v2.4.0.6
Suspended Well Costs (Tables)
 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2012
Suspended Well Costs [Abstract]  
Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, Roll Forward [Table Text Block]
The following table reflects the net changes in capitalized exploratory well costs for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2012. The table does not include amounts that were capitalized and either subsequently expensed or reclassified to producing well costs during the period:
 
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012
 
(in thousands)
Capitalized exploratory well costs, at beginning of year
$
18,600

Additions to capitalized exploratory well costs pending the determination of proved reserves
74,359

Reclassifications to wells, facilities, and equipment based on the determination of proved reserves
(15,176
)
Capitalized exploratory well costs charged to expense
(18,540
)
Capitalized exploratory well costs, at end of quarter
$
59,243
Schedule of Aging of Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs [Table Text Block]
The following table provides an aging of capitalized exploratory well costs based on the date the drilling was completed and the number of projects for which exploratory well costs have been capitalized for more than one year since the completion of drilling:
 
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012
 
(in thousands)
Exploratory well costs capitalized for one year or less
$
59,243

Exploratory well costs capitalized for more than one year
—

Ending balance at September 30, 2012
$
59,243

Number of projects with exploratory well costs that have been capitalized more than a year
—