There is a standard, relatively simple practice to drilling for coalbed natural gas. An outline of the process from initial surveying to water discharge is a helpful tool.

Overview of Development

1. Introduction to Operator
   1. Steps to take before development occurs
   2. Going over your ranch plan
   3. Voicing questions and concerns
   4. Initial staking and surveying of location
2. Drilling the Well(s)
   1. Initial drilling of well
   2. Well drilled to top of coal, steel casing set, cemented to surface
   3. Bit drilled into coal formation, coal is underreamed
   4. Well cleaned out with fresh water
3. Installation
   1. Motor controller
   2. Power switch box
   3. Pipelines
   4. Water well pump
   5. Tubing
4. Power and Flow Lines Buried
5. Gas Transported to Central Meter House and Compressor Station
6. Management of Produced Water
   1. In-channel reservoirs
   2. Off-channel ponds
   3. Stock tanks
   4. Irrigation systems
7. Interim Reclamation
   1. Leveling and seeding of well location and flow/electrical line corridors
   2. Reclamation as work progresses
8. Final Reclamation
   1. Once water output has ceased, off-channel reservoirs reclaimed
   2. Roads reclaimed according to landowner specifications
   3. Wells plugged and abandoned