ABSTRACT: Using Geographic Information Systems to Identify Sites for Oil Recovery

Michele M. Hluchy, Environmental Studies, Alfred University, Alfred, NY; Diana S. Sinton, Environmental Studies, Alfred University, Alfred, NY; Arthur M. Van Tyne, Van Tyne Consulting, Wellsville, NY

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is being constructed at Alfred University to study the six major Devonian oil-producing zones in the southwestern part of New York State. Data from well logs and reports are being entered into the GIS in order to locate areas that would be logical choices for further primary and secondary recovery drilling as well as tertiary activities.

Isopach and geologic structure maps of the Busti (Glade), Chipmunk, Bradford 2nd, Bradford 3rd, Richburg, and Fulmer Valley sandstones are being used to identify areas with the thickest units and best structural position for potential oil production. Available pertinent data (geologic, engineering, etc.) from wells located in those areas are being entered into the GIS. The GIS allows the user to construct maps of subsurface units bearing any relevant attributes designated. For example, if a producer is looking for sandstone units that have porosity and permeability greater than a particular value, thicknesses within a specific range, and high saturation indices, the GIS will query its database and identify the areas that meet those specific criteria. This system will be of great benefit to oil producers in New York because it will provide them with a relatively easy-to-use, yet tremendously powerful way to integrate and analyze the extensive amount of data that have already been collected from these oil-producing units. This information can then be used to identify potential sites for future oil production.

Search and Discovery Article #90907©2000 AAPG Eastern Section Meeting, London, Ontario, Canada