In the final phase of an Eastern Gas Shales Project (EGSP) contract with the U.S. Department of Energy, the West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey compiled an atlas of Devonian shale production and potential. By using both the survey's existing oil and gas data base and a more detailed, computerized data file created during the project, 22 maps were computer-generated for areas of western and southern West Virginia. These multicolored maps show all wells with known gas production from Devonian shales, all wells drilled to the shales that were dry holes, and all other unsuccessful shale wells that produce either from shallower Mississippian or Pennsylvanian units, or from deeper units below the shales (e.g., the Middle and Lower Devonian Huntersville and Oriskany For ations or the Upper Silurian Newburg sand).

In addition, a gray screen pattern on the maps indicates wells from which shows of gas were reported from the shales, and isopotential lines contour initial open flows from the shale gas wells. Thus, the atlas can be used to locate further shale wells in areas with known high productivity, as well as areas with potential for dual completions in one or more zones in addition to the shale. This atlas is one of many products that can be generated from high quality, detailed computer files.

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