--> Abstract: The 3D Path to Successful Decisions in O&G Expenditures, by N. R. Lange and R. W. Pritchett; #90092 (2009)

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The 3D Path to Successful Decisions in O&G Expenditures

Nixon R. Lange and Ron W. Pritchett
Noble Energy, Inc., Denver, CO

A forward-looking tool, 3D seismic is becoming an accepted and valuable tool for controlling upstream O&G expenditures, including decisions about land and operations. As the price of oil escalates so do costs of services, acreage, personnel, and government regulations. The use of 3D seismic gives managers the ability to evaluate, plan, and change expenditures based on successful interpretation of 3D data.

Four decision paths to plan expenditures are presented. They are: 1) Risk Evaluation of Exploration Plays; 2) Evaluation of Acreage Holdings; 3) Evaluate and Optimize Production; 4) Minimize Surface Damage; and Unintended Opportunities

Six examples follow that use one or more of four ways that 3D can limit, control, and/or optimize expenses.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90092©2009 AAPG Rocky Mountain Section, July 9-11, 2008, Denver, Colorado