Abstract: Hydrocarbon Production and Resource Potential of the Jicarilla Apache Indian Reservation, San Juan Basin, New Mexico

LISTER, JAMES C. and THURMAN VELARDE

The Jicarilla Apache Indian Reservation contains over 1 million acres of land in north-central New Mexico and occupies the eastern portion of the highly productive San Juan Basin. Production was established in 1955 and today nearly 2100 active gas and oil wells operate within the Reservation. In 1996, these wells produced approximately 36 billion cubic feet of gas (BCFG) and nearly 500 000 barrels of oil (BO). Hydrocarbon production from the Jicarilla Apache Indian Reservation has totaled almost 25 million barrels of oil and over 1.2 trillion cubic feet of gas.

At least 11 different reservoirs are productive within the Reservation, including the coalbed methane producing Fruitland Formation. Approximately 565 sections (362,000 acres) within the Reservation remain to be tested by drilling. This means that approximately 36 % of the lands still hold potential for oil and gas reserves. Of the more than 2800 wells that have been drilled on the Jicarilla Apache Indian Reservation, nearly 2100 are currently productive. In terms of drilling ratios, that represents a 75 % success rate.

The Tribal Oil and Gas Administration is currently evaluating the hydrocarbon resource potential of the Reservation via a mineral assessment grant from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. This work will map and assess every major producing reservoir within the Reservation. When completed, the O & G Administration will target certain areas for industry activities and invite interested companies to make proposals for exploration in those locations.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90946©1997 AAPG Rocky Mountain Section Meeting, Denver, Colorado