In Southwestern Ontario, exploration drilling increased from 81 wells in 1962 to 93 in 1963. Development drilling declined from 124 wells to 109 in 1963. This is the seventh consecutive year that development completions have declined, but the rate of decline now appears to be levelling off. Combined development and exploratory footage increased again in 1963, reflecting the continued interest in Cambrian prospects. Offshore drilling decreased from 47 wells in 1962 to 35 wells in 1963, despite exploration tests increasing from 8 in 1962 to 15 in 1963. Oil production in Ontario reached an all time high of 1,205,300 bbls., while gas showed a slight increase to 15,700,000 Mcf.

Of the 93 exploratory tests in Southwestern Ontario, 18 were successful. The Clinton-Cataract gas discoveries on Lake Erie opened new areas for development and should appreciably increase the Silurian gas reserves. The 2 Cambrian and 2 Salina-Guelph discoveries have not been evaluated, but are believed to have contributed little to additional reserves.

There was no drilling in the Hudson Bay Lowlands, but recent geophysical activity has stirred up some interest in this practically untested region.

In Quebec there was an increase in drilling and field-party activity. Development drilling in the Pointe-du-Lac gas field is virtually completed with 3 dry holes in 1963. The 3 most significant exploratory tests were on Anticosti Island. Two suspended deep tests south of Pointe-du-Lac are also of interest.

In the Atlantic Provinces, there was no development drilling and only 1 dry exploratory test south of the Stony Creek field. Oil production from the Stony Creek field continued to decline, whereas gas production showed a very slight increase.

Acreage held by industry increased in all areas except Southwestern Ontario and New Brunswick. Field activity, including geological and geophysical surveys, increased substantially in Eastern Canada.