South Texas - An Integrated Approach to Exploration and Development

J. A. Bickley, M. T. Cisar, R. M. Stovall, G. M. Larberg

A redevelopment effort was initiated in the mid 1980's which focused on several key Shell, Vicksburg fields located in South Texas. Staffed by representatives from both E&P, the team capitalized on the technical strengths of both departments. Initial efforts focused on better understanding the Vicksburg system. This work provided significant insight into the complex structure, stratigraphy and reservoir distribution associated with the expanded, geopressured Vicksburg. The resulting structural, seismostratigraphic, diagenetic models and drilling results provided the impetus to begin acquisition of 3-D surveys over selected fields. As a result of this effort, and the technical advancements made in drilling and production engineering, production increases from these fie ds have been impressive. Additionally, the same geological models have suggested additional volume potential in previously condemned outlying Vicksburg arenas. A renewed exploration effort based on these concepts has yielded two new gas field discoveries to date.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91020©1995 AAPG Annual Convention, Houston, Texas, May 5-8, 1995