Oil and Gas Developments in Utah and Nevada in 1959

Abstract

Exploratory drilling in Utah decreased slightly for the second consecutive year. Drilling was down 9%, footage, 5%. The success ratio for all exploratory wells was up 2%. Pure Oil Company, in the eastern Paradox basin, recorded perhaps the most significant discovery in Utah since Aneth in its Northwest Lisbon well No. 1 which established production from both Devonian and Mississippian strata. Geophysical activity was off 20% in Utah. Leasing, although maintained at essentially the same level as the previous year, changed its pattern of intensity. Development drilling accounted for 209 wells, almost a third less than drilled in 1958. Production climbed more than 60% with the major oil fields nearing full development. Drilling in Nevada was slight with only two wells completed during the year. For 1960, increased drilling activity is indicated in the eastern Paradox basin, the Uinta basin, and on the Uncompahgre uplift.