A method for locating casing string joints using a measurement while drilling tool is disclosed. The method includes deploying an MWD tool in a wellbore and measuring the magnetic field along a length of the wellbore. Changes in the magnetic field along the length of the wellbore are evaluated to determine the location of at least one casing joint. Embodiments of this invention may be advantageously utilized, for example, in sidetracking operations to avoid milling through a casing joint. Use of this invention may obviate the need for a separate wireline run to locate the casing joints.

 
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