This paper presents an analysis of the coalbed degasification process. The theoretical and experimental basis of the degasification process are discussed and a simulation model which incorporates all aspects of this process is described. The simulator is demonstrated using actual field data developed by a joint industry/government demonstration project funded by the DOE and U. S. Steel. The basic reservoir description is discussed in detail, including variations of important description parameters with location.Initial and boundary conditions are demonstrated and analyzed. Initially, the coalbed was saturated with water. With water production, reservoir pressure is lowered, causing gas to desorb from the coal creating a mobile gas saturation. Subsequently, interwell interference effects are demonstrated and the need for such effects explained.Finally, the long term gas deliverability of the pattern is forecast. This forecast shows that about 45% of the gas within the pattern can be removed if the pattern is in operation six years ahead of mining.