Developments in Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota in 1953

A slight increase in exploratory drilling characterized 1953. In North Dakota 25.7% of the exploratory tests were successful. Development drilling dominated North Dakota activities. Deep production was developed in both Montana and North Dakota, well removed from previously known structures. South Dakota's first commercial well was on production tests as the year ended. Greatly increased drilling and slightly declining geophysical activity are anticipated in 1954.