--> Paleogeomorphology of the Upper Arbuckle Karst Surface: Implications for Reservoir and Trap Development in Kansas, by T. R. Carr, N. L. Anderson, and E. K. Franseen; #90986 (1994).

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Abstract: Paleogeomorphology of the Upper Arbuckle Karst Surface: Implications for Reservoir and Trap Development in Kansas

Timothy R. Carr, Neil L. Anderson, Evan K. Franseen

Hampton, Hampton Northeast and Roland Southeast fields, small Arbuckle fields along the western flank of the Central Kansas Uplift, represent karst fracture-controlled dolomite reservoirs at the northern end of the Arbuckle-Ellenburger producing trend. These fields are classic examples of an unconformity trap and reservoir related to development of "mature" karst features. Reservoir and trap development in the Arbuckle and equivalent units are related to prolonged periods of subaerial exposure and karst that initiated with the Middle Ordovician Sauk-Tippecanoe cratonic sequence boundary, and continued up through the Early Pennsylvanian in areas, such as the Central Kansas Uplift. Examination of Arbuckle core from the area shows late-stage fracturing, brecciation and dissolution featur s that are consistent with karst development. An understanding of the detailed paleogeomorphology of the pre-Pennsylvanian exposure surface, based on close-spaced well control and seismic data, is critical to successful exploration and development. The widespread karst resulted in an Arbuckle terrain characterized by underground solution networks, disorganized surface drainage, and a surface topography characterized by a poorly organized hierarchy of closed depressions and highs resulting from solution and collapse (e.g., fractures, sinks, steepheads, uvalas, and half-blind valleys). Seismic control provides direct evidence of structural relief and closure at the Arbuckle level across Hampton Field, and is a valuable exploration and development tool. The seismic data provide insight into the effect of basement structure and erosional relief on the immediately overlying Cherokee sedimentation patterns and on differential compaction of post-Cherokee rocks across the pre-Pennsylvanian basement structure.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90986©1994 AAPG Annual Convention, Denver, Colorado, June 12-15, 1994