BP Announces Deepwater Gulf of Mexico Discovery

BP Exploration & Production Inc. said a hydrocarbon discovery in an exploration well that tested its Isabela prospect in the Gulf of Mexico. The well is located on Mississippi Canyon Block 562 in approximately 6,500 feet of water, about 150 miles southeast of New Orleans. Isabela was drilled to a total depth of approximately 19,100 feet into Miocene era sands. The well is operated by BP Exploration & Production Inc. with a 67% working interest and is co-owned by Noble Energy, Inc. with a 33% working interest. The lease was acquired at federal OCS Lease Sale 169 in March, 1998.