--> Abstract: Drunkards Wash Project: Coalbed Methane Production From Ferron Coals in East-Central Utah, by T. D. Burns and R. A. Lamarre; #90952 (1996).

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Abstract: Drunkards Wash Project: Coalbed Methane Production From Ferron Coals in East-Central Utah

Terry D. Burns, Robert A. Lamarre

The Ferron Sandstone Member of the Mancos Shale was deposited in a fluvial-dominated deltaic system, and represents an eastward thinning clastic wedge that was deposited due to regression of the Western Interior Cretaceous Seaway. Several types of deltaic deposits have been identified within the Ferron by Ryer and others, including delta front, delta plain, alluvial plain, distributary channel, and transgressive deposits.

The Ferron not only consists of fine-medium grained deltaic sandstones, but also contains coal beds of adequate thickness (7-48 feet) to warrant coalbed methane exploration. Subsequent to the drilling of a corehole for obtaining coal gas contents and confirming coal thickness, the Drunkards Wash Federal Unit, a 28,000 acre area just southwest of Price, was created.

Geologically, the Unit is located on the west flank of the San Rafael Swell, with beds generally dipping to the west at 2-3 degrees. Depths to the coal section in the area range from 1330 to 2350 feet.

Gas sales began in January, 1993. Currently, 82 wells are in production, averaging 37 MMCFD and 17,000 BWPD. Of these 82 wells, 8 have been on-line for only 1 month. Thirty-three of these wells have an average production age of 28 months and average approximately 660 MCFD per well.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90952©1996 AAPG Rocky Mountain Section Meeting, Billings, Montana