Developments in Western Canada in 1954

Exploration and development activities in Western Canada established new high levels in almost all phases. Alberta led by substantial margins in all respects, but showed some decline from the high levels of previous years, while Saskatchewan showed significant gains, and Manitoba exhibited remarkable rates of increase. In all, 1,368 development wells were drilled, and a daily average of 263,850 barrels of crude oil produced, with substantial increases in production being achieved in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Geophysical investigation, with a total of 140 parties in December, was the one phase of the industry to show a marked decline from earlier high levels of activity. Notable extensions to the Pembina field in Alberta, and Mississippian oil discoveries in eastern Saskatchewan and Manitoba were the most significant results of exploration. Other discoveries in Alberta were made in the Belly River, Cardium, Viking, Blairmore, Madison-including successes in this formation in the Plains, Foothills, and in the Rocky Mountains-and Devonian reservoirs. Successes were scored in southwestern Saskatchewan in the Viking and in Jurassic formations. A new oil pay zone in the "granite wash" below the Upper Devonian in the Peace River area was established. Important oil pipe lines were built to serve the Pembina field, Fosterton area fields, and Manitoba fields. Advances were made toward construction of natural gas lines to eastern and West Coast markets.