An updated state-by-state list of resources and contacts for teachers, students and researchers. Also see our list of National Energy Education Contacts.   

This collection of state contacts offers education programs (designed for grades kindergarten through 12th grade) with emphasis on oil and natural gas exploration and production. It is a research product of the American Oil & Gas Historical Society — as a service to society members and supporters.

This page needs a sponsor — Contact the society and support its energy education mission.   

   

 

 

When petroleum leaves the wellhead and reaches a refinery, it has moved into what is considered the “downstream” segment of the industry. Information about the “upstream” segment (exploration and production) is available from sources — in the oil and natural gas producing states. Since 1930, the Independent Petroleum Association of American has published an annual magazine containing detailed statistics — including drilling, production, prices and financial information, operating rotary rigs, and much more. 

For a collection of individual state geological surveys in all 50 states, visit the Association of American State Geologists. Many of the following resources are documented from updated information of the U.S. Department of Energy’s booklet Energy Education Resources: Kindergarten through 12th Grade – edited to narrow scope to oil and natural gas.   

  

ALABAMA
 
Hunt Oil Company drilled the A.R. Jackson Well No. 1 near Gilbertown in January 1944. The well found commercial quantities of oil at a depth of 2,580 feet. The State Oil and Gas Board of Alabama was formed the following year.
 
State Oil and Gas Board of Alabama
420 Hackberry Lane
P.O. Box 869999
Tuscaloosa, AL 35486-6999
(205) 349-2852
 
Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
64 N. Union Street
Montgomery, Alabama 36130
(334) 242-3486
 
Alabama Natural Gas Association
711 Nance Ford Road Southwest
Hartselle, AL 35640-3767
(256) 773-1891   

ALASKA
 
Discovery of Alaska’s first commercial oilfield took place near Katella in 1902. The Trans-Alaska pipeline was completed in 1977.
 
Alaska Oil and Gas Association
121 W. Fireweed, Ste 207
Anchorage, AK 99503
(907) 272-1481
Fax: (907) 279-8114   

The Alaska Oil and Gas Association, established in 1989, is a non-profit association whose 17 member companies represent the majority of oil and natural gas exploration, production, transportation, refining, and marketing activities in Alaska. AOGA supports energy education programs for Alaska students and teachers.   

Campbell Creek Science Center, “Get Energized” Program
Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Alaska
222 W 7th Avenue, #13
Anchorage Alaska 99513
(907) 271-5960
Fax: (907)271-3684
 
The Bureau of Land Management Anchorage Field Office’s Campbell Creek Science Center maintains a “Get Energized” website to foster greater understanding of energy and the importance of public lands to meeting the nation’s energy needs. The interactive program provides teachers (grades 5 -8) with a CD and content guide developed with science and social science activities.   

ARIZONA   

In 1902, Joseph Heslet drilled northern Arizona’s first oil well near Paulden oil seeps. Although it was a dry hole, prospectors and speculators swarmed in. By 1918, no commercial oil deposits were found, and the boom was over. Today, the state has one producing county.   

Arizona Oil and Gas Conservation Commission
Arizona Geological Survey
416 W. Congress Street, Suite 100
Tucson, Arizona 85701-1381.
(520) 770-3500
 
CALIFORNIA
 
In the early 1860s, Josiah Stanford dug about 30 tunnels into Sulphur Mountain near Santa Paula, slanting them upwards so oil would flow to the entrances. Stanford’s tunnels produced more oil in California than any other production method of the day.
 
California Energy Commission – “Energy Quest”
1516 9th Street, MS-29
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 654-4989
Fax: (916) 653-5590  

“Energy Quest,” an online resource for students, teachers and parents, is features information on renewable energy, conservation, safety, energy-related math and science experiments, word games, and links to other resources.   

The Commission also provides energy and environmental education material online for teachers (grades K-12), including a compendium for energy resources and curriculum evaluation. The California Energy Commission is the state’s principal energy planning organization, promoting a balanced and competitive energy system through its programs.   

California Independent Petroleum Association
1112 ‘I’ Street, Suite 350
Sacramento, CA  95814
(916) 447-1177
Fax: (916) 447-1144   

The California Independent Petroleum Association (CIPA) is a nonprofit trade association representing more than 400 independent oil and natural gas producers, royalty owners, and service and supply companies operating in California. CIPA established a subsidiary organization, the California Natural Gas Producers Association in 2000. In addition, CIPA, in conjunction with the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA), formed the California Resources Alliance, which provides industry exploration and production fact sheets.   

Western States Petroleum Association – “Derricks to Desks”
1415 L Street, Suite 600
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 498-7750  

Every summer since 1995, the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) and the San Joaquin chapter of the American Petroleum Institute (API) have sponsored “Derricks to Desks,” an outstanding three-day teacher seminar examining the California oil industry and providing curriculum resources and lesson plans.   

Seminars typically include presentations from industry professionals on oilfield economics, careers, geology, refining, and the life cycle of an oil well. Most year’s program includes a fieldtrip to the Kern County Museum’s “Black Gold, the Oil Experience” exhibit and the West Kern County Oil Museum. WSPA is a nonprofit trade association representing about 30 major exploration, production, refining, transportation, and marketing companies in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. Founded in 1907, WSPA is the oldest petroleum trade association in the United States.   

COLORADO
 
On a coal lease near Florence in 1881, Alexander Cassidy drilled for water but hit oil instead at 1,445 feet. At the height of the boom, 25 oil companies and three refineries operated out of Florence.   

Colorado Oil & Gas Association
1776 Lincoln St., Suite 1313
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 861-0362
Fax (303) 861-0373  

A nonprofit trade association founded in 1984, the Colorado Oil & Gas Association promotes the beneficial, efficient, responsible and environmentally sound development, production and use of Colorado oil and natural gas.   

In addition to public relations programs, including Colorado public radio programs, COGA works with the Colorado Geological Survey (CGS) on an earth science student/teacher education program, including distribution of “teacher packets” throughout Colorado. Four COGA chapters maintain a positive presence for the industry in local communities.   

Colorado School of Mines – “Denver Earth Science Project”
Office of Special Programs & Continuing Education
Golden, CO 80401
(303) 273-3621
Fax: (303) 273-3314  

The Denver Earth Science Project of the Colorado School of Mines (CSM) is an educational program with a balanced message of the inseparable interrelationship between energy, the economy and the environment. A teacher program (in partnership with federal agencies, school districts, and professional organizations) provides earth science curricula (grades 4-12).  

The “Oil and Gas Exploration” module for grades 7-12 teaches students basic earth science concepts through the exploration of hydrocarbons. The hands-on student activities use real data from industry, and follow a problem-solving approach. In addition, the module integrates science, mathematics, geography, economics, and social studies into a high interest topic. Students learn about a relevant energy source through the teacher resource kit. The “Gushers ‘n’ Dusters” simulation game, also included in the resource kit, gives the students an opportunity to see the economics of the oil industry as banks, oil companies, and drilling companies negotiate and do business.  

Editor’s Note: – DESP modules served as the basis for the 1993 start of the Oklahoma Energy Resource Board education programs, which in turn inspired the “Petro Pro” programs of the Independent Petroleum Association of the Mountain States and many other state organizations.

Independent Petroleum Association of Mountain States
410 17th Street, Suite 1920
Denver, CO 80202
(303) 623-0987
Fax: (303) 893-0709 

The Independent Petroleum Association of Mountain States (IPAMS) is a nonprofit trade association that represents independent natural gas and oil companies – the Rocky Mountain industry’s exploration and production segment. IPAMS is dedicated to representing, informing, educating and assisting its members, the public, and regulatory agencies on all issues affecting the industry.   

FLORIDA
 
Florida’s first producing oil well came in on Sept. 26, 1943. Humble Oil Co. drilled to 11,626 feet with its Sunniland No. 1 well. The site is by the present day Big Cypress Preserve and a short drive from the resort city of Naples.   

Florida Independent Petroleum Producers Association
P.O. Box 230
Pensacola, FL 32591-0230
(850) 434-6830
Fax: (850) 434-6842   

The Florida Independent Petroleum Producers Association (FLIPPA) is a nonprofit association dedicated to serving Florida’s independent oil and gas exploration and production industry.  Established in 1988, FLIPPA provides industry and legislative information and news to members, associated industry, and local, state and federal legislative groups.   

ILLINOIS
 
In 1882, drillers found commercial quantities of natural gas at Litchfield in Montgomery County. Total output from the field by 1902 was only 6,576 barrels, but by 1940, Illinois Basin discoveries ranked Illinois fourth among oil producing states.   

Illinois Oil and Gas Association 
P.O. Box 788
Mount Vernon, IL 62864-0016
(618) 242-2857
Fax: 618-242-3418 

The Illinois Oil & Gas Association (IOGA) was organized in 1944 to provide an agency through which oil and gas producers, landowners, royalty owners, and others who may be directly or indirectly affected by or interested in oil and gas development and production in Illinois, may protect, preserve and advance their common interests. The organization is composed of 450 member companies.   

Illinois Petroleum Resources Board  

P.O. Box 941
Mt. Vernon, IL 62864
Telephone: (618) 242-2857
Fax: (618) 242-3418.  

Established by the state in 1998, the Illinois Petroleum Resources Board (IPRB) promotes an understanding of oil and natural gas production business in Illinois through education – and public relations. IPRB encourages environmentally sound practices with respect to ongoing production and historical oilfield problems; and supports research related to production and remediation.  

IPRB maintains a unique “rolling oil and gas education exhibit” available for school presentations. The IPRB Traveling Field Trip Exhibit is FREE to any school or special event in the State. The Exhibit  features working models of crude oil and natural gas equipment, and graphical learning stations which students must “explore” to find energy information. Students learn how oil and gas are formed, where and how it is found, and how it is produced and refined.  Presentations can be tailored to students of all ages, but our primary concentration is students beginning with the 4th grade through high school.

Independent Oil  Producers Association Tri-State (IOPA Tri-State)

2104 Lincoln Ave.
Evansville, IN 47714
(812) 479-9451
Fax: (812) 476-2569   

The Independent Oil Producers Association Tri-State (IOPA Tri-State) represents oil and gas producers in Indiana, Illinois and Western Kentucky.
 
INDIANA
 
South of Francesville, Granville Bates found natural gas while drilling for oil in 1867. His discovery prompted little excitement at the time, since the commercial potential of natural gas was years in the future.   

Indiana Oil & Gas Association (IOGA)
1033 Mt. Pleasant Road, Suite H
Evansville, IN 47725
(814) 423-8061
Fax: (812) 424-5739   

The Indiana Oil & Gas Association (IOGA) is a nonprofit trade association that acts as a liaison between the Indiana Division of Oil and Gas (state regulatory agency) and the oil and gas producers. IOGA also monitors legislative issues at the state level and works with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and the Indiana Geological Survey, a research institute of Indiana University.   

KANSAS
 
Norman No. 1 came in on Nov. 28, 1892 – the first oil well west of the Mississippi River to produce a commercial quantity. It was also the first well drilled in the vast Mid-Continent oilfield that covers parts of Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas.   

Eastern Kansas Oil and Gas Association
P.O. Box 355
Chanute, KS 66720
(620) 431-1020
Fax: (620) 431-9325   

Kansas Independent Oil & Gas Association
800 S.W. Jackson Street
Topeka, KS 66612

The nonprofit trade association, the Kansas Independent Oil & Gas Association is a statewide association with over 1,400 members who are actively involved in the exploration, development, and production of crude oil and natural gas in Kansas and elsewhere.  KIOGA is their advocate before the Kansas legislature, U.S. Congress, state and federal administrations – and the public.

Kansas Strong – The Kansas Oil & Gas Resources Fund
P.O. Box 757
Wichita, KS 67201-0757
(316) 771-7167

The Kansas Oil & Gas Resources Fund, established in 2006 by the Kansas Petroleum Education & Marketing Act, made Kansas the fourth state with a “check-off program” where oil and natural gas producers voluntarily contribute funds to a program designed to educate the public. It is similar to ones established in Oklahoma, Ohio, and Illinois. The Kansas petroleum industry employs more than 9,100 people and annually generates more than $4.3 billion in state GDP. “Kansas Strong programs are not advocacy programs, but public information programs designed to increase awareness about the significance and viability of the Kansas oil and gas industry as well as improve its image and credibility.”

Southwest Kansas Royalty Owners Association
209 East 6th, Box 250
Hugoton, KS 67951
(620) 544-4333
Fax: (620)544-2230   

Founded in 1948, SWKROA has grown in membership to a present membership of over 2,600 members. Members of the association are owners of mineral interests and of royalty payable to them as oil and gas lessors. The association’s mission is to foster, protect and further in all respects the rights and interests of the mineral owner.   

KENTUCKY
 
Boring for brine on the Stockton farm near Burkesville in March 1829, drillers hit a gusher. Known as the “Old American Well” or the “Great American Well,” oil from this well was sold as patent medicine decades before kerosene distillation created the petroleum industry.   

Even earlier, oil was found on the Beatty farm, McCreary County, in the winter of 1918-1919. In Wayne County a local newspaper recorded an 1815 well that was abandoned — because oil ruined it as a source of brine. Learn more Kentucky oil and natural gas history courtesy of Brandon Nuttall and the Kentucky Geological Survey.   

Kentucky Oil & Gas Association 
#1-A Physicians Park
Frankfort, KY 40601
(502) 226-1955
Fax: (502) 226-3626  

The Kentucky Oil & Gas Association (KOGA) is a nonprofit trade association formed in 1929 to protect and advance the interest of the oil and natural gas industry in Kentucky – and to oppose unfair and unjust legislation that may adversely affect the industry while disseminating reliable information. KOGA Online offers current information on matters pertaining to the industry in Kentucky.   

LOUISIANA
 
In September 1901, Louisiana’s oil and natural gas industry began when the Heywood well came in near the communities of Evangeline and Jennings.   

Center for Energy Studies
Louisiana State University
Energy, Coast and Environment Building
Nicholson Drive Extension
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803.
Phone: 225-578-4400.  

The Center for Energy Studies provides energy information and analysis that responds to the needs of the legislature, public agencies, and business and civic groups. The center maintains some unique energy data bases and is the official repository of energy information from the state and The Energy Council. Staff respond regularly to requests from a wide variety of individuals and institutions for specialized energy data and information.  

Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil & Gas Association
801 North Blvd.
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
(225) 387-3205 
Fax: (225) 344-5502  

The Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil & Gas Association (LMOGA) represents all sectors of the oil and gas industry in Louisiana and the Gulf of Mexico. LMOGA is dedicated to the advancement of the state’s petroleum industry through legislative and regulatory means. Website includes many reference links and historical highlights for the state’s exploration: “A Remarkable Past, an Exciting Future.”   

Louisiana Oil & Gas Association  

P.O. Box 4069
Baton Rouge LA 70821-4069
Toll Free: (800) 443-1433
(225) 388-9525
Fax: (225) 388-9561  

The Louisiana Oil & Gas Association (LOGA) – before 2006 known as LIOGA – was organized in 1992 to represent the independent and service sectors of the oil and gas industry in Louisiana, including exploration, production and oilfield services. LOGA is a nonprofit trade association whose mission is to provide industry with a working environment that will enhance business while educating the public and government of the importance of the oil and gas industry in the state.   

MISSISSIPPI
 
Near Tinsley and Yazoo City, Union Producing Co. brought in the No. 1 Woodruff well at 5,500 feet in September of 1939. Within 15 months, there were 133 producing wells. The Tinsley field has yielded more than 230 million barrels of oil.   

Mississippi Independent Producers & Royalty Owners
P. O. Box 13393
Jackson, MS 39236
(601) 362-0502
Fax: (601) 362-5397

Founded and organized in August 1989, the Mississippi Independent Producers & Royalty Owners (MIPRO) defends the interests of the independent producer and royalty owner segment of the Mississippi oil and gas industry. MIPRO members recognize the need for a voice in legislative and regulatory issues affecting their segment of the oil and gas industry. The MIPRO websites includes an historical timeline and resource links.   

MICHIGAN
 
In 1860, Michigan State Geologist Alexander Winchell reported that oil and natural gas deposits lay under Michigan’s surface. First commercial production began in 1886 near Port Huron. In 1928, Mt. Pleasant’s oilfield made it the “Oil Capital of Michigan.”   

Michigan Oil and Gas Association  

124 West Allegan Street, Suite 1610
Lansing, MI  48933
(517) 487-1092
   

Organized in 1934, the Michigan Oil and Gas Association (MOGA) represents companies involved in exploration, drilling, production, transportation, processing and storage of crude oil and natural gas in Michigan. MOGA, a nonprofit membership association, has more than 1,000 members that include independent oil and gas companies, major oil companies, and the exploration arms of utility companies.   

In 1976, Michigan became the first state to establish a land trust fund specifically subsidized by revenues generated from the oil and gas industry. The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund is a sway for every Michigan resident and visitor to benefit from an active oil and gas industry. Since its inception, the Fund has financed nearly 1,200 recreational projects throughout the state.   

Michigan Oil & Gas Producers Education Foundation
124 West Allegan St.
Suite 1610
Lansing, MI 48933

Michigan’s first recorded oil field was discovered In 1886. The Port Huron Field in St. Clair County produced from the Dundee formation at about 575 feet, notes the Michigan Oil & Gas Producers Education Foundation, which supports a variety of energy education programs. “Our mission is to provide facts about the Michigan oil and gas industry to the public and to provide financial support for programs that will inform the people of Michigan about the importance of our local oil and natural gas industry and about the environmental safeguards that we employ.”

Created in 2009, Energy Education for Michiagan, Inc., is a 501(c)3 tax exempt charitable organization for encouraging and facilitating educational programs in Michigan relating to energy and sources of energy; educating and promoting energy safety to the general public; encouraging the wise and efficient use of energy; and supporting research and educational activities concerning energy, including seminars, teacher workshops and scholarships.

MISSOURI
 
Oil and natural gas were discovered in Missouri soon after the Civil War. By the early 1930s, more than 2,500 wells had been drilled.
 
Missouri Department of Natural Resources
State Oil and Gas Council
P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102
800-361-4827

MONTANA
 
Montana’s first substantial oil production began in 1915 from wells drilled in the northern Elk Basin, southeast of Belfry. Over the next 40 years, more oilfields were developed in the Williston Basin, Sweetgrass Arch, Big Snowy Uplift, Powder River Basin, and northern extensions of the Big Horn Basin.   

Montana Petroleum Association Inc.
25 Neill Avenue
Helena, MT 59601
(406) 442-7582   

The Montana Petroleum Association Inc. (MPA) is a voluntary, nonprofit trade association whose members include oil and natural gas producers, gathering and pipeline companies, petroleum refineries and service providers and consultants. MPA’s government affairs program strives to maintain a positive business climate for the petroleum industry in Montana, and its education program fosters public awareness of the industry’s contributions to the state and nation.   

Northern Montana Independent Oil and Gas Association
P.O. Box 488
Cut Bank, MT 59427
(406) 873-9000
Fax: (406) 873-5207   

NEW MEXICO
 
Twenty miles west of Farmington, Midwest Refining brought in New Mexico’s first commercially successful oil well in September 1922.   

Independent Petroleum Association of New Mexico
P.O. Box 1836
Roswell, NM 88202
(505) 622-2566

Formed in 1978, the Independent Petroleum Association of New Mexico (IPANM) is an organization that represents nearly 400 oil and gas producers and royalty owners on a variety of concerns, primarily dealing with state and federal issues. IPANM has put together a comprehensive oil and gas facts book. The IPANM energy education booklet covers everything from how important oil is to the modern world, to New Mexico’s significant contribution to the nation’s energy needs, to how the industry works to protect soil, groundwater and wildlife.   

New Mexico Oil & Gas Association
203 E Santa Fe Avenue
Santa Fe, NM 87505
(505) 982-2568

New Mexico Oil & Gas Association NMOGA education programs provide teachers and students with tools to understand New Mexico’s natural energy resources. NMOGA, a nonprofit trade association, provides activity books, lesson plans, curriculum guides and posters to schools statewide.   

NMOGA helps educate students on the development and use of fossil fuels, energy conservation, safety, and the importance of the New Mexico industry. NMOGA’s annual oil and gas challenge offers students an opportunity to show off how much they have learned. Winners are recognized at NMOGA’s annual conference and presented with an award during the state’s legislative session.   

NEW YORK
 
In November 1865, Job Moses and his Hall Farm Petroleum Co. found oil in Carrollton Township, Cattaraugus County. The Moses No. 1 well was drilled to 1,165 feet. Initial production was seven barrels per day, but the well was on the edge of what would become the giant Bradford oilfield.   

Independent Oil & Gas Association of New York
5743 Walden Drive
Lakeview NY 14085
(716) 627.4250

The Independent Oil & Gas Association of New York (IOGA of NY) is a non-profit trade association formed in 1980 to protect, promote, foster and advance the common interests of oil and gas producers and related industries, including contractors, allied service industries and professionals serving the oil and gas industry in the Empire State. IOGA of NY organizes workshops, seminars, and technical meetings to provide educational opportunities and promote technology transfer within the industry.   

New York State Geological Survey
Office of the State Geologist
3000 Cultural Education Center
Albany, NY 12230

The mission of the New York State Geological Survey is to make services available to all agencies and people of New York; conduct geological research; and cooperate with agencies of other states, federal government, educational institutions, and industry in the discovery, analysis, and dissemination of geologic information.

NYSGS provides free educational leaflets for students and teachers in K-12.  It conducts workshops and classes in geological sciences through the New York State Museum in Albany.  Also see this unofficial gateway to a history of the survey.   

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority   

17 Columbia Circle
Albany, NY 12203-6399
(518) 862-1090, ext. 3303 or
1-866-NYSERDA ext. 3303

New York State Energy Research and Development (NYSERDA) maintains a “Energy Smart Students Program” in partnership with the National Energy Education Development (NEED) project. Training workshops introduce lesson plans and a summer conference trains teachers to be mentors for the program.  A “School Power Naturally Program” provides working photovoltaic and data collection systems to 50 New York schools. “Energy Smart Schools” provides objective technical and financial assistance to eligible K-12 schools in New York.   

New York State Oil Producers Association

P.O. Box 292
Bolivar, NY 14715
814-697-6330   

NORTH DAKOTA
 
On April 4, 1951, on the Clarence Iverson farm, eight miles south of Tioga, the Amerada Hess Petroleum Corp. brought in the discovery well for the Williston Basin. The basin extends from South Dakota to western Canada, and from central North Dakota to central Montana.   

North Dakota Petroleum Council
P.O. Box 1395
120 North 3rd Street, Suite 225
Bismarck, ND 58501
(701) 223-6380 

The North Dakota Petroleum Council is a trade association that represents 115 companies involved in all aspects of the oil and gas industry including oil and gas production, refining, pipeline, transportation, mineral leasing, consulting, legal work, and oil field service activities in North Dakota, South Dakota, and the Rocky Mountain Region.   

OHIO
 
On Jan. 20, 1886, the spectacular natural gas “Karg Well” of Findlay, Ohio, came in with an initial flow of 12 million cubic feet per day – a pressure so great it could not be controlled. Its towering plume of fire was a popular tourist attraction that burned for four months.   

Ohio Oil & Gas Energy Education Program
1718 Columbus Road, S.W.
P.O. Box 187
Granville, OH 43023-0535
(740) 587-0444
Fax: (740) 587-0446   

The Ohio Oil and Gas Energy Education Program (OOGEEP) a nonprofit educational program funded since 1997 by Ohio’s oil and gas producers and royalty owners through a voluntary assessment on all crude oil and natural gas produced in Ohio. OOGEEP offers educational posters, an oil and gas activity map and information, a safety poster; educational packets, including hands-on activities; puzzles; free teacher workshop materials; science fair information; and videos.   

OOGEEP also formed the “Petroleum Professionals in the Classroom Program” or Petro Pros. The program is for elementary to middle school aged students. The 45-minute presentation addresses the basics of fossil fuels, exploration and oil production. A presentation kit is provided to each volunteer Petro Pro. A training video is available to assist the presenter and to encourage consistency.   

Environmental Education Council of Ohio
P.O. Box 1004
Lancaster, OH 43130
(740) 653-2649
Fax: (740) 653-6100   

The Environmental Education Council of Ohio (EECO) is a nonprofit organization that provides environmental education to Ohio educators. EECO’s mission is to lead in facilitating environmental education that fosters stewardship and a sustainable future for all Ohioans. EECO, a membership based nonprofit established in 1967; has directors in 12 Ohio regions and offers workshops, conferences, a quarterly newsletter, green papers and other services to K-12 educators.   

Ohio Energy Project  

670 Enterprise Drive, Suite A
Lewis Center, OH 43035
(614) 785-1717

A nonprofit energy education organization that promotes energy education and facilitates youth leadership through partnerships with schools, businesses, government, and communities, the Ohio Energy Project. OEP facilitates workshops for elementary and middle school students led by high school student teams. Workshops focus on current, interdisciplinary, and unbiased energy information.   

Other workshop opportunities include: teacher professional development workshops with four-day “Energy Sources Tours” of Ohio’s energy sites; customized energy education programs, and new activities covering fuel cells and solar and nuclear energy. An affiliate of the National Energy Education Development (NEED) project, OEP offers a free partnership for Ohio educators.   

Southeastern Ohio Oil & Gas Association

P.O. Box 136
Reno, OH 45773
(740) 374-2303

The Southeastern Ohio Oil and Gas Association (SOOGA) is a non-profit organization of local producers and businesses involved in the oil and gas industry. Established in 1978 by producers, SOOGA established a voice to address issues and concerns unique to the geographic area of the Mid-Ohio River Valley.   

OKLAHOMA
 
Curious onlookers in Bartlesville gathered at the Nellie Johnstone No. 1 well on April 15, 1898. At 3 p.m., George Keeler’s stepdaughter, Miss Jenni Cass, dropped a “go devil” down the well bore to set off the waiting nitroglycerin – producing a gusher that marked the beginning of Oklahoma’s oil era.   

Oklahoma Energy Resources Board
3555 N.W. 58th, Suite 430
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
(405) 942-5323 or (800) 664-1301
Fax: (405) 942-3435
 

Leaders representing Oklahoma’s petroleum producers and royalty owners, working with the state legislature, formed the Oklahoma Energy Resources Board (OERB) in 1993. Since then, OERB has restored more than 7,000 orphaned and abandoned well sites – and shared energy curricula and safety messages with more than 750,000 students. OERB provides Oklahoma educators (free of charge) teachers’ guides with classroom activities for “Fossils to Fuel” and “Petro Active” – two science-based energy curriculum units designed for elementary and middle schools. 

Further, a “Core Energy” high school curriculum offers teachers’ guides cover math, science, social studies and language arts. OERB also sponsors one-day training in the use of the curricula and reimburses school districts for substitute pay during workshops. OERB offers a free statewide coordinated program called “Petro Pros” (Petroleum Professionals in the Classroom). Petro Pros is an interactive hands-on program presented by industry volunteers who bring energy facts to the classroom in 45-minute presentations.   

Also available is an oil field safety video, “What’s the Risk?” Developed for middle school students, the video explains the dangers of playing around oilfield equipment. It features extreme stunts by BMX and skateboard riders. Further, “Energy behind Finding Energy” is a two-part video that explains the various stages of petroleum production.   

Oklahoma Commission on Marginally Producing Oil and Gas Wells
3535 Northwest 58th Street, Suite 870
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
(405) 604-0460 or (800) 390-0460

In the late 1980s, a group of producers met to establish an association called “Save Our Strippers.” Using data demonstrating the dramatic declines in oil production, “the group expanded the idea of an association into the creation of a state agency dedicated to the advocacy of preserving our state’s number one natural resource – one that had reached an age of maturity that would require special attention for years to come.”

Although formally called the Oklahoma Commission on Marginally Producing Oil and Gas Wells, this state organization more commonly known as the Marginal Well Commission was created by the legislature in 1992. A speakers bureau was founded in 2002 to work with civic organizations throughout the state.   

Mid-Continent Oil & Gas Association of Oklahoma
6701 N. Broadway, Suite 300
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73116
(405) 843-5741  

Formed in 1917, the Mid-Continent Oil & Gas Association of Oklahoma is a nonprofit association of oil and gas producers, operators, purchasers, pipelines, transporters, processors and service companies, which represent a substantial sector of the oil and gas industry within Oklahoma.  In 1963 the Oklahoma Petroleum Council, later to be merged into the Mid-Continent Oil & Gas Association, and the Oklahoma Historical Society began a cooperative program to mark some of the significant sites and events in the history of the petroleum industry in Oklahoma.   

The effort is coordinated by a Historical Committee, which works with the historical society on research, site selection and dedication plans. “Few other states have such a systematic method of telling the story, by means of historical monuments, of the significant role played by oil and gas. It is the oldest petroleum association in the United States.”   

Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Association
3555 Northwest 58th Street Suite 400
Oklahoma City, OK   73112-4724
(405) 942-2334

The Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Association is the state’s largest oil and gas association, representing more than 2,000 member companies in the oil and natural gas exploration and production industry or affiliated businesses. Founded in 1955, the association provides a unified voice for the industry — “We are not just an association for producers and operators. Drilling contractors, service and supply company owners and managers, and royalty owners also comprise a significant percentage of our membership. Other members are attorneys, accountants, and other professionals whose livelihood is tied directly to the ultimate success of the energy producing sector.”

PENNSYLVANIA
 
In the “Valley that changed the world,” America’s petroleum industry began in Titusville when “Col.” Edwin Drake,” working for the Pennsylvania Rock Oil Co., struck oil at 69.5 feet on Aug. 27, 1859. Drake sold the oil to Samuel Kier for $20 per barrel. Kier used a small still in Pittsburg to refine the oil into kerosene for illumination.   

The Oil Region Alliance
217 Elm Street
Oil City, PA 16301-1412
(814) 677-3152

Pennsylvania’s Oil Region is rich with petroleum history. In 2004, President George W. Bush signed HR 4818, which designated Pennsylvania’s Oil Region as the Oil Region National Heritage Area.This legislation established region as the nation’s 25th National Heritage Area.

The Oil Region Alliance is the lead economic, heritage, and tourism development group. Traveling upriver on the Allegheny by train or boat in the late nineteenth century, visitors would see Emlenton, Franklin and Oil City in Venango County, Tionesta in Forest County, pass by Tidioute and finally reach Warren in Warren County. All along the River, they would be treated to an array of particularly fine Victorian homes the region’s lumber — and America’s earliest oil industries — had built as personal monuments to success. You can make that same trip today and see many of those same Victorian homes. The Oil Region Alliance hosts historical workshops, field trips and special events.

Pennsylvania Independent Oil & Gas Association

Northridge Office Plaza II
115 VIP Drive, Suite 210
Wexford, PA 15090
(724) 933-7306  

The Pennsylvania Independent Oil and Gas Association is the principal nonprofit trade association representing Pennsylvania’s independent oil and natural gas producers, marketers, service companies and related businesses. PIOGA member companies drill and operate the majority of the state’s crude oil and natural gas, including the Marcellus Shale.

In April 2010, members of the Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Association (POGAM) and the Independent Oil and Gas Association of Pennsylvania (IOGA) unanimously voted to merge the two organizations into a single trade association. The merger reunited two organizations that had split apart some 30 years earlier. In fact, the roots of this organization date back to the founding of the Pennsylvania Oil, Gas and Minerals Association in 1918. POGAM was believed to be the oldest continuously operating oil and gas trade association in the United States.

SOUTH DAKOTA
 
Shell Oil Co. drilled the discovery well for the Buffalo Field in October 1953 in Harding County. The well began producing at 9,332 feet on Jan. 14, 1954. Over the next 50 years, the well  produced more than 341,000 barrels of oil.
 
South Dakota Petroleum & Propane Marketers Association
P.O. Box 1058
Pierre, SD 57501
(605) 224-8606  

TENNESSEE
 
Between 1859 and 1870, several exploratory wells were drilled in Overton County. The Gilbreath No. 1 on Bear Creek came in at a depth of only 20 feet in 1860. In 1866, the Newman No. 1 well came in on Spring Creek and yielded about 2,000 barrels of oil from a depth of only 19 feet.
 
Tennessee Oil & Gas Association

750 Old Hickory Blvd., Suite 150-2
Brentwood, TN 37027
(615) 371-6137
Fax: (615) 599-1806   

The Tennessee Oil & Gas Association (TOGA) is a non-profit organization of men and women involved in the exploration, development and production of crude oil and natural gas in Tennessee. TOGA meets four times a year and publishes a monthly newsletter.   

TEXAS
 
Confederate veteran Lyne Taliaferro Barret’s Melrose Petroleum Oil Co. brought in the No.1 Isaac C. Skillern well near Nacogdoches on Sept. 12, 1866. The Lone Star state’s first commercial producer yielded a modest ten barrels per day.   

East Texas Producers and Royalty Owners Association
PO Box 1700
Kilgore, TX 75663
(903) 984-8671
Fax: (903) 984-1499   

Offshore Energy Center
200 North Dairy Ashford, Suite 6220
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 679-8040
Fax: (281) 544-2441

A nonprofit corporation, the Offshore Energy Center (OEC) is dedicated to expanding the awareness of the vast energy resources beneath the world’s oceans and to chronicling the unique heritage and technological accomplishments of the industry that discovers, produces, and delivers these resources in a safe and environmentally responsible way.   

OEC operates the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum at Pier 19  in Galveston. The museum is a retired jack-up rig that has been refurbished, enabling visitors to enjoy learning about operating offshore rigs and specialized oil-field equipment. Offers group package discounts and is available for rentals. The museum also offers “Family Days” in which a specific topic related to the oil and gas industry is explored.   

The Knowledge Box, a mobile exhibit showcasing the many aspects of the oil and gas industry, is loaned free to surrounding school districts. It contains teacher resources, hands-on activities, and interactive lessons.   

Panhandle Producers & Royalty Owners’ Association
3131 Bell #209
Amarillo, TX 79106
(806) 352-5637

The Panhandle Producers & Royalty Owners’ Association (PPROA) is a trade association representing the oil and gas producers, service companies, and royalty owners in the Texas Panhandle, Eastern New Mexico, the Oklahoma Panhandle and Southwestern Kansas.   

Permian Basin Petroleum Association

415 W. Wall, 1st floor
Midland, TX 79701
(432) 684-6345
Fax: (432) 684-7836

The Permian Basin Petroleum Association (PBPA) is a regional oil and gas trade association representing the Permian Basin industry, which produces 64 percent of Texas oil production and 20 percent of oil production in the lower 48 states.   

PBPA is a regional trade association headquartered in Midland, Texas. A PBPA program, “Play it safe, don’t take chances,” is designed to make 4th – 7th grade students aware of the potential dangers of playing on oilfield equipment.   

Railroad Commission of Texas
P.O. Box 12967
Austin, TX 78711-2967
(512) 463-7110
Fax: (512) 463-7292

The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) is a state energy agency that regulates the oil and gas, alternatives, and surface mining industries. The RRC provides educational materials free to Texas teachers, kindergarten through grade 10. Materials for primary grades are available on the website. These materials include interactive activities on energy and safety at home, at school, and outdoors. The commission also provides free educational workshops and a curriculum supplement called Alternative Energy for 6 through 10th grade science teachers in Texas.    

Texas Alliance of Energy Producers
719 Scott Avenue, Ste. 930
Wichita Falls, TX 76301
(800) 299-2998 or (940) 723-4131

The Texas Alliance of Energy Producers was established in 2000 by the merger of two among the oldest oil and gas associations in the nation, the North Texas Oil & Gas Association and the West Central Texas Oil & Gas Association. With about 2,900 members, the Alliance is one of the largest oil and gas trade associations in the nation. The Alliance brings together members in 305 cities and 25 states for the common purpose of protecting the oil and gas industry. The Alliance has established a foundation to increase energy education throughout the state.   

Foundation for Energy Education
3701 Kirby Drive, Suite 962
Houston, TX 77098
(713) 529-6707 

he Foundation for Energy Education is a 501(c)(3) non-profit affiliate of the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers. It provides information to citizens, to improve public knowledge of oil and gas issues, and presents energy education to schoolchildren in classrooms all across Texas.

Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners
919 Congress Avenue- Suite 1000
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 477-4452

Founded in 1946 by Texas wildcatters, TIPRO has grown into the largest statewide association of its kind in the nation with more than 2,400 members. Throughout the calendar year, TIPRO has two large meetings. One is the Annual Convention and the second meeting, the Summer Policy meeting. Both meetings allow members to network and make association decisions.   

Texas Oil & Gas Association
304 West Thirteenth Street
Austin, Texas  78701
(512) 478-6631
Fax: (512) 472-3859 

The Texas Oil & Gas Association (TXOGA), founded in 1919, it is the oldest and largest organization in the state representing petroleum interests and continues to serve as the only organization in the state, which embraces all segments of the industry. In 1997, the Texas Mid-Continent Oil & Gas Association changed its name to the Texas Oil & Gas Association, thereby signifying a new era for the organization.   

UTAH
 
In 1907, Pat Holohan found oil sand in Washington County and a dozen companies rushed in to drill 14 more. The next year, L.L. Goodridge brought in a gusher at Mexican Hat in San Juan County.   

Utah Petroleum Association
275 East South Temple, Suite 150
Salt Lake City, Utah  84111
(801) 364-1510

The Utah Petroleum Association is a voluntary, nonprofit trade association representing companies involved in all aspects of Utah’s oil and natural gas industry. “UPA speaks for the petroleum industry professionals in Utah on issues important to their business. Members seek to inform policymakers and the public how the industry helps improve lives, strengthen the economy, protect the environment and promote national security.”

VIRGINIA
 
Reporting in 1833 on the Ruffner brothers wells northwestern Virginia (now West Virginia), the American Journal of Science noted, “The petroleum affords considerable profit and is beginning to be in demand for workshops and manufactories. It affords a clear, brisk light, when burned in this way, and will be a valuable article for lighting the street lamps in the future.” Today, Virginia’s production comes from the southwestern tip of the state.
 
Virginia Oil & Gas Association
P.O. Box 2285
Abingdon, VA 24212

West Virginia  

On May 9, 1863, Confederate cavalry Gen. William “Grumble” Jones and 1,300 troops attack an early oil town near Parkersburg in what is now West Virginia. His troopers destroyed equipment and thousands of barrels of oil. Of his raid on Burning Springs, Virginia, Jones reports to Gen. Robert E. Lee:  “The wells are owned mainly by Southern men, now driven from their homes, and their property appropriated either by the Federal Government or Northern men. All the oil, the tanks, barrels, engines for pumping, engine-houses, and wagons — in a word, everything used for raising, holding, or sending it off was burned.”

Independent Oil & Gas Association of West Virginia

405 Capitol Street, Suite 808
Charleston, WV 25301
(304) 344-9867
Fax: (304) 344-5836

Formed in 1959, The Independent Oil & Gas Association of West Virginia (IOGAWV) is a trade association representing companies engaged in all facets of the oil and natural gas industry in West Virginia. Its primary focus is to promote and protect a strong, competitive oil and gas producing industry.  IOGAWV formed the West Virginia Education Alliance in 2006.

West Virginia Oil and Natural Gas Association

P.O. Box 3231
Charleston, WV 25332
(304) 343-1609
fax: (304) 343-5610 

Chartered in 1915, WVONGA is the only trade association in West Virginia that serves the entire oil and natural gas industry, including exploration, production, transmission, storage, sales and distribution. It is involved in economic, environmental, legal and regulatory issues. WVONGA has developed an energy education program that includes a lesson plan for 8th grade social studies

WYOMING
 
In 1832, Captain B. L. E. Bonneville took the first wagons through South Pass and recorded the presence of oil. Fifty years later, prospector Mike Murphy, bought an oil lease on the site of Capt. Bonneville’s “great tar spring” southeast of Lander.   

Petroleum Association of Wyoming
951 Werner Court, Suite 100
Casper, WY 82601
(307) 234-5333

This is Wyoming’s largest and oldest petroleum industry trade association, dedicated to the betterment of the state’s oil and gas industry and public welfare. PAW members account for approximately 90 percent of the natural gas and two-thirds of the crude oil produced in Wyoming.   

Wyoming Independent Producers Association
P.O. Box 2325
Gillettte, WY 82717-2325
(307) 686-1081   

WIPA is a nonprofit trade association representing the interests of oil and natural gas producers and service vendors doing business within the state.