Developments in South Texas in 1976

Abstract

Drilling activity in South Texas increased to 2,896 wells in 1976, a 10.7% increase over 1975. Exploration wells drilled increased slightly to 986 in 1976 as compared to 979 in 1975. The percentage of successful exploration wells in 1976 is an impressive 43.3%, a jump of 4.6% over 1975; 1,910 development wells were drilled in 1976, an increase of 16.8% over 1975. The percentage of successful development wells remains a high 76.8%, equaling the 1975 success rate. The main exploration target was again the Frio trend, with the Cretaceous trend a close second as the Austin Chalk boom continues to expand. Following these, in order, were the Wilcox, Miocene, Claiborne, Jackson, and Vicksburg. The Webb and Zapata County Wilcox trend has developed into a major gas play. Offshore ctivity increased significantly with 58 wells drilled in 1976, as compared to 21 wells in 1975. Of 55 exploration wells drilled offshore, only 7 were successful. Three development wells were drilled offshore, and all were completed successfully.