MCW, UTAH - Oil industry Gold mine! "Latest f

MCW, UTAH - Oil industry Gold mine!

"Latest figures show we rank 11th in the United States in crude oil production and ninth in gross natural gas production," he said, noting the value of those fossil fuels amounted to more than $3.4 billion in 2010.

Rogers attributed much of the increase in the number of operating oil and gas wells in the state to technological advancements that have benefitted exploration, drilling and production activities. "The new technology has opened up new areas for exploration and has added significantly to the production in Utah," he said.

Four of the nation's 100 biggest oil fields are in the state as well as two of its 100 biggest gas fields, Rogers added.

Oil production in 2010 was the highest since 1991 with more than 24.6 million barrels produced, while natural gas production has remained relatively stable the past several years, he said.

Bloch said for SUWA, though, the important point is that it is possible to have a balance between having a productive and prospering energy producing sector and protecting the redrock wilderness in Utah.