I agree cara....I'm sure that is the preferred option for all JV...

I agree cara....I'm sure that is the preferred option for all JV partners in the success scenario. Being a North Slope producer is unlikely to be even remotely part of their objective.  But they may have to retain that as a realistic option to exact a fair price for selling out. I suspect that the two neighboring operators through which any produced oil would have to transit are the prime contenders. Question being how desperate are they to add WB PUD to their existing inventory of Nanushuk PUD, and how much would they pay for it?  US$1/bbl for a quick sale vs $2.50-$3.00 for a drawn out but contested sale?  Who knows.  And how quick is quick in North Slope O&G terms? 3 months or 1 year?  Personally, I'd be happy with a quick sale to give the JV partners quick funds. I think for all partners, WB is a means to an end.