Coalbed methane, or CBM, is a natural gas produced from coal seams or adjacent sandstones. In 1994, US coalbed methane reserves were 9.38 tcf, which was less than 6% of the domestic natural gas reserves. Production in 1994 was 777 bcf, or 4% of the natural gas production of the lower 48 states. Commercial production occurs in approximately 10 US basins. The major producing areas are the San Juan, Black Warrior, and Central Appalachian basins. CBM plays are now international with tests or pilot projects in about 15 countries. Coalbed methane is produced in Queensland, Australia, and the UK, and pilot projects are underway in China and India. Independent operators are the most active CBM exploration companies in the US. Internationally, both majors and independents are actively seeking to expand the industry.