The extensive hydrocarbon resources found throughout Wyoming exist because of a unique overlap of geology, biology, and geography that occurred twice in the state’s past. Shallow seaways covered Wyoming during the Permian Period (~285–252 million years ago) and later during the Cretaceous Period (~125–66 million years ago). The organic material (microscopic plants and animals) that accumulated in these Permian and Cretaceous seas was buried and subjected to increased pressures and temperatures, transforming it into hydrocarbons.

An important role of the WSGS is to investigate the earth’s geologic record to promote responsible energy development in the future. WSGS geologists work to document and characterize the state’s oil- and gas-producing formations, identify trends between and within reservoirs, and provide a wide array of audiences with current and relevant information on Wyoming’s oil and gas resources.