ABSTRACT: Analysis of Horizontal Bakken Development
Jim Artindale
Geologic evidence suggests that a large portion of the 100 to 150 billion bbl of oil generated in the Bakken has been trapped resulting in an overpressured environment covering millions of acres. Petrographic information indicates that regional and interstitial forces have created widespread fracture systems.
This final part summarizes reservoir and production studies, which help to clarify the magnitude and potential of the Bakken reservoir. Although there is substantial evidence of a widespread, massive accumulation of oil reserves within the Bakken, the development of this prospect is primarily dependent upon understanding the in situ fracture systems. Reservoir data indicate the type, magnitude, and interconnectivity of the fracture systems. It is apparent from this information that the intensity of fracture spacing has generated regions of effective communication and common drainage. The size and implication of these pools is addressed. Finally, a summary of the horizontal wells drilled to date and an analysis of their azimuth and length of penetration are related to their productivit es.
AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91002©1990 AAPG Rocky Mountain Section Meeting, Denver, Colorado, September 16-19, 1990