that has spilled around 800,000 gallons of water and crude oil into a dry creek bed in Kern County, KQED reported.

          EcoWatch, 7-15-2019

 

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

 ‘Like your own national park’: Huge East Bay ranch on sale at $72 million

For more than 85 years, the Vickers and Naftzger family have owned the N3 Ranch an hour southeast of San Francisco, buying more and more land until it encompassed an enormous 80 square miles. Now two sisters, the latest generation, are exiting the business and selling the sprawling property with an asking price of $72 million.

          San Francisco Chronicle, 7-15-2019

 

 

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

Last week’s earthquakes may have exposed a new fault line

Given Southern California's history of quakes, the unrelenting media coverage every time the ground moves, and all the premier research institutions based here, you might assume we know everything about earthquakes. The Little Lake fault zone — where the two quakes took place — wasn't on many lists as a top contender for a big rupture. Then, the re-rupture of the same fault just a day later caught even scientists off guard. On top of that, that re-rupture might have revealed a whole new fault.

          LAist, 7-11-19

 

Newer buildings show little damage after California quakes

The two Southern California desert communities rocked by last week’s powerful earthquakes may have sustained as little damage as they did because they have no tall buildings and many of the homes in one are fairly new and were built to stricter earthquake standards.

          Associated Press, 7-11-19

 

3 questions seismologists are asking after the California earthquakes

A week after two large earthquakes rattled southern California, scientists are scrambling to understand the sequence of events that led to the temblors and what it might tell us about future quakes.

          Science News, 7-12-19

 

Ridgecrest earthquakes caused damage to Earth’s crust seen from satellite

Damage to the earth’s crust from the magnitude 6.4 and 7.1 earthquakes that struck Southern California last week is visible in a kaleidoscopic satellite image released by NASA.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-11-19

 

4.9 aftershock rattles Ridgecrest in aftermath of two major quakes

A magnitude 4.9 aftershock tumbled east of Ridgecrest, Calif., on Friday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The temblor occurred in an area that was struck by a pair of strong earthquakes just a week ago and has been rattled by thousands of aftershocks.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-12-19

 

Understanding the Ridgecrest, Calif., earthquakes and what comes next

Some people get their Fourth of July booms from fireworks. In Ridgecrest, Calif., it came from a pair of violent earthquakes. Since then, the trend has been encouraging — only one aftershock of 4.0 strength or greater has rattled the Ridgecrest area. But the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) posted a bulletin on its website warning residents to “be ready.”

          Washington Post, 7-11-19

 

Hey ShakeAlertLA: Where’s the earthquake app for the rest of SoCal?

Why is L.A. the only place this app serves? The answer to the question has a lot to do with how it was developed.

          LAist, 7-11-19

 

The town at the epicenter of California’s massive earthquake feels forgotten

Trona is an unincorporated community near Death Valley, which has relied on its population of roughly 2,000 residents to rally support for their needs, especially in a time of crisis. But the damage from Friday’s earthquake — the largest to hit California in 20 years — has left residents of the remote town questioning Trona’s ability to bounce back.

          Vice News, 11-10-19

 

Help pouring in to Trona after earthquakes, but officials warn recovery will take time

Since the first earthquake, measuring magnitude 6.4, struck on July 4, neighbors have spent long hours helping one another as resources from outside communities and local officials have trickled in. A full recovery, though, will take more time.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-10-19

 

New sensor could shake up earthquake response efforts

A new optical sensor developed at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) could speed up the time it takes to evaluate whether critical buildings like these are safe to occupy shortly after a major earthquake. After four years of extensive peer-reviewed research and simulative testing at the University of Nevada’s Earthquake Engineering Laboratory, the Discrete Diode Position Sensor (DDPS) will be deployed for the first time this summer in a multi-story building at Berkeley Lab – which sits adjacent to the Hayward Fault, considered one of the most dangerous faults in the United States.

          Berkeley Lab, 7-11-19

 

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 

Chevron Well at Center of Major Oil Spill in Kern County Oil Field

A Chevron oil well has leaked nearly 800,000 gallons of crude petroleum and water in Kern County over the last two months, prompting state regulators to hit the San Ramon-based energy company with a notice of violation and an order to halt some oil extraction work in the area around the spill.

KQED (San Francisco TV-radio), 7-12-19

 

Could mussels teach us how to clean up oil spills?

Mussels may be popular among seafood lovers, but many boaters consider them pests. They colonize ship bottoms, clog water pipes and stick to motors. To chemical engineers, though, those very same properties make mussels marvelous. They can stick to just about any surface — and underwater, no less. And now, researchers believe that studying how mussels stick to things may help them address water pollution, according to a review of recent mussel-inspired chemistry advances, published this week in the journal Matter

          KPBS, 7-11-19

 

After Aliso Canyon, a gas pipeline exploded – costing Californians $1 billion

Two years after methane gas began leaking from Southern California Gas Co.’s Aliso Canyon storage field, one of the company’s key pipelines exploded, starting a fire in the desert and leaving a smoking crater in the ground. But the damaged pipeline was taken out of service — severely constraining gas supplies in Southern California, especially with storage at Aliso Canyon restricted. Together, those infrastructure failures would fuel higher energy prices across the state, ultimately costing California ratepayers at least $1 billion.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-11-19

 

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

 

Rain, cool weather brining down California almond production

Weather-related disruptions contributed to a substantial decline in California almond production this year, suggesting farmers of Kern's second largest-grossing crop may take a financial hit as well.

          Bakersfield Californian, 7-11-19

 

A Southern California without orange groves? One of the last could soon be gone

Bothwell Ranch is one of the last remaining orange groves in the San Fernando Valley, a vestige of the long-evaporated citrus industry. The ranch is at the center of a growing dispute between its owners, who have sought to sell it to luxury housing developers, and community members who believe it should remain an orchard. The Los Angeles City Council is currently considering a proposal to give the site a historic designation to preserve at least part of the orchard.

New York Times, 7-11-19

 

CLIMATE CHANGE

 

Floodier future’ expected in Humboldt Bay, other coastal regions

A report released Wednesday by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration predicts that sunny day flooding, also known as tidal flooding, will continue to increase. This year, Humboldt Bay is expected to experience six to 12 days of sunny day flooding after experiencing 12 such days in 2018.

          Eureka Times Standard, 7-10-19

 

RIDGECREST EARTHQUAKES/CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

After Ridgecrest, California is still overdue for a ‘Big One’ on its most active faults

Last weekend’s pair of powerful Ridgecrest temblors, 6.4 magnitude on Friday and 7.1 magnitude on Saturday, offered a stark reminder: “The Big One” is coming.

          Sacramento Bee, 7-10-19

 

Earthquake: Isabella Dam update

A recent 7.1-magnitude earthquake and a series of nerve-wracking aftershocks have Kern County residents asking a frightening question: What would happen if the Isabella Dam collapsed during a powerful quake? Engineers have been looking for possible seepage or cracks in concrete at main and auxiliary dams. So far, they’ve found none.

          Bakersfield Now, 7-8-19

 

The earthquakes in Southern California were centered near a naval station contaminated with ‘forever chemicals’

The ground is no longer shaking in Ridgecrest, the California city rocked by a spate of strong earthquakes over the 4th of July weekend, but residents are starting to consider a new set of dangers. Beyond scientists' worrisome predictions that another earthquake might strike in the coming days, questions have arisen about risks associated with the Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, a large military testing site outside the city.

          San Francisco Chronicle, 7-9-19

 

Most of Trona still without water Tuesday following quakes

Most of the small San Bernardino County town of Trona remained without water Tuesday as officials work to recover from last week’s two massive earthquakes.

          CBS Los Angeles, 7-9-19

 

Trona infrastructure improving, but more quake damage to property called likely

Water service has been restored to almost all areas of Trona, and most major natural gas leaks have been repaired. But, San Bernardino County Fire Marshal Mike Horton added some ominous news: As buildings continue to settle in the sandy soil amid the aftershocks, fissures in the foundations and in the homes continue to widen.

          Los Angeles Newspaper Group, 7-10-19

 

Watch out for scammers trying to take advantage of your earthquake anxiety

Officials are warning California residents to be wary of scammers trying to take advantage of their earthquake anxiety. While lingering aftershocks continue to rattle the Ridgecrest area, Orange County officials are warning residents of schemes aimed at convincing residents to leave their homes in what could be a prank or a ruse in an attempt to commit burglary.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-9-19

 

‘Where do we go from here?’ Ridgecrest Town Hall emphasizes recovery, staying prepared

A Town Hall meeting held Sunday afternoon started with a calm but serious bit of instruction about keeping the aisles clear and how to exit safely in the case of another quake. Once that was out of the way, a string of speakers spelled out plans for what everyone is hoping is now a recovery phase after the two historic Ridgecrest earthquakes July 4 and 5 — while also remaining prepared for possible future quakes.

          Bakersfield Californian, 7-11-19

 

First responders moving into ‘recovery process’ in Ridgecrest

The city of Ridgecrest is beginning to transition into recovery mode following two earthquakes centered near the city this past week. Kern County Fire Battalion Chief Brandon Smith said crews from around the county are expected to begin leaving Ridgecrest in the next day or so as the city continues its recovery.

          Bakersfield Californian, 7-11-19

 

Ridgecrest earthquake shattered California’s cool

Friday’s whopper of a temblor in particular shook a lot of us out of our oblivion, I think — and refocused us on the disaster preparations we too often let slide.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-8-19

 

CLIMATE CHANGE

 

L.A. among 40 U.S. cities expected to experience abnormal flooding rates due to rising seas, El Niño

The federal government is warning Americans to brace for a “floodier” future. Government scientists predict 40 places in the U.S. will experience higher than normal rates of so-called sunny day flooding this year because of rising sea levels and an abnormal El Nino weather system.

          KTLA (Los Angeles television), 7-10-19

 

RIDGECREST EARTHQUAKE/CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

Earthquakes ravaged Los Angeles and San Francisco. So, what spared this city in the California desert?

Ridgecrest appeared to have escaped the quakes largely unscathed when it comes to structural damage, city officials said. There were no deaths or major injuries reported and only four building fires, likely sparked by ruptured natural gas or electrical lines. By contrast, the San Francisco Bay and greater Los Angeles areas have experienced significant damage following quakes over the past century of lesser intensity. So, why not Ridgecrest?

          USA Today, 7-9-19

 

Ridgecrest earthquake mystery: Why so little destruction from huge temblors?

There are a number of reasons why Ridgecrest was largely spared. The Mojave Desert town remained largely unscathed because its building stock was relatively new and remarkably resilient. It lacks the kind of structures that experts say are most vulnerable in a big quake — unreinforced masonry, brittle concrete, so-called soft story apartments and single-family homes not bolted to their foundations. The happenstances of geology and geography also worked in the town’s favor.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-10-19

 

Expect 34,000 aftershocks from Ridgecrest earthquakes. But seismic activity is slowing down

Aftershocks from the recent earthquakes near Ridgecrest, Calif., are decreasing in both frequency and magnitude, and seismologists say they expect the pattern to continue.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-0-9-19

 

The Big One is likely overdue in the Coachella Valley, where major earthquake faults connect

Paralleling the Interstate 10 freeway and then ducking under it, the mighty San Andreas fault runs north from the Salton Sea, skirts the western boundary of Joshua Tree National Park and heads into the San Gorgonio thrust near the Morongo Casino, where three active fault strands connect. All pose a tremendous risk, experts say. The San Andreas hasn't experienced a major rupture in the Coachella Valley in more than three centuries, meaning it's long past due — statistically — for a Big One.

          Palm Springs Desert Sun, 7-8-19

 

California’s two recent earthquakes erupted on unknown fault lines

The two big Ridgecrest earthquakes last week happened along fault lines we didn’t even know existed.

          Mother Jones, 7-9-19

 

Environment report: The earthquake risk no one’s talking about

San Diego faces a hidden earthquake threat — to its water supply. A quake, even one so far away that nobody in San Diego feels it, could cause an emergency and force mandatory water-use restrictions.

          Voice of San Diego, 7-8-19

 

‘This town can’t handle any more’: Ridgecrest residents reflect after back-to-back earthquakes

Darren Cloyd was in his car when he noticed the car began to shake. He thought it was his stereo until he looked outside and saw everything swaying side to side. Such were the stories from Ridgecrest on Saturday after Friday night's 7.1 magnitude earthquake. Already shaken by Thursday's 6.4 magnitude quake — now considered a foreshock — the town in the Mojave Desert was surprised by the event.

          KQED (San Francisco TV-radio), 7-6-19

 

Nevada death may be linked to California quake

A powerful July 4 earthquake in the Southern California desert may have killed a man in neighboring Nevada, authorities said Tuesday. It would be the first death linked to the magnitude 6.4 quake near Ridgecrest that was felt far and wide.

          Associated Press, 7-9-19

 

When it comes to earthquake intensity, fault line size is a big deal

The study of fault lines in California is still a relatively new science and not all have been identified. Richard Armstrong, an assistant professor of earthquake engineering with Sacramento State, says fault line length and width often contribute to more impactful earthquakes. He says it will take time to for geologists and seismologists to develop a clearer picture of the actual intensity and fault-line location of the recent Southern California quakes.

          Capital Public Radio, 7-9-19

 

Is my building vulnerable in a big earthquake? Here’s how to find out

The Ridgecrest earthquakes didn’t cause any notable damage in the Greater Los Angeles area. But the shaking did spur hundreds of thousands to ask that eternal question in earthquake country: How safe is my building? Government agencies, researchers and journalists have begun compiling inventories of some of the buildings that might be at risk. Here are some of the most vulnerable places, as compiled from The Times’ archives.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-9-19

 

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

 

Report claims county missing out on money

San Mateo County is losing out on potential revenue and risking hefty fines by neglecting its local program to enforce a state agriculture preservation law, according to a civil grand jury report which recommends an audit and revamp to bring the properties into line and onto the tax roll.

          San Mateo Daily Journal, 7-10-19

 

CLIMATE CHANGE

 

Plan by Sanders, Ocasio-Cortez to declare climate emergency

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders and New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are teaming up on a measure that would designate climate change as an emergency, and they have won early support from one of Sanders’ fellow Democratic presidential candidates.

         Associated Press, 7-9-19

 

Quarter of the world’s biggest firms ‘fail to disclose emissions’

About a quarter of the world’s highest-emitting, publicly listed companies fail to report their greenhouse gas emissions and nearly half do not properly consider the risks from the climate crisis in decision-making, new research has found. The findings show the distance even the world’s biggest companies still have to cover to meet the goals of the Paris agreement on climate change, according to the group of investors coordinating the report.

          The Guardian, 7-9-19

 

Tree-planting efforts could curb humanity’s carbon emissions

The need to restore forest, both to protect biodiversity and to stabilize the climate, is urgent, experts say. Some 80 percent of the world's land species need forests to live. Trees also fight climate change by taking up carbon dioxide—the main gas responsible for warming—from the air and turning it into wood and roots. Recognizing this, countries around the world have committed to bringing back vast tracts of previously cleared forests.

          Pacific Standard, 7-9-19

 

RIDGECREST EARTHQUAKES

 

What’s Next: Geologist breaks down earthquake forecast

After 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit the Ridgecrest area in Southern California – a quake that was felt all the way in Sacramento -- residents are on edge, wondering what’s next for the region. Aftershocks continue to hit the region. State geologist Tim McCrink explains what people can expect over the next few weeks

KCRA (Sacramento television), 7-8-19

 

4 ways to prepare for an earthquake

The largest earthquake to shake the Golden State in 20 years happened on Friday. The 7.1 magnitude quake hit the Ridgecrest area in Southern California -- and was felt in the Sacramento area. There are more than 15,000 known faults in California, according to the California Earthquake Authority. Most Californians live within 30 miles of an active one.

KCRA (Sacramento television), 7-8-19

 

Do You Need Earthquake Insurance In Sacramento?

A lot of people felt last weekend’s earthquake in the Sacramento area, which has many wondering if they need to worry about local earthquake damage from the “big one” somewhere else? The short answer is yes, even though we don’t have any active local faults, earthquake damage is possible here.

KOVR (Sacramento television), 7-8-19

 

Southern Californians cope with earthquake anxiety as scientists assess the damage

Following two powerful earthquakes and many aftershocks in the past week, some California residents are returning home to evaluate damage. Scientists, meanwhile, are flocking to the area around the epicenters, hoping to gather information to predict future tectonic activity.

PBS, 7-8-19

 

California earthquake created a massive crack in the Earth visible in satellite images

The 7.1 magnitude earthquake that shook California on Friday also ripped open a fissure. When the shaking started at 8:19 p.m., many scrambled for cover. It was the second strong earthquake to hit the area in less than 48 hours.

CNN, 7-9-19

 

California's governor says an earthquake alert system is on the way. Here's what you need to know

For many Californians, the legend of "The Big One" seems to feel more urgent and real after a terrifying sequence of earthquakes rattled the region last week. The two temblors -- a 6.4-magnitude earthquake on Thursday followed by a 7.1 shake the next day -- hit near a small town with a population of less than 30,000, 120 miles outside Los Angeles.

CNN, 7-8-19

 

Californians’ Alert Apps Didn’t Sound for 2 Big Earthquakes. Why Not?

Los Angeles residents were not pleased last week when a pair of earthquakes struck and the ShakeAlertLA app on their phones did just what it was supposed to do: nothing. The app, released to the public on New Year’s Eve after more than a year of development, is intended to give at least a few precious seconds of notice before dangerous shaking from an earthquake.

New York Times, 7-8-19

 

Is the ‘Big One’ coming? Here’s what California quake experts say

A series of Mojave Desert quakes, including two sizable temblors, has California residents casting a wary eye on the famed San Andreas Fault, the Los Angeles Times says. But seismologists say the back-to-back quakes near Ridgecrest, California, took place on two entirely different fault lines, making them unlikely to trigger a catastrophic “Big One” along the San Andreas, The San Diego Union-Tribune reported.

Sacramento Bee, 7-7-19

 

The 7.1 earthquake could have been so much worse. Here’s why

The 7.1 earthquake that hit the Ridgecrest area last week was the largest in Southern California in 20 years. It created surface ruptures and damage near the epicenter. But experts said the quake could have been much more punishing — and could have caused more damage in the metro Los Angeles area.

Los Angeles Times, 7-8-19

 

Massive earthquakes cracked the very foundations of the tiny but tough town of Trona

Under the shade of a salt cedar tree, next to a shipping container and near a sign that said “Prayer Changes Things,” the Byrds of Trona had camped out overnight and planned to for the foreseeable future.

Los Angeles Times, 7-8-19

 

Southern California quakes got you nervous? Here are Sacramento’s nearest fault lines

A pair of significant earthquakes last week in Southern California sent shock waves through the state – both literally and figuratively, as the temblors evoked concern over preparedness, fault proximity and the likelihood of the “Big One” causing mass destruction. Some Sacramento-area residents took to social media to say they felt the 7.1-magnitude earthquake last Friday evening, with reports of swimming pool water bobbing within minutes of the quake striking near Ridgecrest, almost 400 miles away.

Sacramento Bee, 7-8-19

 

If a 7.1-magnitude earthquake hits L.A., expect ‘significant damage’

Will you need help if a major earthquake hits the greater Los Angeles area? If so, get ready to wait. Destruction to roads and freeways, utilities and communication networks – in addition to the sheer number of people who would  need assistance – could mean an acute lag in response times, said L.A. County Fire Department Chief Daryl Osby at a gathering on Sunday meant to prepare people for the worst.

Los Angeles Newspaper Group, 7-7-19

 

That Was Your Second Warning, Los Angeles. Get Some Extra Water. Now

All right Los Angeles, it's time you take a minute and think a few things over: What are you going to do today so that you are better prepared for when it really happens here. All these earthquakes you've felt in the past couple days? Sure. The rocking, the rolling, the pool sloshing — all of it stands as an unnerving reminder how the foundation for our metropolis is a churning vat of tectonic entropy capable of tossing us over at any given moment.

LAist, 7-7-19

 

Seismic selfies: Massive earthquake surface rupture becomes tourist attraction

Christian Flores had traveled more than 200 miles, from San Diego to the Mojave Desert, to visit the latest Southern California tourist attraction. There it was, on the hot asphalt of Highway 178 between Ridgecrest and Trona: a gnarly, surprisingly wide scar, courtesy of one very large earthquake. And just a few miles down the road lay another one — caused by a second, even larger and more terrifying quake. Flores couldn’t wait to upload what he saw on his YouTube channel.

Los Angeles Times, 7-9-19

 

Trona, still without water, struggles to recover after 2 major earthquakes, Ridgecrest has many services restored

Weary, thirsty Trona residents struggled Monday, July 8, to arrange for services to the earthquake-damaged community, where they’ve been without running water since the first of the twin earthquakes rattled through the region last week. In nearby Ridgecrest, services had largely been restored by Monday.

         Los Angeles Newspaper Group, 7-9-19

 

What would happen if a 7.1 earthquake shook the San Francisco Bay Area today?

If an earthquake with the same 7.1 magnitude as Friday night's Ridgecrest temblor shook the Bay Area, the impact would be significantly more devastating than what unfolded in Southern California, experts say.

San Francisco Chronicle, 7-9-19

 

Big earthquakes raise interest in West Coast warning system

The powerful Mojave Desert earthquakes that rocked California ended a years-long lull in major seismic activity and raised new interest in an early warning system being developed for the West Coast. The ShakeAlert system is substantially built in California and overall is about 55% complete, with much of the remaining installation of seismic sensor stations to be done in the Pacific Northwest, said Robert de Groot of the U.S. Geological Survey.

Associated Press, 7-8-19

 

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

Hayward targets 300 buildings deemed vulnerable in a major quake

tarting next month, the owners of about 300 apartment buildings identified at risk of collapsing in a major earthquake will have to fill out forms telling the city what shape their structures are in and whether they intend to shore them up. Such “soft story” buildings are the target of an ordinance the City Council approved on July 2, just days before a 6.4 magnitude quake rattled Ridgecrest in Kern County on July 5, followed by a 7.1 magnitude temblor the next night.

Bay Area News Group, 7-8-19

 

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 

Offshore oil drilling threatens our health and economy. We need a permanent ban

Americans up and down our nation’s beautiful coasts know that offshore drilling is a direct threat to the health of the environment and to the economic vitality of coastal communities. We’ve been proud to stand with coastal residents in California and across the nation to oppose the administration’s efforts to open federal waters to new offshore oil drilling.

Sacramento Bee commentary, 7-6-19

 

Let’s ‘drop kick’ our petroleum habit. The future of cars is electric, and it’s here

In the movies, lone heroes and villains change the world all the time. But most Americans understand that in real life, you can’t get big, important things done by going it alone. Sure, as anybody paying attention to Washington these days knows, a loner can grab a lot of attention and cause plenty of short-term chaos. But that doesn’t lead to lasting change, and it certainly doesn’t contribute to a more perfect union or a safer, more prosperous planet.

Sacramento Bee commentary, 7-6-19

 

Thousands Of People Live Closer To Underground Gas Wells Than Previously Thought

When you picture underground natural gas storage (if you picture it at all), you might conjure up a remote industrial landscape: pipes, machinery, barbed wire fences. But new research from Harvard University paints a vastly different picture. According to a study released Sunday, much more natural gas infrastructure is in residential areas than researchers previously thought.

Pacific Standard, 7-8-19

 

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

 

Roseville-based Sunworks to build $800,000 solar array at San Luis Obispo

Sunworks, a Roseville-based solar energy company, announced this week it will be building a $800,000 photovoltaic array on a nearly 150-year-old ranch in San Luis Obispo County.  Construction of the 416-kilowatt ground-mounted solar power system at the Avenales Cattle Co.’s Shandon ranch is planned for late this year, according to a news release issued by Sunworks.

Sacramento Bee, 7-9-19

 

CLIMATE CHANGE

 

Few of Trump’s environmental claims stand up to scrutiny

President Trump on Monday held himself out as a leader in the fight to protect America’s air and water, despite two years of policies that have weakened environmental regulations. In a speech at the White House, Trump said his administration was working “harder than many previous administrations, maybe almost all of them” to protect the environment. 

Los Angeles Times, 7-8-19

 

California’s pollution enforcers would like to save tropical forests. But at what cost?

California’s climate change enforcers are grappling with the thorniest of controversies: how to prevent the planet’s tropical forests from disappearing. The question they aren’t ready to answer—at least not yet—is what focusing on far-away forests could mean for pollution at home.

CalMatters, 7-8-19

 

 

 

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

Biggest earthquake in years rattles Southern California

The largest earthquake in two decades rattled Southern California on Thursday morning, shaking communities from Las Vegas to Long Beach and ending a quiet period in the state’s seismic history.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-5-19

 

Expect more earthquakes, possible even stronger ones, seismologists

Seismologists said the 6.4 earthquake that struck Southern California likely broke ground near the epicenter but was far enough away not to do damage in the Los Angeles area.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-4-19

 

6.4 magnitude earthquake near Ridgecrest rattles Southern California

A 6.4 magnitude earthquake shook Fourth of July revelers across Southern California, but no major injuries were reported and damage appeared largely confined to the area near the quake’s epicenter in the Mojave Desert.

          Los Angeles Newspaper Group, 7-4-19

 

Why L.A.’s early warning system didn’t send an alert before the magnitude 6.4 quake

Did the ShakeAlertLA system fail to provide an earthquake early warning? Not quite. The ShakeAlertLA smartphone app was only designed to alert users of cellphones physically located in Los Angeles County if there was a decent chance of destruction, with the warning system forecasting at least “light shaking,” or level 4 on the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-4-19

 

Earthquake rattles Southern California

A 6.4 earthquake hit Southern California, about 150 miles north Los Angeles, according to the US Geological Survey. It was the strongest to hit Southern California in nearly 20 years. At least 159 aftershocks have been recorded today. Dr. Lucy Jones, a seismologist, said there is a 50% chance of another large quake in the next week.

          CNN, 7-4-19

 

Aftershocks follow Southern California earthquake

Aftershocks from Southern California's largest earthquake in 20 years rumbled beneath the Mojave Desert on Friday as authorities tallied damage in the sparsely populated region. The strongest aftershock thus far hit shortly after 4 a.m., registering magnitude 5.4 and awakening people all the way to the coast.

          Associated Press, 7-5-19

 

Powerful aftershocks shake Southern California after massive earthquake: ‘You just panic’

Powerful aftershocks are still shaking Southern California on Friday after a massive 6.4 magnitude earthquake rocked the region on the Fourth of July.

          ABC News, 7-5-19

 

As aftershocks rattle Southern California, a more powerful earthquake could soon strike, experts warn

Aftershocks continue to rumble through Southern California after the region was hit by a 6.4-magnitude earthquake Thursday (July 4) morning. Experts are warning that a bigger earthquake could strike in the coming days. In fact, there is a 9% chance that one or more aftershocks of magnitude 6.4 or higher will rattle the region, according to the USGS.

          Live Science, 7-5-19

 

‘It was surreal’: Residents near Southern California earthquake’s epicenter felt intense shaking and fear

The largest earthquake to hit Southern California in two nearly decades left residents near the epicenter in Ridgecrest and Kern County shaken.

          MSN, 7-5-19

 

Strongest earthquake to hit Southern California in 20 years rattles region, rumbles residents

The strongest earthquake to hit Southern California in 20 years rocked the region Thursday, igniting fires, triggering a hospital evacuation and shaking the area for hundreds of miles. Multiple injuries and two house fires were reported in Ridgecrest, a town of 28,000. Emergency crews were also dealing with small vegetation fires, gas leaks and reports of cracked roads, said Kern County Fire Chief David Witt.

          USA Today, 7-4-19

 

California earthquake: five things to know about the tremor near Los Angeles

On Thursday morning, southern California experienced its largest earthquake in two decades. The 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck the remote city of Ridgecrest, near Death Valley national park and about 100 miles (160km) from Los Angeles. Here’s what you should know about the impact of the quake, and whether more seismic activity will strike anytime soon.

          The Guardian, 7-4-19

 

Southern California earthquake reminds us to be prepared

The 6.4 earthquake that struck Southern California’s Kern County on the Fourth of July was the largest temblor to strike the area in decades. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries, but events like this are always a good reminder to stock up on supplies and be aware of earthquake preparedness.

          KTVU (Oakland television), 7-4-19

 

Earthquake: 3.4 quake reported near Clearlake, Calif.

A magnitude 3.4 earthquake was reported Tuesday evening at 8:04 p.m. Pacific time, 11 miles from Clearlake, Calif., according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

          Los Angeles Times, 7-2-19

 

MINING

 

This company is America’s best change to loosen China’s grip on rare earths

Less than an hour from the glitzy casinos and high-rise hotels of Las Vegas, the miners at Mountain Pass are reviving an industry that nearly disappeared from American soil. This is the only mine in the country devoted to rare earths, elements essential to modern electronics. The rest of the rare earths industry is dominated by China, where labor costs are cheaper and environmental standards more lax.

          CNN, 7-3-19

 

GENERAL

 

How Sonoma’s vineyards survived a siege of fire, smoke and ash

For 10 days in October 2017, raining embers ravaged California’s Wine Country. From the valley floor, it’s hard to tell that nearly 100,000 acres of this region burned less than two years ago. What saved people in Sonoma during the fires was neighbors knocking on doors. What saved them afterward was being forward-thinking about how to prepare for living on a hotter planet.

         New York Times, 7-3-19

 

 CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

3.0 quake reported near Mendota, Calif.

A magnitude 3.0 earthquake was reported Tuesday morning at 10:48 a.m. Pacific Time 26 miles from Mendota, Calif., according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The earthquake occurred 26 miles from King City, Calif., 28 miles from Greenfield, Calif., 30 miles from Soledad, Calif., and 32 miles from Coalinga, Calif.

Los Angeles Times, 7-2-19

 

Major quake would cause loss of life at many Wash. schools, study finds

Most of Washington state's 4,000-plus public school buildings would not be safe to occupy after a major earthquake strikes, and nearly half would pose a "high" or "very high" risk for loss of life, according to a new study released Tuesday.

KOMO (Seattle radio), 7-2-19

 

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 

California Public Utilities Commission eyes more access to Aliso Canyon to ease gas, power prices

The California Public Utilities Commission has proposed revising its protocol to make it easier for Southern California Gas to withdraw gas from the Aliso Canyon storage field, a plan that aims to mitigate gas and power price spikes in the region during high demand days.

Platts, 7-2-19

 

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

 

County Supervisors Signal Readiness To OK Industrial Hemp Production

The Madera County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, July 2 voted 4-to-1 to direct the County’s agricultural commissioner to begin crafting an ordinance to regulate the cultivation of industrial hemp in Madera County.

Sierra News, 7-2-19

 

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

 

California proposes changes to SoCalGas Aliso natgas storage withdrawal rules

California utility regulators proposed changing when Southern California Gas Co (SoCalGas) can withdraw natural gas from its Aliso Canyon storage facility in Los Angeles to address energy reliability and price impacts in Southern California.

Reuters, 7-2-19

 

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

 

A critical 'base isolation' system could keep California buildings from crumbling during an earthquake, but few structures have it

At around 4:30 a.m. on Jan. 17, 1994, residents of the Northridge Meadows apartment complex saw their windows shatter, their walls crumble, and the ground below them begin to crack. From there, the building's upper levels collapsed onto the first floor, killing 16 people inside.

Business Insider, 7-2-19

 

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

 

Hemp’s Slow Launch Experts Forecast Bumper Crop Next Year

Even though hemp was made a legal crop by federal lawmakers back in December 2018, starts of commercial hemp farms in California had to wait for the state to determine its licensing rules. On April 30, the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) announced those regulations were in place, allowing county agricultural commissioner offices to began taking hemp farm license applications for the state.

Fresno Business Journal, 7-1-19

 

WATER

 

Trump's Pending Rules on California Water Marked by Missing Documents and Hurried Reviews, Say Scientists

Independent scientists have raised serious concerns about a Trump administration plan to divert more water to California farmers, according to documents obtained by KQED. In their analyses, they write that the plan poses risks to threatened fish; that the process is rushed; that they didn’t receive enough information to provide a complete scientific review; and that the Trump administration may be skewing the science to make the environmental impact look less serious.

KQED (San Francisco TV/radio), 7-1-19

 

CLIMATE CHANGE

 

Climate Change Is Ruining Your Trips To The Mountains

Thanks to our ultra long-rainy season, we finally said goodbye to drought conditions in California. But the reality is we're still living with the aftermath of one of the worst droughts on record, possibly the worst in 1,200 years.

LAist, 7-1-19

 

 

 

(news updated as time permits…)

 

 

 

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