Course Description:

This course covers both fundamental and advanced methods of subsurface mapping that have been used by the most proficient exploration and development geoscientists in the industry, as well as an introduction to some of the more recent advances in interpretation. Mapping techniques, examples and exercises for extensional and compressional tectonic settings are the core of the course. Diapiric and strike-slip faulted structures are also discussed. In addition, volumetric mapping is presented as well as some of the numerous pitfalls in reservoir volume determinations using isochore maps.

Course Objectives:

By the end of this course, the participant will be able to:

1. Understand the application of different hand contouring and the pitfalls of selected computer contouring methods
2. Capability of integrating fault data from well logs and seismic data
3. Generate fault surface interpretations and maps
4. Understand the construction and application of various types of cross sections
5. Generate net pay isochore maps for both bottom and edge water reservoirs

Course Outlines:

1. Methodology of mapping
2. Contouring and contouring techniques
3. Directionally drilled wells and directional surveys (applications to mapping)
4. Log correlation techniques for vertical and deviated wells (applications to mapping)
5. Integration of geophysical data in subsurface mapping
6. Cross section construction for extensional, compression strike-slip and diapiric tectonic settings
7. Fault surface mapping using well log and seismic data
8. Structure mapping in extensional, compression, strike-slip and diapiric tectonic settings
9. Isochore map construction (bottom water and edge water reservoirs)
10. Net sand and pay correction factors for directionally drilled wells
11. Structure vs. porosity top mapping
12. Walking wells
13. Fault wedge mapping
14. Pitfalls of computer generated maps
15. Volumetric calculations
16. Isopach map construction

Who Can Benefit?

Geologists, geophysicists, engineers, managers and support staff involved in exploration or development.