Is there a minimum time following an order for forced pooling and completion or first sale from production? can such a well just be set aside until the value of production increases to a satisfactory level?
No, there is no minimum time as far as I know. May depend upon state regulations. Operators generally want to get a well into pay as soon as possible to begin to recoup their expenses of drilling. They may need to get a pipeline laid if there is gas.
Not sure what state you are working with, but in Oklahoma, pooling orders have a term in days stated in the order, which the operator must commence operations prior to, or the order expires. Then the pooling order continues in full force and effect so long as the well is pursued with due diligence and production is maintained from that spacing unit.
Without more details its hard to say if the well is shut-in like M_Barnes mentions or something else is involved.
i am specifically looking at 4 wells in Lea Co NM. that MRC Permium is force pooling 4 wells in T25S R36E SEC 17 S2N2 AND NENE NMPM. With WTI dropping below $60, will the operator want to continue the pursuit of some very expensive wells? I selected to pass on participation so my interest is as a MA owner with a good royalty interest. I would like to see a nice cash flow when the wells are completed. The one, 2 section well completed in that section is a already good producer so I have a more than casual interest.
It depends upon the operator and their breakeven costs. Some will go ahead with plans because it fits into their overall portfolio plan and they still need revenue coming in. Some will drill while prices are low and wait to complete until a more favorable time. Depends upon whether there is a gas pipeline that can take away the associated gas. If you already have a high functioning well, then the infrastructure is in place and that may help the economics.