!! ATTENTION GEOLOGY DEPARTMENTS !!

EDITOR’S NOTE: A few months back, Bob Cowdery asked each of the state universities to write an update on the activities and programs in their respective Departments of Geology.  The only university to respond to this request was the University of Kansas.  I hope that after seeing this article, the other departments will respond in kind.  Please forward by mail to the KGS to my attention or e-mail to whansen@southwind.net

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Understanding Paleo-Stratigraphy with 3D Visualization & Volume Interpretation

 R. William (Bill) Keach II
Director Market Development 
Magic Earth

KGS Technical Meeting April 10, 2003

ABSTRACT

     3D seismic and new visualization techniques have dramatically improved our ability to understand paleo-stratigraphy.  In a single 3D display you can: 

1) see the exact location of a meander channel, 
2) see and understand the controlling structural elements, 
3) verify the accuracy of the seismic interpretation, 
4) see the location of previous exploration wells (and why they failed) and 
5) use the seismic character to guide deviated well planning efforts. 

     Effectively done, 3D visualization and volume interpretation result in not only faster decisions but better decisions made with a more accurate understanding. They also combine multiple disciplines including geology, geophysics and reservoir engineering. 

      This talk will review several case studies of how 3D visualization and volume interpretation techniques have brought new understanding of paleo-stratigraphy and depositional environments.  The economic impact on petroleum exploration is significant because it can drastically reduce the cost of exploration and development.  The process results in a quicker and more accurate understanding of the subsurface and paleo-depositional processes.  This then leads to more accurate stratigraphic models and ultimately to more efficient drilling of exploration and development wells.

     Bill is a geophysicist who has worked with geoscientists and interpreters from national and international oil companies around the world.   His main areas of focus are 3D visualization, volume interpretation techniques and technology.  This includes using 3D immersive environments to leverage the value of large scale 3D visualization for asset teams.  He earned an MS in Geophysics from Cornell University (1986) and a BS in Geology from Brigham Young University (1984).  He worked six years with Standard Oil Production Co. and British Petroleum on exploration play development in California and the Deep Water Gulf of Mexico.  He has been with Landmark Graphics/Magic Earth since 1992.  He is also a visiting Associate Professor of Geology at Brigham Young University for 2002/2003.

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Fifteenth Annual Oil Recovery Conference to be Held on March 12-13, 2003       The 15th Annual Oil Recovery Conference will be held on March 12-13 in Wichita at the Bank of America Auditorium (Lower Level) and the Petroleum Club.  The cost is $65.00 that includes the mixer on the evening of the 12th, technical sessions and lunch on the 13th, and a copy of the proceedings.

Workshop at Kansas Geological Survey Offers 6 CEU’s A workshop is being offered on March 21, 2003 in Lawrence.  The course is entitled “Reading the Rocks from Wireline Logs.”  This workshop compliments one that was offered on February 6th.  Course instructor is John Doveton.  The cost is $45.00.  Contact Lisa at 785.864.7398 for information and registration.