Mississippi has been producing oil since 1939, when the Tinsley Field was discovered in the central part of the state. For decades, Mississippi was a significant oil producer in the Gulf Coast region. Production has declined from its peak, but the state still has active fields and continues to attract drilling activity in certain formations.
Key Producing Formations
Mississippi's oil comes from several geological formations:
- Smackover Formation. The Smackover is a carbonate (limestone) formation deposited about 155 million years ago. It is found across the deep south, from Texas to Florida, and produces both oil and natural gas. In Mississippi, Smackover production is concentrated in the southwestern counties.
- Tuscaloosa Formation. The Tuscaloosa produces from sandstone reservoirs in the central part of the state. It is also being explored as a tight oil target similar to the Tuscaloosa Marine Shale in Louisiana.
- Wilcox Formation. The Wilcox is a sandstone formation found across the Gulf Coast region and produces oil and gas in Mississippi's southwestern counties.
How Much Does Mississippi Produce?
Mississippi produces roughly 15,000 to 20,000 barrels of oil per day. This is relatively modest compared to major producing states, but the state has a long history of consistent production. Natural gas output is smaller. The state does not have the large shale plays that have driven production booms in Texas and Appalachia.
Who Regulates Mississippi Wells?
The Mississippi State Oil and Gas Board (MSOGB) is one of the oldest dedicated oil and gas regulatory agencies in the South. It issues permits, enforces well spacing rules, and collects production data. The board also oversees saltwater disposal wells and underground injection operations. Public well records and production data are available at ogb.state.ms.us.
Gulf Coast Exploration Potential
Despite declining conventional production, Mississippi retains exploration potential in deeper formations and in new plays like the Tuscaloosa Marine Shale. Understanding the state's existing production history through MSOGB records is essential for any operator evaluating Gulf Coast prospects.