Oil and Gas Activity in Wyoming: What It Means for Mineral Owners in the Powder River Basin

The Powder River Basin (PRB) in northeastern Wyoming has long been a focal point for oil and gas development. But what does the current activity in the region mean for those who own mineral rights there—especially if you’ve inherited those rights, live out of state, or feel unsure about how to manage them?

In this guide, we’ll break down recent industry trends and what they could mean for your royalties, property decisions, or potential to sell.

A Region on the Radar Again

The Powder River Basin, rich in stacked oil-bearing formations, continues to attract exploration and development interest, particularly in Campbell, Converse, Johnson, and Sheridan Counties. Operators are focusing on formations like the Turner, Parkman, and Niobrara, benefiting from improved well performance and better drilling economics compared to years past.

Though Wyoming doesn’t see the same volume of activity as the Permian Basin, the PRB offers lower operating costs and consistent production—qualities that make it attractive to companies looking to maintain or grow production in a lower-risk environment.

What This Means for Royalty Owners

If you own mineral rights in the Powder River Basin, here are a few key implications:

1. You May See Royalty Fluctuations

As operators bring new wells online, royalty income may increase. But it’s important to remember: these payments can still be highly variable due to production declines, commodity prices, and operational pauses.

2. Leasing Interest May Pick Up

When development is active, leasing activity tends to follow. Companies may approach you to lease your mineral rights. It’s important to understand the terms and not sign agreements without a clear valuation of your minerals.

3. Timing a Sale Could Be Strategic

For owners considering a sale—especially those not closely tied to the land—now could be a strategic time. Higher operator interest and oil prices can make your minerals more valuable to potential buyers.

Are You a Legacy or Out-of-State Owner?

Many owners in the Powder River Basin inherited their mineral rights generations ago. If you’re one of them, you might feel unsure about what your minerals are actually worth, or how to manage them from afar.

At 1280 Royalties, we work with individuals, families, trusts, and entities across the country who own minerals in Wyoming and want clarity on their options. Whether you’re receiving small royalty checks or holding undeveloped acreage, we provide straightforward guidance on:

• Market value and pricing

• Selling vs. holding

• How to simplify ownership within your estate or trust

• Avoiding common tax and legal pitfalls

What to Do If You’re Unsure About Next Steps

You’re not alone if mineral rights feel confusing. Between fluctuating royalty income, paperwork, and the burden of asset management, it’s understandable that many owners prefer a simpler path.

Selling your mineral rights can offer:

• Immediate cash value instead of unpredictable income

• Estate simplification for families or trusts

• Peace of mind for out-of-state owners or those looking to minimize complexity

That’s where 1280 Royalties comes in. We specialize in transparent, one-on-one transactions tailored to the needs of mineral owners in Wyoming and across the U.S. Our team has successfully closed hundreds of deals and continues to be a trusted resource for those looking to make confident, informed decisions.

Want to Know What Your Minerals Are Worth?

Whether you’re weighing your options or actively looking to sell, we’re here to help. If you own mineral rights in the Powder River Basin, reach out to the team at 1280 Royalties for a clear and professional evaluation. 👉 Fill up this form and a mineral specialist will reach out to you directly.

About 1280 Royalties
1280 Royalties is a trusted mineral acquisition company that helps owners across the country maximize the value of their mineral rights. With a proven track record and personalized approach, we guide each client through a friendly, professional, and confidential process—from evaluation to closing.

Disclaimer: The content on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. While we strive to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date, laws and regulations can change, and circumstances vary. For advice tailored to your specific situation, we encourage you to consult a qualified legal professional.