Offshore staff

COURBEVOIE, France -- Total E&P USA Inc., was the high bidder on 20 deepwater exploration blocks in the Western Gulf of Mexico Lease Sale 200.

Total E&P USA Inc. will operate these blocks with a 100% working interest. Award of these blocks is subject to final approval by the Minerals Management Service.

Total E&P USA Inc. obtained 7 blocks in the Keathley Canyon area and 13 blocks in the Garden Banks area, each deepwater block spans 5,760 acres.

8/24/06