Pocahontas County report · Monday, November 9, 2026
What changed on the record
Pocahontas County right now: 0 permits outstanding and 0 wells completed since 2025. In the email, this paragraph names the permits and completions that are new since the issue before.
Prices, week over week
- Henry Hub gas averaged $3.10 per MMBtu in the week of October 9, 2026, up 0.05 from $3.05 the week before. The September 2026 average, which most statements for that month follow, was $2.95.
- WTI oil averaged $96.88 per barrel in the week of October 9, 2026, down 1.19 from $98.07 the week before. The September 2026 average, which most statements for that month follow, was $97.31.
A benchmark is not your royalty price. West Virginia gas sells below Henry Hub and statements lag one to two months. The prices page explains each big move; the email carries that week’s explanation.
In the news
Natural Gas Futures Dip as Mild Autumn Weather Reduces Power Demand
Natural gas futures declined on the New York Mercantile Exchange as weather forecasts indicated mild temperatures across major population centers. The transition into autumn has idled air conditioning use, softening immediate demand from electricity generators. Market participants continue to monitor storage levels and early projections ahead of the winter heating season.
Why it matters: Changes in benchmark natural gas futures directly affect the price per thousand cubic feet used to calculate West Virginia royalty checks.
PJM Considers Higher Reliability Value for Firm Gas Power
Regional grid operator PJM Interconnection is evaluating whether to grant higher capacity reliability credits to natural gas power plants backed by firm pipeline capacity or storage. The policy aims to bolster electric grid stability during extreme weather across its 13-state footprint, including West Virginia. If approved, the rule could encourage power generators to secure firm fuel delivery arrangements.
Why it matters: Incentivizing firm gas transportation for power generation can support long-term regional gas demand and pipeline utilization across West Virginia.
Marcellus and Utica Rig Count Holds Steady at 33 as National Activity Rises
Drilling activity across the Marcellus and Utica shale plays held unchanged at 33 active rigs for the third straight week through September 18. Meanwhile, the nationwide rig count rose by four to reach 595, setting a new 52-week high. Domestic oil and natural gas prices supported overall growth nationally, while Appalachian operators maintained disciplined production levels.
Why it matters: A flat regional rig count indicates steady but cautious drilling activity, directly influencing when leased acreage gets drilled and generates royalty income.
Meetings and events
- 2026 NARO National Convention · Nov 4, 12:00 AM · Omni Frisco Hotel at the Star 11 Cowboys Way, Frisco, Texas, 75034 · details
- 2026 NARO National Convention - Mineral Management Review Course · Nov 4, 9:00 AM · The Star in Frisco, 11 Cowboys Way, Frisco, TX 75034 · details
- 2026 NARO National Convention - From Decimals to Dollars: Mastering Royalty Calculations in Excel · Nov 4, 2:00 PM · The Star in Frisco, 11 Cowboys Way, Frisco, TX 75034 · details
- 2026 NARO National Convention - Foundations of Mineral Ownership Course · Nov 5, 9:30 AM · The Star in Frisco, 11 Cowboys Way, Frisco, TX 75034 · details