USGS increases Cook Inlet reserves estimates

June 29, 2011
Alaska’s Cook Inlet holds more oil and gas than previously estimated, according to a new study by the US Geological Survey.

Offshore staff

RESTON, Virginia –Alaska’s Cook Inlet holds more oil and gas than previously estimated, according to a new study by the US Geological Survey. New information and data led to the increase.

The estimated mean undiscovered but technically recoverable oil and gas, including conventional and unconventional sources is 19 tcf of natural gas, 600 MMbbl of oil, and 46 MMbbl of natural gas liquids.

The biggest jump was in gas estimates that went to 19 tcf from the 2.14 tcf estimated in a 1995 assessment. The totals also include unconventional resources for the first time. Unconventional gas sources include coalbed and tight gas formations. No unconventional oil reservoirs were assessed.

The totals reflect both offshore and onshore state reserves but exclude Federal offshore and areas of limited access.

06/29/2011