Jan. 2013 - A production liner has been set in McMoRan Exploration's Blackbeard West-2 ultra-deep exploration well in Ship Shoal block 188. Three potential hydrocarbon bearing sections have been identified between 20,800 feet and 24,000 feet. Initial completion efforts are likely to focus on roughly 50 net feet of laminated Middle Miocene sands near the 24,000-foot mark. Pressure and temperature data imply that conventional completion equipment and technologies could be used at this depth. The well was drilled by the Rowan Louisiana (350' ILC).

Nov. 2012 - The Rowan Louisiana (350' ILC) continues turning to the right at the McMoRan-operated Blackbeard West-2 well in Ship Shoal Block 188. The rig is drilling at a depth of 25,200 feet on its way to a proposed final depth of 25,500 feet in an effort to investigate deeper Miocene targets. Logging has revealed several low-resistivity pay zones, one of which is 80 feet thick and will garner further evaluation.

Jan. 2012 - McMoRan commenced exploratory drilling on the Blackbeard West No. 2 well on Nov. 25, 2011. The well is drilling below 11,700 feet (3,566 meters) with a proposed total depth of 26,000 feet. McMoRan is targeting Miocene-aged sands.