The Stifflemire-1H flowed at an initial rate of 1066 barrels of oil equivalent per day with an 87% oil cut, after a 30-stage fracture stimulation.

Austin said this was significant for the Birch project.

“This result will lead to a significant increase of the proved oil and gas reserves contained within the Birch project,” the company said in a statement.

“Importantly, the company believes these reserves will be bankable and allow Austin to access debt capital for the future development of the property.”

The