For his contributions to the field of petroleum geology, Dr. Douglas G. Patchen of the West Virginia University National Research Center for Coal and Energy (NRCCE) and the West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey was named an Honorary Member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) at the association’s 2004 annual convention held April 18-21.

Dr. Patchen was one of four members of the 31,000 member-organization to receive this oldest of the association’s awards. The AAPG was formed in 1917.

Patchen was recognized for his leadership and service to the AAPG , his contributions leading to a better understanding of the Appalachian Basin petroleum geology, and his dedication to the promotion of new oil and gas technology. Patchen became active with the AAPG in 1966 when he compiled well drilling statistics for the association. He has been making significant contributions to the AAPG ever since.

At the WVU NRCCE , Patchen led the development of an atlas mapping major natural gas resources in the Appalachian region, among them the Trenton Black River play which has attracted substantial investments from oil and gas companies nationwide.

Patchen currently directs the Appalachian regional lead organization of the Petroleum Technology Transfer Council, located at the NRCCE . The PTTC assists the domestic oil and gas producers in the region, which includes all of West Virginia where there are more than 1,000 small independent oil and gas companies. PTTC offers expert information, library resources, referrals, workshops and demonstrations of exploration and production software. The group’s next workshop is slated for May 27 on horizontal drilling in the basin. Details are available athttp://karl.nrcce.wvu.edu