In the oil and gas industry, upstream refers to the exploration, drilling, and extraction phase of petroleum production—finding and producing oil and gas from underground reservoirs. This distinguishes upstream activities from midstream (transportation and storage) and downstream (refining and distribution to consumers). Upstream operations include geological surveys, drilling wells, and operating production facilities. Upstream activity is particularly significant in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland. Provincial governments regulate upstream operations and collect royalties on production. Municipalities in oil-producing regions experience economic impacts from upstream activity including employment, housing demand, and industrial development. Environmental concerns about upstream operations include well site remediation, emissions, and water use.