How will BLM incorporate directional drilling in its land use decisions?
BLM must not make assumptions that industry can directionally drill in any situation. Determinations of the feasibility of directional drilling or any other unconventional drilling technology can be made only by the operator. Additionally, the feasibility of directional drilling technology is determined on a well-specific basis. Generally, directional drilling is used for field development rather than exploration activities. Drilling of exploration wells is already a difficult and expensive undertaking because it is an attempt to determine where a structure may occur without the added knowledge of data from previously drilled wells in the area. The technical limitations of directional drilling do not make it a reliable tool for most exploration wells. Additionally, directional drilling is extremely risky and costly in areas with excessive gas production because well control becomes difficult and the odds of encountering serious well control problems are greatly increased. Formations th
