Project Planning

The project planning process begins with a conversation.

This process can be rapid or involved, depending on the complexity of the project. Topics include:

Scientific objectives
Borehole, Cuttings, or Core
Depths
Locations, access, prep
Vertical or angled boreholes
Cuttings disposal
Downhole logging
Analyses to be performed; protocol requirements; drilling fluids; tracers
Expected lithologies—site survey information, existing well logs, outcrops
Local resources: transportation, fuel, water, food, lodging, heavy equipment, contractors, personnel
Personnel travel, visas
Permitting
Season/weather
Site-specific safety
Risk management
Cultural issues
Outreach activities
Bureaucratic/political issues
Bidding
Budget + contingency
Proposals
Contracting

For deep drilling projects, detailed planning documents are available in the ICDP Primer, relevant for projects with ICDP support, and the former DOSECC consortium last produced the Best Practices in the Development of Scientific Drilling Projects in 2007.

Contact the CSD Facility staff to begin the process.

More About Planning