Mendell Helium begins helium production in Kansas through M3 Helium’s Rost well, generating revenue from helium and natural gas liquids.
UK-based Mendell Helium, a company focused on helium exploration and production, has officially commenced helium output in Fort Dodge, Kansas, through a company it currently holds an option to acquire. This development represents a significant milestone in Mendell’s strategy to expand its footprint in the United States helium market.
The production is taking place at M3 Helium Corporation’s Rost 1-26 well, located in Kansas. M3 Helium is an independent helium exploration firm with a growing portfolio of assets in the region. Mendell Helium first announced in June 2024 that it had secured an option to purchase M3 Helium, which holds interests in six operational wells across Kansas. While the acquisition is not yet finalized, both companies have continued to collaborate closely. In September 2024, the firms mutually agreed to extend the acquisition option deadline until the end of November 2024, allowing Mendell additional time to complete due diligence and assess production results.
Current output from the Rost 1-26 well exceeds 100 thousand cubic feet of gas per day, highlighting the strong initial performance of the project. The gas, which contains a helium concentration of approximately 5.1%, is being compressed and stored in a tube trailer leased by M3 Helium for transportation and processing.
According to Nick Tulloch, CEO of Mendell Helium and Chairman of M3 Helium, production results from the well have met internal expectations. He noted that the site is currently generating over $1,600 worth of helium per day, a performance consistent with the company’s economic projections. Tulloch emphasized that these results validate Mendell’s strategic decision to enter the Kansas helium basin and underscore the commercial viability of the project.
Beyond helium, the Rost 1-26 well is also yielding natural gas liquids (NGLs), which hold additional commercial value. M3 Helium intends to implement separation processes to recover both helium and NGLs, maximizing resource utilization and overall profitability. At present rates, the company anticipates producing approximately two barrels of natural gas liquids daily, adding a steady supplementary income stream.
The startup of helium production marks an important operational step for Mendell Helium as it progresses toward establishing itself as a key player in the regional and global helium supply chain. The ongoing cooperation between Mendell and M3 Helium reflects the growing interest in domestic helium sources, particularly amid tightening global supply and rising demand for high-purity helium used in medical imaging, electronics, and aerospace applications.
If Mendell exercises its purchase option, the acquisition of M3 Helium could provide the UK-based company with a robust foundation for long-term growth and expansion in the North American market.
