Helix Exploration Completed Ollie Well Drilling in Montana

The company reached a depth of 6,311 feet and recorded peak helium readings of 4,800 parts per million.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Oil and Gas

A solitary industrial drilling rig stands in a wide, rugged Montana landscape under the warm light of the setting sun. — Helix Exploration completed the drilling of its Ollie well in Montana, reaching a depth of 6,311 feet with notable helium concentrations. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Helix Exploration has successfully finished drilling its Ollie #1 well in Montana. The project hit a total depth of 6,311 feet over a 20-day period with significant helium mudlog readings.

Why it matters

The company intends for the Ollie #1 well to serve as a production source for its existing gathering system and PSA plant. This development marks a notable increase in helium concentrations compared to previous findings at the site.

The Ollie #1 well reached a total depth of 6,311 feet after a 20-day drilling process. Peak mudlog helium readings reached 4,800 parts per million, significantly exceeding the 1,200 ppm peaks observed at the Rudyard field.

The players

Helix Exploration

This energy company specializes in the extraction of helium and other industrial gases.

Montana Board of Oil and Gas Conservation

This state agency oversees and regulates the drilling and production activities of oil and gas companies in Montana.

The details

Helix Exploration used internal equipment to drill the well, which now has its casing set and cemented to the surface. The firm is currently moving to secure a workover rig to perform the necessary testing and perforation to evaluate the well's viability.

Production at the Rudyard field commenced in February 2026.
The article was published on October 7, 2026.
A workover rig is expected to be mobilised by October 31, 2026.
Drilling for the Ross #1 well may begin by October 31, 2026, pending regulatory approval.

Market Landscape

This expansion by Helix Exploration builds upon the infrastructure established by the Rudyard project. It signals a continued effort to scale regional production capabilities despite ongoing regulatory scrutiny.

The project connects to an existing PSA plant, which could eventually increase local industrial output and supply chain stability for regional gas users. Residents should be aware that active drilling operations are subject to ongoing review by state regulators.

The takeaway

The successful drilling of the Ollie #1 well demonstrates Helix Exploration's focus on scaling its helium assets in Montana. Future production will depend on upcoming well testing and obtaining necessary regulatory clearances for the next phase of drilling.

What happens next

The company expects to mobilise a workover rig by October 31, 2026, and anticipates potentially starting the Ross #1 well drilling on that same date, subject to regulatory approval.