Oil and Gas Developments in South Texas in 1988

Abstract

The downward slide in drilling activity in south Texas began to level off in 1988 as overall drilling activity declined at lower rates than in 1987. Exploratory drilling in south Texas (Texas Railroad Commission--RRC--Districts 1, 2, and 4) in 1988 declined 14% from 1987; development drilling declined 6%. New-field discoveries totaled 56, an increase of 3 from 1987, with gas discoveries accounting for 87.5% of the new fields. Frio and Wilcox sandstones continue to be the most sought after wildcat targets, accounting for 37% of all exploratory drilling. RRC District 4 had a 61% exploratory success rate, the highest in south Texas.