The United State is home to many natural-gas rich basins. Advances in drilling and production are unlocking these reserves that were once thought to be unaccessible. The following highlights some of the larger shale plays in the U.S. Download IOGCC Fact Sheets below.

Marcellus Shale

The Marcellus shale formation is considered to be the largest shale formation in America. Geologists have know of this formation for years, but the prospect of large natural gas production was not considered until recently. Advances in drilling technology have the potential of solidifying the Marcellus as a major contributor of U.S. natural gas.

Estimated Production - More than 500 trillion cubic feet (Penn State University, 2008)

Well Depth - 1 mile or more below the surface

State Coverage - Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and New York. Small areas of Mayrland, Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia.

Barnett Shale

In just a few short years the Barnett Shale has become the largest producing play in the state of Texas. Located in the Fort Worth region, companies have successfully drilled and produced natural gas in what is considered a major population area.

Estimaged Production - 26 trillion cubic feet (U.S. Geological Survey, 2003)

Well Depth - Less than 8,000 feet

State Coverage - North central Texas, covering 15 or more counties

Haynesville Shale

There is great potential surrounding this shale play in northwestern Louisiana. In fact, current indications suggest tens of thousands of jobs and billions of dollars will be pumped into the economy of Louisiana and surrounding states -mainly due to drilling and production activity in this shale play.

Estimated Production - 234 trillion cubic feet (LOGA, Shreveport Times, 2009)

Well Depth - Approximately 2 miles below the surface

State Coverage - Northwestern Louisiana, southwest Arkansas and eastern Texas.