Bureau of Economic Geology study finds Bakken shale play will remain major contributor to U.S. oil production for decades

UT Austin’s Bureau of Economic Geology has concluded a comprehensive study of the Bakken unconventional resource in North Dakota and Montana and found it will remain a substantial contributor to U.S. oil production for several decades. Researchers performed a geological assessment of the Bakken and associated Three Forks formations, and developed detailed geologic maps, assessments of the hydrocarbons in place, and estimates of recoverable resources. The study does not predict oil prices but looks at scenarios reflecting the economics of resource development. For more, read the press release or watch a webinar conducted by Bureau research scientist and energy economist Dr. Svetlana Ikonnikova.