--> Abstract: Reservoir Characterization in the Development of a Deep Wilcox Gas Field, South Texas, by K. R. Helm and G. Van Swearingen; #90032 (2004)

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Reservoir Characterization in the Development of a Deep Wilcox Gas Field, South Texas

K. R. Helm1 and G. Van Swearingen2
1 Hurd Enterprises, Ltd., San Antonio, Texas
2 eSeis, Inc, Houston, Texas

Understanding the reservoir is critical to the success of any exploration and production project. The sooner an objective reservoir can be characterized, the more likely the success of the project. The use of seismically derived rock properties (lithology, porosity and fluids) can result in an earlier characterization of the reservoir.

The following case study will review the discovery, development and production of a recent deep gas field in the Wilcox trend of South Texas. The producing reservoir is found below 15,500 feet, requires large fracture stimulation and high completion well cost. Seismically derived rock properties have been used to characterize reservoirs and then compared to well results. The implications of using seismically derived rock properties in the initial exploration, discovery, and early development will be contrasted with the field’s history and results.

Successful exploration requires an integration of diverse factors. These are reservoir, structure, pore pressure, and economics. Seismically derived rock properties provide information on the first three factors over the prospect area, which can then be used in analyzing prospect economics before a field is discovered and during its development.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90032©2004 GCAGS 54th Annual Convention, San Antonio, Texas, October 10-12, 2004