The core and instrument holes will accommodate proof-of-concept testing for a zero-footprint, zero-emission in-situ oil shale recovery process developed by the company on lands in the heart of an oil shale formation that encompasses parts of Wyoming, Colorado and Utah.

Michael Lockhart, chief technical officer of Earth Search Sciences, said: “American energy security depends on smart, environmentally responsible development methods represented by the low-impact process we will demonstrate in Wyoming. We are excited to demonstrate the effectiveness of this patented GSI technology.”

The test site is located near Rock Springs, Wyoming, in the Green River Formation. Government projections are that in excess of 1.2 trillion barrels are found in the Green River Formation of Colorado, Utah and Wyoming.

The site chosen has approval of the Anadarko Petroleum, which controls the mineral rights. The Rock Springs Grazing Association has also approved the clean environmental aspects of the technology and is supporting the test site with its assignment of surface rights.