ODNR Responds to Demand for Oil and Gas-Related Data on Ohio Shale
Number of wells targeting shale increases over six years

COLUMBUS, OH – Rising oil and natural gas prices have spurred an increase in oil and gas-drilling activity in Ohio in recent years, especially wells targeting Ohio (Devonian) shale, an important oil and gas-producing reservoir. Between 2000 and 2006, the number of wells targeting Ohio shale increased from 14 to 130.

To meet the increase in demand for data on this type of shale, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Geological Survey compiled and scanned all core records and analyses of this material into a single resource, The Ohio Compilation of Devonian Shale Data and Investigations, 10/2007.

Data compiled includes information such as core descriptions, density, gas analyses, total organic content and various geo-chemical analyses that can be used to better identify the best areas for oil and gas potential. Cores are tube-shaped samples of glacial deposits and/or bedrock that are taken out of the earth when a well is drilled.

A Devonian shale production database was compiled that contains all available data through 2005. Pertinent publications about Devonian shale from the Gas Research Institute and U.S. Department of Energy were scanned and placed in a spreadsheet. The spreadsheet also includes an updated reference list of publications that discuss Devonian shale in Ohio.

The State of Ohio Compilation of Devonian Shale Data and Investigations, 10/2007 is available on CD-ROM for $25 (plus sales tax and shipping) from the ODNR Geologic Records Center by calling 614-265-6576 or emailing geo.survey@dnr.state.oh.us.

For Further Information Contact:
Ron Riley, ODNR Division of Geological Survey
(614) 265-6573
-or-
Jane Beathard, ODNR Media Relations
(614) 265-6860