Pittsford residents subjects of seismic testing

by Tommy Verdon

Seismic testing is one of the most widely used testing methods in petroleum exploration, and it’s prevalent in and around our area. The seismic testing method is used because it is one of the most accurate ways to find the petroleum.

Seismic waves can be thought of as a shock wave that travels through the ground. There are two types of waves produced: P-waves, which can be known as primary or “compressional” waves, and S-waves, or shear waves. The reflections of the waves are recorded on a plotted profile called a seismic section. The depths can range up to 20,000 feet. The accuracy of the readings can range from a level of 10 to 20 feet.

Science teacher Mr. Burger is lucky enough to have the testing done in his family’s yard, hopefully so they can find some petroleum and get some money. The testing can be a beneficial experience, but may not have any direct impact “Won’t have any effect on me,”, said Mr. Burger.There were many things that they had to do to get ready for the testing. “They set up a GPS across the road, they put up survey lines that went through our woods and the field by our house and then after they had the lines done they planted charges and that measured the sound waves,” explained Mr. Burger. They didn’t exclude Mr. Burger’s house from the testing. “They tested all around, from Pittsford Road to Waldron Road, so my house wasn’t excluded”, said Mr. Burger. The testing was a very long process. “It went on for a couple months from the start to end and it just got done a couple of weeks ago,” replied Mr. Burger.