Developments in Southeastern States in 1953

Abstract

Exploratory drilling as well as geophysical and core-drill work increased over the preceding year in the southeastern states, with the largest increase percentagewise occurring in Florida. In spite of the increased effort, results were disappointing with no new-field discoveries which will add significantly to reserves. Of 315 exploratory tests, 16 new fields were found, making a success rate of 5 per cent. Of particular interest, however, was the successful completion of the first oil discovery in the Warrior Basin of Mississippi from beds of Ordovician age, which stimulated a large lease play in northern Mississippi and Alabama. The seismograph continues to be the major exploratory tool, although core drilling in south Alabama and the panhandle of Florida is increasing in importance. Gravity work declined and magnetometer surveys were practically non-existent. Of particular interest was the greatly increased effort being made with the seismograph in the southern part of the peninsula of Florida. In spite of the rather discouraging results of drilling in 1953, the over-all exploratory effort in the southeastern states is expected to continue at the same rate in the coming year.