Providence Resources Inc., Austin, Texas, (OTCBB: PVRS) says it has begun drilling the Carson 10-1 exploration well in Val Verde County, Texas. The vertical well was spud on Jan. 2 and is expected to reach a total depth of 16,400 within two months of drilling.

The Carson 10-1 well is part of a two-well exploration program operated by Midland, Texas-based Elm Ridge Exploration Co. LLC. It is targeting the Ellenberger formation, a gas-bearing zone between 14,500- and 16,000 feet. Providence says it has identified more than 25 drilling targets from the evaluation of its 3D seismic data.

Providence has oil and gas interests in 12,832 gross acres in Val Verde County, Texas.