Volume 22 May 2025 Remember and Honor Our Veterans
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Are you Planning to go?.......................................................8 Breaking News......................................................................13 Classifieds: WorldWide Buyers’ Guide™..................51-64 Dealmakers......................................................................18,38 Education Connection..........................................................38 Fun Page................................................................................15 Hot Off the Press.....................................................................9 Obituary: DeGrio, Thomas Michel “Bud”............................12 Obituary: Dretel, Alan Mark..................................................12 Obituary: Russell, James Robert “Bobby”.........................22 Obituary: Sievers, Anthony Lee “Tony”..............................12 Obituary: Smith, Randy LaVerne.........................................22 Photo Page..................................................................16,60-61 Product Spotlight.................................................................40 Who’s in the News................................................................13 WorldWide Association Memberships...................................20 WorldWide .............6 WorldWide Subscription Form...............................................55 Acker Drill Company.............................................................3 Allegheny Instruments........................................................49 Atlantic Screen & Manufacturing, Inc. (ASI)........................30 Baker Water Systems...........................................................9 Better Water Industries Inc..................................................18 Bit Brokers International (BBI)............................................28 Bitco, Inc.............................................................................48 CONEXPO-CON/AGG.......................................................26 Cotey Chemical Corp. (CCC)..............................................22 Derex..................................................................................50 Drill King International.........................................................21 Drilling Equipment Sales, Inc. (DES)....................................2 Drilling Supply & Mfg (DSM)...............................................42 ESI Supply..........................................................................23 GeoPro, Inc.........................................................................44 Geoprobe Systems®..............................................................1 Geothermal Supply Company, Inc. (GSC)..........................45 Gol Pumps Technology, Inc...................................................4 Gol Pumps Technology, Inc...........................................32-33 Heron Instruments, Inc.......................................................24 Hole Products ....................................................................13 Horizon Hoist......................................................................34 Infinity Tool Manufacturing..................................................10 Infinity Tool Manufacturing..................................................63 KS Bit, Inc...........................................................................39 Mills Machine Company, Inc...............................................47 N&N Drilling Supply.............................................................25 Palmer Bit Company...........................................................43 Pulstar Manufacturing.........................................................27 Robit, Plc..............................................................................7 SEMCO, Inc........................................................................64 Star Iron Works, Inc. - Construction....................................37 Star Iron Works, Inc. - Water Well.......................................36 T&T Carbide Inc..................................................................31 TDH Manufacturing Inc.......................................................17 TDH Manufacturing Inc.......................................................41 The Utility Expo...................................................................14 Vanair Manufacturing, Inc...................................................29 Well-Vu, Inc.........................................................................19 Advertisers Featured Editorial CONST - Construction ENV - Environmental EXB - Exploration/Blasthole G&O - Shallow Gas and Oil GEOTECH - Geotechnical GEO - Geothermal HDD - Horizontal Directional Drilling MIN - Mining WTR - Water May 2025 -Environmental CONST ENV EXB G&O GEOTECH GEO HDD MIN WTR Aardvark Packers Acker Drill Company Atlantic Screen & Mfg.,Inc. Bit Brokers International Centerline Mfg. Co. ChemGrout® Drill King International Drill Pipe, Inc. Drilling Equip. Resources Eastern Driller Mfg. (EDM) Eijkelkamp North America Heisey Machine Co. Hole Products Kovai Drilling Applications Merrill Mfg. O-K Bit Service, Inc. PennDrill Mfg. Pulstar Mfg. Star Iron Works, Inc. T&T Carbide, Inc. Western Drilling Tools E-News Readers’ Choice - Plan Now for CONEXPO....8 Connor, Tim: You are Moving Toward......................18 Construction on I-64 Widening Project...........................25 A New Chemical Process for the Removal of Uranium...11 From the Field to the Sky ~ Part 3...............................24 Drilling Campaign Reaches 1.2 Million-Year-Old Ice..49 Explosives Build America..........................................29 Smith, Billy Bob: The “Idiots” Corner.......................38 Your Guide to PDC Bits.............................................35 Wilson, Jr., Robert Evans: The Un-Comfort Zone II...46 Norway Celebrates New Geotechnical Vessel..........37 Geotechnical Operations at the Oregon Capitol.......40 Innovative New Rig for Geothermal Projects.............19 Borobotics Unveils Autonomous Drill........................44 Storkson, Britt: It was Crude, but it Worked.............23 Delivering Results in the New Mexico Delaware Basin..43 Battersby, Mark E.: Drilling Into Money Not Boring..28 Texas Mine Achieves Milestone in Rare Earth...........41 Commercial Insurance ~ Types and Benefits............27 Selecting the Right Size Casing Hammer.......................30 Rasmussen, Tim: Water for Life International..........45 What is Well Rehabilitation?.......................................48 5 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource®
HEADS UP!!!! LOOK CLOSELY - - - The WWDR Team is switching things up to peak your interest. So drop us a note and let us know what appears “out of the ordinary,” even for us! You just might receive a nice surprise. Be sure to include all your contact information. Send your answer to: michele@worldwidedrillingresource.com Proudly Made in the United States of America - delivered WorldWide! WorldWide Drilling Resource® The complete magazine for the drilling industry worldwide, owned by drilling industry associates dedicated to bringing the most up-to-date technology and information to subscribers. Covering construction, geotechnical, directional, environmental, exploration-blasthole, shallow gas & oil, geothermal, mining, water well, irrigation, wastewater; from bits, to pumps, to rigs, to tanks, through wire, and more. Whatever it takes to get the drilling job done! Managing Publisher/CEO/President: Veronica I. Jones Vice President: Troy Cunningham Office Administrator: Michele Stevens Editor: Bonnie Love Public Relations Professional/Display: OPENING Public Relations Professional/Classified: Linda Peterson Representative: Marie Cunningham Editorial Assistant: Sophia Henline Editorial Contributors for this month: Mark Battersby Tim Connor Tim Rasmussen “Billy Bob Smith” Britt Storkson Robert Evans Wilson,Jr. Hyd/Eng Consultant: Thomas Kwader, Ph.D.,P.G. Consultant: Mary Ann Pelletier Editorial contributions & advertisements include statements of fact and opinions that are the sole responsibility of the author and/or companies and do not necessarily imply any opinion of the owners, management, or staff of WorldWide Drilling Resource® . Images may have been altered for clarity. Complete advertising information may be found at: www.worldwidedrillingresource.com or by calling 850-547-0102. WorldWide Drilling Resource® makes every effort not to place advertisements for “like” products on the same page in our publication; this may occur however, due to size and space within the publication. We regret any incovenience this may cause our advertisers. WorldWide Drilling Resource® is published monthly by: WorldWide Drilling Resource, Inc., a Florida Corporation, independently owned and operated. PO Box 660 (3089 Northride Lane) Bonifay FL 32425-0660. Telephone: 850-547-0102 Fax: 850-547-0329 E-mail: wwdr@worldwidedrillingresource.com Website: www.worldwidedrillingresource.com Copyright 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource, Inc. Seen by countless WorldWide. Publication Agreement No. 40892520. Back issues may be requested. Cost per issue $10.00 USD. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the strict written consent of the publishers. Advertising rates furnished upon request. Editorial contributions are welcome subject to editorial review.* WorldWide Drilling Resource® reserves the right to refuse any advertisement. We Recycle 6 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® With Pen - Computer in hand . . . Veronica I. “Ronnie” Jones, 850-547-0102 ronnie@worldwidedrillingresource.com Next Up . . . We’ll see you on the trail . . . Wherever it may take us! Featured Articles for May 1.2 MillionYear-Old Ice Core Page 49 From the Field to the Sky Page 24 New Process to Remove Uranium Page 11 New Rig for Geothermal Project Page 19 May ALL our Veterans have a well-deserved, relaxing, Happy Veterans Day. Thank-you for Your Service and for our Freedom.
8 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Plan Now for CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 Adapted from Information by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers CONEXPO-CON/AGG, the premier construction trade show in North America, returns to Las Vegas, March 3-7, 2026. Following the resounding success of 2023’s event, showcasing the event’s significance as North America’s largest construction trade show, CONEXPOCON/AGG returns with exciting new features and innovations. “The continued growth and success of CONEXPO-CON/AGG has set a new benchmark for the industry,” said Show Director Dana Wuesthoff. “Building on this momentum, we will deliver an even more impactful event in 2026, continuing to provide unparalleled opportunities for networking, education, and highlighting the latest innovations in the construction industry. We are especially excited to create new experiences and features for both attendees and exhibitors, making the 2026 event our most dynamic and engaging yet.” NEW IN 2026: Ground Breakers Stage: Amplifying the Construction Industry’s Voice The “Ground Breakers” keynote stage will provide an opportunity to raise awareness of the construction industry’s global contributions. Key topics include: • Innovation in construction technology and practices. • Public policy impacting the industry. • Workforce development and addressing labor challenges. • Sustainability and environmental responsibility. • Mental health and well-being in the construction sector. Women in Construction: EmpowerHER Workshop Join us during Women in Construction Week 2026 for the EmpowerHER workshop, a special event dedicated to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities women face in the construction industry. The program includes: • Networking events fostering connections and community among women in the construction industry. • Peer-led panel discussions and keynote presentations featuring industry leaders and experts. • Sponsorship opportunities to support and promote women-focused initiatives. Small Business Workshop: Supporting Small Business Owners Recognizing the vital role of small businesses in the construction sector, the Small Business workshop addresses the unique challenges faced by small business owners - providing: • Networking events to build valuable connections for small business owners. • Best practices and practical tools owners can bring home to immediately create pathways for success. • Sponsorship opportunities to support small businesses. Shop Talks and Walks Workshop: Smart Solutions for Daily Challenges The Shop Talks and Walks Workshop is a maintenance-focused program designed to provide attendees with practical solutions for everyday challenges. This program will include: • Special events focused on preventative maintenance, equipment efficiency, and increasing uptime. • Educational opportunities focused on providing attendees with the tools to solve real-world challenges. For more information on CONEXPO-CON/AGG, visit www.conexpoconagg.com Editor’s Note: In between our print issues, the WWDR Team prepares an electronic newsletter called E-News Flash by WorldWide Drilling Resource by WorldWide Drilling Resource®. This newsletter is filled with articles not included in our print issue. Based on readership, this was the most popular article of the month. Get in on the action and subscribe today at: worldwidedrillingresource.com CONST Looking for Events? Click on this box in our online issue worldwidedrillingresource.com
9 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Drilling Attachment Now Available Authorized dealer Western Equipment Solutions is providing the Tescar CF8B boommounted excavator drilling attachment to customers in the central and western United States. Created to allow earth-moving companies to convert an excavator into a piling rig, the CF8B’s quick installation enables the operator to run the entire excavator and drill with a remote control from outside the machine. It is especially beneficial to have the ability to manipulate the mast for uneven ground conditions. The CF8B is divided into two sections for low headroom work. The ability to mount and remove the attachment kit easily increases the advantage for the contractor to switch from the excavator to the piling rig and back. There’s no need to replace the original boom of the excavator since the CF8B simply connects on the first arm (of a double-boom excavator) or on the second arm (of a tripleboom excavator). Just remove the dipper. This lets the operator utilize the full reach of the excavator, and drill much farther from the center pillar, for a long reach between the center of the turret and the center of the hole. Tescar masts also have a hydraulic foot for stability in every working condition. For a link, click on this box in our online issue. No online issue? Register at worldwidedrillingresource.com
85 sales@aardva “Quality Packers Y Mechanical Inflatable Environmental Geotechnica Packer Parts 55-546-6488 arkpackers com You Can Count On” Wireline Straddle al Mining Grout Packers Custom Design s aardvarkpackers.com sales@aardvarkpackers.com 6707 Netherlands Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 O M 919 694 1114 *2005 512 789 9709 E m.epley@sonicsampdrill.com I www.royaleijkelkamp.com/en-us/ Mike Epley Drilling Sales Manager 10 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® NOW HIRING - WWDR - Public Relations Professional - DISPLAY Contact: Veronica I. “Ronnie” Jones 850-258-2860
Association Need Help? 850-547-0102 - Ronnie 11 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® A New Chemical Process for the Removal of Uranium Adapted from Information by Linnaeus University Scientists have identified a new chemical process that enables the removal of uranium from groundwater, a process facilitated deep within the bedrock, where uranium is converted into a stable rock form. This discovery may provide an important tool for preventing the spread of toxic uranium in groundwater. In a 17-year experiment, researchers explored deep boreholes in bedrock and found minerals containing large amounts of uranium. Microbes thriving in oxygen-free environments proved crucial to this process. The microbes produce substances that aid in transforming uranium, integrating its incorporation into minerals, and stabilizing it, thereby preventing further transport via groundwater. “The findings suggest that naturally occurring bacteria affect the uranium removal. The microbes contribute to form sinks for toxic elements in the subsurface environment. This process has large potential to prevent the spread of hazardous elements in the environment,” explained Ivan Pidchenko, postdoctoral fellow at the Linnaeus University, and lead author of the study. The results have significant implications for the remediation of contaminated groundwater and ensuring the safe disposal of spent nuclear fuel repositories. “Uranium is the main component in spent nuclear fuel that will be deposited in long-term geological storage in deep bedrock systems. Our finding is an additional brick to the foundation of long-term safety assessment of geological nuclear repositories for construction in Sweden and elsewhere,” said Pidchenko. Researcher Ivan Pidchenko surveying rock fractures for uranium, using a scintillometer. ENV
12 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® In Memoriam Thomas Michel “Bud” DeGrio (1945~2024) A long-time Director of the Underground Gold Miners Museum in Alleghany, California, Thomas Michel “Bud” DeGrio passed away unexpectedly surrounded by family on December 21, 2024. He was born in 1945, in San Rafael; in 1948, his family moved to Alleghany, the small gold mining town where his father was a mine owner/operator. Bud spent much of his childhood with the men and worked alongside them starting at age 11. He attended Sierra College before enlisting in the U.S. Navy, serving from 1967-71, in the Vietnam War. Afterward, he attended the University of San Francisco, then spent the next 50 years participating in mining and heavy civil projects around the world. His local mining experience included Gardner's Point open pit placer gold mine (1980s), San Juan Ridge underground placer mine (1990s); design/construction/management of the Bear River hard rock quarry with Hansen Bros.; and several other small underground mines. His last civil project was the San Vicente Dam Raise before retiring from Parsons Corp. in 2012. After 2012, he continued providing engineering and consulting services and construction management services through his company DECONCO. From 2016 until his death, he was providing construction management services to Hetch Hetchy Power. Bud is survived by his wife Becky Higgs; daughters Melissa DeGrio, Melissa Santos (Syth), Sarah Gordon (DeGrio); son Thomas Maritz-DeGrio; sisters Patricia Russell and Kathleen McGuire; as well as eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Anthony Lee “Tony” Sievers (1957~2025) Anthony Lee “Tony” Sievers passed away March 5, 2025, from injuries sustained from an accident at work. Tony and his family owned and operated Calhoun Quarry, this being his 50th year. Born in 1957, he played baseball, softball, basketball, and ran track during his youth and continued playing softball for years after. Once he stopped playing, he umped and refereed. In 1977, he married Janice and welcomed three children from that union - Brian (Meghan) Sievers, Jason (Shelly) Sievers, and Pamela (Jarett) Blackwell. In 2000, Tony married his best friend and love of his life, Jana, who brought three girls to their marriage - Jennifer Suhling, Erica (WD) Hayman, and Jessica Suhling. During Tony and Jana’s 25 years together, they cherished grandchildren Jace (Sammie) Blackwell, Kenzie and Kaden Sievers, Haley (Emmanuel) Welch, Carlie Suhling, Stephanie Recklein, and June Hayman; and great-grandchildren Katie and JoAnna, Taylor James Jr., Maricela, Tae, and Kei’Maya. He was an original member of the Calhoun Entertainment Company Community Theater, also serving the community as a volunteer fireman and trustee. Tony never saw a stranger. He always had a smile on his face. His favorite thing in the world was spending time with his family and the sounds of kids enjoying Christmas lights displays. He had a deep and personal relationship with each and every one in his family. Raising Mari and Tae was his ultimate pride and joy. A unique and wonderful gentleman, Tony valued his community, country, and especially his family. He always went above and beyond the normal. Alan Mark Dretel (1956~2025) Alan Mark Dretel of Sherman, Connecticut, and Southern Pines, North Carolina, passed peacefully at home on March 9, 2025, with his wife Rhonda at his side. Born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, in 1956, he grew up in Danbury, Connecticut, and worked in his father’s business, D & S Pump and Supply, as a young man. After high school graduation, he took on a more permanent role, then taking over the company in the early 1980s. As the business grew, it expanded to have locations ranging from Maine to eastern Tennessee. He earned a pilot’s license with a commercial rating, which allowed him to visit the multiple locations of the company and customers more easily. Alan was a hardworking and dedicated man standing up for his beliefs, but family and those who knew him saw his caring and soft side. He and Rhonda enjoyed riding their horses. It was this love that took them from Connecticut to North Carolina, where they quickly became active in the equestrian community with Alan serving on the board of the Walthour Moss Foundation for many years. Alan is survived by Rhonda; sons David and Aaron (Carrie); grandchildren Hunter, Jake, Luke, Emmitt, Shilo, Gideon, Felicity, and Cilas; along with his sister Donna. Lest we forget . . .
13 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Epiroc’s Battery-Electric Vehicles are Heading to Canada Hudbay Minerals, Canada’s third largest copper producer, has ordered a fleet of Epiroc AB battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) to be used at an underground mine in Manitoba, Canada. The order included BEV versions of the Boomer M20 SG face drilling rig, the Scooptram ST18 SG, and Scooptram ST14 SG loader, as well as a Minetruck MT42 SG hauler. The machines will be used at the Lalor mine in Snow Lake. “There are clear benefits to our customers that invest in electrical equipment. It improves the health of the employees, saves ventilation costs, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, our battery-powered equipment also outperforms the productivity of corresponding diesel equipment,” explained Helena Hedblom, Epiroc’s President and CEO. Delivery of the machines is scheduled to take place later this year. For a link, click on this box in our online issue. No online issue? Register at worldwidedrillingresource.com WHO’S IN THE NEWS Additional announcements from Texas Ground Water Association, Mountain States Ground Water Expo, Deep Foundations Institute, and the Ontario Ground Water Association can be found in our online issue at worldwidedrillingresource.com International Society of Explosives Engineers The Board of Directors of the International Society of Explosives Engineers (ISEE) announced Buck Hawkins as new Executive Director. Buck began his explosives career as a combat engineer with the Ohio Army National Guard. He has a bachelor’s degree in mining engineering and master’s in explosives engineering from Missouri S&T. In 2015, he began working for Sauls Seismic as Chief Operating Officer. Buck is looking forward to working with the ISEE Board and staff to grow the organization.
The First Automobile Show Adapted from Information by the American Oil & Gas Historical Society The first American automobile show, held at Madison Square Garden in New York City on November 3, 1900, showcased an innovative array of electric, steam, and internal explosion engines for powering horseless carriages. The event featured 160 vehicles from various manufacturers, with companies like Old Motor Works of Lansing, Michigan, debuting models of each type to compete in the emerging market. Future leaders in the transportation industry showcased driving and maneuverability skills on a 20-foot-wide track surrounding the exhibits, while a 200-foot wooden ramp tested vehicles’ hillclimbing capabilities. The show, sponsored by the Automobile Club of America, attracted around 48,000 visitors who paid 50 cents each to witness the latest automotive technology. The residents of New York City welcomed electric vehicles as a solution to reduce the massive amounts of waste generated by horses, including 450,000 tons of manure, 21 million gallons of urine, and 15,000 horse carcasses removed from the streets annually. Hundreds of hansom cabs constructed by the Electric Vehicle Company showed promise, but their adoption was limited by the weight of lead-acid batteries, challenging road conditions, and inadequate electrical infrastructure, restricting them to metropolitan regions. The history of steamed-powered automobiles dates back to 1768, when Nicholas-Joseph Cugnot, a French military engineer, built a selfpropelled steam tricycle for artillery transport. Locomobile produced 750 steamers, but consumers were deterred by the lengthy boiler heating time and frequent water stops. The internal combustion engine eventually surpassed steam technology. Automobiles powered by internal combustion engines were initially primitive, noisy, and cantankerous. Most were based on Nikoulas Otto’s 1876 four-stroke design and ran on a variety of fuel, including stove gas, kerosene, naphtha, lamp oil, benzene, mineral spirits, alcohol, and gasoline. In 1886, Karl Benz applied for a patent for his three-wheeled, gasoline-powered carriage. Two years later, his wife Bertha took the vehicle on a highly publicized drive. As the refining industry sought to replace kerosene, gasoline emerged as a viable alternative. The Curved Dash Runabout, the first mass-produced U.S. automobile, was sold by Old Motor Works from 1901 to 1907. During this period, approximately 425 units were sold, each featuring a single-cylinder five-horsepower gasoline engine and priced at $650. By the end of production four years later, nearly 19,000 Runabouts had been sold, demonstrating America’s clear preference for gaspowered internal combustion engines. New “infernal machines” quickly gained popularity, joining horses on unpaved roads. When New York City hosted its next automobile show, more than 1000 vehicles, including internal combustion and hybrid gasolineelectric automobiles, were exhibited to over one million visitors. Support the American Oil and Gas Historical Society: www.aoghs.org At the turn of the century, about 8000 vehicles shared mostly unpaved roads with horses and wagons. In 1906, a “Stanley Steamer” set the world land speed record at 127.7 miles per hour, still officially recognized as the land speed record for a steam car. Automobiles powered by internal combustion engines at the 1900 National Automobile Show were primitive. The most popular models proved to be electric, steam, and gasoline - in that order. G&O Time for a Little Fun! April Puzzle Solution: “April is the time to turn over a new leaf.” Win a prize! Send completed puzzle to: WWDR PO Box 660 Bonifay, FL 32425 fax: 850-547-0329 or e-mail: michele@ worldwidedrillingresource.com Match the three-letter words on the right to complete the seven-letter words on the left. WEAT_ _ _ ANT BENE_ _ _ AGE NITR_ _ _ HER SEAL_ _ _ FIT GARB_ _ _ ATE 15 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource®
16 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® for attendees. The TGWAregistration was read dy meeting and social. TGWA Women’s Division n D.S.M. were all smiles. .® George for CETCO . Resources, Inc Drilling Equipment Jacob was on hand for TDH H Mfg. Wyo-Ben sent Jim and Randy i ti th d Ti Vickie Hole Products had Rob, V Tom with Drill Pipe Inc e, T Mobile Drill Intl y. Tim representing them. and T Tom with Drill Pipe Inc. Mobile Drill Intl. James and Shirley Laurent. SEMCO enjoyed a visit from 20 were all set. ’s Ronnie and Sophia WWDR 025 Baker products with attende a Michael was ready to talk ab ees. good crew for the show Pulstar / Preferred Pump h bout w. had a www.worldwided This is just a sneak peak ~ visit for more photos online! y.html drillingresource.com/gallery
17 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource®
18 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® You are Moving Toward or Away from Happiness by Tim Connor Each day, we all make a variety of decisions. Some are quick and simple to make and appear on the surface to have little long-term impact, while others are more challenging and their ultimate affect on our life is in question. It’s life, folks. Here’s the problem - each of your decisions, whether small or significant, move you either toward greater happiness, peace, and joy, or away from them. It is often hard to determine which direction our decisions take us and at other times it is crystal clear they are indeed moving us closer to or away from the happiness we desire. I could give you numerous examples of decisions I have made that have moved me in both directions, but I won’t bore you with all the gory details. What I would like for you to consider is: Are you fully aware of which direction your decisions are taking you at any given moment? Or are you so stressed out, busy, wrapped up in yourself, living in fear, or letting your ego rule your life that you can’t recognize the inner messages being sent by your feelings or the consequences of your outer or external circumstances, so you can learn to make better decisions in the future that move you closer to happiness and inner peace? I believe everyone wants inner peace, feelings of joy and happiness in their life more than anything else. If this is true, why do so many people make decisions or choices that move them away from these? I don’t have a clue why, but I can tell you that if you want more of these in your life, it is essential to pay close attention to each of the decisions and choices you make. I have observed (and have been guilty myself) many people who are in relationships which are unfulfilling, miserable, stressful, or antagonistic, yet they refuse to make decisions to either change themselves or attempt to change the relationship dynamics. (Forget it, you will never change your partner. They are who they are, and they are becoming who they are becoming. People change when they are ready, not when you want them to.) I am not suggesting you chuck a current relationship until you have given it, yourself, and possibly your partner ample time, understanding, compassion, and consideration. However, having said this, there is no need to stay in a destructive relationship for 10, 20, or even 30 years because you said you would. We are responsible to people, not for them. Each of us has a right to inner peace, harmony, joy, and happiness. If your current relationship, regardless of its status or length, is not giving you these after plenty of effort, work, time, and compassion and no longer contributes to the inner peace and harmony you want and deserve, it might be time to consider an alternative. Remember, you are moving each day, each decision, and each choice toward greater happiness or away from it. If you keep moving away from it, you have only yourself to blame for the ultimate quality of your life. By the same token, if you keep moving toward it, you can benefit from the many experiences these feelings will give you. In His service, Tim Tim Connor may be contacted via e-mail to michele@ worldwidedrillingresource.com Dealmakers Congratulations to Siouxland Well Company in Sioux City, Iowa, on the purchase of this SIMCO 5000 drill rig from SIMCO® Drilling Equipment in Osceola, Iowa. SIMCO Drilling Equipment Send your deals to: michele@ worldwidedrillingresource.com
19 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Innovative New Rig for Geothermal Projects Adapted from Information by the South Australian Department of State Development An Adelaide-based startup company in South Australia, is on a mission to commercialize technology for making the installation of geothermal heat pumps (GHPs) cheaper, safer, and more efficient. CoilRig™ developed an innovative coiled tubing drill rig offering drill operators and consumers a cost-effective solution for installing GHPs. Unlike traditional drill rigs requiring drill rods to be connected and disconnected multiple times during the drilling, CoilRig uses a continuous coiled tubing drill pipe, which is wound onto a reel and unrolls as it drills into the ground, increasing installation efficiency and safety. The high-tech design also reduces the bending and stretching of the tubing, helping it last three times longer, resulting in significant cost savings for rig operators. CoilRig’s new drill rig has the potential to address one of the biggest barriers to widespread GHP use, the high upfront installation costs. Drilling costs can account for up to 50% of the total installation expense for residential GHPs. Research into developing the new technology has been undertaken by CoilRig in partnership with researchers from the University of South Australia (UniSA), Minex CRC, and other industry partners. With support from a Department of State Development SeedStart grant and matched funding, CoilRig will now undertake product development and commercialization. This will include lab testing, purchasing specialized software and materials, as well as on-site trials and testing with their US-based customer. CoilRig Director and Cofounder Soren Soe said the new rig design is a significant advancement for the geothermal drilling industry, offering lower cost drilling, enhanced safety, and greater efficiency. "Our product represents a strategic shift towards more sustainable drilling practices and is poised to meet the growing demands of the renewable energy market," Soe said. "CoilRig is proudly South Australian owned and we're extremely thankful to the Government of South Australia, as well as UniSA who have been an integral part of supporting us to expand into international markets." The company is actively seeking to partner with clients and drill operators in North America to enhance geothermal projects with its cutting-edge, efficient drilling equipment. GEO
WorldWide Drilling Resource® is proud to be a member of these associations. Alberta Water Well Drilling Association Tel: 780-386-2335 awwda2019@gmail.com www.awwda.ca Arizona Water Well Association admin@azwwa.org www.azwwa.org Black Hills Chapter of the ISEE President: Megan Buurma www.bitwconference.org British Columbia Ground Water Assn Tel: 604-530-8934 secretary@bcgwa.org www.bcgwa.org California Groundwater Association Tel: 916-231-2134 Fax: 614-898-7791 www.groundh2o.org Concrete Sawing & Drilling Association Tel: 727-577-5004 info@csda.org www.csda.org Empire State Water Well Drillers Assn Tel: 315-225-3060 gramsue67@gmail.com www.nywelldriller.org Florida Ground Water Association 850-205-5641 djessup@executiveoffice.org www.fgwa.org Illinois Assn of Groundwater Professionals Tel: 877-267-0350 info@iagp.org www.iagp.org Indiana Ground Water Assn Tel: 888-443-7330 Fax: 765-231-4430 ingroundwater@gmail.com www.indianagroundwater.org Iowa Geothermal Association Tel: 515-224-6469 info@iowageothermal.org www.iowageothermal.org Kansas Ground Water Association Tel: 316-444-4023 info@kgwa.org www.kgwa.org Kentucky Groundwater Association Tel: 800-858-4844 info@kygwa.org www.kygwa.org Louisiana Ground Water Association Tel: 337-654-4666 suireterry@gmail.com www.lgwa.org Michigan Ground Water Association Tel: 855-225-6492 info@michigangroundwater.com www.michigangroundwater.com Minnesota Water Well Association Tel: 800-332-2104 mwwa@ngwa.org www.mwwa.org Montana Water Well Drillers Association Tel: 406-686-3168 www.mwwda.org National Drilling Association Tel: 216-210-3827 Fax: 216-803-9900 info@nda4u.com www.nda4u.net National Ground Water Association Tel: 800-551-7379 Fax: 614-898-7786 www.ngwa.org Nebraska Well Drillers Association Tel: 402-476-0162 jason@h2oboy.net www.nebraskawelldrillers.org New Jersey Ground Water Association barbemor@gmail.com www.njgwa.org New Mexico Ground Water Association Tel: 505-803-6833 info@nmgwa.org www.nmgwa.org North Carolina Ground Water Assn Tel: 919-876-0687 elaine@execman.net www.ncgwa.org North Dakota Well Drillers Association Tel: 701-629-1668 James Dennis denniswaterwell@yahoo.com Northern Plains Chapter of the ISEE President: Thom Hunter Tel: 307-689-0050 www.bitwconference.org Ohio Water Well Association, Inc. Tel: 740-828-9200 Fax: 740-828-2635 ohiowaterwellassociation@gmail.com www.ohiowaterwell.org Oklahoma Ground Water Association Tel: 405-513-2558 www.okgroundwater.org Ontario Groundwater Association Tel: 519-245-7194 Fax: 519-245-7196 executivedirector@ogwa.ca www.ogwa.ca Oregon Ground Water Association Tel: 503-390-7080 ogwa@ogwa.org www.ogwa.org Pennsylvania Ground Water Association Tel: 814-553-3883 pgwadirector@gmail.com www.pgwa.org Shallow Exploration Drillers Clinic Tel: 402-472-6863 https://shallowdrillers.com/ South Carolina Ground Water Association Tel: 803-356-6809 Fax: 803-356-6826 scgwa@sc.rr.com www.scgwa.org South Dakota Well Drillers Association Tel: 605-390-3233 Randy Taylor rltaylor@rap.midco.net www.sdwda.org Southwest Mississippi Community College Well Construction Technology Tel: 601-276-3738 cdunn@smcc.edu Tennessee Water Well Association Tel: 865-761-4363 tnwaterwellassociation@gmail.com Texas Alliance of Energy Producers Tel: 940-723-4131 Fax: 940-723-4132 joannb@texasalliance.org www.texasalliance.org Texas Ground Water Association Tel: 512-472-7437 Fax: 512-472-0537 bbazan@tgwa.org www.tgwa.org Utah Ground Water Association Tel: 801-541-7259 www.utahgroundwater.org Virginia Water Well Association Tel: 804-387-8395 Fax: 804-302-7978 info@vawaterwellassociation.org www.vawaterwellassociation.org West Virginia Water Well Drillers Association Tel: 804-387-8395 wva.wwda@gmail.com www.wvwwda.org 20 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource®
22 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® In Memoriam James Robert “Bobby” Russell (1931~2025) James Robert “Bobby” Russell, age 93, of McDonough, Georgia, passed away February 20, 2025. Born in 1931, in Atlanta, the youngest son of Green and Eva Russell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Elizabeth “Betty” Shaw Russell; and siblings Wilmer, Thelma, Jack, and Mildred. A proud American, Bobby served his country in the U.S. Army with the Military Police at Schofield Barracks in Hawaii. After his military service, he returned to the family farm and worked for Planters Warehouse and the U.S. Postal Service. The Engemans then offered him a job as their first employee of Simmons Pump Co. This began a dedicated career to Simmons Manufacturing, where he worked tirelessly and built lifelong friendships he cherished until his final days. He retired in 2001, but the bonds he formed with his colleagues remained strong, showing the kind of man he was - loyal, hardworking, and full of heart. Bobby’s life was a testament to his love for the Lord and his calling to serve others. He was a lifelong member of Timberridge Presbyterian Church. He had a deep love for his homeplace and his yard, and poured his heart into his land, tending his garden with the same dedication and care he showed to those around him. His love for people was evident in everything he did; he never met a stranger, always had a kind word (or a playful joke) to share, and truly enjoyed giving folks a hard time in the most endearing way. Bobby was a passionate and dedicated Georgia Bulldogs fan, tailgating with special friends at every home game for many years, traveling to bowl games, and continuing to watch every game on television for the rest of his life. But nothing compared to the love he had for his family. He was a dedicated caregiver for his parents, faithful husband to Betty for almost 60 years, and a loving, giving, and dependable father to his children. His favorite role in life began when he became Poppy. He adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and took every opportunity to spoil them with his time, gifts, and love. His legacy will live on through those he leaves behind including his son Jeff; daughter Susie (Jimmy); grandchildren Will (Claire), Jake (Macy), Katie (Clint), and Emma; great-grandchildren Mackenlee, Connor, Cohen, Lavender, Andi, Carter, and Judah; nieces, nephews, as well as several extended family members and a large host of friends. Randy LaVerne Smith (1957~2025) Randy LaVerne Smith of Custer, Michigan, passed away on February 21, 2025. He was born in 1957, the son of LaVerne Smith and AprilBelle (Reene) Smith. Having grown up almost next to his grandpa Reene, a second-generation water well drilling contractor, Randy spent many hours with him from a young age, learning the trade, and eventually pursuing it as a full-time career. At one point, Randy and his sister Renee took care of their homebound mother, while he still worked full-time drilling wells. He was never happier than when standing behind a rig drilling a well, putting in a pump, or doing water system repair for someone, right up until the time he could no longer work. He loved cooking and perfected numerous dishes. Many of them contained mushrooms, which he mostly picked himself. If Randy had a third passion in life, it was mushroom hunting and picking. He could spot a patch of morel mushrooms 20 yards away. While to some, Randy’s life in later years had possibly resembled that of a recluse, to Randy, sitting at the kitchen table watching the world go by was just his way of coping with his illness and staying within his comfort zone. He did, however, relish the visits from neighbors, friends, and relatives for coffee, where he would usually have some sweet treat to share, as he also enjoyed baking. Randy especially looked forward to his Sunday morning call from his uncle Lyle. If he hadn’t talked to him by 9 a.m., he would have been calling to check on him. Randy is survived by his sister Renee (Matt); nephews Cameron and Sean (Jessica), and their children Judah and Lena; uncle Lyle (Kris); numerous cousins; and good friends Caleb and Jeremy, who were like the sons he never had. Lest we forget . . . WWDR photo taken during the 2006 South Atlantic Well Drillers JUBILEE.
23 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® It was Crude, but it Worked by Britt Storkson Owner, P2FlowLLC Have you ever looked under the hood of a 1950s or earlier car? You will notice most everything under the hood was big and heavy, which required a big, heavy car to haul it around. The components aren’t very “refined” and is crude by today’s standards. They were crude, but they worked. Most of the metal parts on the engine were iron castings instead of much lighter aluminum. Iron was used because they didn’t have the advanced metal casting technologies we have today, which reduced the amount of metal needed for a certain product - and metals were relatively cheap back then. It was crude but it worked. While lots of iron made for a durable product, the extra weight resulted in poor fuel mileage. Back then, people weren’t so concerned about that because gasoline was relatively cheap. Sure, it wasn’t that great, but there was nothing much better at the time. It was crude, but it worked. Back then, things like car generators and ignition systems were mechanical, not electronic. Mechanical commutators were used instead of diodes to make the direct current for battery charging and running lights. Voltage regulators were mechanical too. Ignition systems consisted of a set of “points” driven by a shaft and a coil to create a spark at the right time. While it worked, it could be a problem under damp conditions. All it took was a little moisture in the wrong area to completely shut down the ignition until things dried out. It was crude, but it worked. Fast forward to today, where due to technological advances, things are much more refined. Semiconductors doing most of the electrical and software instead of hardware is what is controlling almost every automotive function . . . functions that were unknown in the 1950s. Like the saying goes: We’ve come a long way, baby. Or have we? I’m not sure we have - at least in this area. I don’t know if anybody has done a study on automotive breakdown causes, but I would suspect software errors would be at least in the top ten if not number one. That’s what we’re often told when something goes wrong with the car, and “software errors” have been the object of numerous recalls over many years. Unlike the mechanical ignition system moisture which can be remedied with a little rubbing alcohol, we can’t fix the software. And some would argue the companies that build these cars can’t fix the software either. Would I go back to the good old days of mechanical everything? Of course not. Modern technology is clearly superior to the old way of doing things as we have learned a lot over the years, but I think we can definitely make this technology much less complex and more beneficial to the end user. One could start by eliminating the unnecessary bells and whistles as well as gadgets that do nothing but increase costs and give us one more thing to go wrong and - sometimes - shut everything down. Then the unique nature of the “world cars” most of us are driving now requires us to order the part from Denmark with a ten-week lead time. Then there’s the cost. We pay $2000 for a computer that costs the company who made it about $50. Another approach would be greater standardization of parts. There’s no reason why one ignition system couldn’t work for all four-cylinder engines, another for all six-cylinder engines, and yet another for all eight-cylinder engines. In fact, modern computer software makes it easy to adapt the part to the car it’s going into simply by using software settings. And it’s cheap too. So I would advocate for the best of both worlds. Use simple, reliable, and standardized components and only the minimum to operate the basic car functions. Instead of “crude, but it worked” I would go with “simple, reliable, and interchangeable” and use the technology to reduce - and not increase - the complexity and cost. Britt Britt Storkson may be contacted via e-mail to michele@worldwidedrillingresource.com
24 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® From the Field to the Sky ~ Part 3 Adapted from Information by the Berkeley Lab Researchers at Consortium Advancing Technology for Assessment of Lost Oil & Gas Wells (CATALOG) are working to develop methods for scaling up undocumented well detection and verification, utilizing drones fitted with sensors to semiautonomously survey extensive areas along preprogrammed flight routes. “The right way to attack this problem is a multilayer approach,” said Fabio Ciulla, a postdoctoral fellow at the Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab). “We can layer the information from all these different sources almost as if it were a cake. I can give my contribution with historical maps, someone else can do computations for historical oil production, others bring images, or satellites, or sensor data. It’s a beautiful mix of the old and the new, and I’m fascinated that maps, something that seems so old-fashioned and static, can give us so much useful information if correctly used with the help of current technology.” Various groups are developing different sensor types, each presenting distinct challenges and benefits. To operate a magnetometer from a drone effectively, it needs to be suspended from a nine-foot cable to minimize electronic interference and ensure accurate capture of the magnetic signature. A drone equipped with a methane sensor can collect air samples while in flight and analyze methane concentration, wind speed, and wind direction to identify the source of a methane leak, typically near a well location. Another method involves using hyperspectral cameras mounted on drones that looks for wavelengths associated with methane plumes. Researchers at the Berkeley Lab are also developing drone-mounted technology to locate hard-tofind oil wells, including those constructed with wood casings, or wells where the metal was stripped for other uses. Besides these methods, there are alternative ways to locate lost wells, such as using planes equipped with LIDAR laser systems to capture ground images, thermal cameras to detect hidden leaks, and even a smartphone app developed by CATALOG members that utilizes the magnetometer to search for wells. “We, as a society, really like energy,” said Berkeley Lab Scientist Sebastien Biraud, who leads the CATALOG project. “But we need to find solutions that limit our emissions. And working with local stakeholders like Native American tribes, the U.S. Forest Service, and the U.S. National Parks Service, we’re seeing that this is one way we can have an impact.” Yuxin Wu and Jiannan Wang from Berkeley Lab fly a drone carrying a magnetic sensor. Photos courtesy of Jeremy Snyder with Berkeley Lab. Claire Knight from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory prepares a hyperspectral camera on a drone to look for methane plumes. ENV
25 MAY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Construction on I-64 Widening Project Adapted from Information by West Virginia Division of Highways (WVDOH) In 2022, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice announced a contract worth over $224 million to Brayman-Trumble, a joint venture, to construct a new westbound bridge on I-64, demolish the old Donald M. Legg Memorial Bridge, and replace it with a new structure. The contract also involved widening I-64 to six lanes between the Nitro and U.S. 35 exits, as well as replacing I-64 bridges that cross Conrail railroad tracks. Additionally, the St. Albans interchange and the ramps connecting it to West Virginia 817 were revamped. By May 2024, the westbound lanes of the World War I Memorial Bridge, just north of the original Donald M. Legg Bridge neared completion. The new bridge will carry all eastbound and westbound traffic.The original bridge served the public for 60 years, and the new bridge is a significant upgrade and improvement to the region’s infrastructure. The old Donald M. Legg Bridge was dismantled, and its main span was carefully lowered onto a barge. Simultaneously, the construction of the new bridge progressed, with the 314-foot main span being lifted into place. “It’s exciting to see projects like this near completion so that people can see how the governor’s and the WVDOH’s vision for what the state’s transportation network can be when we have the proper funding,” said Joe Pack, WVDOH Chief Engineer of Operations. CONST This project had a large marine component requiring the installation of large-diameter drilled shafts in the river. Photo courtesy of Brayman-Trumble.
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