February 2018 Outcrop

OUTCROP Newsletter of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

Volume 67 • No. 2 • February 2018

2018 Summit Sponsors Platinum Sponsor

Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Foundation Energy

NORTH RANCH RESOURCES

OUTCROP | February 2018

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Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

OUTCROP The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

910 16th Street • Suite 1214 • 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.

2018 OFFICERS AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT

2st VICE PRESIDENT-ELECT

Terri Olson tmolson8550@gmail.com

Sophie Berglund sberglund@raisaenergy.com

PRESIDENT-ELECT

TREASURER

Tom Sperr tsperr@bayless-cos.com

Robin Swank robin.swank@gmail.com

1st VICE PRESIDENT

TREASURER-ELECT

David Katz davidkatz76@gmail.com

Eryn Bergin eryn.bergin@aec-denver.com

1st VICE PRESIDENT-ELECT

SECRETARY

Heather LaReau heatherthegeologist@gmail.com

Anna Phelps aphelps@sm-energy.com

2nd VICE PRESIDENT

COUNSELOR

Tracy Lombardi tracy.lombardi@inflectionenergy.com

Jim Emme jim_emme@yahoo.com

RMAG STAFF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Barbara Kuzmic bkuzmic@rmag.org MEMBERSHIP & EVENTS MANAGER

Hannah Rogers hrogers@rmag.org ACCOUNTANT

Carol Dalton cdalton@rmag.org PROJECTS SPECIALIST

Kathy Mitchell-Garton kmitchellgarton@rmag.org LEAD EDITOR

Cheryl Fountain cwhitney@alumni.nmt.edu ASSOCIATE EDITORS

ADVERTISING INFORMATION

Rates and sizes can be found on page 38. Advertising rates apply to either black and white or color ads. Submit color ads in RGB color to be compatible with web format. Borders are recommended for advertisements that comprise less than one half page. Digital files must be PC compatible submitted in png, jpg, tif, pdf or eps formats at a minimum of 300 dpi. If you have any questions, please call the RMAG office at 303-573-8621.

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

DEADLINES: Ad submissions are the 1st of every month for the following month’s publication.

Holly Sell holly.sell@yahoo.com Greg Guyer Greg.Guyer@halliburton.com Ron Parker ron@bhigeo.com DESIGN/LAYOUT

Nate Silva www.nate-silva.com

WEDNESDAY NOON LUNCHEON RESERVATIONS

RMAG Office: 303-573-8621 | Fax: 808-389-4090 | staff@rmag.org or www.rmag.org The Outcrop is a monthly publication of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

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Outcrop | February 2018 OUTCROP

RMAG February 2018

Short Course

At the De nve r Place 999 Eighteenth Street, Denver, Colorado 80202

Members: $175 Non-Member: $225 Student: $50

Edwin Moritz Valuing Upstream Oil & Gas Properties Course is a short primer that provides a practical understanding of appraisal methods and techniques applied by the market for acquisition of oil and gas interests. The course includes a discussion of standard appraisal concepts, value patterns in the market, commodity price analysis and consideration of risks. Course includes a practical case history.

Attendees are introduced to methods that are commonly used by market participants to value upstream oil and gas properties. The course includes an overview of upstream oil and gas activities and the range of possible oil and gas rights, such as royalties and working interests. The cost approach, comparable sales and income methods of valuation are presented. Various methods for adjusting value based on risk are covered. Course participants will increase their understanding of how market participants value upstream oil and gas property rights.

email: staff@rmag.org I phone: 303.573.8621 910 16th Street #1214, Denver, CO, 8020 OUTCROP | February 2018

web: www.rmag.org 4.______,_;;;;;;.,_

follow: @rmagdenver

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Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

OUTCROP Newsletter of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

CONTENTS FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

35 Lead Story: Geological adventures in the Arkansas River valley, central Colorado

8 RMAG January 2018 Board of Directors Meeting

ASSOCIATION NEWS

12 President’s Letter 18 Mineral of the Month: Talc

2 RMAG 2017 Summit Sponsors

26 RMAG Luncheon Programs: Cat Campbell

4 RMAG February 2018 Short Course

28 RMAG Luncheon Programs: David Schmude and Brian Berwick

6 RMAG/DAPL Geoland Ski Day

32 Welcome New RMAG Members!

9 RMAG April 2018 Short Course

32 In The Pipeline

13 Geo Train Trip to AAPG Ace, Salt Lake City

38 Outcrop Advertising Rates

15 2018 RMAG Golf Tournament 21 2018 Sporting Clay Tournament

40 Advertiser Index 40 Calendar

30 The Mountain Geologist: Best Paper Award for 2017

COVER PHOTO The Fisher Towers Trail is located south of Moab, Utah. The gentle trail follows alongside the steep cliffs of the Cutler and Moenkopi sandstones. Often, climbers can be seen dangling precariously off of the clifftops of the Fisher Towers. Photo

by Ryan Fountain.

30 2017 Best Talk of the Year 31 Petroleum History Meeting Coming to Salt Lake City 33 RMAG Foundation 2017 Donors

Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

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OUTCROP | February 2018

RMAG ♦♦ DAPL

GeoLand Ski Day

Friday, March 2, 2018

More Event Details:

https://dapldenver.org/event/dapl-rmag-geoland-ski-day-2018/ Ticket Type

Price

Party Bus & Party Bus & Lift ticket Lift ticket & Party WHOLE PACKAGE!

$65 $95 $100 $140 $160

*Double the Door Prizes* Now accepting sponsors - Submit Sponsorship: https://dapldenver.org/product/event-sponsorship/

Sponsorship Levels

Bus

$1,500+

Extreme Terrain

$1,000+

Double Black Diamond

$750+

Black Diamond

$500+

Nastar

$500+

Blue

$250+

Green

$100+

For 2018 sponsorship opportunities, contact one of the committee chairs:

DAPL Chairs ♦♦ Meg Gibson ♦ meg@majorsgibson.com ♦♦ Patsy Botts ♦ 303-925-0696 RMAG Chairs ♦♦ Tom Sperr ♦ tsperr@bayless-cos.com OUTCROP | February 2018

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Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

RMAG ♦♦ DAPL

GeoLand Ski Day

Thanks, Extreme Terrain 2017 sponsors!

[YOUR COMPANY HERE] For 2018 sponsorship opportunities, contact one of the committee chairs:

DAPL Chairs ♦♦ Meg Gibson ♦ meg@majorsgibson.com ♦♦ Patsy Botts ♦ 303-925-0696 RMAG Chairs ♦♦ Tom Sperr ♦ tsperr@bayless-cos.com Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

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OUTCROP | February 2018

RMAG JANUARY 2018 BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

By Anna Phelps, Secretary aphelps@sm-energy.com

OUTCROP | February 2018

be allowed for all technical and social events for an additional fee, and provided the event did not sell out online.

There have been a few luncheon speaker cancellations early this year that were out of RMAG’s control, but RMAG members Alexei Milkov, Cat Campbell, and David Schmude have stepped up to the plate to present. Thank you to Alexi, Cat, and David! Luncheon speakers are planned, or tentatively planned, for the rest of 2018. The Continuing Education Committee has a number of stimulating events planned for 2018. The SPE/RMAG “Big Chill” Happy Hour event took place on January 2018 (I enjoyed a margarita myself!). Registration is open for the February 8 “Valuing Upstream Oil and Gas Properties” Short Course with Edwin Moritz and the April 11-12 “Oil and Gas Law for Geologists” Short Course with Ralph A. Cantafio. The Membership Committee

Happy New Year! This is your new Secretary, Anna Phelps, signing on for duty. I’m looking forward to attending Board of Directors meetings and reporting back to all of you! Here is the recap from the January 2018 Board of Directors Meeting.

The January meeting of the RMAG Board of Directors was held January 17, 2017 at 4 PM. All board members except David Katz were present. Treasurer Robin Swank reported that December was an expected stub year month due to the fiscal year change, but that December expenses were typical for that month.

Executive Director Barbara Kuzmic reported that approximately 350 members are still in the grace period for membership renewal. The 2018 Summit Sponsorship is going well, and we welcome three new sponsor companies. RMAG event registration will change slightly in 2018, with registration opening immediately for technical and social events as they are announced. Additionally, day-of registrations will

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A t

t h e

D e n v e r

P l a c e

999 Eighteenth Street, Denver, Colorado 80202

Registration is open!

Register at www.rmag.org.

Member: $300 | Non-Member: $350 | Student: $150

April 11-12, 2018 Ralph A. Cantafio - Partner and Attorney

Abstract Petroleum geologists play a vital role in oil discovery, and a diverse cross-section of upstream activities, but often possess only a dim understanding of the often parallel legal process that is advancing simultaneously with the work being done by their professional counterparts. This short-course aims to provide a sound legal foundation to these scientists focusing on the issues that arise impacting the oil and gas industry.

Oil and Gas Law for Geologists will address essential factual, legal, regulatory, political and legislative issues to provide a more broad-based appreciation and awareness of these issues to equip the learner and his or her organization for more efficient business and work product management in light of the significant legal challenges that arise in the exploration and production of oil and gas. An objective of this class is to not make petroleum geologists into lawyers, but to provide a broader understanding of how the legal process impacts the identification and development of oil and gas assets.

This course will examine the legal theories upon what the oil and gas industry has utilized and applied, methods for acquiring developmental rights, review basic contracts and agreements customarily used in the oil and gas industry, analyze the fundamentals of oil and gas permitting, and examine the subtleties of property and mineral ownership. There will be considerable attention dedicated to reviewing and understanding legal theory, contracts, deeds, and a wide array of agreements typically used in permitting, the entitlement process, and development of oil and gas assets.

Students will be exposed to the essentials necessary for organizations to draft, negotiate, implement, and secure land-use approvals, lending the petroleum geologist a better appreciation as to how their discipline works into the greater scheme of the oil and gas industry. The instructor will provide case studies, use PowerPoint presentations, and allow for open discussion as learning tools used in this course.

Biography With an extensive history in law and knowledge of the Oil and Gas industry, Ralph practices oil and gas law in Alaska, Colorado, North Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming. Not only is Ralph a shareholder of a law firm, with offices located in Denver and Steamboat Springs, Colorado, that emphasizes oil and gas law, but he is also an adjunct professor teaching oil and gas related classes. Ralph currently teaches in the Global Energy Management Program at the University of Colorado Denver. Mr. Cantafio has also lectured foreign professionals, primarily from Nigeria and China, focusing on international oil and gas law, industry, as well as international natural resources law.

His education includes not only a Juris Doctorate from the University of Colorado School of Law, but a Master of Science in Mineral Economics from the prestigious Colorado School of Mines and a Master of Science in Global Energy Management from the University of Colorado-Denver, where he now teaches. With two professional oil and gas certificates in Petroleum Land Management and Energy Finance from the University of Denver, numerous professional affiliations and publications as well as numerous industry presentations, Ralph’s knowledge of the oil and gas industry is extensive.

email: staff@rmag.org | phone: 303.573.8621 Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org 910 16th Street #1214, Denver, CO, 80202

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fax: 888.389.4090 | | web: www.rmag.org OUTCROP February 2018 follow: @rmagdenver

RMAG JANUARY 2018 BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING colleagues to do the same. There are a lot of great technical and social events to attend, connections to make, and geology to enjoy in 2018! Stay warm out there!

As a post script, since most of our beloved outcrops are covered in snow this time of year, and I find myself spending more time day-dreaming about my favorite outcrops than getting my hands on them, let’s play Name that Formation and pretend we are out in the summer sun, with our hand lenses, on the outcrop!

This Mississippian Formation records cyclical sedimentation between thinly-bedded crinoidal wackestones interbedded with muddy siltstones. It outcrops as a thick section across most of the Rocky Mountain Region, my favorite outcrop is high in the Bridger Range of Montana. Name that formation!

Above is a photo clue. I will post the answer in my February write-up.

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2018 Mentorship Program has kicked off with pairing mentors and mentees. The Membership Committee is working on planning a number of fun events for 2018, including a Career Fair in April. There were $7,488 in publication sales in 2017 and Publications Committee reported that there are already 2 Special Publications in the pipeline for 2018. The On the Rocks Committee is stewing up some exciting and interesting trips this year with a large diversity of themes, so be sure to keep an eye out for those! The Science Educational Outreach Committee is gaining momentum and assembling PowerPoints, rock samples, and other materials. As mentioned in Terri’s President’s Letter this month, RMAG is creating a new Educational Outreach Committee and President-Elect Tom Sperr is going to initiate the public outreach effort.

In the New Year, I encourage you to attend more luncheons, sign up for a short course, go to a happy hour event, join a committee, and encourage your

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OUTCROP | February 2018

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Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

Upcoming PTTC Workshops Petroleum Geology for Non-Geologists

Tuesday, February 6, 2018, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Colorado School of Mines, Ben Parker Student Center, Ballroom E Fee: $250, includes food at breaks, class notes, and PDH certificate Instructor: Laura Wray

In this one-day course, lectures, discussions, and exercises will focus on the manner in which geologic concepts are woven together both factually and creatively in the search for accumulations of petroleum. More specifically, the class is designed to provide an overarching summary of basic petroleum topics and how they are used in the search for oil and gas. Topics to be covered include: • Reviewing the origin, formation, migration, properties, and emplacement of hydrocarbons • Understanding porosity and permeability for hydrocarbon migration and trapping • Reviewing basic logs used to identify reservoirs and the fluids within them • Previewing the role of creativity in correlating and mapping reservoirs in both structural and stratigraphic traps • Identifying rock types and depositional facies and how they are used to explore for hydrocarbon accumulations • Examining unconventional reservoirs – what are they, how do they differ from convention ones, and why have they become so important for the US production of both oil and gas • Summarizing the role of 2D and 3D seismic and microseismic information and the value of geosteering

Petroleum Engineering for Non-Engineers

Wednesday, February 7, 2018, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Colorado School of Mines, Ben Parker Student Center, Ballroom E Fee: $250, includes food at breaks, class notes, and PDH certificate Instructor: Dr. Jennifer Miskimins, Colorado School of Mines PE

This one-day short course provides a broad, basic understanding of various petroleum engineering topics for non-engineers.

The focus of the course is placed on the design, construction, stimulation, and production of wells. Specific topics discussed include the drilling of wells, rig types, wellbore integrity and design, completion types, casing and tubing definitions, downhole tools such as packers, formation damage, and stimulation including hydraulic fracturing. As the title implies, the course is designed for those who work in the oil and gas industry but do not have a technical background in subsurface topics.

Previous attendees that have found the course useful include landmen, technicians, accountants, financiers, and field personnel.

Applied Petroleum Geochemistry

Thursday, April 26, 2018, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Denver Place Conference Room, 999 18th Street, 80202 Denver, CO Fee: $250, includes food at breaks, class notes, and PDH certificate Instructors: Richard Patience & Joe Curiale

Applied Petroleum Geochemistry is a one-day course in the fundamentals and applications of petroleum geochemistry to exploration, development and production of oil and gas in both conventional and unconventional plays. It will be useful for those with no prior background in geochemistry, and for those who would like a refresher. The emphasis is on understanding the appropriate issues to consider at different points of the value chain, and how to go about addressing them. You will learn the reasons for using this discipline in the exploration phase, throughout appraisal from first discovery to completing field development, and as a troubleshooter and problem-solver once you begin production. You will not learn how to be a geochemist in this class – that takes at least two days!

The course begins with the why (the value-add) and how (the methods) of petroleum geochemistry, and proceeds to applications in all parts of E&P. We conclude with a discussion of new applications and the impact these are already having in the business. All participants are welcome to bring questions about your current projects (and even data, if you wish) for discussion at the appropriate places in the course.

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

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PRESIDENT’S LETTER

By Terri Olson

OUTCROP | February 2018

from sciencebuddies.org

fear tactics and social media to spread misinformation that succeed in rallying large groups of citizens, as seen recently in Weld County, Colorado, Niobrara wells.

It has become apparent that we can no longer expect facts to speak for themselves. It is incumbent on us as scientists to defend the scientific method and to communicate with the many non-scientists among us. Some of the things we can each do: 12

As scientists, we were taught to collect and evaluate factual data as a basis for drawing conclusions about how the world works. It seemed self-evident that everyone would have a similar, rational approach to understanding the natural world, and to using that understanding as a basis for supporting science to make life better. Scientific research as a basis for building better widgets, drilling cheaper more efficient wells, maintaining a healthy environment, and making advances in medical treatment is an obvious premise, right?

Events in the U.S. in the last year have shown that a frightening number of people don’t share this rational approach. Further, many demonstrate a lack of the skills required to analyze data and draw viable conclusions. Attacks on science and fact-based decision and policy making have become the norm in many areas of government. The general public seems readily swayed by emotional appeals over actual evidence. Protesting industry-related projects, notably “fracking,” has become popular, with environmental groups using

• Talk to friends and family about industry issues; many are curious and interested in the facts (as opposed to the hype often offered by the media, including social media) • Provide your senators and congressmen with facts and scientific data analysis, then hold them accountable for supporting good science-based policy

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Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

Geo Train Trip to AAPG Ace, Salt Lake City F r o m

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D e n v e r

May 2018

Departs at 8:05am Arrives at 11:05 pm

Travel to AAPG Ace 2018 in style! Join RMAG members on a train trip from Denver to Salt Lake City. As the train passes through the Piceane Basin, the Uintah Basin, the edge of the Paradox Basin, and the Utah Thrust Belt, short geo talks will be given throughout the day.

Ticket Price - $115 Register at www.rmag.org This is a one-way ticket. Passengers will be responsible for planning travel back to Denver after AAPG ACE.

Sponsored By:

email: sta@rmag.org | phone: 303.573.8621 #1214, Denver, CO, 80202 Vol. 67,910 No.16th 2 | Street www.rmag.org

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fax: 888.389.4090 | web: www.rmag.org follow: @rmagdenver OUTCROP | February 2018

PRESIDENT’S LETTER that your outlook may not be balanced. There are various sources that depict media bias, some of which have popped up on Facebook; here’s a link to one recent example: jerz.setonhill.edu/blog/2017/11/10/ vanessa-oteros-updated-media-bias-chart/ Did you know that the White House has an Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP)? Under the current administration, there is no leader or official mandate for the science office. The head of the OSTP has served as a science advisor to the last seven Presidents to inform his policy making since being founded

by Gerald Ford in 1976. According to a November report by CBS titled “Donald Trump’s science office is a ghost town,” the OSTP staff has dropped from 135 under Obama to 45. Congress may have the power to get key positions filled, but when the White House places no value on science as a basis for policy, such actions may have little impact.

While there are some apparently positive aspects of current administration policies, caution is advised.

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• March for science if the opportunity arises • Vote for candidates who advocate for science and fact-based policy and decision making • Volunteer in local schools (individually or through the new RMAG Earth Science Education Outreach Committee) • Help get a new RMAG public outreach effort going • Advocate for and contribute to STEM (science, technology, mathematics and engineering) programs in area high schools and universities

About those facts: the internet has given us the information highway to everywhere. There is a plethora of data available, but also a lot of misinformation masquerading as ‘facts’. This is where the ability to think critically and evaluate the validity of the available data is key. Knowing the bias in your sources is important. If you are exposed to only liberal or only conservative media outlets, it should be no surprise

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Providing geoscience expertise and technology to the field and office since 1981

Well Site Geology Geosteering - On site & Remote Rock Analytics Geologic Prognosis/Mapping Oil Field Safety Training - PEC Regulatory Representation

sunburstconsulting.com

406.259.4124 OUTCROP | February 2018

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Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

May 30, 2018

2018

RMAG Golf Tournament

1:30pm Shotgun At Arrowhead Golf Club Registration includes entry, 18-holes of golf, cart, dinner, & entry to win great door prizes.

Registration is open!

Teams of 4 and Individuals are welcome to register.

Member Individual: $150 Non-Member Individual: $175

Member Team: $600 Non-Member Team: $700

email: sta@rmag.org

phone: 303.573.8621

Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

910 16th Street #1214, Denver, CO, 80202

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fax: 888.389.4090

web: www.rmag.org

OUTCROP | February 2018

follow: @rmagdenver

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

POSITIONED FOR GROWTH With a proud legacy and an exciting future, QEP Resources is an industry leader in crude oil and natural gas exploration and production.

We’re focused on some of the most prolific natural resource plays in the continental United States. These include two world-class crude oil provinces — the Permian and Williston Basins and two premier natural gas assets — the Haynesville Shale and the Uinta Basin.

Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, QEP is an S&P MidCap 400 Index member company (NYSE: QEP).

Learn more at www.qepres.com.

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Though increased access to public lands seems a good thing to our industry, is such access to beloved natural resource areas worth the potential negative PR, protests, possible detrimental environmental impacts, and bad feeling that will be engendered by companies that take advantage of that access? Is the overturn of the Obama-era frac fluid disclosure rule actually helpful, when “secret” chemicals in frac fluids fuel fear and loathing and provide ammunition to protest organizations?

How do we as an industry really benefit from suspension of the rule to limit methane leaks from oil and gas operations?

Having an industry-friendly administration and Congress may tempt our industry to relax or postpone environmental compliance activities, as noted in the December AAPG Explorer. In addition to obvious ethical considerations, succumbing to this temptation is risky and could prove more costly in the long run, due to likely increased frequency of citizen lawsuits and greater availability of data as time goes on to verify compliance with regulations.

Notwithstanding, a few spectacular exceptions (Exxon Valdez and Deepwater Horizon come to mind), the oil and gas industry has a good track record of caring for the environment. Compared to other, less regulated parts of the world, we have not created widespread environmental nightmares with no thought of the consequences. It is in our best interests to maintain that record, and educate the public about the value of fossil fuels and the

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PRESIDENT’S LETTER

Susan Spancers

Susan Spancers MCEP, RFC, AACEP, NICEP, CSA RFC, AACEP, NICEP, CSAof Mind” HelpingMCEP, You Create Financial “Peace

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

realities of the energy production process. We need to be defenders of truth—facts are not “fake news.”

Regardless of our political affiliation, as scientists it behooves us to support science education and a factbased approach to the world. As Daniel Yergin said in his AAPG 100-year gala speech last April, the future of our industry depends on how we tell our own story.

We haven’t been doing a very good job of it lately. The best PR is a science and fact-based story, and we geoscientists are stellar storytellers.

To volunteer as a speaker for the RMAG Educational Outreach Committee, contact Liz Arthur (liz. arthur@weatherfordlabs.com). To help with the new public outreach effort, contact RMAG President-Elect Tom Sperr (tsperr@bayless-cos.com).

— Terri Olson, RMAG President

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Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

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OUTCROP | February 2018

Limited Space  RSVP: www.leeds.group

MINERAL OF THE MONTH

By Ronald L. Parker, Senior Geologist, Borehole Image Specialists, P. O. Box 221724, Denver CO 80222 ron@bhigeo.com

TALC Usefully Soft

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Flat slab of platy talc with a pervasive crenulation cleavage texture.

The talc is altered from thin slivers of sheared Iapetan oceanic crust wedged between the Taconic and Acadian orogenic pulses during building of the Appalachians. The slab measures 24 cm x 18 cm and was collected from a quarry in Ludlow, Vermont. Photo by Ronald L. Parker.

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MINERAL OF THE MONTH: TALC

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limiting its ability to engage in surface chemical reactions.

Consequently, talc does not participate in significant cation-exchange or sorption-desorption reactions. (Zelazny and White, 1989). Without strong surface charge, the 2:1 talc “sandwich” is held to other talc crystals only by very weak Van der Waals bonds.

These bonds, which are easily broken, render talc soft and slippery.

Talc usually occurs as platy or dense massive aggregates; euhedral crystals are essentially unknown (one reason for the paucity of talc photographs

Talc, Mg3Si4O10(OH)2 is a hydrous magnesium silicate that is a low-grade metamorphic alteration product of Mg-bearing mafic and ultramafic rocks or siliceous dolostones. Talc is well-known for its low hardness and slippery texture. Talc is a familiar mineral to most people as the result of its widespread use in household products – from chewing gum to baby powder.

Talc has numerous commercial uses outside the home, being found in paints, ceramics, paper, roofing materials and numerous other applications.

Talc has been implicated in a variety of adverse health effects in humans, although the jury is still out. Talc contributes to geologic processes, lubricating and hydrating fault displacements, possibly even facilitating subduction processes. Abundant worldwide, and especially so in the United States, talc is a very useful mineral indeed.

Talc has several readily observable diagnostic physical properties. For one, talc is well-known as having a Mohs hardness of 1. In fact, very few minerals are so soft. Talc has a perfect basal cleavage on {001} and it cleaves readily with only slight pressure. The perfect basal cleavage causes talc to be both slippery and easily powdered, its two most commercially important qualities. Talc has a greasy feel and a pearly luster. The specific gravity of talc is 2.8. The color of talc

is often white, but it can also be gray or pale green (Johnson, 2002).

Talc is a phyllosilicate and, as such, it has a layered atomic structure that is similar to other phyllosilicates such as micas and clay minerals. Like other phyllosilicates, talc is comprised of structural elements that occur as infinite thin sheets that are layered to form the mineral. In talc, a single sheet of octahedrally-coordinated Mg2+ ions are sandwiched by an upper and a lower sheet comprised of silica tetrahedra (SiO4). This makes talc a 2:1 phyllosilicate – 2 silica tetrahedral layers with an oreo-cookie middle of octahedral Mg. Talc is a trioctahedral phyllosilicate, meaning that three divalent cations (Mg2+) fill the 3 octahedral sites in the unit cell. (In dioctahedral phyllosilicates, 2 of the 3 octahedral sites are filled by trivalent cations. An example is pyrophyllite, in which Al3+ is the octahedral cation and the 2 trivalent aluminum ions have the same charge as the 3 divalent magnesium ions. Incidentally, talc and pyrophyllite share many physical properties and are the best of friends). Unlike most other phyllosilicates, there is very little isomorphic substitution in talc. That means that only Si4+ resides in the tetrahedral sites and only Mg2+ is found in the octahedral sites. The lack of isomorphic substitution renders talc electrically neutral, giving it only a small surface charge and vastly

»»CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

»»CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

The soluHon for unique and valuable geological informaHon for prospect generaHon

730 17th Street, Unit B-­‐1 Denver, CO 80202 303.825.5614 derlibrary@gmail.com derlibrary.com

OUTCROP | February 2018

MINERAL OF THE MONTH: TALC

»»CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

in this article). Although talc is almost always found as stoichiometrically pure material (Klein, 2002), it may rarely contain up to 1.5 weight % Fe2+ (Wenk and Bulakh, 2004). A similar ironrich species, known as Minnesotaite [Fe3Si4)10(OH)2], is found in low-grade PreCambrian iron ores (Klein, 2002).

Talc occurs as both triclinic and monoclinic polytypes and I have unearthed very little information regarding factors that govern the difference.

Talc is a metamorphic mineral. It forms in retrograde, greenschist-facies metamorphic environments that alter silica-rich magnesium carbonates (dolomites) to produce talcose schists and marbles (Winter, 2004). Talc is also produced by hydrothermal alteration of mafic and ultramafic rocks intruded as igneous bodies or emplaced as ophiolite fragments. These rocks have often undergone partial conversion to serpentinite. Hydrothermal alteration of the serpentinite (steatization), commonly results in an ore deposit with zoned variation in talc and assoTranslucent olive-green talc pseudomorph replacing a prismatic, hexagonal ciated minerals (Greene, 1995). Talc has cordierite crystal set in a quartz matrix. Richmond Soapstone Quarry, Cheshire also been found in association with deep County, New Hampshire. The long dimension of the crystal is 13 mm. Photo used detachment shear zones and low-angle with permission from John Betts Fine Minerals. normal faults. It is hypothesized that talc (and other hydrous minerals) introduced via fluid migration along faults may act minerals including tremolite, actinolite, chlorite, to reduce the friction coefficient on fault pyroxene, serpentine, vermiculite, dolomite, calsurfaces thereby facilitating slip (Grasemann and cite, anthophyllite and pyrophyllite (Mineral Data Tschegg, 2012). This process is suspected to weakPublishing, 2001). Talc appears similar in many en fault surfaces at the slab-mantle boundary in ways to these associated minerals, but is readily subduction zones. Dehydration of the subducting discriminated from them by low hardness (Wenk slab releases silica-rich aqueous fluids which may then migrate into the overlying forearc wedge. and Bulakh, 2004). Rocks with large percentagThese mobilized fluids react to transform dry, oles of compact, massive talc are known as soapivine-rich rock in the overlying slab into weak hystone or steatite and have been utilized for millendrous phases - including talc – dramatically alternia by native cultures for bowls, tools, traditional ing subsequent mechanical behavior (Hirauchi et. carvings, smoking pipes and weapons (Greene, al, 2013).

1995). In the modern world soapstone is used for Talc is associated with many other calc-silicate

»»CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

OUTCROP | February 2018

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Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

2018 Sporting Clay Tournament

Registration is open! www.rmag.org

20

September

Kiowa Creek Sporting Club • Prizes for individual high score and team 1st, 2nd and 3rd flights.

• Includes one round of 100 sporting clays, lunch, and door prizes.

• Does not include ammunition (please bring enough ammo for 100 clays or you may purchase ammo at Kiowa Creek).

• You may also rent a gun for $20 onsite.

5 Person Team (member): $425 5 Person Team (non-member): $500 Individual (member): $85 Individual (non-member): $100

email: phone: 303.573.8621 Vol.staff@rmag.org 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org 910 16th Street #1214, Denver, CO, 80202

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fax: 888.389.4090 www.rmag.org OUTCROP | web: February 2018 follow: @rmagdenver

MINERAL OF THE MONTH: TALC

Apple-green foliar crystals of talc in contact with a more massive variety of talcose schist. Ludlow, Vermont. The specimen is 9 cm across. Photo by Ronald L. Parker.

sculptures, laboratory bench top surfaces, household flooring, countertops, fireplace hearths and wood stoves (Vermont Soapstone Co., 2017). Talc is extracted by both open pit and underground mining operations and can often require a complex beneficiation procedure to remove impurities. Dust control during mining and processing is necessary, but there are few other environmental problems associated with extracting talc, in contrast to almost all other mineral extraction industries (Greene, 1995).

Talc is probably best known by the average

person as the main ingredient in talcum powder, that soothing fluff present in almost every bathroom. Talcum powder has been used for more than a century to keep babies protected from di1 and 2 man Mudlogging Summit GasstReferencing™ aper rash, and hence, talc is likely the 1 mineral Geosteering Mudlogging experience Services enjoyed by anyone alive today (Kesler, 1994). Johnson & Johnson, introduced “Baby PowBarber specifically targetst der” in 1894 as the 1Mike product Manager Serving the Rocky Mountain Region ed toward babies.

Talcum powder certainly made happier babies and, by extension, happier parents.

230 Airport Rd. Ph (435)657-0586 Unit D Cell (435)640-1382 There is some evidence that a reduction in the inHeber City, Utah 84032 email: mbarber@summitmudlog.com cidence of diaper rash led to a decrease in infant www.summitmudlog.com

»»CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

Zoom of the interface in the previous picture to illustrate the contact between the massive talcose schist and the crystalline green talc. The little dark blebs in the schist are magnetite crystals derived from the ophiolitic parent material. Ludlow, Vermont, Photo by Ronald L. Parker.

»»CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

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OUTCROP | February 2018

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MINERAL OF THE MONTH: TALC purposes varies from pure talc to mixtures of magnesium-rich silicates that have properties similar to talc, yet that contain very little actual talc (Chidester, et. al., 1964; Chang, 2002). High-quality talc is imbued with properties that make it exceptionally attractive for commercial applications.

These include: softness, purity, fragrance retention, light color, luster, moisture content, oil and grease adsorption, chemical inertness, low electrical conductivity, high dielectric strength and high thermal conductivity (Virta, 1998).

Talc enjoys widespread geological occurrence.

Important localities include: Zillertal, Austria; Zermatt, Switzerland; Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy; Ariege, France; Bavaria, Germany; Snarum, Norway and Irkutsk, Russia. More than half of the states in the U.S. have talc mineralization and the U.S. is 2nd only to China in world talc production. Greene (1995) provides an exhaustive list of talc deposits in 26 states and the District of Columbia. Important U.S. talc deposits are known from: St. Lawrence County, New York; York County, Pennsylvania, Providence County, Rhode Island; Rochester, Vermont; Mount Vernon and Marblemont, Washington; Little Rock, Arkansas; the Allamoore district, Texas; the Dillon-Ennis district, Montana; the Palmetto and Sylvania districts, Nevada; Holly Springs, Georgia and Calaveras County, California (Chidester, 1964; Greene, 1995; Mineral Data Publishing, 2001).

Talc - a very soft, yet exceptionally versatile and useful mineral. Do not breathe talc, however.

»»CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

mortality (Chaline, 2012).

Talcum powder has been used as a bulking agent to dilute illicit white powder drugs such as cocaine, amphetamine, methamphetamine and MDMA. It is also known to have been used in counterfeit versions of legal drugs. Although approved for external use and as a food additive (the white powder on chewing gum is talc), it is not safe when inhaled (Chaline, 2012). Industrial ground talc (not household talc) often contains impurity minerals, some of which may be asbestiform, such as tremolite, actinolite and other amphiboles. Talc itself may occur in an asbestiform habit if it is pseudomorphic after an acicular amphibole precursor (McNamee et. al., 2015). Inhalation of talc is linked to several types of pulmonary disease, including talcosilicosis, talcoasbestosis and talcosis (Feigin, 1985). Talc has been implicated as a causative factor in several types of cancer including mesothelioma and ovarian cancer, but the evidence is still under debate. Talc with asbestiform mineral impurities is held by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) to be carcinogenic to humans. Talc not containing asbestos is held by the IARC as “not classifiable as to carcinogenicity in humans” (American Cancer Society, 2017). According to the ACS, all talc sold for use in homes in the U.S. has been asbestos mineral-free since 1970 (American Cancer Society, 2017).

Talc has numerous industrial uses beyond talcum powder which is, in fact, only a minor use for this versatile mineral. Ground talc is utilized in ceramics, paper, rubber, roofing, flooring, plastics, crayons, lubricants, cosmetics and insecticides (Greene, 1995; Chang, 2002). In paint manufacture, talc acts as an extender and filler that improves consistency, inertness and viscosity. Added to paper, talc improves ink receptivity and increases opacity. Ceramic floor, wall and bathroom fixture tiles are comprised of 50% to 70% talc (Klein and Philpotts, 2013). In ceramics, talc “…imparts low, uniform, shrinkage upon firing and high strength to the product…” (Greene, 1995, p. 17). The purity of talc used for industrial OUTCROP | February 2018

WEBLINKS:

• http://www.minerals.net/mineral/talc.aspx • https://www.mindat.org/min-3875.html • http://rruff.info/doclib/hom/talc.pdf • http://webmineral.com/data/Talc.shtml#.

WjgvwN9KtHY • https://www.earthmagazine.org/article/ mineral-resource-month-talc • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Talc • http://geology.com/minerals/talc.shtml • http://vermontsoapstone.com/ • https://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/fs-0065-00/

»»CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

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MINERAL OF THE MONTH: TALC Princeton University Press, Princeton, N.J. 439 pp.

Kesler, Stephen A., 1994, Mineral Resources, Economics and the Environment, New York: MacMillan College Publishing Company, Inc., 391 pp.

Klein, Cornelis, 2002, The 22nd Edition of the Manual of Mineral Science: New York, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 641 pp.

Klein, Cornelis, and Anthony Philpotts, 2013, Earth Materials: Introduction to Mineralogy and Petrology, Cambridge University Press, 536 pp.

McNamee, Brittani D., Mickey E. Gunter and Cecilia Viti, 2015, Asbestiform Talc from a Talc Mine near Talcvillen New York, U.S.A.: Composition, Morphology, and Genetic Relationships with Amphiboles, The Canadian Mineralogist, 53(6):1049-1060.

Mineral Data Publishing, 2001, Talc, http://rruff. info/doclib/hom/talc.pdf, accessed 12/10/2017.

Vermont Soapstone Company, 2017, website, http://vermontsoapstone.com/ accessed 12/5/2017.

Virta, R. L., 1998, Talc and Pyrophyllite, in Minerals Yearbook: Metals and Minerals 1996, Vol 1: United States Geological Survey, pp. 891-897.

Wenk, Hans-Rudolf and Bulakh, Andrei, 2004, Minerals – Their Constitution and Origin: New York: Cambridge University Press, 646 pp.

Winter, John D., 2001, An Introduction to Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology, Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, Inc., 697 pp.

Zelazny, L.W. and G. N. White, 1989, Chapter 11: The Pyrophyllite-Talc Group, in Mineral in Soil Environments 2nd Edition, ed. by J.B. Dixon and S. B. Weed, Soil Science Society of America Book Series No. 1, pp. 527-550.

»»CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24

fs-0065-00textonly.pdf • https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/1995/0586/report. pdf • https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/talcum-powder-and-cancer.html • http://www.johnbetts-fineminerals.com/

REFERENCES:

American Cancer Society, 2017, Talcum Powder and Cancer, website, https://www.cancer.org/ cancer/cancer-causes/talcum-powder-and-cancer.html accessed 12/5/2017.

Chaline, Eric, 2012, Talc, in Fifty Minerals that Changed the Course of History, Buffalo, New York, Firefly Books, Inc., pp. 196-7.

Chidester, A.H., A. E., J. Engel and L. A. Wright, 1964, Talc Resources of the United States, United States Geological Survey Bulletin 1167, 61 pp.

Feigin, David S., 1985, Talc: Understanding Its Manifestations in the Chest, American Journal of Roentgenology, 146:295-301.

Grasemann, Bernhard and Cornelius Tschegg, 2012, Localization of Deformation Triggered by Chemo-Mechanical Feedback Processes, GSA Bulletin, 124(5/6): 737-745.

Greene, Robert C., 1995, Talc Resources of the Conterminous United States, United States Geological Survey Open-File Report OF 95-586, 174 pp.

Hirauchi, Ken-ichi, Sabine A. M den Hartog and Christopher J. Spiers, 2013, Weakening of the Slab-Mantle Wedge Interface Induced by Metasomatic Growth of Talc, Geology, 41(1): 75-78.

Johnsen, Ole, 2002, Minerals of the World:

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OUTCROP | February 2018

RMAG LUNCHEON PROGRAMS Speaker: Cat Campbell — February 7, 2018

Hydrogen Index as a Maturity Proxy Some Pitfalls and How to Overcome Them* Mark H. Tobey1 and Catherine E. Campbel2 differ. Most geoscientists may not be familiar with why a single technique is not suitable for both these scenarios, or how to correctly use hydrogen index as a relative maturation proxy in the case where source rock quality is not uniform. We will demonstrate how to determine if your source rock quality is uniform or varied relative to HI over the stratigraphic column, and how to assign a hydrogen index to the different source facies when that source rock quality is not uniform. Further we will illustrate how to estimate the original hydrogen index of the different source facies and assign each a transformation ratio. The transformation ratio is a better proxy for relative maturity, since different source facies may have different present-day hydrogen indices, but their present-day transformation ratio should be quite similar.

Rock-Eval hydrogen index (HI) is often used to compare relative maturities of a source horizon across a basin. Usually, there are several measurements from the source horizon at a single well, and the mean hydrogen index is calculated, or the S2 is plotted against TOC. The slope of the best fit line through that data is used as the representative HI for that well (sometimes referred to as the ‘slope HI’ methodology). There is a potential flaw in both these methodologies; however, that renders the calculated HI as misleading if the source horizon being examined is not relatively uniform in source quality, vertically in the stratigraphic column. From a geologic perspective, it would be unusual for the source rock quality not to vary vertically in the stratigraphic column. Organic matter input, preservation, dilution, and sediment accumulation rate typically vary in many depositional environments over the millions of years required to create a thick source rock package. Nevertheless, there are source rocks which do display remarkable source-quality uniformity from top to bottom of the stratigraphic package. We have examined source rocks from several basins where the source quality is relatively uniform over the stratigraphic column, and source rocks where the source quality varies greatly over the stratigraphic column. Methodologies to assess hydrogen index at specific wells for these two scenarios

1: Encana Oil and Gas (USA) Inc. 2: Robert L. Bayless

Producer: Search and Discovery Article #41964 (2016)**, Posted December 12, 2016 *Adapted from oral presentation given at AAPG 2016 Pacific Section and Rocky Mountain Section Joint Meeting, Las Vegas, Nevada, October 2-5, 2016 **Datapages © 2016 Serial rights given by author. For all other rights contact author directly.

Levorsen Award winner for the Rocky Mountain Section “Best Paper” presented at the 2016 Pacific Section and Rocky Mountain Section Joint Meeting, Las Vegas, Nevada.

26

Professional from AAPG, and the A. I. Levorsen Memorial Award for best presentation at an RMS-AAPG meeting.

Outside of finding hydrocarbons, Cat spends her time chasing two adorable tiny humans and pursuing human powered sports in nature.

OUTCROP | February 2018

Encana and global exploration with Robert L. Bayless, Producer. Cat is active in RMAG and AAPG where she has served on boards for both organizers and in numerous other leadership capacities.

She’s been recognized with Distinguished Service to RMAG, Exemplary Young

CAT CAMPBELL is a Senior Geologist with Camino Natural Resources in Denver, CO. One of her main objectives in life is to make geochemistry fun again.

She began this pursuit by completing her masters at the University of Wyoming, followed by working the Rockies with

Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

Proudly developing Colorado’s energy potential through innovation, safety and a commitment to our community l e a r n m o r e at : w w w . c r e s t o n e p e a k r e s o u r c e s . c o m

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DELFI is a mark of Schlumberger.

Copyright © 2018 Schlumberger. All rights reserved.

Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

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OUTCROP | February 2018

RMAG LUNCHEON PROGRAMS Speaker: David Schmude and Brian Berwick March 7, 2018

Butcher Butte Project An Overpressured Oil Resource Play in the Green River Formation of the Uinta Basin, Utah David Schmude and Brian Berwick during the history of Lake Uinta resulted in the identification of a region of thick vertical stacking of favorable source rock within the deep thermally mature portion of the Uinta Basin. Due to the low permeability of these source facies, excessive overpressuring greater than 0.80 psi/ft. is present within the project area with extensive tectonic and generative fractures as well. Current drilling and development with two-mile horizontal laterals is taking place to delineate the resource and prove the seven target intervals within this unconventional oil resource play.

The Butcher Butte Project is an unconventional oil resource play being developed within the Eocene Green River Formation in the Northcentral part of the Uinta Basin, Utah. Within the project area up to 2,000 feet of oil prone source rock is thermally mature and overpressured. Porosity is dominated within the organic rich source rock with only minor amounts of matrix porosity resulting in a true unconventional oil resource play. Vertical stacking of offshore lacustrine source rock facies within Paleocene/Eocene Lake Uinta provide the source, reservoir and seal for this unique accumulation. Regional correlations and mapping of lake facies distribution

exploration projects throughout the United States. Past three years working for Axia Energy II focusing on exploration projects in Utah and Texas.

DAVID SCHMUDE: Graduated from Oklahoma State with a master’s degree in geology. Worked nine years with Texaco in Denver on development and exploitation projects in the Rocky Mountain Region. Fifteen years of experience with Encana in Denver working on exploration projects throughout the United States. Served as Exploration Lead and Chief Geologist before leaving Encana in 2015. Past three years working for Axia Energy II as Vice President of Geology.

VOLUNTER!

BRIAN BERWICK: Graduated from The Colorado School of Mines with a master’s degree in petroleum geology. Worked eight years with Samson Resources in Denver on development and exploitation projects in the Rocky Mountain Region. Three years of experience with Axia Energy in Denver working on

OUTCROP | February 2018

If you would like to volunteer for any of our committees or events, please contact the RMAG office at (303) 573-8621 or staff@rmag.org

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Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

• • • • •

Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

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Geological Wellsite Supervision Supervised Remote Geosteering Integrated Petrophysical Analysis Oil and Gas Geological Studies Conventional and Unconventional Expertise

OUTCROP | February 2018

THE MOUNTAIN GEOLOGIST

Best Paper Award for 2017 examined and that migration of these hydrocarbons was primarily through porous sandstones. The authors provide the data bases that are used in this interpretation and use numerous excellent illustrations to characterized and further elaborate on the presentation of data and conclusions.

As we have come to expect, all of the papers published this year in The Mountain Geologist are outstanding, which made the selection process difficult.

We would like to thank all of the authors for their contributions to the journal.

Congratulations to Ronald, Justin, and Paul.

—The Best Paper Selection Committee

The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists is pleased to announce the winner of The Mountain Geologist Best Paper Award for 2017. The winning paper is “Stratigraphic Intervals for Oil and Tar Sands Deposits in the Uinta Basin, Utah” by Ronald C. Johnson, Justin E. Birdwell, and Paul G. Lillis.

The authors build an analysis of the origin of the oils and place the oils into a stratigraphic framework in order to understand the relationships among the sources and reservoirs of these hydrocarbons in the basin. Resulting comparisons show that the freshwater and early brackish-saline depositional environments provide the source for the majority of the oil well samples and the tar-impregnated samples

2017 Best Talk of the Year Edward (Ned) Sterne

Marty Hall

Program Development Manager Multi-Client Services

been integrated to produce the transect. Ned and his

On June 7, 2017, Edward (Ned) Sterne presented a talk to RMAG members titled “From mantle to mountain top; A restorable east-west transect across Colorado following Interstate 70.” The talk described the efforts and results (to date) of creating a restored cross-section illustrating the structural evolution across the state. The work is based on a vast number of data sets including seismic, well, thermochronology, and outcrop measurements, which have

co-authors Stephen P. Cumella, Robert G. Raynolds,

John J. Miller and James W. Granath, have been working on the project over the past 18 months. RMAG

reviewers and the continuing education committee

judged the presentation to be the best luncheon talk of 2017. Congratulations to Ned and his coauthors on an outstanding scientific endeavor!

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OUTCROP | February 2018

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Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

Petroleum History Meeting Coming to Salt Lake City

Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

city, making it convenient to attend both.

The Petroleum History Institute includes people from around the world who are interested in all aspects of the history of the industry. The meeting is open to the public (with a registration fee).

For registration and more information, visit www.petroleumhistory.org To submit an abstract, please email Bill Brice at wbrice@pitt.edu

The Petroleum History Institute is coming back to the Rockies for its annual symposium and field trip. The meeting is set for Salt Lake City in May at the Marriott Research Park Hotel.

Registration and an evening reception will be on Thursday, May 17. Oral and poster presentations will be on Friday, May 18, and the field trip will be on Saturday, May 19.

This is the week before AAPG’s ACE in the same

31

OUTCROP | February 2018

IN THE PIPELINE

WELCOME NEW RMAG MEMBERS!

Friso Brouwer

FEBRUARY 6-7, 2018

is a Geophysicist at I^3 GEO LLC in Broomfield, Colorado.

PTTC Rockies Short Course.

Instructor: Laura Wray. “Petroleum Geology for Non-Geologists.” Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO. For more information contact Mary Carr(mcarr@mines.edu)303.273.3107

Robert Brune

is a Geophysicist at Geokinetics in Evergreen, Colorado.

FEBRUARY 7, 2018 RMAG Luncheon.

Speaker: John A. Morel. “The Johnson County Hydrocarbon Generation Cell, Powder River Basin, Wyoming.” Maggiano’s Little Italy in Denver. Contact: staff@rmag.org

Michael Chisam

works at Anadarko Petroleum Corporation in Denver, Colorado.

Brian Currie

FEBRUARY 8, 2018

is a Professor of Geology at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.

RMAG Short Course.

“Valuing Upstream Oil and Gas Properties.”

Denver Place, 999 Eighteenth Street. Contact: staff@rmag.org

Keith Jagiello

works at Petro Data Integration, LLC in Littleton, Colorado.

FEBRUARY 9, 2018 DIPS Luncheon. Speaker Jim Lowell.

“The Petroleum Geology of Cuba.” Members $20 and Non-members $25. For more information or to RSVP via email to kurt.reisser@gmail.com.

Daniel Olson

is a Senior Geologic Advisor at Noble Energy in Houston, Texas.

FEBRUARY 20, 2018

Bridget Schaefer

DWLS Luncheon. Speaker: Dick Merkel.

11:30 am. Cost: $20. Wynkoop Brewing Company, Denver. RSVP to Jennifer Bartell at 303-770-4235 or visit dwls.spwla.org to pay via PayPal link.

lives in Golden, Colorado.

FEBRUARY 27, 2018 RMS-SEPM Luncheon. Speaker: Larry Rasmussen.

Early Triassic Moenkopi Petroleum System of Central Utah.” Schedule: Reception at 11:30, Lunch at 11:45, and Lecture at 12:15. the Wynkoop Brewing Company, 1634 18th St., Denver, CO. MARCH 2, 2018 RMAG/DAPL Ski Day

OUTCROP | February 2018

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Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

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Eileen Griffith John Carlos Garcia Forrest Robert Groth J Frederick Carlos Garcia Virginia Gent Ronald David Harris MaR Virginia Gent Ennis Geraghty Larry Paul Hoovler Tim Ennis Geraghty Debra & Ernest Gomez Mitchell CurMs Johnson Marlis Debra & Ernest Gomez Eileen Griffith John Carlos Garcia Allen Eileen Griffith David Allard Robert Groth J Frederick Shere Kahn Charles Robert Groth Donna Anderson David Harris David Harris MaR John Louise Kiteley Paul Hoovler Robert Askew Paul Roy Hoovler Tim Knappe, Jr Stephen CurMs Johnson Mrs. Richard Bell CurMs Johnson Marlis Connie Knight Debby Carlos Garcia Dudley & Marion Bolyard Carlos Garcia Allen Robert Kozarek Jeff David Allard Shere Kahn David Allard Kathleen & Elmo Brown Shere Kahn Charles Tracy Lombardi John Donna Anderson Louise Kiteley Donna Anderson Kendall Carlson Louise Kiteley John Mark Askew Longman Robert Robert Roy Knappe, Jr Robert Askew Roger Charbonneau Mark Mrs. Richard Bell Roy Anson Knappe, Jr Stephen Melanie & E Connie Knight Dudley & Marion Connie Bolyard Mrs. Richard Bell ChaAield John Robert Mason Robert Kozarek Knight Debby Bruce Kathleen & Elmo Robert Brown Tracy Lombardi Dudley & Marion Bolyard Eugene Clower Terry Mather Kozarek Jeff Laura Carlson Mark Longman Kathleen & Elmo Brown Sue Cluff Kendall Jeff & Karen May & Crossen Tracy Lombardi John Roger Charbonneau Anson Mark Kendall Carlson Lisa Corbin Brenda Miller Mark Longman Robert John ChaAield Robert Mason Roger Charbonneau Anson Mark Robert Coskey Phil Moffit Melanie & Edwi Eugene Clower Terry Mather John ChaAield Robert Mason Bill Donovan Peter Northrop Bruce Sue Cluff Jeff & Karen May & Crossen Eugene Clower Terry Mather Dolores & Albert Erlebacher ScoR Corbin Olson Lisa Brenda Miller Laura Robert Phil Moffit Sue Jane Cluff Estes-Jackson Jeff & Karen May & Crossen Ira Coskey Pasternack Bill Donovan Peter Northrop Lisa Janet Corbin Brenda Miller Foster David Peterson Dolores & Albert Erlebacher ScoR Olson Robert Coskey Phil Moffit Garcia Carlos Forrest Garcia Poole Forrest Poole Jane Estes-Jackson Ira Pasternack Bill Virginia Donovan Peter Northrop Ronald PritcheR Gent Ronald Gent Janet PritcheR Foster David Peterson Dolores & Albert Erlebacher ScoR Olson Larry Rassmussen Geraghty Ennis Larry Geraghty Rassmussen Jane Estes-Jackson Ira Pasternack Mitchell Reynolds Gomez Debra & Ernest Mitchell Gomez Reynolds Janet Foster David Peterson John Robinson Griffith Eileen John Griffith Robinson Carlos Garcia Forrest Poole J Frederick Sarg Groth Robert J Frederick Groth Sarg Virginia Gent Ronald PritcheR MaR Silverman Harris David MaR Harris Silverman Ennis Larry Rassmussen Tim Smith Hoovler Paul Tim Geraghty Hoovler Smith Debra & Ernest Gomez Mitchell Reynolds Marlis Smith Johnson CurMs Marlis Johnson Smith Eileen Griffith John Robinson Allen Spelman Garcia Carlos Allen Garcia Spelman Robert Groth J Frederick Sarg Stark Charles Kahn Shere Charles Kahn Stark David Harris MaR Silverman John Stowell Kiteley Louise John Kiteley Stowell Paul Hoovler Tim Smith Stephen Strachan Knappe, Jr Roy Stephen Knappe, Jr Strachan CurMs Johnson Marlis Smith Debby Sycamore Knight Connie Debby Knight Sycamore Carlos Allen Spelman Jeff Ware Kozarek Robert Jeff Garcia Kozarek Ware Shere Kahn Charles Stark John Warme Lombardi Tracy John Lombardi Warme Louise Kiteley John Stowell Robert Weimer Longman Mark Robert Longman Weimer Mark Mark Roy Anson Knappe, Jr Stephen Strachan Melanie & Edwin Westergaard Melanie & Edwin Westergaard Mason Robert Mason Connie Knight Debby Sycamore Bruce Wiley Bruce Wiley Mather Terry Mather Robert Kozarek Jeff Laura Ware Wray Laura Wray May & Crossen Jeff & Karen May & Crossen Tracy Lombardi John Warme Miller Brenda Miller Colorado School of Mines Colorado School of Mines Mark Longman Robert Weimer Anson Mark Moffit Phil Moffit Gavlin Family FoundaMon Melanie & Edwin Gavlin Family FoundaMon Westergaard Robert Mason Gibbet Hill FoundaMon Northrop Peter Northrop Gibbet Hill FoundaMon Bruce Wiley Terry Mather Olson ScoR Olson QEP QEP Laura Wray Jeff & Karen May & Crossen SM Energy Pasternack Ira Pasternack SM Energy Brenda Miller Colorado School of Mines Peterson David Peterson WPX Energy WPX Energy Phil Moffit Gavlin Family FoundaMon Peter Northrop Gibbet Hill FoundaMon Vol.ScoR 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org 33

OUTCROP | February 2018 Olson QEP Ira Pasternack SM Energy David Peterson WPX Energy

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LEAD STORY

GEOLOGICAL ADVENTURES IN THE ARKANSAS RIVER VALLEY, CENTRAL COLORADO Karl S. Kellogg, U.S. Geological Survey, Emeritus The recently published map of the upper Arkansas River valley region represents the culmination of almost 10 years of effort by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) staff, including myself and a wide-ranging crew of talented geologists (Kellogg and others, 2017). Without diving deeply into the geology of the area—that’s covered extensively on our map and in the accompanying pamphlet—I would like to share a few insights into the processes that went into creating the map, as well as to touch on a few of the more interesting geological features of the valley. The map and its accompanying pamphlet can be found online at https://doi. org/10.3133/sim3382.

Our study covers a region that extends almost 50 kilometers from Salida in the south to just north of Leadville, Colorado, encompassing an area of more than 1,200 km2 (fig. 1). The valley is flanked by the majestic Collegiate Peaks to the west and the Mosquito Range to the east. Recreational activities abound in the area, including hiking, fishing, river rafting, biking, and hunting.

As more and more people visit the Arkansas River valley, some deciding to stay and live, there is a growing interest and a need for understanding the geological framework of the valley as well as the mining history. Although numerous geological studies over the years have been done in this region, it was apparent that extensive gaps in our understanding of the geology existed. Plugging these holes and creating a unified geological story for the OUTCROP | February 2018

34

region was a major motivation for the creation of this map. Consequently, after the USGS completed work in the Blue River Valley to the north (Kellogg and others, 2011, 2016), which encompasses the towns of Breckenridge, Dillon, and Frisco, the project moved southward into the Arkansas River valley.

The creation of the upper Arkansas River valley map is part of the overall USGS Rio Grande Basins Project. As we began our work on this project, we soon realized that the geomorphic and structural processes that modified the upper Arkansas River valley and its tributary streams clearly needed additional attention. The recent availability of lidar (light detection and ranging) data, which images the ground surface to greater than 10-centimeter (cm) vertical accuracy, provided a tremendous boost to detailed studies. Lidar data provided a major breakthrough by better defining an array of geomorphic and tectonic features and processes, such as landslides (both active and inactive), the relative ages of glacial features, river terrace development, and fault scarps. New mapping in the more-poorly-understood portions of the map area, aided by both lidar and detailed photo imagery, was undertaken by Ralph Shroba, Cal Ruleman, Bob Bohannon, and myself (all USGS personnel).

I have to admit that some of these areas were in stunning mountain environments and it was sometimes hard to believe how lucky we were to work in such beautiful terrain.

Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

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Figure 1. Geographic setting of the upper Arkansas River valley region. The area of our geological Vol. 67,isNo. 2 | www.rmag.org 35 Havens, U.S. Geological OUTCROP map outlined in red. Base map created by Jeremy Survey. | February 2018

LEAD STORY

FIGURE 2: Two views of enormous granitic flood boulders on late Pleistocene terrace deposits. The boulder on the left is about

8 meters (m) long; the one on the right, the largest known flood boulder in the upper Arkansas valley, is about 14 m long (note person on top of boulder for scale).

Figure 2. Two views of enormous granitic flood boulders on late Pleistocene terrace deposits. The boulder on the left is about 8 m long; the one on the right, the largest known, is about 14 m long (note person on FROM PAGE 34 older flood deposit (pre-Bull Lake glaciation; older »»CONTINUED top for scale). than 640 thousand years), is also recognized. Some of the boulders on the younger terraces are over 10 meters long. According to Keenan Lee at the Colorado School of Mines, these boulders were carried downstream by catastrophic floodwater breakouts that followed damming of the Arkansas River by a glacier that flowed down Clear Creek, about 25 km south of Leadville (Pine Creek, just south of Clear Creek, may also have caused a glacial dam across the Arkansas River). Catastrophic breakouts of the ice dam(s), with estimated discharges as high as 65,000 cubic meters per second (considerably greater than the average discharge of the Mississippi River!), coursed down the valley and deposited enormous amounts of debris, including the huge boulders we see there today.

A large variety of economic mineral deposits occur throughout and adjacent to the Arkansas River valley, including the world-class lead-zinc-copper-silver-gold-bearing ores of the Leadville mining district, previously studied by such eminent geologists as Samuel Emmons and Ogden Tweto. In our discussion, we summarize the geologic setting of the Leadville district as well as numerous smaller mining districts, including the Browns Canyon fluorspar mining district, the western Alma mining district, the Mount Antero mining district (where gem-quality

The upper Arkansas River valley, similar to the Blue River valley to the north, is controlled by the same extensional normal fault system that defines the northern Rio Grande rift, an intra-continental region of crustal extension. The largest down-to-the east displacements along these faults are along the west side of the Arkansas River valley, indicating that the floor of the valley is generally tipped westward.

The faults are divided into northern and southern portions, separated by a bedrock high near the town of Granite, where the Arkansas River flows through a narrow, granite-lined canyon. Strangely, the Arkansas River valley region is seismically quiet. In fact, there is little firm evidence for Holocene (less than 11,500 years old) faulting anywhere in the valley. This in contrast with other regions in western North America’s basin-and-range province, with actively extending crust that has been periodically shaken by major historic and more recent damaging earthquakes.

In the upper Arkansas River valley, people have long been fascinated by the enormous boulders that occupy the younger floodplains (fig. 2). Most of these huge boulders lie on two terrace levels that are contemporaneous with the late Pleistocene Pinedale glaciation, 31–12 thousand years ago. During the Pinedale glaciers flowed down tributary valleys (but did not reach the main valley itself). Another, much

OUTCROP | February 2018

»»CONTINUED ON PAGE 37

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LEAD STORY

Leadville Limestone Chaffee Group

Manitou Dolomite Taylor Pass Member (red-cast beds) Dotsero Formation Sawatch Quartzite Proterozoic rocks

FIGURE 3: North wall of the “Horseshoe Cirque” on the east side of Horseshoe Mountain, 11 km southeast of Leadville, Colorado.

The vertical distance between the base of the Leadville Limestone and the base of the Sawatch Quartzite is about 195 meters. A complete description of these units can be found in Kellogg and others (2017).

Figure 3. North wall the eastconstraints side of Horseshoe FROM PAGE 36 of the “Horseshoe Cirque” onimportant on the igneousMountain, history of the »»CONTINUED 11 km southeast of Leadville.

The vertical distance between the base of Leadville area, as well as the timing of metamorphic events in aquamarine, the Colorado State gemstone, have been mined), and placer-gold areas near the town is about the195 oldest billion years Limestone and base ofmined Sawatch Quartzite m.basement These rocks units(1.78–1.70 are described of Granite. old). One interesting result from this dating is the in Kellogg and others (2017).

The precise ages of the Proterozoic basement rocks and the Cretaceous and Tertiary intrusive rocks were only partially known before the start of our study, so a campaign to date a variety of rocks by both the 40Ar/39Ar and U/Pb methods was undertaken by Mike Cosca, Wayne Premo, and Rick Moscati of the USGS and Bill McIntosh of the New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources. These results, along with previously-published dates, provide Vol. 67, No. 2 | www.rmag.org

clear delineation of two periods of Tertiary and Late Cretaceous igneous activity (22–45 and 56-72 million years ago), separated by a period of igneous quiescence and relative tectonic stability, during which the widespread Eocene Rocky Mountain erosion surface formed.

We were fortunate that the Colorado Geological Survey (CGS) was finishing detailed mapping along

»»CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

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OUTCROP | February 2018

LEAD STORY

»»CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37

and to the east of the Arkansas River valley prior to and during our mapping efforts, and we incorporated much of their mapping into our overall map.

Among other topics, CGS geologists greatly advanced our understanding of the Paleozoic rocks, which range in age in our map area from the Lower Permian to Middle Pennsylvanian Maroon Formation to the Upper Cambrian Sawatch Quartzite, and for that we thank them. Figure 3 shows a spectacular wall in what is informally called the “Horseshoe Cirque” on the east side of Horseshoe Mountain about 11 km southeast of Leadville. A complete section is exposed in the wall from the Lower Mississippian Leadville Limestone (dolomitic here) down to the Sawatch Quartzite and the underlying Proterozoic basement.

If you have any questions about our map and our work in the upper Arkansas Valley, please contact me at karlkellogg@comcast.net or kkellogg@usgs.gov.

half of the Vail 30’ × 60’ quadrangle, Eagle, Summit, and Grand Counties, Colorado: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Map 3170, pamphlet 49 p., scale 1:100,000, [Also available at https://pubs.usgs.gov/sim/3170/.]

Kellogg, K.S., Bryant, Bruce, and Shroba, R.R., 2016, Mountains, glaciers, and mines—The geological story of the Blue River valley, Colorado, and its surrounding mountains: U.S. Geological Survey Circular 1400, pamphlet 46 p. [Also available at https://doi.org/10.3133/cir1400.]

Kellogg, K.S., Shroba, R.R., Ruleman, C.A., Bohannon, R.G., McIntosh, W.C., Premo, W.R., Cosca, M.A., Moscati, R.J, and Brandt, T.R., 2017, Geologic map of the upper Arkansas River valley region, north-central Colorado: U.S. Geological Sur-

REFERENCES:

vey Scientific Investigations Map 3382, pamphlet

Kellogg, K.S., Shroba, R.R., Premo, W.R., and Bryant, Bruce, 2011, Geologic map of the eastern

https://doi.org/10.3133/sim3382.

70 p., 2 sheets, scale 1:50,000, [Also available at

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CALL FOR PAPERS: THE RMAG MOUNTAIN GEOLOGIST

Are You a Photographer?

Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists would like to invite you to submit your digital images that capture the geology of the Rocky Mountain region.

Pore Throat to Outcrop, Modern Analogs, Oilfield Activity (Rigs), Dinosaur Trackways.

These images will be used on the cover of the Outcrop and a select number will be used in a forthcoming RMAG Calendar.

• All images will be accredited to the photographer • A brief description of the image (location, formation, significance) • The file size must be 300dpi or greater and be in TIFF or JPEG format.

• Limit 10 images/person

Submit images to: Cheryl Fountain, cwhitney@alumni.nmt.edu

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OUTCROP | February 2018

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CALENDAR | FEBRUARY 2018 SUNDAY

4

MONDAY

5

TUESDAY

6

WEDNESDAY

7 RMAG Luncheon.

PTTC Rockies Short Course.

11

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25

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

1

2

3

8

9

10

RMAG Short Course.

DIPS Luncheon.

12

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17

21

22

23

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19

20

PRESIDENTS’ DAY The RMAG office will be closed.

DWLS Luncheon.

26

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RMS-SEPM Luncheon.

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