The Permian Basin of west Texas and southeastern New Mexico is having a resurgence of oil and gas activity unlike that seen since the late 1970’s and early 1980’s.  The high level of rig activity is being driven by the application of new technology.  Specifically, horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing coupled with high oil prices have made previously uneconomic reservoirs attractive drilling targets. This lunch-time presentation will give attendees an overview of the geographic location of the Permian Basin, the geology of the Permian Basin, and discuss the latest trends being developed by oil and gas operators. There will be an explanation of geologic principles, an explanation of horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing techniques and discussion of how the technology has impacted the development of new oil and gas plays. The presentation will conclude with a brief
overview of water needs as it impacts the oil and gas industry and energy development in the semi-arid Permian Basin.