LEGISLATIVE POWERS: Urges and requests the Department of Conservation and Energy in consultation with the United States Geological Survey to study seismic activity in Northwest Louisiana parishes and develop a seismic monitoring strategy for Louisiana

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rodney Schamerhorn

Louisiana should study seismic activity in Northwest Louisiana with USGS and Tulane to evaluate the need for a statewide seismic monitoring network.

Taken by the Clerk of the House and presented to the Secretary of State in accordance with the Rules of the House.

Purpose and intent

This House Resolution urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy (DCE), in consultation with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and Tulane University, to study seismic activity in Northwest Louisiana and to assess the need for a statewide seismic monitoring network.

The goal is to understand the causes and characteristics of earthquakes in the Red River region and to inform potential improvements in prediction, preparedness, and mitigation of seismic hazards.

Key provisions and changes

Scope of study: Focuses on seismic activity in Red River, Sabine, De Soto, Caddo, Bienville, and Natchitoches Parishes, with emphasis on recent earthquakes that have been felt by residents, caused property damage, or been detected by seismic networks.

Collaboration: Requires the DCE to collaborate with the USGS and Tulane University. The resolution notes ongoing coordination between these entities and existing regional efforts.

Data gathering and analysis: Encourages gathering all available data and analyzing the causes and characteristics of seismic activity in the Red River Parish region. This includes evaluating the need for a multipurpose, statewide seismic monitoring network.

Reporting deadline: The DCE must submit a written report detailing findings to the Louisiana House of Representatives no later than February 1, 2027.

Public accountability: The resolution directs the transmission of copies to relevant state and federal agencies and organizations involved in natural hazards and seismic monitoring.

Who or what is affected

Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy (DCE): Primary agency responsible for conducting the study and preparing the report.

United States Geological Survey (USGS): A key partner in the study, providing scientific expertise and data.

Tulane University: Participating institution in data collection and analysis.

Stakeholders in Northwest Louisiana seismic activity (residents, local governments, landowners, infrastructure managers) through the study and potential development of a statewide monitoring network.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Initiation: Initiated by a House Resolution, urging the DCE to begin the study in collaboration with USGS and Tulane University.

Reporting timeline: A written report is to be submitted to the Louisiana House of Representatives by February 1, 2027.

Legislative status: The resolution was read by title on May 26, 2026, and carries no new law or regulatory mandate beyond the advisory, informational purpose of urging investigation and study.

Potential impact and implications

If undertaken, the study could clarify whether a statewide seismic monitoring network is warranted, its design, cost, and implementation considerations.

Findings may influence future policy decisions, funding priorities, and preparedness measures related to earthquake risks in Louisiana.

The resolution signals ongoing concern about seismic activity in Northwest Louisiana and may pave the way for enhanced collaboration between state agencies and federal researchers.

Note: As a resolution, HR 344 does not create new legal duties or binding requirements; it expresses the Legislature’s position and requests action, contingent on the DCE’s discretion and available resources.

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