The number of exploratory and development wells completed in Western Canada during 1958 was 2,436; a decrease of 19% from 1957. Alberta accounted for approximately 60% of the total completions, Saskatchewan 32%, Manitoba 4%, British Columbia 3%, and the Northwest Territories and Yukon less than 1%. Decreases in both exploratory and development drilling were noted in all areas with the exception of Alberta, which recorded a slight increase in the number of development wells. The most promising discoveries were made in Alberta and northeastern British Columbia in sediments of Devonian, Mississippian, and Triassic age.

All production was down slightly due mainly to market proration in Alberta. Gas deliveries to Ontario and Quebec began as the Trans-Canada pipeline completed its last stage.

Geophysical activity dropped considerably below the 1957 level.

Continued interest in the Yukon and Northwest Territories was evident when a major land play developed in the early spring in those areas.