Ronald A. Riley and Mark T. Baranoski, Ohio Division of Geological Survey, Columbus, OH 43229

The Ohio Division of Geological Survey (ODGS) conducted a regional stratigraphic investigation of the Trenton-Black River interval in the Appalachian Basin, as part of an integrated, comprehensive study with the State geological surveys of Pennsylvania, Kentucky, New York, and West Virginia. The primary objectives of the ODGS were to define Trenton, Black River, Utica and equivalent lithostratigraphic units within a regional framework, model the depositional environment and basin architecture, and integrate these findings with the results of other tasks of the consortium to delineate potential areas of exploration interest. ODGS geologists generated a network of regional stratigraphic cross sections, interpreted geophysical logs and integrated with cores for regional mapping of selected Cambrian-Ordovician intervals, created generalized maps showing the major tectonic features and basin architecture during Middle Cambrian through Late Ordovician time, and constructed generalized facies maps for the Black River and Trenton/Point Pleasant equivalent strata.

The stratigraphic framework established in this investigation allowed lateral facies changes in the Trenton-Black River interval to be separated and mapped regionally for the first time. As deposition of these facies was tectonically influenced, detailed mapping of them is critical to understanding basin evolution and reservoir development. Trenton isopach and facies maps indicate that exploration potential exists along much of the depositional platform margin, especially where there are well-developed, clean carbonates. Stratigraphic work also indicates that in northwest Ohio some of the best hydrothermal dolomite (HTD) reservoirs are from the skeletal shoal grainstones that developed along the platform margin, while in New York, HTD reservoirs have been restricted to the Black River mudstones.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90059©2006 AAPG Eastern Section Meeting, Buffalo, New York