The Appalachian Basin's premier natural gas plays. Understanding your PA, OH, and WV minerals.
Get Your Free Appalachian ValuationThe Marcellus and Utica Shales have transformed the Appalachian Basin into one of the most productive natural gas regions in the world. Pennsylvania now ranks as the second-largest gas-producing state, and Ohio's Utica development continues to expand.
For mineral owners in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia, these formations represent significant value—whether you're receiving royalties from producing wells or own minerals in areas with development potential.
The Marcellus is one of the largest natural gas deposits ever discovered, spanning approximately 95,000 square miles across multiple states.
Susquehanna
Bradford
Washington
Greene
Lycoming
Tioga
Doddridge
Wetzel
Marshall
Tyler
Ritchie
Harrison
4,000-8,500 ft depth
Dry gas & wet gas
Major operators active
Strong infrastructure
The Utica lies deeper than the Marcellus and offers additional development opportunities. It's particularly productive in eastern Ohio.
Belmont
Monroe
Harrison
Jefferson
Carroll
Guernsey
Washington
Greene
Westmoreland
Fayette
6,000-14,000 ft depth
Gas, condensate, oil
Below Marcellus
Growing activity
Stacked Pay: In some areas, the same mineral owner has rights to both Marcellus and Utica—meaning two separate development opportunities from the same tract.
Appalachian gas enjoys several advantages:
Proximity to markets: Close to major Northeast population centers
Pipeline infrastructure: Extensive pipeline network for takeaway
LNG export potential: Access to East Coast export terminals
Established operators: EQT, Range Resources, Southwestern, CNX, and others
Natural gas price exposure: Converting to fixed cash
Estate planning: Simpler than fractional interests
Title complexity: Avoid ongoing paperwork
Distance: Many heirs live far from Appalachia
Lump sum needs: Retirement, healthcare, purchases
Small interests: Minimal income from tiny fractions
Get a free valuation from buyers who understand Appalachian minerals.
Request Your Free ValuationThe Marcellus Shale is a massive natural gas formation spanning Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, and New York. It's one of the largest natural gas fields in the world and has made Pennsylvania the second-largest gas-producing state in the US. The formation lies at depths of 4,000-8,500 feet.
The Utica Shale lies beneath the Marcellus and is a separate productive formation. It's particularly active in eastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania. The Utica produces both natural gas and natural gas liquids, with some areas also producing oil. It offers additional development potential beyond the Marcellus.
Pennsylvania leads Marcellus production with counties like Susquehanna, Bradford, and Washington being most active. Ohio dominates Utica production, particularly Belmont, Monroe, and Harrison counties. West Virginia produces from both formations. New York has banned fracking, limiting development there.
Yes, minerals in core Marcellus and Utica areas command strong valuations. The region benefits from proximity to major Northeast markets, established pipeline infrastructure, and consistent demand for natural gas. Producing properties and those in active drilling areas are particularly valuable.
Appalachian mineral ownership is often more fragmented due to the region's settlement history. Many tracts have been subdivided over generations. Additionally, some older deeds contain unusual provisions related to coal mining rights. Title research in Appalachia can be more complex than in western states.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Mineral rights values vary based on numerous factors. Consult with qualified professionals before making decisions about your mineral rights.