By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, Sept. 7 -- The US Minerals Management Service plans a Sept. 30 workshop in Houston to outline an ocean current monitoring program aimed at helping deepwater operations across the Gulf of Mexico.
Under the program, operating companies will collect and share comprehensive current data from deepwater drilling and production sites. The monitoring program is geared to ensure that operators and drilling contractors have appropriate data on existing and forecasted current conditions.
The data and predictive information will enable operators to curtail drilling operations before currents build to threatening levels. The monitoring program also is expected to enhance capabilities for the design of deepwater production structures.
The MMS proposes a 2-year pilot program, with a mid-term evaluation workshop to assess the program. The program is expected to be fully operational by Mar. 1, 2005.
