Scaled model tells visual story of natural gas drilling operations.
Chesapeake Energy’s scaled model of natural gas drilling operations and equipment is now on display at the Fort Worth Central Library through September 7. The Barnett Shale in North Central Texas became the most talked-about subject for months, when horizontal drilling techniques made it possible to develop the natural gas below the 17-20 county area that the Barnett encompasses.
Today, natural gas exploration and drilling companies in the Barnett are contributing more than half of the total shale gas produced in the United States. In fact, U.S. geologic surveys indicate that the Barnett contains a potential 30-40 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. Yet, many local residents have yet to fully grasp the complicated process that allows natural gas operators to retrieve this energy source.
A visit to the scaled model can open up the imagination, allowing area residents to visually experience natural gas drilling operations up-close and personal. Visitors are able to “walk through” the step-by-step operations necessary in order to drill one well. Drilling and fracing operations, and the installation of production equipment on a padsite are all on display in miniature form, making it easy to visualize the full-scale process. The display also includes pipeline construction and compressor stations, in order to show what’s needed to get natural gas produced and into a pipeline so it may be sold at market.
The Barnett Shale stretches more than 5,000 square miles, representing North America’s largest onshore natural gas field. The revenue generated from natural gas production has benefitted Fort Worth, surrounding communities and residents by funding improvement projects such as new roads, schools, parks and other government programs.
This free attraction is ideal for parents and children to view the entire natural gas drilling process from start to finish, learn more about geology and the abundant natural resources we have in the Metroplex and to check out a good book for summer reading fun!
The library is located at 500 W 3rd Street in downtown and is open Monday through Friday. Hours of operation vary daily and may be obtained by calling
817-871-7323 or by clicking here.