Developments in Michigan in 1975

Abstract

Niagaran reef exploration dominated drilling activity for the seventh straight year. Exploration continued to be concentrated in the northern counties, but there was increased activity in the Calhoun, Ingham, and Eaton County region of southern Michigan. Exploratory and development footage, figured from Michigan Geological Survey records, amounted to 2,519,672 compared with 2,213,183 drilled in 1974. An additional 71,919 ft, mainly gas storage facility wells, is credited to 1975. Exploration resulted in 70 new discoveries. In addition, 3 more were credited to reworking of dry holes drilled in previous years. Nearly all new discoveries are Salina-Niagaran reef reservoirs, about 83% of them credited to the Western and Northern Districts. Preliminary oil-production figures show a significant increase: 24,419,525 bbl (including 1,863,338 bbl condensate) compared with 18,076,527 bbl produced in 1974. Previous all-time high was 23,462,095 bbl produced in 1939. Preliminary gas-production figures show a large increase: 102,663,646 Mcf compared with 69,687,425 Mcf the previous year. The increase in oil and gas production is a direct result of Silurian-age Salina-Niagaran reef developments. Environmental and ecologic considerations are increasingly important elements in oil and gas exploration and development. The number of directionally drilled holes, related to environmental considerations, continued to increase during 1975.