Exploration Activity and Oil and Gas Development in Utah, Nevada and Idaho since January 1, 1963: ABSTRACT

Abstract

Two significant developments which took place in Utah during the past 20 months are expected to strongly End_Page 1882------------------------------ influence oil and gas exploration in the state during the months ahead. One was the discovery of oil in the Permian Kaibab Limestone in the relatively undrilled Kaiparowits region in the south-central part of the state. Several large anticlines there, which are either untested or inadequately tested, are underlain by the Kaibab Limestone. Beneath the Kaibab several good reservoir sandstones of Permian age are also present. The other important development is the continued westward extension of oil production from sandstones near the base of the Tertiary Green River Formation at the Red Wash field. Exploratory drilling westward from Red Wash, along the depositional strike of the Green River Formation for a distance of 30 miles, and stimulated largely by successful development at Red Wash, has resulted in two new Green River oil discoveries from sandstone. Two other Green River oil discoveries were completed along this trend in 1962. A large area with relatively few dry holes, an excellent success ratio and additional factors favorable for successful exploration is indicated. Other exploration and development trends in Utah include a decline in exploratory drilling and an increase in both oil and gas production in Utah in 1963 over 1962. So far in 1964, oil production has dropped slightly and gas production has remained about the same. Two dry wildcat wells have been drilled in Nevada and two in Idaho since 1962. Two good development wells were completed in the Eagle Springs oil field in Nevada during the same period. End_of_Article - Last_Page 1883------------