AER suspends fracking operations at well site linked to Red Deer earthquake

Alberta’s energy regulator has ordered a company to suspend fracking operations at a well site linked to an earthquake that was felt in the communities of Red Deer and Sylvan Lake.

Natural Resources Canada says the 4.6 magnitude tremor occurred in central Alberta around 5:55 a.m. Monday morning.

The regulator says Vesta Energy must suspend hydraulic fracturing operations at the site in order to protect the public and the environment.

It says the Calgary-based company must submit a report of all seismic activity in the area since April and specific fracturing data for the well site.