Reduce drilling costs with this geomechanical analysis of horizontal drilling problems in the Ellerslie Formation of the Lower Cretaceous Mannville Group in west-central Alberta. Canadian Discovery used all available data to identify in situ stress, pore pressure and rock properties in and above the Lower Mannville and found opportunities to reduce completions risks and improve production. An analysis of drilling experience in the study area identifies geomechanics-related drilling events or problems, their causes and CDL’s recommendations to minimize or avoid such problems.