Utah

The graphs on the left show the rate of growth compared to the earliest year for which we have data -- in most cases 2003. The gray lines represent a theoretical constant annual rate of change. The bar charts on the right show the actual values for each year we have data. For example, in 2011, Utah had 884 new wells drilled.

Notes: Data are for the calendar year. The numbers of wells drilled (completed or abandoned) were provided by the Oil, Gas and Mining Division. Enforcement actions include notices of violation and informal actions, such as phone calls, emails or field visits for minor compliance issues. Enforcement staff reflects the number of inspectors. Total wells include shut-in, injection and producing oil and gas wells and are for state, fee, federal and Indian wells.

BLM Data

In Utah, much of the oil and gas drilling takes place on land that is federally regulated, which can include national parks or Native American reservations. Data provided by the Bureau of Land Management represents wells drilled on that land.

Notes: Data are for the fiscal year. Wells drilled are defined as wells spud, or started. Enforcement actions are defined as violations. Enforcement staff includes the inspection and enforcement coordinator, petroleum engineering technicians (PETs), production accountability technicians and supervisory PETs. Total wells are existing wells.