Oil and Gas Developments in Utah and Nevada in 1958

Abstract

Exploratory drilling in Utah decreased slightly during 1958. Wells drilled were off 17%, and footage drilled off 14%. The success ratio fell sharply from 21.3% to 10.1% due largely to a poor new-field wildcat record for the Four Corners area. Geophysical activity was off 45% in Utah. Development drilling increased by 53% and maintained an 85.2% success record. The Four Corners and Texas-New Mexico pipelines were completed, an event which was reflected by a 463.5% jump in production in Utah. Leasing fell off more than 200%, caused principally by lack of available lands in the areas of greatest interest. Activity in Nevada came practically to a standstill. Only one well was completed during the year and no geophysical work was reported. The outlook for 1959 indicates heavier drilling in the Uinta basin and the Kaiparowits and Circle Cliffs areas. Activity in the northern and western part of the Paradox basin should continue at about the same level.