Course Overview

The sequence stratigraphic method was developed to support geoscientists with the geologic interpretation of subsurface data. This method is utilized to predict the presence of play elements and to assess their quality and validity before drilling. Sequence stratigraphy is applied to core, outcrop, well logs as well as 2- D and 3-D seismic data across all depositional environments.

This course reviews definitions and terminology of surfaces and systems tracts and introduces the sequence stratigraphic hierarchy. Training exercises and datasets are thoroughly discussed, and participants interpret subsurface data in terrestrial, shallow marine, and deep-marine depositional settings within a sequence stratigraphic framework across siliciclastic and carbonate depositional settings. Based on the sequence stratigraphic method, the recognition and mapping of play elements from exploration to production scales is emphasized in this course.

Applications through the lectures and exercises include the recognition, interpretation, and mapping of key play elements of energy systems (source rock, reservoir, seal, and trap). This workshop presents a methodology to predict the presence, distribution, and quality of play elements and to perform pre-drill estimates for exploration, appraisal and well development. During the exploration stage, the workflow focuses on identifying play elements on seismic lines and integrating well information. The exploration, appraisal, and production stages in the course place emphasis on play element distribution and trapping styles from shelf to deep-water settings. Primary goals for the production stage include describing reservoir connectivity and continuity as well as identifying flow baffles and barriers.

Through the exercises, students will learn:

• The concepts of facies stacking and shoreline trajectories to define parasequences, surfaces and systems tracts.
• Create tectono-stratigraphic interpretations and basin charts.
• Utilize the sequence stratigraphic method to map play elements in different depositional environments.
• Employ method and concepts in sequence stratigraphy to define hydrocarbon plays and prospects.
• Conduct high-resolution reservoir mapping across depositional settings.
• Predict play element risk and quality.
• Estimate net-to-gross and reservoir connectivity.
• Map reservoir flow units at production and injection temporal and spatial scales.