The near-century-old site, La Cira Infantas, was able to realize its recent gains due to a campaign that began in September to drill 20 new wells and complete work on another 139 wells.

Operations began at the first well in La Cifra Infantas in 1918. It reached a peak output of 60,000 barrels per day in 1939, according to Ecopetrol, but that number fell to a mere 5,000 barrels per day by 2003.

In 2005, the company formed a partnership with Occidental Andina to implement new technology and well-drilling techniques that could revive the field. On its corporate website, the U.S.-based Occidental Petroleum characterizes the work as an “enhanced oil recovery project” to increase La Cifra Infantas’ production and reserves.

“This is the result of a joint effort by Ecopetrol S.A. and Occidental Andina based on the teamwork, dedication, and commitment of all,” said Norberto Díaz Rincón, a field manager for Ecopetrol.

Photo credit: Ecopetrol