Environment DEC
From the August 2004 issue
New York State Continues High Natural Gas Production
New York State continued a high level of natural gas production in 2003, with reported production of 36.0 billion cubic feet (bcf). This is enough natural gas to supply 522,000 homes annually, and largely came from wells in the Trenton-Black River formation in the Finger Lakes region. Production in 2003 was down slightly from 36.6 bcf in 2002.
According to figures reported by operators, the Trenton-Black River formation continues to be the State's primary gas production zone, accounting for more than two-thirds of total production. In 2003, the formation produced 24.5 bcf from 50 active wells, some of which produced for only part of the year. One well, Lovell 1323 in the Town of Big Flats, Chemung County, produced 3.5 bcf. This is enough for more than 50,000 homes, bringing its cumulative production to 11.9 bcf.
High Environmental Standards
2003 oil production in New York
totalled 157,496 barrels
DEC maintains strict environmental and safety requirements for natural gas and oil development in New York and also is responsible for preventing waste of these non-renewable natural resources. In addition, DEC protects the ownership rights of landowners affected by energy production.
2003 Oil production in New York declined slightly from the previous year for a total of 157,496 barrels, as reported by purchasers. Owners reported a total of 11,600 oil and gas wells.
Since 1996, independent oil and gas companies have invested more than $200 million in Trenton-Black River drilling, at an average well cost of more than $1 million. Most exploration has been south and west of the Finger Lakes, with exploratory wells permitted as far east as Montgomery County and as far west as Cattaraugus County. Overall, Trenton-Black River production extends west to Michigan and Ontario, Canada and south to West Virginia.
Total market value of 2003 oil and gas production in New York is estimated at $232 million. Landowners received an estimated $29 million in production royalties. Local government taxes on the market value of production were estimated at $7 million. Also in 2003, the average price of natural gas in New York was $6.31 per thousand cubic feet and the average wellhead price for oil was $29.47 per barrel.
Check DEC's Web Site for more information on New York's 2003 Oil and Gas Production Data, including individual well production statistics.
