Well modes

A well's mode indicates its current operational status—whether it's actively producing, waiting, or permanently closed. Here's what each mode means.

Active Production Modes

Flowing

Flowing wells produce hydrocarbons through natural reservoir pressure—no artificial lift required. The pressure differential between the reservoir and surface pushes oil or gas up the wellbore.

Pumping

Pumping wells require mechanical assistance to bring fluids to surface. Common in mature fields where reservoir pressure has declined, these wells use pump jacks or electric submersible pumps.

Pre-Production Modes

Drilled and Cased

Drilled and Cased indicates a well that has been drilled and had casing installed, but hasn't yet been completed for production. It's ready for the next phase of development.

Testing

Testing wells are undergoing evaluation to determine production potential, reservoir characteristics, or equipment performance. This may include flow tests, pressure tests, or sampling.

Potential

Potential indicates a well evaluated as capable of production but not yet actively producing. Often used for wells awaiting tie-in to gathering systems or market conditions.

Not Applicable

Not Applicable is assigned to wells where mode doesn't apply—typically service wells (injection, disposal, observation) or wells in early licensing stages before operational status is determined.

Inactive Modes

Suspended

Suspended wells are temporarily shut in but maintained in a safe state. Common reasons include low commodity prices, mechanical issues, or seasonal operations. These wells can be returned to production.

Capped

Capped wells have been sealed at surface but not permanently abandoned. Similar to suspended, but typically indicates a longer-term pause. The wellbore remains intact for potential future use.

Closed

Closed indicates a well that has ceased operations. This may be a precursor to abandonment or a temporary closure pending regulatory decisions.

End-of-Life Modes

Abandoned

Abandoned wells have been permanently decommissioned following AER requirements. This involves cementing the wellbore, removing surface equipment, and reclaiming the site.

Junked & Abandoned

Junked & Abandoned wells were abandoned with equipment left in the hole—typically due to mechanical failure or stuck pipe during drilling. The well was plugged around the obstruction.

Abandoned & Re-entered

Abandoned & Re-entered indicates a previously abandoned well that was re-opened for new operations—often due to improved technology or economics making the well viable again.