--> Abstract: Structure and Stratigraphy of the Hopedale Basin Offshore Labrador, Eastern Canada, by P. Fagan, B. Andre, and P. Laracy; #90096 (2009)

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Structure and Stratigraphy of the Hopedale Basin Offshore Labrador, Eastern Canada

Phonse Fagan1, Bernard Andre2, and Patrick Laracy1
1Vulcan Minerals Inc., St. John's, NF, Canada.
2Investcan Energy Corp, St. Johns, NF, Canada.

The Hopedale Basin is one of two large Cretaceous - Tertiary sedimentary depocentres located on the Labrador Shelf offshore eastern Canada, that were created by rift and post-rift processes associated with the opening of the Atlantic Ocean between Labrador and Greenland. Significant gas reserves (4.2 tcf recoverable) have been found in Cretaceous and Tertiary sandstones with pay sections ranging in thickness from 11 to 194 metres and with average porosities ranging from 11% to 20%, and within Paleozoic dolomites with pay sections ranging from 12 to 64 metres and average porosities ranging from 8 to 10 percent. Despite an impressive success rate of 31% of 16 exploration wells drilled during the 1970s and early 1980s, drilling ceased in the basin in 1983. However, a recent licensing round resulted in work commitment bids of Can$186.3 million for four parcels in the basin, indicating renewed interest in exploring the area.

In this study seismic, well, gravity and magnetic data were used to build on the work of previous authors and delineate the major structural features and stratigraphic sequences of the basin for the purpose of identification of petroleum prospects. Mapping indicates that the Cretaceous rift structure of the basin is characterized by a series of northwest trending horsts and grabens whose original syn-rift configurations have been modified by cross-cutting transfer faults that play an important role in the creation of structural traps. Significant seaward tilting occurred during the Tertiary favouring the updip migration of hydrocarbons to basin bounding stratigraphic and fault controlled plays, while preserving structural traps throughout the basin that had sufficient updip closure. Direct hydrocarbon indicators, including flat spots, are recognized and should prove effective in supporting a continued high level of exploration success. Proximity to the North American market, advancements in offshore development technologies and the results of recent research regarding the basin’s logistical challenges provide encouragement towards achieving commercial production.

 

AAPG Search and Discover Article #90096©2009 AAPG 3-P Arctic Conference and Exhibition, Moscow, Russia