December 2012 Outcrop by The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

OUTCROP Newsletter of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

Birds & Mammals Dead Dinosaurs Dinosaurs

Volume 61 • No. 12 • December 2012

Improve Your Logging Skills PTTC January Workshops Basic Well Log Interpretation

Monday-Wednesday, January 28-30, 2013, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Colorado School of Mines, Ben Parker Student Center Ballroom DE Fee: $650, includes food at breaks, class notes, and PDH certificate Instructor: Dr. Dan Krygowski, The Discovery Group, Denver, CO Limit: 60 persons Synopsis: The course assumes no logging knowledge, and seeks to establish an understanding of basic petrophysical measurements and interpretation techniques which can be applied to routine tasks, and upon which more complex and advanced information and techniques can be built. The course:  Offers a “hands-on” approach to basic openhole well log analysis and interpretation;  Focuses on the traditional interpretation targets of lithology, porosity, and fluid saturation;  Introduces a variety of interpretation techniques in the context of the availability of newer, more extensive, data;  Is organized by the targets, or goals of the measurements, rather than by the physics of the measurements. The course strives to provide a strong and coherent foundation for the understanding of other specialized interpretation techniques involving well log data, which are not covered here. Course topics include:  An overview of petrophysical well log data acquisition;  Description of correlation/lithology, porosity, and resistivity measurements;  Determination of lithology, porosity, and fluid saturation from logs;  Interpretive techniques, both algorithmic and graphical, using logs individually and in combination;  Interpretation exercises to reinforce the interpretation methods that are covered. Length: Three days Equipment needed: Calculator with exponent functions, straight-edge, pencil or pen. Topics for each of the log measurements follow the same sequence and information: Interpretation goals Physics of the measurement, including the volume of investigation Operational parameters; conditions under which the measurement is best made Measurement names; tool and curve names from different vendors Log example; usually in the context of other measurements Interpretation details; details of the measurement goals Secondary effects: the environments and assumptions which affect the measurement and its interpretation Environmental corrections Quality control An exercise related to the primary interpretive goal

Petrophysics of Unconventional Reservoirs

Thursday –Friday, January 31-February 1, 8:30 AM-5:00 PM Colorado School of Mines, Ben Parker Student Center Ballroom C Fee: $450, includes food at breaks, class notes, and PDH certificate Instructors: Robert Cluff, The Discovery Group, Inc.; Michael Holmes, Digital Formation, Inc. Limit: 40 persons The course will cover the petrophysical approaches to the evaluation of Shale Oil, Tight Gas Sands, and Shale Gas Techniques using both open and cased hole logs. Attendees will learn basic interpretation procedures to determine porosity, hydrocarbon saturation, TOC, volumes of in-place hydrocarbons, recoverable hydrocarbon estimates, and net pay criteria. Worked examples from a number of North American reservoirs will be part of a comprehensive workshop manual to be provided to all attendees.

Class Descriptions and Register Online: www.pttcrockies.org For more information, contact Mary Carr, 303.273.3107, mcarr@mines.edu

Vol. 61, No. 11

December 2012

OUTCROP Newsletter of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

CONTENTS Features

6 Lead Story: The Robert J. Weimer Distinguished Endowed Chair in Sedimentary and Petroleum Geology at the Colorado School of Mines 7 Orion Skinner Wins Luncheon Speaker of the Year! 7 Making Sound Decisions 24 CHECK IT OUT!

Association News 9 ATTENTION ADVERTISERS! 10 Call for Papers: The Mountain Geologist 21 RMAG 2012 Summit Sponsorship

22 Making Sound Decisions, 3D Seismic Symposium Call for Papers 27 Membership Notice 27 RMAG Office Closure

Departments 4 RMAG October Board

of Directors Meeting 12 Luncheon Program 19 President's Column 23 New Members 29 In the Pipeline 30 Advertisers Index 30 Calendar of Events

COVER PHOTO Up close and personal with the T/K boundary at Trinidad Lake, Colorado. Photo by Dan Morris.

Volume 61 • No. 12 • December 2012

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www.rmag.org

RMAG October Board of Directors Meeting

By Kimberley Alanis, Secretary (Kimberley.Alanis@vantageenergy.com) The Board of Directors meeting was held on October 17, 2012 at the RMAG office. The meeting began with an update of the RMAG Foundation from Jim Huck. Our treasurer followed Jim’s update with a report on RMAG’s September income and expenses. RMAG will end its fiscal year with a strong financial report. Staffing of the RMAG office is expanding. Carrie Veatch started working for the RMAG on October 15th as Office and Programs Manager. The BOD is very happy to have her on board. Our office staff has also been busy cleaning and rearranging the offices. If you have not stopped by the RMAG office in a while, it might be worth your time to welcome our new employees and see what they have been up to. The office looks amazing. The Continuing Education Committee has had a very busy year putting together many events and is in the process of putting together more great events next year. Please keep an eye out for these events and speakers.

One issue that has come to the attention of the board is about registration. For events that include lunch, please be sure to register early as you will not be guaranteed a lunch if you register the day of the event. The Publications Committee would like to welcome a new editor to The Outcrop, Cheryl Whitney. The Mountain Geologist has several papers in review for future publications. The BOD did make a motion and approved the Mountain Geologist becoming digital starting next year. The Oil and Gas Fields of Colorado is looking for a financial sponsor to help with the production of this publication next year. Please contact if the RMAG office if you are interested in helping. I hope everyone enjoyed the Rockbuster’s Ball that was held on November 17th at the Columbine Country Club. The November Board of Director’s meeting was held on Thursday, November 15th at the University Building conference room on the 11th floor. The December meeting is planned to be held as a joint meeting with the 2013 incoming Board of Directors on December 7th at the Marriott City Center.

If you have not stopped by the RMAG office in a while, it might be worth your time to welcome our new employees and see what they have been up to. The office looks amazing.

For events that include lunch, please be sure to register early as you will not be guaranteed a lunch if you register the day of the event.

Vol. 61, No. 11

December 2012

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The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists 910 16th Street • Suite 1125 • Denver, CO 80202 • 303-573-8621

The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists (RMAG) is a nonprofit organization whose purposes are to promote interest in geology and allied sciences and their practical application, to foster scientific research and to encourage fellowship and cooperation among its members. The Outcrop is a monthly publication of the RMAG.

2012 Officers and Board of Directors RMAG Staff

Executive Director Emily Tompkins etompkins@rmag.org Office & Programs Manager Carrie Veatch, MA cveatch@rmag.org Accountant Carol Dalton cdalton@rmag.org

Co-Editors

Kristine Peterson k.peterson@laramidegeo.com Holly Sell hsell@nobleenergyinc.com

President – Pete Varney pete.varney@alumni.mines.edu

Treasurer – Larry Rasmussen larryr@whiting.com

President-Elect – Debra Higley-Feldman higley@usgs.gov

Treasurer Elect – Mike Kozimko mkozimko@yatespetroleum.com

Secretary – Kimberly Alanis Kimberley.alanis@qepres.com

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Cheryl Whitney cwhitney@laramidegeo.com Debbie Downs debradowns@att.net

Wednesday Noon Luncheon Reservations

RMAG Office: 303.573.8621 Fax: 303-628-0546 staff@rmag.org www.rmag.org

Counselor (2 Year) – John Ladd john.ladd@fmr.com

2nd Vice-President – Greg Anderson ganderson@samson.com

Catherine Campbell ccampbell@bayless-cos.com

Design/Production

Counselor (1 Year) – Mark D. Sonnenfeld sonnenfeld@whiting.com

1st Vice-President – Paul Lillis plillis@usgs.gov

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Advertising rates apply to both black and white ads and 4 color ads. Submit color ads in RGB color to be compatible with web format.

ADVERTISING

Borders are recommended for advertisements that comprise less than one half page. Digital files must be PC compatible submitted in .png, jpg, tif or eps formats at a minimum of 150 dpi. If you have any questions, please call the RMAG office at 303573-8621.

HELPFUL HINTS

Ad copy, signed contract and payment must be received before advertising insertion. Contact the RMAG office for details.

PROFESSIONAL CARDS Will be actual size.

Both black and white, and color art will be accepted. If you are submitting digital files, please save in the PC format. Minimum resolution for jpg, tif, pdf or eps files is 150 dpi. Simple line art and photographs provide helpful illustration. Borders are recommended on large copy. An advertising agreement will be sent to you.

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DEADLINES: ad submissions are the 1st of every month for the following month's publication. The Outcrop is a monthly publication of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists 910 16th Street, Suite 1125• Denver, CO 80202

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LEAD STORY The Robert J. Weimer Distinguished Endowed Chair in Sedimentary and Petroleum Geology at the Colorado School of Mines Dr. Bob Weimer, Colorado School of Mines Professor Emeritus, was recently honored at a reception where it was announced that a new Distinguished Endowed Chair in Sedimentary and Petroleum Geology was dedicated in his name at the school’s Department of Geology and Geological Engineering. The gathering was held at Mines at President and Mrs. Bill Scoggins’ home on September 29 and attended by Dr. Weimer; his partner of 64 years, Ruth; sons Tom, Paul and Carl; several grandchildren; and many former students, friends and colleagues. Dr. Weimer provided a few words at the reception, including a phrase he has often repeated: “What greater joy can one have than to know that your work has had an impact on people’s lives?” Dr. Weimer’s grandchildren even thought the dedication was “totally awesome.” The Distinguished Endowed Chair was created to acknowledge Dr. Weimer fo r h i s m o r e t h a n 5 5 years of contributions to Colorado School of Mines and the broader geological community. Dr. Weimer has been the recipient of numerous awards for his visionary Rocky Mountain stratigraphic research and for providing a strong positive influence on countless students and fellow geoscientists with whom he has generously and humbly shared his expertise. The idea for the Weimer

Left to right, Dr. Steven Sonnenberg, Dr. Bob Weimer and Ruth Weimer.

The Distinguished Endowed Chair was created to acknowledge Dr. Weimer for his more than 55 years of contributions to Colorado School of Mines and the broader geological community.

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Distinguished Endowed Chair was conceived by Chuck Shultz, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Dauntless Energy, Inc. (Professional Degree in Geology and Geological E n g i n e e r i n g ‘ 61 ) a n d brought to reality by Steve Sonnenberg, Professor and Charles Boettcher Distinguished Chair in Petroleum Geology (Ph.D. Geological Engineering ‘81), both former students of Dr. Weimer. Funding for the endowed chair had already reached $2.5 million by

December 2012

Lead Story Please consider support for the Weimer Distinguished Endowed Chair and join those who have honored Dr. Weimer in recognition of his many contributions to Rocky Mountain geology. Information on how to provide support is available by contacting Alexis Wooll (awooll@mines.edu) at the Colorado School of Mines Foundation.

the reception date, due to generous support provided by appreciative former students and a few corporate sponsors. The especially generous support of Erika Lockridge and John Lockridge, President, Mountain Petroleum Corporation (Professional Degree in Geology and Geological Engineering ‘52) was crucial in quickly achieving the $2.5 million goal.

Orion Skinner Wins Luncheon Speaker of the Year! On October 3, 2012, Orion Skinner of Whiting Petroleum gave a talk entitled “Sweet-spots within the Bakken Petroleum System producing from the Sanish/ Pronghorn Member NOT the Middle Bakken or Three Forks!” It was a very interesting and thorough look at the exploration geology with focus on core-based study

of sedimentology and stratigraphy that was applied to the play. RMAG reviewers judged his presentation to be the best of the preceding year, and RMAG is pleased to award Orion with Luncheon Speaker of the Year! Congratulations Orion and thanks to all the speakers and reviewers that gave their time.

Making Sound Decisions

3D Seismic Symposium Set for Tuesday March 5, 2013 Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel The 19th annual 3D Seismic Symposium, jointly sponsored by the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists and the Denver Geophysical Society, will be held on Tuesday, March 5th, 2013 at the downtown Sheraton Hotel in Denver, Colorado. This year’s theme is “Making Sound Decisions.” The meeting’s co-chairmen are David Scolman and Jim Thorson. Abstracts are currently being submitted to the symposium committee, and a strong collection of presentations is currently under review. The submitted papers include contemporary topics for the Niobrara, Bakken, and Mancos unconventional reservoirs within the Rocky Mountain region. Additional topics under consideration include 3D Seismic Attributes, Geomechanics, Microseismic, conventional plays, and examples involving analog unconventional plays – from the Rockies and across the USA.

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We are moving the 3D Seismic Symposium to the downtown Sheraton this year. As some of you know, last year we sold out of conference tickets and vendor booths at the downtown Marriot. At the new venue, we will be able to offer tickets to more than 2000 participants. Also our vendor area is greatly expanded to offer more companies the opportunity to show Rocky Mountain geologists and geophysicists their latest products. The vendor area will be much more integrated with the main conference area. Mark your calendar for March 5th, and make plans to join us for what will no doubt be a great day of presentations on the very latest trends and concepts our industry has to offer. For more information, please contact co-chair Jim Thorson at jim.thorson@ catamountexploration.com, or visit the website at www.3dseismicsymposium.com.

www.rmag.org

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…and more to come! (Four concurrent sessions each day – mix and match according to your interests and training needs. Buffet lunch and refreshments included each day.)

Small AAPG Bookstore open during breaks each day

Tuition for the week:

Price through 1/16/2013

AAPG Members..........................$1795 Non Members ............................$1895 Individual Courses ....................$475/day

Price increase after 1/16/2013

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(Your five-day badge can be transferred to a friend or colleague if you can't attend all five days.)

SAVE Vol. 61, No. 11

AN AAPG MEMBER $ 200 BYANDBECOMING REGISTERING BEFORE JAN. 16

December 2012

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Outcrop Ads

Geologic Art Show

The editors invite the artists of RMAG to submit a picture of their geologic art (jpeg or tiff, 300 dpi or greater). Send along a caption with an explanation of the subject matter and media details, when created, and why. The best submissions will appear in a future issue in our “virtual art show.” cwhitney@ laramidegeo.com

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Take advantage of the transition we made from offering the printed Outcrop to now posting it on the web.

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Contact the RMAG office today for more information! RMAG Office: 303-573-8621

Fax: 303-628-0546 staff@rmag.org • www.rmag.org Executive Director Emily Tompkins etompkins@rmag.org

Office & Programs Manager Carrie Veatch, MA cveatch@rmag.org

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CALL FOR PAPERS

THE MOUNTAIN GEOLOGIST ATTENTION

Geologists, Earth Science Professors and ATTENTION Geologists, Earth Science Professors and Graduate Students Graduate Students... Publish your Paper in The Mountain Geologist! ATTENTION Geologists, Earth Science Professors and Graduate Students ATTENTION Geologists, Earth Science Professors and Graduate Students your Paper in The Mountain Geologist!on Publish The Publish Mountain Geologist is RMAG’s peer-reviewed, quarterly journal. It focuses your Paper in The Mountain Geologist!

the geology of the Rocky Mountain area of the United States and related topics from The Mountain Geologist is RMAG’s peer-reviewed, quarterly journal. It focuses on

The Mountain Geologist is RMAG’s peer-reviewed, journal. on fromarea outside the Rocky Mountain area. quarterly We the accept manuscripts almost every subgeology of It thefocuses Rocky Mountain of the United States and related topics from the geology of the Rocky Mountain area of the United States and related topicsMountain from area. We accept manuscripts from almost every suboutside the academia Rocky discipline in the geosciences, from authors in and industry. outside the Rocky Mountain area. We accept manuscripts fromdiscipline almost every subin the geosciences, from authors in academia and industry. discipline in the geosciences, from authors in academia and industry.

Share your ideas, experience and wisdom! The Mountain Geologist circulates to over Share your ideas, experience and wisdom! The Mountain Geologist circulates to over 2200 members andto about Share your ideas, experience and wisdom! The Mountain Geologist circulates over200 university libraries and industrial associates. It has been 2200 members and about 200 university libraries andsince industrial associates. It has been published by RMAG 1964. 2200 members and about 200 university libraries and industrial associates. It has been by1964. RMAG since 1964. published bypublished RMAG since Please email manuscripts or suitability questions to Joyce Trygstad Nelson at jtpetr@aol.com or Mel Klinger mel.klinger@fidelityepco.com . Manuscripts must be

in accordance with The Mountain Geologist Authors Style Guide, available online Please email manuscripts or suitability questions to Joyce Trygstad Nelson at Please email manuscripts or suitabilitywritten questions to Joyce Trygstad Nelson at jtpetr@aol.com or Mel Klinger mel.klinger@fidelityepco.comat. www.rmag.org. Manuscripts must be jtpetr@aol.com or Mel Geologist KlingerAuthors mel.klinger@fidelityepco.com . Manuscripts must be written in accordance with The Mountain Style Guide, available online at www.rmag.org. written in accordance with The Mountain Geologist Authors Style Guide, available online

at www.rmag.org.

Publish Your Paper in The Mountain Geologist! Vol. 61, No. 11

December 2012

Wyoming State Geological Survey

Wyoming State Geological Survey Shirley Basin Uranium Mine and the Development of the Roll-Front Model of Uranium Ore Occurrences By R.V. Bailey and Robert W. Gregory Includes CD with colored maps and cross sections. $15 (US) Online Store www.wsgs.uwyo.edu

Or email: wsgs.sales@wyo.gov

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Luncheon Program – December 5th

Trends in 3D Seismic Activity in Western Kansas 1998-2011 By William A. Miller, CPG, Miller Consulting Services/MCS Energy Interests, LLC

Typical models at present are not too large (several millions grid cells) and the subsurface is represented by relatively simple structured meshes.

The use of 3D seismic has become a common exploration tool in Kansas since the emergence of the technique on the Kansas scene in the mid to late 1990’s. Much of the 3D activity has involved small 3D’s shot by Kansas independent operators in Western Kansas. This presentation takes a look at trends in 3D seismic activity in Western Kansas since 1998 and examines the impact on exploratory drilling activity and success rates over the same time period. The pre-1998 exploratory drilling activity and success rates are also examined in an attempt to quantify the impact that 3D seismic has had on Western Kansas exploration. The study area comprises the 62 Kansas counties having western ranges. There is no central clearing house or database in Kansas that accurately accounts for and tracks 3D seismic activity, so the first challenge of this type of study was to establish a database that would be a meaningful indicator of the trends of activity recognizing that not all of the surveys shot in Western Kansas could be accounted for. Fortunately, a single seismic data processor, Sterling Seismic Services of Littleton, Colorado, had an established database for over 2300 3D seismic surveys they had processed since 1998, and this proved to be a very useful indicator of trends in Western Kansas activity. In order to respect client confidentiality, only the county and year shot for a specific 3D were provided. Drilling activity statistics were derived from the IHS well database to which the author subscribes, though this information is also readily available from the Kansas Geological Survey website. Both exploratory and development wells were examined, and the exploratory statistics included both shallower and deeper pool drilling in addition to new field and outpost drilling as defined by the Lahee classification. Figure 1 shows the drilling activity plotted with 3D seismic processing activity and other information such as oil price and oil and gas production in Western Kansas. Continued on page 14 »

Luncheon ReseRvations Rvations & infoRmation R Luncheons will be held at the Marriott City Center at California and 17th St. Please check the event listing in the lobby for the room. People gather at 11:30 a.m., lunch is served at 12:00 noon, and the speaker presentation begins at about 12:20 p.m. The price of the luncheon is $30.00. Checks should be made payable to RMAG. No reservation is required for the talk only and the cost is $5.00. Please make your reservation prior to 10:30 a.m. on the Monday before the luncheon. Please Note: If you make a reservation and do not attend the luncheon, you will be billed for the luncheon. Cancellations are not guaranteed after 10:30 a.m. the Monday before the talk. You may send someone in your stead.

Your attendance is welcomed and encouraged. Bring a guest or new member!

Vol. 61, No. 11

Call 303-573-8621 December 2012

Luncheon Program

Figure 1. These graphs compare exploratory and development success rates in W. Kansas with the level of 3D activity from 19902011 (top). While development success rates were relative constant, there was a noticeable increase in exploratory success around 2000 that appears to relate to increased 3D seismic activity. The number of development and exploratory wells and oil prices are presented over the same time period (middle), as well as the oil and gas production in W. Kansas (bottom). Oil production was certainly positively impacted by the increased activity levels. OUTCROP

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Luncheon Program Continued from page 12

As shown on the top graph, the development success rate in Western Kansas has been very steady at 70-75% from 1990 to 2011. The exploratory success rate jumped noticeably in 2000 and has maintained this success rate all over a period of time when 3D seismic activity was increasing rapidly. The number of exploratory wells declined steadily from 1990-1999 but has increased steadily since. Development drilling has been increasing markedly since 2003 and seems to correlate to the rapid increase in oil prices over the same period. Western Kansas oil production declined steadily from 1990 but reversed the decline starting in 1999 and held steady through 2006 after which it has been steadily increasing. The 3D and exploratory drilling activity in Western Kansas from 1998-2011 are shown by county in the maps of Figure 2. The maps show the geographic distribution of this activity, and the most active 3D seismic counties saw high levels of exploratory drilling. Figure 3 shows in map form the exploratory

Development drilling has been increasing markedly since 2003 and seems to correlate to the rapid increase in oil prices over the same period. Western Kansas oil production declined steadily from 1990 but reversed the decline starting in 1999 and held steady through 2006 after which it has been steadily increasing.

Continued on page 16 »

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Vol. 61, No. 11

drilling success rates for the periods of 1990-1997 and for 1998-2011, and counties with high levels of seismic activity enjoyed increases in exploratory success rates between those p e r i o d s . N ote t h a t s o m e counties have inherently high exploratory success rates as show by the “pre-3D seismic” period of 1990-1997, and this is likely related to the nature of the geologic plays and number of producing reservoirs in those counties. The top map display of Figure 4 shows the difference in exploratory success rates by county between the period of 1990-1997 as compared to 1998-2011, and the counties with higher 3D seismic activity all enjoyed increases in exploratory success rates between the periods. The lower display of Figure 4 plots the difference in the explorator y success rates between the time periods against the total number of

December 2012

Luncheon Program

Figure 2. Map presentation of the number of 3Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s by county from 1998-2011 (top) and the number of exploratory wells drilled by county over the same time period (bottom). The most active 3D seismic counties saw high levels of exploratory drilling.

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Luncheon Program Continued from page 14

3D seismic surveys from 1998-2011. The amount of increase in individual counties can be an illustration of the relative effectiveness of the 3D data in various geologic play types. All of the counties showing a decrease in exploratory success rates between the time periods had low levels of 3D seismic activity. Note that some counties still enjoyed increases in exploratory success rates even at low levels of 3D seismic activity, and these generally are counties that had inherently higher exploration success rates likely related to the geologic play types.

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Vol. 61, No. 11

December 2012

Luncheon Program

Figure 3. Map presentation of the exploratory drilling success rates by county for the time period 1990-1997 (top) and the time period 1998-2011 (bottom). The counties with higher levels of 3D seismic activity enjoyed increases in exploratory success rates in the 1998-2011 period compared to pre-1998. Note some counties have inherently high exploratory success as shown on the 1990-1997 period, and this is likely related to the nature of the geologic play and number of producing reservoirs. Continued on page 18 Âť OUTCROP

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Luncheon Program Continued from page 17

Figure 4. The changes in exploratory success rates from the 1990-1997 time period compared to the 1998-2011 time period are shown in map presentation by county in the top display. The difference in success rates is plotted against the 3D seismic activity in the bottom graph. The counties with higher 3D seismic activity all enjoyed increases in exploratory success rates post-1998 compared to pre-1998. The amount of the increase in individual counties can be an illustration of the relative effectiveness of the 3D data in the various geologic play types. All of the counties showing a decrease in exploratory success rates between the time periods had low levels of 3D seismic activity. Note that some counties still enjoyed increases in exploratory success rates even at low levels of 3D seismic activity, and these generally are counties that had inherently higher exploratory success rates likely related to the geologic play types. Vol. 61, No. 11

December 2012

President’s Column By Pete Varney

Wrap up... Everything is increasing in cost. Because of this, the board has elected to increase the RMAG annual dues from 39 to 41 dollars per year. This is a five percent increase and is consistent with guidelines in the Constitution and Bylaws of the association. It may be necessary to do the same thing again next year...

Business first One of the most costly activities we have is the monthly luncheon – it consistently loses money. To help reduce the loss, it is necessary to increase the walk-in charge from the current $5 to $10, effective January 2013. At this time, there is no planned increase for those choosing to have lunch with the talk. As a further way of reducing operating expenses, the board has also decided to take the Mountain Geologist to digital format. As you know, most of the Mountain G archives are available on CD, so this is a logical continuation of the trend. The quarterly journal will be available to all members through our website at no charge, and available to non-members for a fee. For those who wish, an annual DVD compilation of the year’s papers will be available. Please note that on your dues notice, there will be a check box for receiving the annual compilation at an additional cost. You have no doubt noticed that we have added an additional staff member, Carrie Veatch. Emily

Tompkins is our Executive Director, Carrie is our new office manager, and Carol Dalton is our bookkeeper. This change in administration of RMAG should set us in good stead for the foreseeable future, and importantly, does not represent a significant increase in salaries compared to the preceding two years. The association’s finances are in good shape, and as I recently reported to RMS/AAPG, we are able to continue our support of all planned events and have the ability to expand what we offer to the membership.

As a further way of reducing operating expenses, the board has also decided to take the Mountain Geologist to digital format.

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now...it’s time to n thank thank folks folks for t their heir contributions The past two years have been game-changers for RMAG. The 2011 board under the guidance of Ira Pasternack made necessary changes to the organization and the 2012 board followed through to reach the present operating configuration. Continued on page 20 »

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President's Column Continued from page 19

special thanks Go to President-Elect Debra Higley for her untiring support of coming events planning and acting as a sounding board for many ideas. 1st VP Paul Lillis and the pubs committee for revising the by-laws and keeping our publications on track. 2nd VP Greg Anderson and the continuing education committee for luncheon programs, special speakers and events planning well into the future. Secretary Kim Alanis for her active input and for accurate and timely posting of the minutes of each board meeting. Treasurer Larry Rasmussen for much behind the scenes work over the past two years as well as assuring the accuracy of the associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financial situation. Larry was ably assisted this year by Treasurer-Elect Mike Kozimko. Our two counselors, Mark Sonnenfeld and John Ladd provided historical perspective and valuable guidance based on their previous experience on the board and with committees. John continues on to the 2013 board.

Vol. 61, No. 11

To all, I say THANK YOU for a job well done! You will see Debra, Mike and John as part of the 2013 board. Our periodic publications keep the membership informed and provide space for professional papers. Thanks to Kristine Peterson and her associates for producing the monthly Outcrop and to Joyce Trygstad Nelson and her fellow editors for keeping the quarterly Mountain Geologist on track. Finally, thank you to all the members of the association. My feeling is that RMAG is one of the finest geological associations in the land due in large part to the active involvement and support of the membership. Our committees produce some amazing results by voluntarily giving time and resources to our many activities and the results are outstanding. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a pleasure being your president for 2012. I congratulate the new board members and wish them the best in the coming year(s).

Pete Varney

December 2012

RMAG 2012 SUMMIT SPONSORS

> GEOSCIENCE SOFTWARE > CRITICAL INFORMATION > CONNECTED WORKFLOWS

CONNECTED AT EVERY TOUCH POINT ®

The IHS suite of geoscience software—which includes IHS Petra , Kingdom®, LOGarc™ and GeoSyn™—is designed to seamlessly connect to the industry’s leading source of critical Oil & Gas information, eliminating the need to move data manually from source to source and project to project. With this powerful new combination, users can streamline data transfer, enhance database performance HUK ZPTWSPM` WYVQLJ[ ZOHYPUN ;OL YLZ\S[& >VYRÅV^Z [OH[ JVUULJ[ SPRL UL]LY ILMVYL *VUULJ[LK ^VYRÅV^Z TLHU [OH[ 0/: J\Z[VTLYZ ZWLUK SLZZ [PTL SVVRPUN MVY KH[H and more time looking for the next big opportunity. It’s just one of the many ways that IHS helps to advance the decisions that advance the Oil & Gas industry.

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www.rmag.org

CALL Making For Sound Decisions Papers! Speaker Forms Due Monday December 10th

3D Seismic Symposium Tuesday March 5, 2013 Sheraton Downtown Denver Hotel

www.3dseismicsymposium.com Contact Co-Chair: Jim Thorson jim.thorson@catamountexploration.com

Sponsored by Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists & Denver Geophysical Society Vol. 61, No. 11

December 2012

New Members

Welcome to New Active Members... Kelly Zimmerman Kelly is a Geophysical Engineer with Dawson Geophysical Company. Simon Testa Simon works for QEP Resources. #BLLFO 5ISFF 'PSLT /JPCSBSB &BHMFGPSE (SBOJUF 8BTI 8PPECJOF 1FSNJBO )BZOFTWJMMF #BSOFUU 8PPEGPSE FUD

Jennifer White Jennifer works for Chesapeake. Mark Odegard Mark works for Whiting Il & Gas Corporation. Kaiwen Wu Kaiwen is a Project Geologist for Engergy Fuels Resources. Clinton Smith Clinton works for Weatherford Laboratories. Andrew Ingraham Andrew is a Lab Manager for Weatherford Laboratories. Jessica Franklin Jessica works for Noble Energy.

Casey Huff Casey works for Schlumberger.

DONOVAN BROTHERS INCORPORATED

• BROCHURES • NEWSLETTERS • POSTERS • BOOKS • LOGOS • FLYERS •

Wellsite Drilling Engineering • Well Plans • Geomechanics Formation Evaluation • Optimize Drilling Using Logs

Debbie Downs

Bill Donovan

Geologist • Petroleum Engineer • PE

• Graphic Design • Desktop Publishing • Proposal Production & Design

780 E. Phillips Dr. S. • Littleton, CO 80122 (720) 351-7470 (voice) • (303) 794-7470 (message) donovan@petroleum-eng.com www.petroleum-eng.com

OUTCROP

debradowns@att.net • 281.732.3220 • WRITING • EDITING • POWERPOINT • BINDER COVERS • ILLUSTRATIONS •

www.rmag.org

New Books

Great Holiday Gifts for the Geologist at Heart...

Groundwater for the 21st Century: A Primer for Citizens of the Planet Earth John A. Conners The McDonald & Woodward Publishing Company

The Whole Story of Climate: What Science Reveals about the Nature of Endless Change Kirsten E. Peters Prometheus Books

The Great Fossil Enigma: The Search for the Conodent Animal (Life of the Past) Simon J. Knell Indiana University Press

Vol. 61, No. 11

December 2012

A World of Rivers: Environmental Change on Ten of the World's Great Rivers Ellen Wohl University of Chicago Press; reprint edition

Coal Geology Second Edition Larry Thomas Wiley-Blackwell

OUTCROP

www.rmag.org

> GEOSCIENCE SOFTWARE > CRITICAL INFORMATION > CONNECTED WORKFLOWS

CONNECTED AT EVERY TOUCH POINT ®

Streamline data transfer and simplify project sharing with IHS geoscience software and critical O&G information.

Vol. 61, No. 11

Find out more at IHS.com/geoscience

December 2012

Membership Notice The office was notified that many of our members are still sending time sensitive material, such as registrations, to the rmagdenver@aol.com email address. This email address is no longer valid. Here is a list of the contact information as of December 1, 2011. General Email: staff@rmag.org Office: 303-573-8621 All Accounting: Carol Dalton, Custom Accounting Solutions, LLC, cdalton@rmag.org or cdalton@custom-accountingsolutions.com, 303573-8621 ext. 3. Please update your contact information accordingly. Thank you for your continued support! The RMAG Staff

LOCATION weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll lease it, permit it, gather it and sell it

The RMAG Office will be closed from December 24th through January 1st. your ideas - we make them happen LEASING - PERMITTING - DAMAGES - ROW

Happy Holidays to Everyone!

OUTCROP

303-279-0789 27

www.rmag.org

Vol. 61, No. 11

December 2012

In the Pipeline

December 4, 2012 DWLS Annual Party. Katie Mullen’s Irish Pub. December 5, 2012 RMAG Luncheon. Trends in 3D Seismic Activity in Western Kansas 1998 – 2011, William A. Miller, CPG, Miller Consulting Services/MCS energy Interests, LLC. December 13, 2012 DAPL/DGS/SPE Networking Happy Hour. Marlowe’s 4:00-6:30 p.m. December 13, 2012 DGS Holiday Luncheon. December 14, 2012 DIPS Luncheon. Speaker Tom Ahlbrandt. “Global Oil Markets.”

December 19, 2012 DAPL Holiday Luncheon.

H ILTER BY DEPT

ONLI

th u e l S Log are w t f o S

Saskatchewan

Bakken Studies

Manitoba

STUDY AREA

Montana North Dakota Wyoming

OWN THE LOG

CLUB WEB

South Dakota

Canadian Discovery Ltd. OUTCROP

N INTER

AD O L N DOW

CH R A E NE S

Canadian Discovery’s Three Forks Project confirms the excellent development potential of this impressive unconventional reservoir.

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6 MILLION LOGS

F SEARCH AND

Sanish/Three Forks

Contact Cheryl Wright to Subscribe 403.269.3644 | info@canadiandiscovery.com

www.mjlogs.com

ERED

North America’s Next Big Light Oil Resource Play

oil play types ranging from unconventional resource plays to more conventional subcrop plays are identified.

Logs Since 1971

EGIST R H T P E D

If you have any events that you would like to post in this column, please submit via email to Holly Sell at hsell@nobleenergyinc.com or to the RMAG office at rmagdenver@aol.com for consideration.

SYSTEMS

WEB CATALSOITE GUE

1-800-310-6451 www.rmag.org

Advertisers Index AAPG...........................................8

Discovery Group...................... 23

PTTC............................................2

BTA Oil Producers, LLC..............4

Geosteering............................. 23

Bowler Petrophysics............... 14

Horizontal Solutions Intl......... 27

Vista GeoScience, David Seneshen...................... 27

Breckenridge Expl. Inc........... 16

I.H.S.......................................... 26

Vista GeoScience, John V. Fontana....................... 10

Canadian Discovery................ 29

Imagination Specialist........... 23

Whitehead, Neil H., III............. 10

Core Lab.................................. 28

Karo, James C......................... 27

Decollement Consulting, Inc. 20

MJ Systems............................. 29

Wyoming State Geological Survey................... 11

Donovan Brothers Inc............. 23

Mazzullo Energy Corp............. 11

Wyotex Oil Company............... 28

December 2012

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

4 DWLS Annual Party

13 DAPL/DGS/

RMAG Luncheon Speaker: William A. Miller

SPE Networking Happy Hour DGS Holiday Luncheon

DIPS Luncheon

DAPL Holiday Luncheon

CHRISTMAS

Vol. 61, No. 11

RMAG Office Closed December 24 - January 1

December 2012