Montello preps for Tennessee blowout

Canadian operator Montello Resources has suspended drilling at its Morgan Highpoint-3 test well in Tennessee in preparation for the possibility of a blowout.

The company has released the drilling rig and is currently mobilising extra safety equipment at the well, which is located in close proximity to another well that resulted in a blowout in 2002.

The nearby Howard White No. 1 well blew out and flowed at a rate of 12,000 barrels of oil per day for two days before being capped. Environmental and legal issues relating to the blowout have to date precluded the re-drilling of the Howard White No. 1.

After encountering hydrocarbons in the Morgan Highpoint No. 3 test well, Montello secured the well and suspended operations. Drilling will begin again once precautionary measures are in place.

The drilling rig has been moved to the Morgan Highpoint No. 4 test well location. It is anticipated that the Morgan Highpoint No. 4 well will spud this week once all regulatory approvals have been secured.

Interest partners in the Morgan Highpoint No. 3 include operator Montello Resources (35%), Austin Developments (30%) Blackrock Petroleum (30%) and Park Place Energy (5%).

http://www.upstreamonline.com/live/a...

Seems word spreading around...

ecce