The Western Canada Drilling Cycle Optimization Study, released in June 2003, examines why seismic and drilling activity is more predominant during the first quarter of each year in western Canada, as opposed to being more evenly distributed throughout the year.

The study was jointly commissioned by PSAC, the Canadian Association of Geophysical Contractors (CAGC), the Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors (CAODC), the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) and the Alberta and BC governments.

To follow up that first study, Petroleum Technology Alliance Canada (PTAC) is currently developing a business case for year-round drilling. The "Drilling Seasonal Load Levelling Business Case" will provide financial data and examples to prove how load levelling can decrease operating, recruiting and training costs, and improve efficiencies and safety.

For more information on the load levelling business case, go to www.ptac.org/drl/drlr0401.html.