A new report from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has shed light on major untapped hydrocarbon potential in the Mowry Composite Total Petroleum System, spanning parts of Southwest Wyoming and Northeast Colorado.
According to the assessment, the region holds an estimated 473 million barrels of undiscovered, technically recoverable oil and approximately 27 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of natural gas — positioning it as a promising hotspot for future exploration and development in the U.S. energy sector.
Where is the Mowry Petroleum System?
The Mowry Composite TPS is part of the broader Niobrara and Powder River Basins, geological formations already known for their oil and gas productivity. The area stretches across key parts of Wyoming and Colorado, both of which have seen rising interest from independent producers and large energy companies alike due to the mix of shale, tight sands, and rich organic material.
What “Technically Recoverable” Means
The term “technically recoverable” refers to oil and gas that can be extracted using current technology, regardless of price or economic feasibility. So while not all of these resources are immediately profitable, the discovery shows significant long-term potential — especially as technology improves and market conditions shift.
What This Means for the U.S. Energy Market
This new data from the USGS could drive renewed investment in exploration activities across Southwest Wyoming and Northeast Colorado. With energy security becoming a global focus again, particularly in light of shifting geopolitical and supply chain pressures, domestic oil and gas discoveries like this are crucial for strengthening U.S. energy independence.
