About the Petroleum Branch

The Petroleum Branch of Science, Technology, Energy and Mines administers provisions under The Oil and Gas Act and The Oil and Gas Production Tax Act relating to exploration, development, production and transportation of oil and gas.

The Branch develops, recommends, implements and administers policies and legislation, to provide for the sustainable development of Manitoba's oil and gas resources. The Branch deals with matters relating to well spacing, production allowables, pool designations, salt water disposal, enhanced recovery projects and unitization. The Branch publishes several reports each year, providing the public, industry and government with information on the petroleum industry in Manitoba.

The Branch is comprised of three Sections - Administration & Geology,  Engineering & Inspection and Digital Information. (See the Contact List)

One of the major functions of the Petroleum Branch is to encourage exploration and development of the Province's crude oil and natural gas resources in an orderly, safe and efficient manner. In support of this function, the Branch has compiled a catalogue which provides a comprehensive list of information and services available to industry and the public.

The Petroleum Branch is committed to providing quality service to all its clients. If you have any comments or suggestions relating to the content of information received from the Branch or to service received from Branch staff, please contact:

Keith Lowdon, Acting Director
Petroleum Branch
Science, Technology, Energy and Mines
227 King Street West
Virden, MB Canada
R0M 2C0

Phone: (204) 748-4262
Fax: (204) 748-2208
E-mail: klowdon@gov.mb.ca