--> Abstract: Oil And Gas Exploration In Environmentally Sensitive Areas: Opportunities For Non-Invasive Geochemical And Remote Sensing Methods, by D. Schumacher; #90928 (1999).

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SCHUMACHER, DIETMAR
Geo-Microbial Technologies, Inc., Ochelata, OK

Abstract: Oil and Gas Exploration in Environmentally Sensitive Areas: Opportunities for Non-Invasive Geochemical and Remote Sensing Methods

The petroleum potential of environmentally sensitive areas, such as wetlands or national forests or national grasslands, is often poorly known due to restrictions limiting the use of conventional exploration methods like seismic surveys and exploratory drilling. One of these environmentally sensitive areas, the newly created Grand Staircase-National Monument (GSENM) in southern Utah, has recently been the focus of much discussion and some controversy. Studies of the petroleum potential of the GSENM indicate that it could be considerable, however, its true potential remains largely undocumented.

Surface geochemical and remote sensing methods can reliably detect and map the elevated hydrocarbon concentrations and hydrocarbon-induced changes commonly associated with undiscovered oil and gas accumulations. Such anomalies are present over several southern Utah fields, including Upper Valley field. Remote sensing methods enable rapid yet reliable screening of large areas for the presence of hydrocarbon-induced alteration of soils and vegetation. Non-invasive surface geochemical methods such as soil gas and microbial methods can effectively ground-truth remote sensing anomalies, as well as detect hydrocarbon microseepage where remote sensing methods may not be applicable. The results of such surveys of the GSENM (or other environmentally sensitive areas) can identify those regions with highest petroleum potential, thereby protecting the greater part of the area from more invasive exploration methods whose use would be focused on a small number of high potential sites.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90928©1999 AAPG Annual Convention, San Antonio, Texas