Bellatrix Exploration Ltd. has entered into a joint venture agreement with a Seoul Korea based company (JV Partner), to accelerate development of Bellatrix's extensive undeveloped Cardium land holdings in west-central Alberta. Under the terms of the agreement, the JV Partner will contribute 50%, or CDN$150 million, to a $300 million joint venture (the "Joint Venture") to participate in an expected 83 Cardium well program.

Under the agreement, the JV Partner will earn 33% of Bellatrix's working interest in the Cardium well program until payout (being recovery of the JV Partner's capital investment plus an 8% return on investment) on the total program, which is expected to occur prior to a maximum of 7 years, reverting to a 20% working interest after payout. The effective date of the agreement is April 1, 2013 but with the ability of the JV Partner to elect to invest in the wells drilled between January 1 up to April 30, 2013.

Certain conditions precedent are expected to be satisfied or waived by April 22, 2013 which is expected to enable closing to occur on or before April 30, 2013. Bellatrix will be required to provide a guarantee of the return of the JV Partner's capital investment of up to $30 million if not recovered within 7 years.

Tags: Bellatrix Exploration Ltd.