An integrated geological and geophysical approach to analyzing the hydrocarbon potential of the Spring Coulee, Alberta area

Lauren A. Ostridge, Robert R. Stewart

The University of Calgary holds the mineral rights to two sections of land in southern Alberta (sections 14 and 23, township 4, range 23 west of the fourth meridian) in the Spring Coulee Area. CREWES has undertaken an assessment of the hydrocarbon potential of the area. There are a number of oil and gas wells in the region, although none have been drilled on University lands. In January 2008, CREWES, in conjunction with Outsource, ARAM, and CGGVeritas, shot a 3C-2D seismic survey over the area. We are targeting several potential hydrocarbon-bearing horizons, in particular, the Mississippi Madison Zone. The seismic data are excellent and have been processed by several groups. We found at least two structural highs in the Mississippian zone. We also have access to a number of other seismic lines in the area which we are using to further develop our interpretation. From the information at hand, we have chosen two potential well locations in the south-central portion of section 23 and the north-northwestern side of section 14.