Hi Richard,
IMHO it is quite unlikely that the delay in testing would be related to "special equipment to test". It is possible, but I would very much doubt it as Alberta supplies and services required to complete and test wells are plentiful and outstanding. Also, unless I've missed some recent news (quite possible), I do not think that the forest fires would impact the completion schedule of the Strachan well.
If you will allow me to SPECULATE, I will offer the following scenario as one which MIGHT explain a short delay in testing. Please do note that the scenario I outline is just the result of a "been there, done that" experience. It is not derived from any factual info.
First, I remind you that there are a couple of "private" companies astute and fortunate enough to have a position in this play. Now, if Apache does exercise its outstanding option to "earn more land", then in order to "stay in the play" these private entities will have some "real coin" cash calls coming up. They will, assuming normal industry practise, also have pending cash calls for the completion and testing of the first well. Now, if Apache has a high degree of confidence that they have a significant discovery here, they will recognize that they may have a terrific window of opportunity to "take out" these smaller entities [before everything gets "BANKER PROVEN"].
Perhaps TKE and LEY (because of common directors) and more recently FST have become aware of "dealings" as contemplated above and fearing that they would be next, they passed their respective poison pills.
JUST AN ACTIVE IMAGINATION ON MY PART????
Later,
grayhairs |
