Oil and Gas

As a result of partial exploration and past development efforts, it has been definitely proven that there are significant oil and gas deposits under the Pigeon River Country. These occur in porous "reefs" or island-like formations between four and six thousand feet beneath the land surface. The reefs vary in dimension, extending laterally under a surface area of from less than 80 acres to possibly more than 5OO acres each.

Prudent, conservative exploration and development of these needed resources will be allowed. Great care will be taken to avoid serious or permanent damage to aesthetics, wildlife or waters.

It is possible that oil and gas production may be denied or deferred in portions of the area, however, decisions in this regard will be tempered by consideration of demand, need and the effects of exploration and development on other objectives in the area. It is quite probable that very careful development can be conducted with minimal damaging effects.

Each proposed development location will be considered separately on the basis of all related factors. It is not the intention of the DNR to cause or allow unwarranted loss of values which are scarce, irreplaceable or more important than the proposed development for minerals. Neither is it intended to ignore the presence of this valuable and useful resource.

As exploration progresses, complete plans for placement and development of wells and all facilities will be worked out for each area before any actual development begins.

To avoid disturbance during the critical period of nesting, young-bearing, and the first weeks of life for young wild creatures, as well as to avoid damage to roads and land in the spring thaw and wet ground period, neither seismic exploration, pipeline or road constructions, or major construction or repair of facilities will be allowed from April 15 through June 30.

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File:COMoil.htm 11/27/2001