Resources and data

Large Datasets through the GRMD FTP

GRMDs File Transfer Protocol (FTP) – Allows files to be shared over the internet that otherwise would be too large.  This dataset includes six directories: Statewide Databases for Formation Tops, Statewide datasets for Drillers Logs and Geophysical (Raster) Logs, Updates, Early Production (Pre-1997), and Mining.

Access the FTP

*Please note the following regarding the FTP:

• It is recommended that you use Microsoft Edge as the web browser. The FTP site does not function within Apple Operating systems, Mozilla Firefox, or Google Chrome.
• The Formation Tops directory includes a spreadsheet of the Formation Tops from the GRMD database. Formation tops are the depths in a well (measured in feet below a reference elevation) at which formations are found in the subsurface, except for the glacial drift formation. In the case of the glacial drift, the "top" is actually the bottom or base of the drift. This "base of drift" is the depth of the bedrock surface at the well. Older wells may have data in paper files that has not been entered into the GRMD well database. This data is updated periodically throughout the year.
• The Drillers Logs directory is arranged by County and Permit number and are a summary of pertinent geologic details during drilling activity at oil and gas wells. The submittal of drillers logs as separate files was discontinued decades ago. This information is now captured in the Record of Well Drilling. This is a static dataset and if users cannot find this record for any well of interest, then the Record of Well Drilling should be reviewed.
• The Raster Logs directory include Geophysical logs in .tiff, .pdf, and .las formats that are arranged by County Number and API Number followed by the log type abbreviation. Raster Logs are scanned copies of paper logs that are saved as an image file. Prior to 2012, the logs were sorted into a subdirectory of three-digit API county codes. Beginning in 2012, geophysical logs were no longer added to this dataset by county and are now included in the Updates directory and are currently added by API number monthly.
• The Updates directory includes updates to well files based upon new activity, reworks, and submitted logs since 2012. New updates for these activities are added monthly to the FTP and the same information is also added to Data Miner, under individual API Number. The Updates directory is useful for evaluating what records and logs have been submitted and processed a during certain discreet intervals of time.
• The Early Production Directory includes eight datasets that capture various forms of documented production throughout Michigan’s oil and gas development history. Computerized tracking of oil and gas production volumes began in Michigan in 1982, however this only included production from prorated wells – i.e those wells that had production regulated. In 1997, rules were changed to track production of all wells in Michigan. Data Miner has the ability to evaluate the production since 1997 and the FTP (through the various datasets in the Early Production directory) allows the pre-1997 production to be evaluated and reviewed.
• The Mining Directory includes large file mining application materials as submitted to the GRMD. Mining applications involve hundreds of pages of documents, supporting materials, and maps that would otherwise be too large for sharing over the web. GRMD utilizes the FTP in order to share these materials to interested parties during the permit application review process.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Open Data

• GIS Open Data Portal – All State of Michigan geospatial datasets as shapefiles, spreadsheets, KML, or API. Here you can browse, search, preview, and download a variety of Michigan geospatial datasets. Browse by category or enter key words in the search box to locate a dataset of interest. You can then read its description to learn more and explore attributes before downloading. A variety of formats exist when downloading such as ESRI shapefile, spreadsheet, KML, or API.
• Geology in Michigan – For more information about Michigan geology and how EGLE regulates these natural resources, explore the resources on this page.
• EGLE Environmental Maps and Open Data – Geospatial datasets of environmental related content. Includes water wells, oil and gas wells, Bedrock Geology, Quaternary Geology, Glacial Land systems, watershed boundaries, hydrology, and much more.
• DNR Minerals Management Map - Interactive map of mineral leasing and other geologic and mineral resource data from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Geology and Geological Resources in Michigan

• Geologic Catalog – This is this is an ongoing project and is a listing of out-of-print publications, reports, and resources involving previous geologic inventories, studies, mapping, and applied research. We have been gathering and disseminating information about Michigan’s non-renewable geologic resources dating back to 1837. Much of the published materials about Michigan geology are out-of-print or difficult to access. This catalog is the result of an effort to make geologic information from agency publications available on the web.
• Michigan Geological Survey at Western Michigan University – The MGS archives large collections of geologic maps and documents and provides information through the Michigan Geological Survey Store.
• Michigan Geological Repository for Research and Education (MGRRE) – Located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Large collection of core, samples, and data for both educational and research purposes.
• Upper Peninsula Geological Repository (UPGR) – Located in Gwinn, Michigan. Large collection of core, samples, and data for both educational and research purposes and an emphasis on Upper Peninsula Geology.

Additional resources (FOIA)

Requests should be submitted through the EGLE FOIA Request Center. You may also email EGLE-FOIA@Michigan.gov.

Requests to inspect or receive public records from EGLE must be in writing and describe the requested records with enough detail to enable the department to identify and locate the requested records.

Some records are exempt from disclosure under the FOIA or another statute and thus will not be provided. A fee may be charged to process your request.