October 2015 Outcrop

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OUTCROP Newsletter of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

Volume 64 • No. 10 • October 2015


The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

2015 Summit Sponsors E x clus ive Lu nc he o n Sp o nso r

G o ld Sp o nso rs

Student Sponsor

Silver Sponsors GEOMARK

Bronze Sponsors

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Vol. 64, No. 10 | 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.

2015 OFFICERS AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT

SECRETARY

Marv Brittenham president@rmag.org

Stephanie B. Gaswirth sgaswirth@usgs.gov

PRESIDENT-ELECT

1st YEAR COUNSELOR

John Ladd john.ladd@discoverynr.com

Jane Estes-Jackson Jane.Estes-Jackson@mcelvain.com

TREASURER-ELECT

TREASURER

Tom Sperr tsperr@bayless-cos.com

Paul Lillis plillis@usgs.gov

2nd VICE PRESIDENT

2nd YEAR COUNSELOR

Chris Eisinger chris.eisinger@state.co.us

Terri Olson tmolson8550@gmail.com

1st VICE PRESIDENT

Mel Klinger melklinger@eurekageologicalconsulting.com

RMAG STAFF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Carrie Veatch, MA cveatch@rmag.org MEMBERSHIP & EVENTS MANAGER

Hannah Rogers hrogers@rmag.org PROJECTS SPECIALIST

Emily Tompkins Lewis etompkins@rmag.org ACCOUNTANT

Carol Dalton cdalton@rmag.org MANAGING EDITOR

Will Duggins will.duggins@i-og.net

ADVERTISING INFORMATION

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Rates and sizes can be found on page 61. 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.

Holly Sell holly.sell@yahoo.com Greg Guyer Greg.Guyer@halliburton.com

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

Cheryl Fountain cwhitney@alumni.nmt.edu

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

Andre Scheinwald aschein33001@gmail.com

WEDNESDAY NOON LUNCHEON RESERVATIONS

RMAG Office: 303-573-8621 | Fax: 303-476-2241 | staff@rmag.org or www.rmag.org

DESIGN/PRODUCTION

Nate Silva nate@nate-silva.com

The Outcrop is a monthly publication of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org

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Outcrop | October 2015 OUTCROP


Jump with us as we jump ahead.

New RMAG Website November 2, 2015 email: sta@rmag.org

phone: 303.573.8621

OUTCROP | October 2015 910 16th Street #1214, Denver,

CO, 80202

fax: 303.476.2241 4

web: www.rmag.org

Vol. 64, No. 10 follow: @rmagdenver

| www.rmag.org


OUTCROP Newsletter of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

CONTENTS FEATURES 26 Lead Story: Gold King Mine

13 RMAG Foundation 20142015 Scholarship Awards

DEPARTMENTS

36 2016 Board of Directors Candidates

6 RMAG August 2015 Board of Directors Meeting

37 2015 Summit Sponsor Interview

8 President’s Letter 19 In The Pipeline

41 RMAG Golf Tournament Scholarship Program

20 New RMAG Members

41 Join SIPES

21 In Memoriam

43 RMAG Sporting Clay Results

22 RMAG Luncheon Programs: Speaker – Terri Olson 24 RMAG Luncheon Programs: Speaker – Ranie M. Lynds

45 Thank You to Sporting Clay Sponsors

COVER PHOTO

47 NAPE on the Rocks

The Animas River between Silverton and Durango within 24 hours of the spill.

61 Advertiser Index

49 RMAG Geoland Ski Day

(Photo: Riverhugger, via Wikimedia Commons)

61 Outcrop Advertising Rates

51 3D Seismic Symposium

ASSOCIATION NEWS

53 RMAG Fall Symposium Core Workshop

2 RMAG 2015 Summit Sponsors

55 RMAG Rockbusters Ball

60 Calendar

4 New RMAG Website 12 2015 RMAG Professional Award Recipients

57 RMAG Happy Hour 59 RMAG Hot Plays 60 RMAG Foundation

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RMAG AUGUST 2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING By Stephanie Gaswirth, Secretary sgaswirth@usgs.gov

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sale of publications. Stay tuned for more details! The RMAG election for the 2016 Board of Directors will run from November 2-18, 2015, both on the website and via paper ballot. The RMAG Fall Symposium: Hot Plays on October 8, 2015 at the Denver City Center Marriott is fast approaching; be sure to sign up for a fantastic technical event. Also, the associated October 9 core workshop at Weatherford Laboratories in Golden, CO is filling-up quickly, so reserve your spot today! Finally, a warm welcome to future RMAG member Eleanor, born August 18 to RMAG 1st Vice President Mel Klinger!

Eleanor Klinger, born Aug. 18.

The August meeting of the RMAG Board of Directors was held on August, 19 2015 at 3:30 p.m. Treasurer Paul Lillis reported that all RMAG expenses are on track and RMAG is doing well financially. The board will be reviewing the 2016 proposed budget at the September meeting, to be voted on at the October board meeting. By the time this column goes to print, the migration to a new RMAG website will have begun. The new website will have more to offer members, including the

DONATE NOW RMAG contributions support the calendar of 2015 of RMAG events, including short courses, symposia, social events, monthly luncheons, and more.

Click here to make a contribution online!

972.416.1626

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“Producers will work hard to improve efficiency and lower costs” Daniel Yergin, Who will Rule the Oil Market?, New York Times Op-Ed Online, Jan 23, 2015

DIG CAN HELP

Geochemistry for Energy digforenergy.com

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303.531.2030

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PRESIDENT’S LETTER By Marv Brittenham

Perspectives1985 Vs. 2015

You received a reprieve from the Gorilla last month thanks to Cat Campbell for her guest column with the Young Professionals’ view of the passing of the torch. That was fortunate as the oil price news was all bad for a month, with a late rebound as shown by (Figure 1). Just in

the last week of August oil prices recovFIGURE 1. ered some of the lost ground by again reaching $50 per barrel. However, in the last few days it has declined and is in the mid-forties. This lower trending volatility is putting more pressure on oil industry employers.

THE 800 POUND GORILLA (updated to August 31, 2015)

HOW DOES THIS CYCLE COMPARE WITH 1985? I’ve been asked to make this comparison. It’s a great question that I’ll try to answer with some added perspective. Paul Wiemer in his 2012 President’s address at the AAPG Convention in Long Beach presented statistics for AAPG membership (Figures 2 & 3) that show some perspective on employment into the peak of each event. AAPG membership isn’t a direct

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VOLUNTER! As a diverse community of individuals working towards a worthy cause, we believe that your unique talents can bring us all forward. Volunteers are always needed and welcome! 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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President’s Letter

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correlation with employment in oil & gas but at least it’s an indicator and similar trends appear. There’s a large population of young professionals entering in response to demand relating to the activity booms and a somewhat smaller population of mature professionals about to retire. The difference (10,000 members) between the 30 year old peak in 1983 and the corresponding 55-60 year old peak in 2011 may generally reflect the professionals lost (50% or more?) during the downturn subsequent to 1985. Again, these are membership numbers and are only roughly related to employment dynamics. For instance 1980’s membership is largely domestic, while 2011 would reflect increasing international membership. AAPG’s membership continued to grow and the young professional peak approached the 1983 levels by 2014. One of Paul’s points in his Explorer article is that with the changing of the guard there needs to be an emphasis on passing knowledge from the retiring workforce to the young professionals. That message

Thirty-Year AAPG Membership Comparison (oil price 2012 $), Paul Wiemer, AAPG Explorer, May 2012. FIGURES 2 & 3.

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President’s Letter

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is doubly important now. So, in terms of workforce trends the periods are similar. But, and here’s the good news, in terms of potential for the future, the periods are strikingly different!

INDUSTRY POTENTIAL – PEAK OIL VS. TODAY’S PERSPECTIVE

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FIGURES 4 & 5. Peak Oil, Tom Ahlbrant, 2015 AAPG Halbouty Lecture,

AAPG Search & Discovery. between the wealth of resource plays today compared with the 1985 view of declining conventional discoveries and production. The remaining resource is sufficient to fuel several career terms. The long term future looks good! Although conventional discoveries are in decline, as pointed out by Pete Stark at the January RMAG luncheon, the potential for the future is still large. Many RMAG members 10

have been and will continue to be quite successful in the conventional realm. That is also still a viable career path.

The prevailing view in the 1980’s and indeed continuing early into this century was that domestic oil & gas production would peak during the 70’s and sharply decline from there (Figures 4 & 5). So the perspective for the domestic petroleum industry was dominated by a sharply diminishing discovery and supply viewpoint. That was not a pretty picture for a laid-off geoscientist in the 1980’s! Tom Ahlbrandt discussed Peak Oil theory (Figures 4 & 5) in the Halbouty Lecture at the 2015 AAPG Convention in Denver this year, as well as the more robust current perspective for future petroleum development. Domestic production data (Figure 5) first follows the Hubbert curve through the 1980’s. That was our view in 1985. It then demonstrates a disconnect with the Hubbert curve, due primarily to the “shale gale” where in the last decade both oil and gas production has exceeded the previous 1970 peak, as shown by the 2014 production (stars). Behind that meteoric production rise is a newly discovered domestic resource to be developed. The contrast is striking

GEOSCIENCE ROLE IN RESOURCE PLAYS

There remains a nagging question – is there a robust role and need for geoscientists in the new resource sector? The answer is emphatically - yes! To convince you I’ll have to dispel

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President’s Letter

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some of the myths of resource plays including the oversimplified view of the “manufacturing process”. But, this will be the subject of the November President’s letter, so stay tuned. Don’t miss networking opportunities provided by the Luncheons at Maggianno’s and the October 27th open house at the Denver Earth Resources Library. Beside the tour of the library, this event provides another opportunity for young professionals to network with older professionals. Check the RMAG.org website for details. RMAG is The Best Place for Rockies Geoscience.

Donate to the RMAG Foundation General Fund Your contribution supports the following: Norman H. Foster Scholarship, University of Colorado (Bolyard) Scholarship, Colorado School of Mines (CSM) Scholarship, Colorado State University (CSU) Scholarship, Veterans Memorial Scholarship, Stone/ Hollberg Graduate Scholarship in Structural Geology, Philip J. McKenna Scholarship, Babcock Scholarship.

Click here to make a contribution online!

Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org

A PROUD MEMBER OF YOUR COMMUNITY.

encana.com/communities/usa/djbasin

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2015 RMAG Professional Award Recipients Honorary Membership Debra Higley Outstanding Scientist Chuck Kluth

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Distinguished Service to RMAG Nick Nelson Mel Klinger Mike Kozimko Distinguished Public Service To Earth Science Friends of Dinosaur Ridge Geosciences in the Media New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources for The Geology of Northern New Mexico’s Parks, Monuments and Public Lands

SOLD OUT!

The October On the Rocks Field Trip at Middle Park Basin is currently sold out. If you would like to be placed on the wait list, please email staff@rmag.

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FLORISSANT FOSSIL BEDS NATIONAL MONUMENT ROCKY MOUNTAIN SECTION 2015 AWARDEES

RMAG Foundation 2014-2015 Scholarship Awards Among its many educational, charitable and scientific programs designed to support activities in the field of geology, the RMAG Foundation supports geologic and geophysical research projects through scholarships awarded annually to advanced students mainly in the Rocky Mountains. During the current year, the Foundation presented 10 scholarships to graduate students in support of their research on geologic topics in the Rocky Mountain region, and 2 scholarships to rising seniors for their research at Colorado College. At the June 10 RMAG luncheon, the following scholarships were awarded.

Mike Barber

Manager Serving the Rocky Mountain Region

BABCOCK SCHOLARSHIPS

(1) Alyssa Charsky, Colorado School of Mines: Relation between mineralogy and rock fabric on mechanical properties

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Awardee Julia Mulhern Kim Unit D (center) stands with Joyce Babcock (left) Cell and (435)640-1382 Heber City, Utah 84032 email: mbarber@summitmudlog.com (Babcock) Hruby at the RMAG luncheon. The Babcocks have been principal www.summitmudlog.com benefactors of the Babcock Scholarship Fund.

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Neil H. Whitehead, III Consulting Geologist

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RMAG FOUNDATION AS OUR SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS

R

TOUCH GET

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governing fracture spacing and intensity, middle member of the Bakken Formation, Parshall field, North Dakota (2) Julia Mulhern, University of Utah: Controls on the deposition and preservation of transgressive strata THE OPPORTUNITIES in a high-accommodation setting, Straight Cliffs Formation, southern Utah

UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO–DUDLEY AND MARION BOLYARD SCHOLARSHIP

Logs Since 1971

Rhiana E. Henry, University of Colorado Boulder: Investigation and comparison of rare-earth-element-bearing minerals near Jamestown and in the South Our business is aboutColorado more than exploration and production. It’s about improving the lives of Platte district,

L OG S G S LO LOGS

helping the communities in which we live and work grow and prosper. It’s about providing o opportunities to make positive contributions and constantly challenging ourselves to ffi ind better s continuously striving toSCHOOL be a better industry and leaving behind a legacy of sustainabilit COLORADO OF partner MINES

SCHOLARSHIP [RMAG–JOHN AND ERICA LOCKRIDGE]

OVER 6 MILLION WELL LOGS

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December 2014


RMAG FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS

Lario Oil & Gas Company Established 1927

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WWW.LARIOOIL.COM

COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIP Annette I. Patton, Colorado State University: Upland processes and controls on September 2013 debris flows, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

NORMAN H. FOSTER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS

PHILLIP J. MCKENNA SCHOLARSHIPS, COLORADO COLLEGE [2014–2015]

Proud sponsor of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

(1) Isaac Allred, Brigham Young University: Fluvial architecture of the Fisher Member, Cutler Formation, Paradox Basin, Utah (2) Dirk Rasmussen, Western Washington University: Assessing changes in the alluvial architecture in response to abrupt global warming at the Paleocene/Eocene boundary within the Poison Canyon Formation, Colorado

Lario Oil & Gas Company Established 1927

(1) Betsie Hopper, Colorado College: Trace element geochemistry of paleosol carbonate nodules as a proxy for terrestrial climate change, Big Horn basin, Wyoming (2) Austin Miller, Colorado College: A geochemical investigation of oxygenation in the Early Ediacaran ocean, Wernecke Mountains, Yukon

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DONALD STONE AND JOHN HOLLBERG SCHOLARSHIP Joshua C. McFarland, University of Texas at El Paso: Structural and stratigraphic development of a salt diaper shoulder, Gypsum Valley salt wall, Paradox Basin, Colorado

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Proud sponsor of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists 15

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RMAG FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS

Award recipient Alyssa Charsky (center) with Joyce Babcock (left), Kim (Babcock) Hruby, and Professor John Humphrey, Advisor, Colorado School of Mines

Awardee Rhiana Henry (right center) and faculty advisor Professor Charles Stern (left center) flanked by Dudley and Marion Bolyard, principal award benefactors

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RMAG FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS

Kimberly Foster, representing the Norman H. Foster family at the award ceremony stands at the luncheon with Mitchell Reynolds who coordinates reviews for the Foster and McKenna awards

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RMAG FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS (2) Cody Duckworth, Colorado College: Consequences of fault initiation on sandstone injection mechanisms: A comparison of structural features and local injectite units on Cheyenne Mountain, Colorado, with well-characterized injections elsewhere.

»»CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 VETERANS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS (1) Kent Allen, Central Washington University: Holocene paleoflood history of the Salmon River, Idaho (2) Joshua Messenger, Montana Tech of the University of Montana: Skarn paragenesis and the temporal relationship of scheelite mineralization at Calvert Mine, Pioneer Mountains, Montana

Numbers of applications received for all the scholarship programs have increased, and we anticipate further increases in the year ahead as the programs receive wider attention. At the same time, costs of education and research have, and are increasing dramatically. In order for RMAG scholarships to be competitive in the academic world, Foundation Trustees want to increase the size of scholarships above the present range of awards of $3,000 to $5,000 to a higher value for each. The Foundation trustees urge RMAG member to contribute to scholarship funds during the year or when paying dues late in the year. The scholarship programs mean a great deal to young persons beginning geologic research. Thank you for your support.

The Phillip J. McKenna scholarship award for student research at Colorado College is now tailored to fund student research beginning in the last part of the junior into the senior academic year of student applicants. Thus in order to facilitate research for students graduating in May, 2016, two awards were made in June, 2015, for the 2015-2016 academic year:

PHILLIP J. MCKENNA SCHOLARSHIPS, COLORADO COLLEGE [2015–2016]

(1) Fischer Hazen, Colorado College: Terrestrial records of early Eocene hypothermals from the Piceance Creek basin, Colorado

June 21st On-theRocks Field Trip

LOCATION we’ll lease it, permit it, gather it and sell it

Continued from page 43

created a sensational buzz in the scientific community and elsewhere is testimonial to excellent research conducted by Dr. Siddoway, her students and her collaborators. The members of the OTR field trip, on the longest day of the year, were able to catch a bit of that magic. As a final act of closure, the skies opened up as we drove back to collect our cars at the Visitor’s Center. Dime-sized hail pelted the group and made continued discussion, and even goodbyes, impossible. What started as a nice day with great potential turned into a highly memorable learning experience with impact. References :

Myrow, P.M., Taylor, J.F., Miller, J.F., Ethington, R.L., Ripperdan, R.L., and Allen, J., 2003, Fallen Arches: Dispelling Myths Concerning Cambrian and Ordovician Paleogeography of the Rocky Mountain Region: Geological Society of America Bulletin, v. 115, no. 6, p. 695–713 Siddoway, C., Myrow, P., and Fitz-Díaz, E., 2013, Strata, Structures, and Enduring Enigmas: A 125th Anniversary Appraisal of Colorado Springs Geology, in Abbott, L.D., and Hancock, G.S., eds., Classic Concepts and New Directions: Exploring 125 Years of GSA Discoveries in the Rocky Mountain Region: Geological Society of America Field Guide 33, p. 331–356. Siddoway, C, Shatford, S. and Contreras, A. A. 2013, ARMO Reactivation of CambrianOUTCROP | October 2015 Ordovician or Older Structures: Detrital Zircon Evidence from “Structureless” Sandstones of the Souther Front Range

your ideas - we make them happen LEASING - PERMITTING - DAMAGES - ROW

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Lario Oil & Gas Company


IN THE PIPELINE

OCTOBER 8, 2015 RMAG Fall Symposium. “Hot Plays of the Rocky Mountain Region.” Denver City Center Marriott. OCTOBER 9, 2015

and Drilling Activity in the North Park-Middle Park Basin, Colorado.”

OCTOBER 28, 2015

RMAG Luncheon. Speaker Terri Olson. “Wettability Imaging of Unconventional Mudrock Reservoirs.” Location: Maggiano’s Little Italy, Downtown Denver.

OCTOBER 7, 2015

Hart DUG-Eagleford.

Oilfield Christian Fellowship. For reservations, RSVP to OCF-DenverChapter@ pxd.com or 303-675-2602.

OCTOBER 27, 2015

OCTOBER 29, 2015

RMAG Happy Hour. Denver Earth Resource Library.

Payne Institute for Earth Resources: Annual Energy Outlook. Colorado School of Mines, CTLM Building, Room 102, 1650 Arapahoe St., Golden, CO. To register, contact Summer Jackson at sajoackso@mines.edu or 303-273-3482.

OCTOBER 25-27, 2015

OCTOBER 27, 2015 PTTC Short Course. “Beyond Porosity: Lithology from Logs for Geologists.” CSM, Golden, CO.

RMAG Fall Symposium Core Workshop. OCTOBER 9, 2015 DIPS Lucheon. Speaker Katie Joe McDonough. “A ‘Timely’ View of Fan/ Channel Facies and Their Chronostratigraphic Variability, Offshore Tanzania and Mozambique.”.” OCTOBER 18-21, 2015 SEG Annual Meeting. New Orleans, LA. OCTOBER 20, 2015 DWLS Luncheon. Speaker Gary Simpson. “Using Advanced Logging Measurements to Develop a Robust Petrophysical Model for the Bakken.” OCTOBER 24-25, 2015 RMAG On the Rocks Field Trip. “Laramide Basin Evolution Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org

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WELCOME NEW RMAG MEMBERS!

Brady Britten

works at Encrescent LLC in Dallas, TX.

Mohamed Bushara

is a Production Geologist at PDO/Shell in Denver, CO.

Cory Christie

is a Geologist at QEP Resources in Denver, CO.

Brian Cornette

is a Senior Acquisitions Geologist at Oasis Petroleum in Bellaire, TX.

OUTCROP | October 2015

Jeff Crabaugh

is a Geologist at ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company in Houston, TX.

Karl Graham

is a Geologist at Apache Corporation in San Antonio, TX.

Daniel Gunnell

is a CEO at Liberty Pioneer Energy Source in Orem, UT.

Andrew Kolodziej

works at T.M. McCoy and Co., Inc. in Lakewood, CO.

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Blake Long

is a student in Denver, CO.

Kristen Marra

is a Geologist at USGS in Denver, CO.

Kristine Mize-Spansky works at Encana Services Company in Denver, CO.

John Porter

is a Geologist at Encana in Denver, CO.

Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org


IN MEMORIAM

Robert Thompson Sellars, Jr.

Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org

Upon arriving in Denver in 1971, Bob became active in RMAG activities, serving on Field Trip, Golf & Tennis Tournament, and Continuing Education Committees. In 1985 he was elected Treasurer of RMAG. In 1986 Bob chaired the Log Library Feasibility Committee. He became President-Elect in 1987 and was President in 1988. Bob’s devotion to RMAG did not end with his presidency. He served as Trustee of the RMAG Foundation for 6 years and was a member of the Professional Awards Committee for 10 years. In 2014 RMAG honored him with a 21

Special Award for his unflagging dedication. Bob joined AAPG in 1960. He served as Delegate to its House of Delegates and was elected to represent the Rocky Mountain Section on the Division of Professional Affairs Advisory Board. He became President of the DPA in 1998. A recipient of AAPG’s Distinguished Service Award, Bob was a dedicated member of the Career Services, Conventions, and Astrogeology Committees, and also served on the Advisory Council. Deep personal loyalties and quiet leadership were typical of Bob. His simple eight word question set in motion a campaign by his Study Group to raise $100,000 to start the Norman Foster Memorial Scholarship, which is administered by the RMAG Foundation. For more than a decade he chaired the committee that selected the scholarship recipients. Bob is survived by his loving wife, Sharon, three daughters, a sister and brother, and four grandchildren. His legacy is inspirational to his many friends and associates.

Robert (Bob) T. Sellars, Jr., a past President and Honorary Member of RMAG, passed away July 22, 2015 at the age of 81. Bob’s interest in oil, gas and minerals started early, as he was the son of an early wildcatter, Robert T. Sellars, and his wife Johnnie Mae Sellars, who taught school in Bob’s home town of Decatur, Texas. Bob obtained the Bachelor of Science (1957) degree in Geology from the University of Texas, and the Master of Science (1961) and Ph D (1966) degrees from Tulane University. Before completing his studies, Bob began his professional career as a geologist with Kerr-McGee Corporation in New Orleans. In 1965 he was employed by Louisiana Land and Exploration (LL&E) and, after three years, began working in LL&E’s Mineral Division, where he became Division Exploration Manager and was involved in projects in Wyoming, California, Nevada, Maine, Idaho, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona. After a spectacularly successful 10-year period of mineral exploration, he resumed oil and gas exploration with LL&E, becoming Area Supervisor and moving to Denver. In 1988, Bob retired from LL&E and became a Consulting Petroleum Geologist, finding and developing projects for clients and his personal account.

By Dudley W. Bolyard

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RMAG LUNCHEON PROGRAMS Speaker: Terri Olson — October 7, 2015

Wettability Imaging of Unconventional Mudrock Reservoirs By Terri Olson

Terri Olson: With degrees in geology from Colorado College and Dartmouth, Terri Olson worked as a petroleum geologist for seven years before attending Amoco Petrophysics School at the Amoco Research Center in Tulsa. She has worked on exploration, development, and reservoir characterization projects in California, the Midcontinent, the Rockies, and the

SINCLAIR

PETROLEUM

texture, while water-wet surfaces appear clean with no residues. In shale samples, the same characteristic textures are often seen, as well as thicker organic coatings interpreted to be bitumen (secondary, migrated organic matter). Examples from multiple shale reservoir formations will be shown, from a range of maturities and mineralogic compositions. Wettability is commonly seen to vary at the pore scale in shale formations, and assumptions that mineral pores remain water-wet can be misleading. The SEM technique also allows the same subarea of a shale sample to be imaged and re-imaged during a cleaning sequence to directly visualize the local removal of organics by harsher solvents.

Understanding wettability is key to optimizing oil recovery. Conventional methods of wettability characterization via core analysis are not feasible in mudrock (shale) reservoirs, owing to the severe difficulties in establishing well-defined initial states and performing fluid displacements in such matrix pore systems. An alternative method has been developed that utilizes high-resolution SEM imaging of fresh surfaces of preserved samples that have been mildly solvent cleaned to remove bulk fluids. In conventional reservoirs, asphaltene residues cling to oil-wet pore walls and can be distinguished (in secondary electron images at low volt age) by their distinctive nodular, nano-particulate film

North Sea for Amoco and BP, Tom Brown and Encana, and EOG. The last 10 years she has worked mostly on shale plays, and is the Senior Associate Editor of Unconventionals for AAPG Bulletin. Terri joined the Digital Rock Services group of FEI Oil & Gas in October 2014 as Technical Lead, Unconventionals. She has been on the board of DWLS, and is currently on

the board of RMAG as Counselor. Terri is a member of AAPG, SPWLA, and SPE. Terri has organized numerous workshops and short courses on pore scale imaging, digital rock technology, and mudrock petrography, including one for the SPWLA annual symposium in 2013 and one for the annual AAPG conventions in Houston and Denver in 2014 and 2015.

ENGINEERING,INC.

www.sinclairengineering.com

 Unconventional Well Modeling Specialist  Shale, CBM, Tight Gas, Primary, Secondary  Reserve Reports, Property Evaluations  Production Forecasting John Sinclair,Ph.D.,P.E. Licensed in

CO, UT, MT, & WY

OUTCROP | October 2015

307-587-5502 (o) 307-431-6382 (c) john@sinclairengineering.com

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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 Williston Basin and Permian Basin; two prominent liquids-rich gas plays – the Pinedale Anticline and the Uinta Basin; and a premier dry gas asset – the Haynesville Shale.

Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, QEP Resources, Inc. (NYSE: QEP) is an S&P 500 Index member company. Learn more at www.qepres.com.

Thank you to

Dolan Integration Group (DIG) for being RMAG’s Exclusive Luncheon Sponsor for 2015! Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org

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RMAG LUNCHEON PROGRAMS Speaker: Ranie M. Lynds — November 4, 2015

The case for another look at the Paleocene Fort Union Formation in the eastern Greater Green River Basin, Wyo. By Ranie M. Lynds and Christopher J. Carroll Divide Basin, where no Fort Union production is occurring and no drill stem tests are publicly available. Mud logs from wells drilled into the deeper Cretaceous formations show methane gas spikes associated with the China Butte Member, but this coal-rich interval is at maximum depths of approximately 914 to 1,829 m (3,000 to 6,000 ft) TVD. Extrapolation of vitrinite reflectance results suggests 1,676 to 2,103 m (5,500 to 6,900 ft) of Neogene erosion in the Great Divide Basin, placing the China Butte Member at maximum burial depths just shy of those required for in-situ condensate generation in the Washakie Basin. Furthermore, vitrinite reflectance measured from a handful of Fort Union Formation samples in the Great Divide Basin record values approximately 0.4 to 0.7% Ro, significantly less than the >1.2% values from the Washakie Basin. Preliminary data suggest that although Fort Union Formation coals may not have reached maximum burial depths sufficient for condensate generation in the Great Divide Basin, this coal-rich interval may be methane saturated, at least in places, and could be worth a second look.

The Paleocene Fort Union Formation in the eastern Greater Green River Basin is a thick succession of shale, sandstone, coal, and siltstone, deposited as syn-orogenic Laramide basin fill. Recent production from the Washakie Basin has demonstrated the viability of the Fort Union Formation as a productive gas reservoir, especially with improved horizontal drilling technology. This begs the question: are there other potentially analogous Fort Union reservoirs that have been overlooked elsewhere in the eastern Greater Green River Basin? In the case of the Washakie Basin, wet gas is produced from the China Butte Member of the Fort Union Formation. This basal member has numerous coal seams interbedded with lenticular sandstones. Gas is believed to be derived in situ, as well as from the deeper Cretaceous-age formations. Production is from approximately 3,048 m (10,000 ft) TVD. Burial history curve analyses and vitrinite reflectance extrapolation suggests 975 m (3,200 ft) of Neogene erosion, reflecting condensate generation at less than 4,023 m (13,200 ft) burial depth (geothermal gradients in this region are not elevated). Regional correlations of the China Butte Member show the succession of coals thickens into the Great

Ranie Lynds earned her Ph.D. in fluvial sedimentology from the University of Wyoming. She also has a B.S. in geology and M.S. in geophysics from Stanford University. She has mudlogged in the San Juan Basin, dabbled in the uranium industry, and spent several years

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researching carbon sequestration as a postdoc at the University of Wyoming. For the past four years, Ranie has been working as an oil and gas geologist for the Wyoming State Geological Survey, where her continued interest in fluvial processes led her to this Fort Union Formation

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study. She is also an adjunct professor with the University of Wyoming and the University of Idaho, vice-chair of the Rocky Mountain Section of GSA, member of several professional organizations, and a ski patroller involved with avalanche education in the Rocky Mountain region.

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LEAD STORY

Gold King Mine Lack of remediation, accountability with abandoned sites is the true problem at hand

SITE NAMES: Upper Animas

Watershed, Upper Cement Creek CITY: Silverton COUNTY: San Juan LOCATION: latitude: 37.8945째

N; longitude: 107.6384째 W; approximately 11,000 feet elevation OUTCROP | October 2015

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The Animas River between Silverton and Durango within 24 hours of the spill. (Photo: Riverhugger, via Commons) Vol. 64, No.Wikimedia 10 | www.rmag.org


Entrance to Gold King Mine from EPA site management web site. This is the adit known as Gold King 7 Level. (Photo: EPA, via Wikimedia Commons) Editor’s Note: The lead article for this month was published by the EPA as an overview of the Gold King Mine and Upper Animas Watershed near Silverton, CO. As most of you know the EPA has taken responsibility for a recent release of toxic waters from the Gold King Mine which spilled into Cement Creek. Rather than focus on the spill itself I felt it was more important to outline the true problem at hand which is the large amount of mines that have been abandoned by now defunct mining companies. Lack of remediation and accountability by operators in the past has led to an abundance of environmental issues in the West. These are complicated and numerous problems that have been left to the EPA to deal with. Mistakes have been made and will continue to be made in cleanup efforts. In the end though, my hope is that these mistakes are not misconstrued for a misguided effort – these mines, wells, and other problems aren’t going away. The West needs to be cleaned up and those left with the cleaning should not be dissuaded by setbacks along the way. —Will Duggins

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

company bought the mine and operated it until the fall of 1922. The GKM shipped 711,144 tons of gold and silver ore while in operation. The mine has been inactive since then. It is currently owned by San Juan Corporation. The GKM is located in the Upper

The Gold King Mine (GKM) was discovered by Olaf Nelson in 1887, with operations continuing until 1907 when a fire destroyed the surface buildings of the mine. The mine was reopened in 1910 but closed shortly thereafter because of litigation and labor problems. In 1918 a new Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org

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Lead Story

»»CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27 Animas Watershed in southwestern Colorado. These watersheds within the volcanic terrain of the San Juan Mountains contain some 400 abandoned and inactive mine sites, which have been the focus of both large- and small-scale mining operations between 1871 and 1991.The watershed consists of three main streams, the Animas, Cement Creek and Mineral Creek all of which drain the Silverton Caldera. The Animas River and many of its tributaries are historically impacted by high concentrations of heavy metals from both acid rock/mine drainage at mine sites and from naturally occurring metal loading sources not impacted by mining. Mining operations contributed to metals loading to alpine streams and creeks adding to the natural metal loading already occurring in the mineralized area. As a common practice, mine tailings were directly deposited into the creeks and rivers until the 1930’s. Water draining from the mines occurs when mining operations in the mountainsides alter the hydrology of the area and combine with natural springs, pulling water into mine tunnels. The water reacts with iron disulfide (pyrite) and oxygen to form sulfuric acid (acid rock/mine drainage). The resulting acidic water dissolves naturally occurring heavy metals such as zinc, lead, cadmium, copper and aluminum and results in water containing these

»»CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

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PTTC Presents: Workshops to Improve Your Skills How to Find Bypassed Pay in Old Wells Using DST Data

Monday-Tuesday, Oct. 26-27, 2015, 8:30 AM-5:00 PM Colorado School of Mines, Ben Parker Student Center Ballroom D Fee: $500; Includes: refreshments, workbook, and PDH certificate Instructor: Hugh W. Reid

Geologists, engineers & technicians who encounter or utilize DST results and reports in their exploration & production decisions. In fact any professional who needs to make more sense of the numerous old DSTs which are present in so many wells, often with confusing results. Particularly appropriate for those prospecting for bypassed pay using logs and geology, who may wish to verify their conclusions from the DST or for regional geologists using show maps of DST results.

Beyond Porosity: Lithology from Logs

Wednesday, October 28, 2015, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Colorado School of Mines, Ben Parker Student Center Ballroom D Fee: $250, includes food at breaks, class notes, and PDH certificate Instructor: Dr. Dan Krygowski

The course looks at the determination of lithology from several approaches. In clastics, we’re concerned with the presence of clays, so we address the determination of shale volume calculations from the gamma ray, SP, and density-neutron logs, and how to pick clean and shale endpoints. We’ll consider which gamma ray equation to use and why. The issues surrounding shale volume vs clay volume will be considered, and the tradeoffs of working in shale space or clay space. In carbonates and mixed lithologies, we’ll consider pattern recognition (graphical) techniques that quickly determine lithology in a qualitative way, as well as quantitative approaches such as lithology-porosity crossplots (like the neutron-density crossplot), M-N lithology plots, and apparent matrix plots. Along with sonic traveltime, bulk density, and neutron porosity, we’ll consider the photoelectric effect measurement and how it reduced the ambiguity in the lithology predictions using only the three “porosity” measurements.

Petroleum Geology for Non-Geologists

Monday, November 16, 2015, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Colorado School of Mines, Ben Parker Student Center Ballroom DE Fee: $250, includes food at breaks, class notes, and PDH certificate Instructors: Laura Wray and Kelly Foley

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. Emphasis will be placed upon the reservoir descriptions that are important for petroleum engineering analyses.

Petroleum Engineering for Non-Engineers

Tuesday, November 17, 2015, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Colorado School of Mines, Ben Parker Student Center Ballroom DE Fee: $250, includes food at breaks, class notes, and PDH certificate Instructor: Dr. Jennifer Miskimins

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.

Well-Log Sequence Stratigraphy: Applications to Sandstones and Shales

Tuesday – Thursday, December 8-10, 2015, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Colorado School of Mines, Ben Parker Student Center, Ballroom C Fee: $750, includes food at breaks, class notes, and PDH certificate Instructor: Dr. Jeff May Class Descriptions and Register Online: www.pttcrockies.org

For more information, contact Mary Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org 29 Carr, 303.273.3107, mcarr@mines.edu OUTCROP | October 2015


Lead Story

nr Great Western a rocky mountain operator

»»CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28

metals flowing out of the mine adits (a horizontal shaft into a mine, which is used for access or drainage). By the end of mining operations, many of the mines were left discharging contaminated water into streams. In 1991, the last big mine in the region, the Sunnyside, stopped mining. Its owner, Sunnyside Gold Corp., agreed not only to bulkhead (mine plug) its mine, but also to clean up abandoned mines nearby, while continuing to run the metal-laden waters of upper Cement Creek through a water treatment facility. Sunnyside also reached an agreement with the state and Gold King mining to turn over its water treatment operations to Gold King. At that time, the GKM, like the nearby Red and Bonita mine, had not discharged any water. However, after Sunnyside closed, water found natural fractures that allowed it to flow into the GKM and Red and Bonita mines. Initially, these waters were run through the treatment plant that Sunnyside built, but Gold King ran into technical, financial and legal troubles and the treatment plant stopped operating. The GKM is one of an estimated 23,000 abandoned mines OIL & G dotting the state of Colorado. Of these abandoned mines, 6,127 303-398 have been made safe by the Col- info@gw orado Division of Reclamation, www.gw Mining and Safety.

GreatGreat Western Western O I L & G A S COOI LM & PAGNAYS C O M PA N Y

303-398-0302 303-398-0302 info@gwogco.com info@gwogco.com www.gwogco.com www.gwogco.com

Great

»»CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

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Lead Story

»»CONTINUED FROM PAGE 30 PREVIOUS WATER RELEASE INCIDENTS IN THE AREA: 1975 – A tailings pile on the banks of the Animas River northeast of Silverton was breached, dumping tens of thousands of gallons of water, along with 50,000 tons of heavy-metal-loaded tailings into the Animas. 1978 – Sunnyside Mine worker breached the floor of Lake Emma sending an estimated 500 million gallons of water through the mines, sweeping up huge machinery, tailings and sludge, and ultimately releasing through the American Tunnel to downstream waters.

SITE ASSESSMENT:

EPA and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) conducted a Superfund Site Assessment of the area in the 1990s. The assessment showed that water quality standards were not achieved in the Animas River near Silverton and identified the severe impacts to aquatic life in the Upper Animas and its tributaries from naturally occurring and mining-related heavy metals. In recognition of the community-based collaborative effort, EPA agreed to postpone adding all or a portion of the site to the Superfund NPL, as long as progress was being made to improve the water quality of the Animas River.

»»CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

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A A Proud Proud Sponsor Sponsor of of the the A Proud Sponsor of the Rocky Mountain Rocky Mountain Rocky Mountain Association Association of of Geologists Geologists Association of Geologists At Whiting Petroleum, our teams are dedicated to At Whitingand Petroleum, ourour teams are results. dedicated to achieving surpassing record Our At Whiting Petroleum, ourour teams are dedicated to achieving and surpassing record results. hydraulic fracturing advancements, state of theOur art achieving and our record results. Our hydraulic fracturing state of the art geoscience labsurpassing and advancements, expertise in exploration have hydraulic fracturing the art geoscience lab and advancements, expertise in exploration have made us the number one producer instate NorthofDakota. geoscience and expertise in exploration have made us the lab number one producer in North Dakota. made the number North Dakota. Whiting teams From us shale plays toone COproducer 2 floods,in Whiting teams From shale plays to CO 2 floods, are focused on record results to thrive at current Whiting teams From shale plays to CO are focused on record results to thrive at current 2 floods, price levels. are focused price levels. on record results to thrive at current price levels.

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A Proud Sponsor of the Rocky Mountain A Proud Sponsor of the Association of Geologists Rocky Mountain

Lead Story Until approximately 2005, water quality in the Animas River was improving. However, since 2005, water quality in the Animas River has not improved and, for at least 20 miles below the confluence with Cement Creek and the water quality has declined significantly. Impacts to aquatic life were also demonstrated by fish population surveys conducted by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, which found no fish in the Animas River below Cement Creek for approximately two miles and observed precipitous declines in fish populations as far as 20 miles downstream since 2005. Because of this declining water quality in the Animas River, in 2008, EPA’s Superfund Site Assessment program began investigations in Upper Cement Creek focused on evaluating whether the Upper Cement Creek area alone would qualify for inclusion on the NPL. This evaluation indicated that the area would qualify, although after receiving additional community input, EPA postponed efforts to include the area on the National Priorities List. Since that time, EPA has continued and broadened its investigations of conditions at the site in order to understand the major sources of heavy metal contamination in the Upper Animas.

SITE RISK:

Mining operations have greatly disturbed the land, adding to existing highly mineralized conditions in many areas of the site. Mineralized waste rock exposed to air and water causes acidic conditions to mobilize the release of

»»CONTINUED ON PAGE 35

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Lead Story

»»CONTINUED FROM PAGE 34 heavy metals to the surrounding environment. These heavy metals have found their way into the Animas River and its tributaries and have eventually traveled farther downstream.

CLEANUP PROGRESS:

Media Affected

Contaminants

Source of Contamination

surface water, subsurface water, surface soils and stream sediments

heavy metals – aluminum, lead, zinc, cadmium, copper, iron and manganese

historic mining activities and naturally occurring mineralization

agencies, was created in 1994 to address the water discharges. The ARSG, along with federal and state agencies, continue to work to clean up the mines. In addition, ARSG has been using a watershed approach and has developed a remediation plan, recommended feasible water quality standards (which were adopted in 2001) and has implemented remediation projects throughout the Upper Animas River Basin. Further information can be found at http:// www2.epa.gov/goldkingmine

Numerous mine reclamation and mine waste cleanup projects have been completed in the Upper Animas watershed over the last 20 years. These efforts have included diverting runoff away from and capping mine waste piles, moving mine waste piles away from drainages, consolidating mine waste piles and revegetating mine waste piles.

OTHER CLEAN UP EFFORTS:

The Animas River Stakeholders Group (ARSG), a collaboration between concerned citizens and representatives from industry and federal and state

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2016 Board of Directors Candidate Biographical Sketch 2016 Board of Directors Candidate Kimberley Alanis Biographical Name:

Sketch

Kimberley Alanis Vice President Name: Candidate For: Second Candidate For: Second Vice President Education

5 Words that Describe Me Loyal

M.S. Environmental Geochemistry (non-thesis), Colorado School of Mines, 2005

5 Dedicated Words that Describe Me

Education B.S. Geological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, 2004

Team-Oriented Loyal Driven Dedicated Thoughtful Team-Oriented

M.S. Environmental Geochemistry (non-thesis), Colorado School of Mines, 2005 B.S. Geological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, 2004

Professional Experience

Driven Thoughtful

Senior Geologist, Vantage Energy, Englewood, CO (2012-Present) Professional Experience Geologist, QEP, Denver, CO (2004-2012)

First Concert Attended

Senior Geologist, Vantage Energy, Englewood, CO (2012-Present) Geologist, QEP, Denver, CO (2004-2012)

First Concert Attended

Beach Boys Beach Boys

Involvement within RMAG and other Professional Organizations

Favorite Food

RMAG (2014-Present 3D Seismic Symposium Committee, 2012-RMAG Secretary)

Involvement withinAAPG RMAG and other Professional Organizations AAPG (2015-PresentDelegate)

DGS (2014-Present 3D Seismic Symposium Committee, 2012-RMAG Secretary) RMAG SEG AAPG (2015-Present- AAPG Delegate) SPE DGS CSMAA SEG SPE CSMAA

Steak

Favorite Food Steak

Most Significant Publications

Characteristics of the Upper Cretaceous Baxter Shale in the Vermillion Basin, Northwestern Colorado Most Significant Publications The Vermillion Basin SW Wyoming/ NW Colorado: Styles and Seismic Pore Pressure Prediction Through Characteristics of the of Upper Cretaceous Baxter ShaleStructural in the Vermillion Basin, Northwestern Colorado Over-Pressure. The Vermillion Basin of SW Wyoming/ NW Colorado: Structural Styles and Seismic Pore Pressure Prediction Through Petrophysical Evaluation of the Hiawatha Deep Unit #5 well in the Vermillion Basin, Northwestern Colorado Over-Pressure. Petrophysical Evaluation of the Hiawatha Deep Unit #5 well in the Vermillion Basin, Northwestern Colorado

Why do you want to be a part of the RMAG board? I would like serve on the the RMAG board to give back to an organization that is important to me. Education is an essential Why you want to be atopart thethat RMAG board? part of do geology. I want continue makeofsure members of RMAG are benefiting from the currently very well thought out education opportunities presented by this organization. Being involved on that the RMAG boardtoisme. a great opportunity me to I would like serve on the the RMAG board to give back to an organization is important Education is anfor essential grow both personally and professionally. I would be honored to serve the members of RMAG as the 2nd Vice President. part of geology. I want continue to make sure that members of RMAG are benefiting from the currently very well thought out education opportunities presented by this organization. Being involved on the RMAG board is a great opportunity for me to grow both personally and professionally. I would be honored to serve the members of RMAG as the 2nd Vice President.

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2015 2015Summit SummitSponsors Sponsors Gold Sponsor

WPX

Lee Steinke

Why does WPX sponsor RMAG? We sponsor RMAG for several reasons. We were a new company just a few years ago, and colleagues, students, and potential employees were not familiar with us. Corporate sponsorships not only boost awareness of our brand but also strengthen it by demonstrating an ability and willingness to invest in less tangible assets, like long term reputation and good will. We also sponsor because we believe in RMAG’s mission, both its immediate parts—fostering scientific research and encouraging fellowship and cooperation among its members—and its longer term investment of promoting interest in geology and allied science and their practical application.

What RMAG events have been the most beneficial to you and your team at WPX this year? Two recent events stood out for us: the RMAG DGS 3D Seismic Symposium (the past 2 years) and the Geosteering Forum. We gave the keynote talk at the Geosteering Forum and 3 speakers in 2 years at the 3D Symposium. These talks were very well received and helped develop our reputation as a technical company.

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

Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org

follow: @rmagdenver

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2016 Board of Directors Candidate 2016 Board of Directors Candidate 2016 Board of Directors Candidate Biographical Biographical Sketch Sketch Biographical Sketch

Justin Birdwell Name: Name: Justin Birdwell Name: Justin Birdwell First Vice-President Candidate Candidate For: For: First Vice-President Candidate For: First Vice-President

5 5 Words Words that that Describe Describe Me Me 5 Dedicated Words that Describe Me

Education Education Education * 2007-Louisiana State University-PhD-Chemical Engineering

Dedicated Curious Curious Dedicated Adaptive Adaptive Curious Runner Runner Adaptive Homebrewer Homebrewer Runner Homebrewer

* 2007-Louisiana State University-PhD-Chemical Engineering ** 2002-Louisiana 2002-Louisiana State University-BS-Chemical University-BS-Chemical Engineering 2007-Louisiana State University-PhD-ChemicalEngineering Engineering * 2002-Louisiana State University-BS-Chemical Engineering

Professional Professional Experience Experience Professional * 2011-PresentExperience U.S. Geological Survey, Research Environmental Engineer

* 2011-Present U.S. Geological Survey, Research Environmental Engineer (Petroleum Processes Group/Organic Geochemistry Lab) * 2011-Present U.S. Geological Survey, Research Environmental Engineer (Petroleum Processes Group/Organic Geochemistry Lab) **(Petroleum 2009-2011 U.S. Geological Survey, Mendenhall Postdoctoral Fellow Group/Organic Geochemistry Lab) 2009-2011Processes U.S. Geological Survey, Mendenhall Postdoctoral Fellow (Project: (Project: Experimental and environmental study of retorting) * 2009-2011 U.S. Survey, Postdoctoral Fellow (Project: Experimental and Geological environmental studyMendenhall of in-situ in-situ oil-shale oil-shale retorting) **Experimental 2008-2009 State Associate and and environmental study ofResearch in-situ oil-shale retorting) 2008-2009 Louisiana Louisiana State University, University, Research Associate and Lecturer, Lecturer, Department of Chemical Engineering Department of Chemical Engineering * 2008-2009 Louisiana State University, Research Associate and Lecturer,

First First Concert Concert Attended Attended First Concert Pearl Jam, NewAttended Orleans Arena,

Pearl Jam, New Orleans Arena, August 2000 August 2000 Pearl Jam, New Orleans Arena, August 2000

Department of Chemical Engineering

Involvement within within RMAG RMAG and and other other Professional Professional Organizations Organizations Involvement Involvement within RMAG and other Professional Organizations * RMAG, member since 2014; reviewer for 2016 Source Rock Volume

* RMAG, member since 2014; reviewer for 2016 Source Rock Volume Geological Society of member session convener ** RMAG, member since 2014; reviewer forsince 20162010; Source Rock Volume Geological Society of America, America, member since 2010; session convener Denver Denver 2010 2010 ** American Association of Petroleum Geologists, Active member since 2010, EMD GeologicalAssociation Society of America, member since 2010; session convener Denver 2010 American of Petroleum Geologists, Active member since 2010, EMD ** The Society for since 2010 American Association of Petrology, Petroleummember Geologists, Active The Society for Organic Organic Petrology, member since 2010member since 2010, EMD ** The American Chemical Society, member since 2003, Environmental American Chemical Society, member since 2003, Environmental and and Geochemistry Geochemistry Society for Organic Petrology, member since 2010 Divisions; session convener Denver 2011 annual meeting Divisions; convener Denver 2011 annual meeting * Americansession Chemical Society, member since 2003, Environmental and Geochemistry **Divisions; SPE-AAPG-SEG URTEC, reviewer, 2013 and session convener Denver 2011 annual meeting SPE-AAPG-SEG URTEC, abstract abstract reviewer, 2013 and 2014 2014 * SPE-AAPG-SEG URTEC, abstract reviewer, 2013 and 2014

Favorite Favorite Food Food Favorite Food Solid: vegetable korma

Solid: vegetable korma Liquid: American pale ale Solid: Liquid:vegetable Americankorma pale ale Liquid: American pale ale

Most Most Significant Significant Publications Publications Most Significant Publications

** Birdwell Characterization of dissolved organic in cave cave and using UV-Vis J.E., Engel Engel A.S., 2010, Characterization of dissolved organic matter matter in and spring spring waters waters using UV-Vis Birdwell J.E., A.S., 2010, absorbance and fluorescence spectroscopy, Organic Geochemistry, v. 41, p. 270-280. andEngel fluorescence spectroscopy, Organic Geochemistry, *absorbance Birdwell J.E., A.S., 2010, Characterization of dissolved organic matter in cave and spring waters using UV-Vis v. 41, p. 270-280. ** Washburn Birdwell 2013, analysis of spectra for Washburn K.E., K.E., Birdwell J.E., J.E.,spectroscopy, 2013, Multivariate Multivariate analysis of ATR-FTIR ATR-FTIR spectra for assessment assessment of of oil oil shale shale organic organic absorbance and fluorescence Organic Geochemistry, v. 41, p. 270-280. geochemical properties, Organic Geochemistry, v. 63, p. 1-7. properties, Organic Geochemistry, 63, p. 1-7. *geochemical Washburn K.E., Birdwell J.E., 2013, Multivariatev.analysis of ATR-FTIR spectra for assessment of oil shale organic ** Jin S., J.E., Molecular characterization and geochemical Organic Geochemistry, 63, p. 1-7. Jin J.M., J.M., Kim Kimproperties, S., Birdwell Birdwell J.E., 2012, 2012, Molecular v. characterization and comparison comparison of of shale shale oils oils generated generated by by different different pyrolysis methods, Energy & Fuels, v. 26, p. 1054-1062. *pyrolysis Jin J.M.,methods, Kim S., Birdwell 2012, characterization and comparison of shale oils generated by different Energy J.E., & Fuels, v. Molecular 26, p. 1054-1062. ** Cao Birdwell Chappell M., Li Y., Pignatello J.J., Mao J.D., 2013, Characterization pyrolysis Energy & Fuels, 1054-1062. Cao X., X., methods, Birdwell J.E., J.E., Chappell M.,v. Li26, Y., p. Pignatello J.J., Mao J.D., 2013, Characterization of of oil oil shale, shale, isolated isolated kerogen, kerogen, and post-pyrolysis residues using advanced 13C solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance, AAPG Bulletin, v. 421-436. 97, p. * Cao X., Birdwell J.E., Chappell Li Y., Pignatello J.J., Mao J.D., 2013, Characterization of oil Bulletin, shale, isolated kerogen, and post-pyrolysis residues usingM., advanced 13C solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance, AAPG v. 97, p. 421-436. *and Birdwell J.E., Vanden Berg M., Johnson R.C., Mercier T.J., Boehlke A.R., Brownfield M.E., Geological, geochemical and post-pyrolysis residues advanced 13CMercier solid-state resonance, AAPG Bulletin,geochemical v. 97, p. 421-436. * Birdwell J.E., Vanden Bergusing M., Johnson R.C., T.J.,nuclear Boehlkemagnetic A.R., Brownfield M.E., Geological, and reservoir characterization of the Uteland Butte member of the Green River Formation, Uinta Basin, Utah, RMAG Rocky *reservoir Birdwellcharacterization J.E., Vanden Berg M., Uteland JohnsonButte R.C.,member Mercier of T.J., A.R.,Formation, Brownfield Uinta M.E., Basin, Geological, of the theBoehlke Green River Utah, geochemical RMAG Rockyand Mountains Source Higley, P. Eds., accepted 2015. reservoir of the UtelandDolan, Butte M., member of D., the Lillis, Green Uinta Basin, Utah, RMAG Rocky Mountainscharacterization Source Rock Rock Compendium, Compendium, Dolan, M., Higley, D., Lillis, P.River Eds.,Formation, accepted July July 2015. Mountains Source Rock Compendium, Dolan, M., Higley, D., Lillis, P. Eds., accepted July 2015.

Why Why do do you you want want to to be be a a part part of of the the RMAG RMAG board? board? Why do want to be a partbeofanthe RMAGfor board? Serving as you First Vice-president would opportunity me to give back to the geoscience community by helping to

Serving as First Vice-president would be an opportunity for me to give back to the geoscience community by helping to continue RMAG's tradition publishing. II have been an avid reviewer editor scientific Serving First Vice-president would be in anscientific opportunity for me to give back geoscience community helping to continueas RMAG's tradition of of excellence excellence in scientific publishing. have been to anthe avid reviewer and and editor of ofby scientific publications since graduate school and have served as a peer-reviewer on 115 articles for 30 different journals since continue RMAG's excellence in scientific I have been an avid reviewer editorjournals of scientific publications since tradition graduateofschool and have served publishing. as a peer-reviewer on 115 articles for 30 and different since 2006. 2006. II have also served as a reviewer for the upcoming RMAG Source Rock Compendium and have edited and revised many publications sinceas graduate school andupcoming have served as aSource peer-reviewer on 115 articles 30 different journals since 2006. I have also served a reviewer for the RMAG Rock Compendium andfor have edited and revised many Master's PhD dissertations for and Through my as session at convener at have alsotheses servedand as a reviewer for the upcoming Source Rock Compendium and have andconvener revised many Master's theses and PhD dissertations for friends friends RMAG and colleagues. colleagues. Through my experience experience as a aedited session Geological Society America and Chemical Society and a and head technical Geological Society ofPhD America and American American Chemical Society meetings meetings and asexperience a co-chair co-chairas and head of of the the technical review Master's theses andof dissertations for friends and colleagues. Through myas a session convener at review committee for the Colorado School of Mines Oil Shale Symposium (2010 to present), I have reviewed and edited hundreds committee the Colorado School of Mines Oil Shale Symposium (2010 and to present), I haveand reviewed and hundreds Geological for Society of America and American Chemical Society meetings as a co-chair head of theedited technical review of of abstracts. abstracts. committee for the Colorado School of Mines Oil Shale Symposium (2010 to present), I have reviewed and edited hundreds of abstracts. OUTCROP | October 2015

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COLORADO SCHOOL OF MINES

PAYNE INSTITUTE

f or EARTH RESOURCES

Annual Energy Outlook 2015 Adam Sieminski was sworn in on June 4, 2012, as the eighth administrator of the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). EIA is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating independent and impartial energy information to promote sound policy-making, efficient markets, and public understanding of energy and its interaction with the economy and the environment. EIA also prepares analyses and special reports on topics of current interest.

ADAM SIEMINSKI

Energy Information Administration

THURSDAY, OCT. 29, 2015 4 pm – Reception to follow

Colorado School of Mines CTLM Building, Room 102 1650 Arapahoe Street

ABSTRACT Adam Sieminski presents the EIA’s Annual Energy Outlook for 2015. This report presents long-term projections of U.S. energy supply, demand, and prices through 2040. The projections focus on the factors that shape the U.S. energy system over the long term. Under the assumption that current laws and regulations remain unchanged throughout the projections, the Outlook’s Reference case projections provide the basis for examination and discussion of energy production, consumption, technology, and market trends and the direction they may take in the future. It also serves as a starting point for analysis of potential changes in energy policies.

Limited Seating

REGISTRATION Please contact Summer Jackson at sajackso@mines.edu or 303.273.3482.

h t t p : // e a r t h p o l i c y . m i n e s . e d u P AY N E I N S T I T U T E • C O L O R A D O 39 S C H O O L O F M I N E S • G O L D E OUTCROP N, CO Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org | October 2015


2016 Board of Directors Candidate Biographical Sketch

Name: Matthew Boyce Candidate For: Treasurer-Elect 5 Words that Describe Me

Education

Objective Quantitative Dedicated Dependable Caring

2006: University of Oklahoma, M.S. Geology 2004: University of Northern Iowa, B.S. Geology

Professional Experience Aug 2012 - Aug 2015: Sr. Petrophysicist, Newfield Exploration Jan 2007 - Aug 2012: Geologist, Encana

First Concert Attended Dave Matthew's Band

Involvement within RMAG and other Professional Organizations RMAG: Investment Committee Member 2014-present AAPG DWLS SPWLA

Favorite Food Banana Smoothie

Most Significant Publications

Why do you want to be a part of the RMAG board? As a past RMAG Norman H. Foster Award recipient it's time for me to give back to the organization.

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Golf

Tournament

Thank you to all who participated in the 2015 RMAG Golf Tournament at Arrowhead Golf Club on June 17th.

With your help the RMAG Golf Tournament raised

$3,110

for the RMAG Foundation Scholarship Program. We hope to see you on the course in 2016. e 910 16th Street #1214, Denver, CO, 80202

follow: @rmagdenver

JOIN SIPES — GET CONNECTED!  Programs for Petroleum Independents  Members From All Industry Fields  11 Chapter Locations  Local & National Meetings and Events

For more information visit www.sipes.org

Visit the SIPES Booth During NAPE Denver December 9 - 10, 2015 Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org

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2016 Board of Directors Candidate Biographical Sketch

Name: Karen Dean Candidate For: Treasurer - Elect 5 Words that Describe Me

Education

Organized Enthusiastic Curious Reliable Practical

B.S. Geology, University of Wyoming, 1971 M.S. Geology, University of Wyoming, 1973

Professional Experience Consulting Geologist (2014-Present), Noble Energy (2010-2014), Petro-Canada Resources (2007-2010), Williams Production (2001-2007), Robert L. Bayless Producer (1999-2001), Swift Energy (1997-1999), Ampolex USA (1987-1997), Consulting Geologist (1986-1987), Buckhorn Petroleum (1984-1986), Northwest Exploration (1978-1984), Petroleum Information (1976-1978), Amoco (1973-1976)

Involvement within RMAG and other Professional Organizations RMAG House Committee RMS-SEPM Membership Chairman, 11 years Member RMAG, RMS-SEPM, AAPG, WGA, DWLS Licensed Wyoming and Utah Professional Geologist

First Concert Attended Monkees

Favorite Food Oatmeal cookies

Most Significant Publications Dean, K., 2000, Bower and Hornbuckle Fields, WGA Wyoming Oil & Gas Fields Symposium, Powder River Basin. Frederick, J.B., Dean, K.T., Fryberger, S.G., and Wilcox, T.D. 1995, Donkey Creek North Minnelusa 3-D: RMAG High-Definition Seismic Guidebook. Dean, K., 1987, Mississippian Ratcliffe and Nesson Reservoirs, Rosebud Field, ND: RMAG Mountain Geologist.

Why do you want to be a part of the RMAG board? RMAG functions have been very beneficial to me. Great organizations depend on careful and thoughtful fiscal planning. I would like to continue RMAG's strong financial position and to further the great work of the association.

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The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

2015 Sporting Clay Tournament

Tournament Results Top Shooter – Score of 91

Top Team Tier 1 – Score of 400

Greg Anderson, Megan Holdershaw, Jim Kinser, Ted Enterline, Chad Grimes

Joe Woodske

Top Team Tier 2 – Score of 281

Top Team Tier 3 – Score of 242

Jason Devinny, Liz Rose, Scott Hampton, Kyle Bracken, John Boesink

email: staff@rmag.org

Rachel Errthum, Dan Rabiolo, Dylan Cobb, Dan Charbonneau

phone: 303.573.8621

910 16th Street #1214, Denver, CO, 80202 Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org

fax: 303.476.2241 43

web: www.rmag.org

follow: @rmagdenver

OUTCROP | October 2015


2016 Board of Directors Candidate Biographical Sketch

Name: Rob Diedrich Candidate For: First Year Counselor 5 Words that Describe Me

Education • 1981, M.S. Geology, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH • 1979, B.S. Geology, SUNY Oneonta, Oneonta, NY

Conscientious Dedicated Determined Friendly Considerate

Professional Experience • 2015-present, Vice President – Resources, SM Energy, Denver CO • 2002-2014, SM Energy (fka St. Mary Land & Exploration and Nance Petroleum), Sr Geo, Exploration Manager, Billings, MT • 2000-2002, Consulting Geologist, Billings, MT • 1996-2000, Sr Geologist, North American Resources Co, Billings, MT • 1981-1996, Sr Geologist, Marathon Oil Co, Tyler, TX, Houston, TX, Casper WY

First Concert Attended Harry Chapin

Involvement within RMAG and other Professional Organizations

Favorite Food

• 2007 - present, President & Director, Rocky Mountain Section AAPG Foundation • 2015 - 2016 Executive Advisory Council, URTeC • 2010 - 2015 AAPG HoD Committees:Rules & Procedures, Nominating & Newsletter • 2006 General Co-Chair: AAPG RMS Meeting, Billings, MT • 2002-2006 President/Secretary/Treasurer, RMS AAPG • 1997-2001 Montana Geological Society President/Secretary/Treasurer • 1987 2nd Vice President, Wyoming Geological Association

Key Lime Pie

Most Significant Publications Co-editor Wyoming Geological Association 39th Annual Guidebook, Eastern Powder River Basin - Black Hills, 1988.

Why do you want to be a part of the RMAG board? After being an 'out of town' RMAG member for nearly 20 years, I am glad to officially be in Denver and honored to be considered for an opportunity to serve the Association. I’ve always considered involvement in local geological societies to be very important and becoming a member of the RMAG board gives me an opportunity to renew acquaintances, meet new members and assist the Association through my experiences in various roles with AAPG, the Montana Geological Society and the Wyoming Geological Association.

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The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

2015 Sporting Clay Tournament

Thank you Sponsors! Meal Sponsor

Beverage Sponsor

email: sta@rmag.org

phone: 303.573.8621

910 Street Denver, CO, 80202 Vol.16th 64, No. 10 | #1214, www.rmag.org

fax: 303.476.2241 45

web: www.rmag.org

follow: @rmagdenver OUTCROP

| October 2015


2016 Board of Directors Candidate Biographical Sketch

Name: Kelly K. Foley Candidate For: Second Vice President 5 Words that Describe Me

Education

Vigorous Jaunty Examiner Inquisitive Explorer

Masters of Science, 2005 The Ohio State University, Geological Science Department. Columbus, Ohio Bachelors, 2001 Miami University, Interdisciplinary Earth Science. Oxford, Ohio

Professional Experience • Schlumberger. Senior Reservoir Geologist, 2012-2015 • Luca Technologies. Reservoir Geologist, 2008-2012 • Consulting Geologist. Introduction to Petroleum Geology courses, since 2012 • Consulting Geologist. Build student Petra Project, Colorado School of Mines, 2012 • Adjunct Professor. Physical Geology, Red Rocks Community College, 2010 • Teacher. Earth Science and Foreign Language, ME & OH, 2002-2003; 2005-2008

Involvement within RMAG and other Professional Organizations RMAG - Attend meetings and field trips Women in Energy - Attend meetings Oilfield Helping Hands - Attend meetings and fundraising events

First Concert Attended Beach Boys

Favorite Food Trader Joe's Canned Trout

Most Significant Publications • Foley, K., Lyons, W.B., Virginia, R. Barrett, J. (2005) “Pedogenic carbonate distribution within glacial till in the Taylor Valley, Southern Victoria Land, Antarctica.” GSA Books Publication.

Why do you want to be a part of the RMAG board? I would like to be a part of the RMAG board to contribute to the ongoing success of the organization. Impressed by the lunch talks, field trips, symposia, and workshops, I would like to join the team that makes these events possible. My contribution to the industry, outside work, these past several years has been teaching Physical Geology and Introduction to Petroleum Geology courses. I feel that now is the appropriate time for me to contribute to RMAG by joining the board. By running for Second VP I'll be able to utilize my teaching skills to contribute to RMAG's exceptional educational framework that excitedly creates dynamic and engaging learning opportunities for members.

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Welcome Reception for NAPE Rockies Brought to you by the RMAG

NAPE on the Rocks Join us Wednesday, December 9th, 2015 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

At the Colorado Convention Center Room 301-302

Sponsorship Opportunities Available; please contact the RMAG office for more details.

Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org

RMAG Email: staff@rmag.org RMAG Phone: (303) 573-8621 RMAG Fax: (303) 476-2241 47

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2016 Board of Directors Candidate Biographical Sketch

Name: Sarah J. Hawkins Candidate For: Secretary 5 Words that Describe Me

Education

Motivated Curious Conscientious Adventurous Open-minded

University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky Geology, M.S. (2006), B.S. (2002)

Professional Experience 2011-present - U.S. Geological Survey Energy Resources Program, Denver, CO I am task chief for Mancos and Niobrara research in petroleum geoscience, focusing on geochemical and sedimentological mudrock characteristics that have scaling potential and regional significance to hydrocarbon accumulation. 2006-2011 - Pioneer Natural Resources USA, Inc., Denver, CO I was a geoscientist on the Rockies Asset Team.

Involvement within RMAG and other Professional Organizations Member of AAPG, TSOP, SEPM

First Concert Attended I plead the 5th.

Favorite Food Pad Thai

Most Significant Publications Drake, W.R., Hawkins, S., Lapierre, S., 2013, The role of stratigraphic architecture on resource distribution: an example from the Niobrara Formation of the Denver-Julesburg Basin. Unconventional Resources Technology Conference, Denver, CO, August 12-14, 2013. O’Farrell, C., Hawkins, S., Drake, W., Soetrisno, H., and Peters, T., 2010, Spatially variable natural fractures and enhanced shale gas production: a case study from the Pierre and Niobrara Formations, Raton Basin, CO. AAPG Hedberg Conference, critical assessment of shale resource plays, Austin, TX, December 5-10, 2010. Abstract Program, p. 45.

Why do you want to be a part of the RMAG board? I would like to be part of the RMAG board to support an organization from which I have learned so much about Rockies geology and to expand my network of potential collaborators and mentors.

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RMAG ♦♦ DAPL GeoLand Ski Day 2016 SAVE THE DATE!!

Friday, March 11, 2016

Thank you to our biggest 2015 sponsors!

For 2016 sponsorship opportunities, contact one of the committee chairs: DAPL Chairs ♦♦ Meg Gibson ♦ 720-583-4070 ♦ mgibson@bwenergylaw.com 49 ♦ pbotts@norstarpetroleum.com OUTCROP ♦♦ | October 2015 x120

Vol. 64, No. 10 ♦♦ | www.rmag.org Patsy Botts ♦ 303-925-0696


2016 Board of Directors Candidate Biographical Sketch

Name:

Graham McClave

Candidate For:

Secretary 5 Words that Describe Me

Education

Conscientious Enthusiastic Persistent Patient Reliable

M.S. Geology, Colorado School of Mines, 2012 B.A. Geology, University of Colorado-Boulder, 2010

Professional Experience Geologist, Endeavour International Corporation, 8/2012 to present Geologist Intern, Endeavour, 8/2010 to 7/2012

First Concert Attended Garth Brooks, 1998, Billings, MT

Involvement within RMAG and other Professional Organizations American Association of Petroleum Geologists - Member since 2008 Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists - Member since 2012 Western Energy Alliance - Member since 2015

Favorite Food Rib-eye steak

Most Significant Publications McClave, G.A., 2014, Correlation of rebound-hammer rock strength with core and sonic-log derived mechanical rock properties in Cretaceous Niobrara and Frontier Formation cores, Piceance Basin, Colorado: Unconventional Resources Technology Conference (URTeC), Denver, Colorado, August 25-27, 2014, Paper 1921941. McClave, G. A., 2012, Stratigraphy and source rock analyses of the Heath Formation in Fergus, Garfield, Golden Valley, Musselshell, Petroleum, and Rosebud counties, central Montana, published M.S. thesis, Colorado School of Mines.

Why do you want to be a part of the RMAG board? I am relatively new in the industry, and am looking to expand my involvement in our professional community, as well as gain valuable leadership experience as contributing member within this well-established and respected organization.

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03 03 March 3, 2016

22nd Annual RMAG & DGS 3D Seismic Symposium Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org

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2016 Board of Directors Candidate Biographical Sketch

Name: Larry Rasmussen Candidate For: President-Elect 5 Words that Describe Me

Education MSc Geology - Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, 1997 BA Geology - University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 1990

Professional Experience Senior Geologist - Whiting Petroleum Corp., 2013-Present Geologist - Whiting Petroleum Corp., 2004-2013 Geoscience Manager - Platte River Associates, Inc., 2003-2004 Staff Geologist - Platte River Associates, Inc., 1995-2003

Involvement within RMAG and other Professional Organizations 2015 - Chairman Judging Committee, AAPG ACE 2014 - Publications Committee Chair, RMAG 2013 - First VP, RMAG 2012 - Treasurer, RMAG 2012 - Chairman Judging Committee, RMS-AAPG 2011 - Treasurer-Elect, RMAG

Curious Geologist Creative Energetic Optimistic

First Concert Attended Beach Boys, Journey, Bob Welch, Firefall - Folsom Field, June, 1978 (Not my cuppa tea now, but I was only 10 yrs old!)

Favorite Food burritos - El Taco de Mexico tacos - Pinche Tacos homemade caprese pizza - Lucky Pie

Most Significant Publications Rasmussen, L., D.L. Rasmussen, 2009, Burial History Analysis of the Pennsylvanian Petroleum System in the Deep Paradox Basin Fold and Fault Belt, Colorado and Utah, in W.S. Houston, L.L. Wray, and P.G. Moreland, eds., The Paradox Basin Revisited: New developments in petroleum systems and basin analysis, RMAG 2009 Special Publication – The Paradox Basin, p. 24-66. Rasmussen, D.L., L. Rasmussen, 2004, New gas plays in fractured organic-rich shales and their interbeds in the eastern Paradox Basin of Colorado and Utah, AAPG Rocky Mountain Section Meeting. Rasmussen, D.L., L. Rasmussen, 2003, Lithofacies and sequence stratigraphy from well logs for the cyclic Morrowan to Wolfcampian Hermosa Group strata, Paradox Basin, Utah and Colorado, AAPG Annual Meeting.

Why do you want to be a part of the RMAG board? My involvement with RMAG has been fueled by a desire to be actively involved in the future of an organization that provides a great service to the local geological community. There is a strong tradition of excellence in the Rocky Mountain geological community, and I think that my background, professional experience and past participation on the RMAG board of directors makes me a strong candidate for this leadership position. The future of RMAG is dependent upon member retention and attracting younger members, and this needs to be a priority for RMAG leadership going forward.

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October

09

2015

RMAG Fall Symposium Core Workshop Instructors: Stephen Nordeng, Steve Sonnenberg, Rob Sterling, Chip Oakes, Sam Scott, David Katz Thank you to the Core Workshop sponsors!

RMAG Email: sta@rmag.org Phone: 573-8621 | Fax: (303) 476-2241 Vol.(303) 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org 910 16th Street #1214, Denver, CO,80207

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2015 RMAG Symposium

MAG

Core

OUTCROP | October 2015 October 8th E v e n t Workshop

Hot Plays


2016 Board of Directors Candidate Biographical Sketch

Name: Kurt D. Reisser Candidate For: President-Elect 5 Words that Describe Me

Education

Energetic Enthusiastic Dedicated Inquisitive Reliable

B.A. Geology 1974 University of Colorado, Boulder CO M.S. Geology 1976 University of Nebraska, Lincoln NE

Professional Experience Chief Geoscientist/Explorationist QEP Resources/Questar Corporation, Denver CO Sr. Geological Advisor Anadarko Petroleum Corporation, Denver CO Director North American Exploration/International Kerr-McGee, Houston & Denver International New Ventures, Oryx Energy Corporation, Dallas TX Manager of Geology, Sun Exploration and Production Company, Denver & Dallas TX Exploration Geologist, Getty Oil Company, Denver CO

Involvement within RMAG and other Professional Organizations RMAG Outstanding Explorer 1988 RMAG Program Chair 2006-2008 RMAG Second Vice-President 2008 AAPG Annual Convention Sponsorship Chair 2009 RMAG Sponsorship Chair 2010-2015 RMAG Distinguished Service Award 2010 RMAG President's Award 2013

First Concert Attended Count Basie Orchestra at New Orleans Jazz Festival 1977

Favorite Food 40 cloves of garlic chicken

Most Significant Publications Reisser & Blanke, 1989 Paleostructural Control of Dakota Hydrocarbon Accumulations on the Southern Moxa Arch, Southwest Wyoming and Northeast Utah in RMAG Petrogenesis and Petrophysics of Selected Sandstone Reservoirs of the Rocky Mountain Region, Coalson ed. Kaufman & Reisser, Doing Business in the CIS, Energy World Magazine September 1994

Why do you want to be a part of the RMAG board? I want to help RMAG adapt and thrive through this latest downturn in the industry. I have a great deal of passion for RMAG and the geologic profession. As a career geologist and geology enthusiast I think I can help lead this fine organization.

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2016 Board of Directors Candidate Biographical Sketch

Name: John Roesink Candidate For: First Vice President 5 Words that Describe Me

Education

Fair, Intuitive, Committed, Decisive, Fisherman

2005 M.Sc. Geology, University of Colorado, Boulder 1997 B.A. Geology, University of Colorado, Boulder

Professional Experience 2013 - Present - Jagged Peak Energy - Senior Exploration Geologist 2011 - 2013 - Bill Barrett Corporation, Denver - Associate Geologic Advisor 2005 - 2011 - Noble Energy Incorporated, Denver - Geologist 2000 - 2005 - University of Colorado, Boulder - Research Associate

Involvement within RMAG and other Professional Organizations RMAG since 2005 - Presenter at 2015 Hot Plays Forum AAPG since 1998 - Member of AAPG Visiting Geoscientist Program - 2015 ACE co-theme chair

First Concert Attended 1989 American Music Festival in Winter Park. Lyle Lovett, Bonnie Raitt, Cowboy Junkies, T-Bone Burnett, and the Subdudes.

Favorite Food My own slow smoked 3-2-1 baby back rib recipe.

Most Significant Publications Roesink, John, and Jason Anderson, 2013, "The Wasatch-Green River Resource Play in the Uinta Basin, Utah", Invited Talk in the Discovery Thinking Forum, AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition, Pittsburgh. Roesink, John G, Paul Weimer, Renaud Bouroullec, 2004, "Sequence stratigraphy of Miocene to Pleistocene sediments of east-central Mississippi canyon, northern Gulf of Mexico", GCAGS Transactions Roesink John, Ryan S Crow Paul Weimer Jay Austin, and William Hood, 2004, "Lessons Learned from Creating Geologic Animations for National Parks", AAPG Annual Convention, Denver

Why do you want to be a part of the RMAG board? I want to be a part of the RMAG board because of the opportunity it provides to give back to a professional society that has helped me in my career through conferences, talks and publications. In the role of 1st Vice President I will uphold the high standard that has been set by previous members of the publications committee and continue the effort to provide pertinent, scholarly articles that enrich the Rocky Mountain geoscience community. I feel it is especially important to volunteer with our professional societies during difficult economic conditions so we don't lose the momentum gained during periods of growing membership and budgets.

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10.27.15 The Rocky Mountain Association of Goelogists’

Happy Hour at The Denver Earth Resources Library 4:00 - 6:00 pm Free Event (must register at www.rmag.org)

email: staff@rmag.org

phone: 303.573.8621

Vol. 64, No.Street 10 | www.rmag.org 910 16th #1214, Denver,

CO, 80202

fax: 303.476.2241 57

web: www.rmag.org

OUTCROP follow: @rmagdenver

| October 2015


2016 Board of Directors Candidate Biographical Sketch

Name: Deborah T. Sycamore Candidate For: First Year Counselor 5 Words that Describe Me

Education

Ethical Organized Curious Independent Positive

B.A. Geology, Lawrence University

Professional Experience 1980-1986; Petroleum Geologist - Union Texas Petroleum various exploration/ Project Management positions - both domestic & international 1993 - 2009: Aspect Energy, LLC 2011-2013: KLC & Lagoa Resources, LLC 2013 to present: Channel Energy, LLC

First Concert Attended Aerosmith

Involvement within RMAG and other Professional Organizations

Favorite Food

RMAG - 2nd VP, Public Issues Committee, Chair Ballot Committee, various outreach and fundraising AAPG - International Pavilion, Visiting Geologist Program, Delegate EAGE AAPL CIPA

Sushi

Most Significant Publications

Why do you want to be a part of the RMAG board? A desire to give back to my industry and scientific community. RMAG has been an excellent professional resource throughout my career. I welcome the opportunity to be a part of continuing and expanding RMAG's Mission both to the public at large and within our diverse and accomplished membership.

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2015 RMAG Symposium October 8th

Hot Plays The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists presents: the RMAG Fall Symposium

Hot Plays of the Rocky Mountain Region

October 8, 2015 at the Denver City Center Marriott Kick Off Speakers: Mark Sonnenfeld and Lyn Canter - Whiting How mobile is your total oil saturation? SARA analysis implications for bitumen viscosity and UV fluorescence in Niobrara Marl and Bakken Shale, supported by FIB-SEM observations of kerogen, bitumen, and residual oil saturations within Niobrara Marls and Chalks.

Speaker: Howard Melcher - Liberty Oilfield

The Impact of Geological and Completion Parameters on Production in the Denver-Julesburg Basin

Speaker: John Roesink - Jagged Peak Energy

Evolution of the Horizontal Niobrara Play in the Greater DJ Basin - Integrating Geoscience, Well Design, and Completions for Optimum Field Development

Keynote Speaker: David Hill - Encana

Speaker: Sam Scott - Whiting Petroleum Corp.

Standing Tall in North America

Speaker: Jim Emme - Endeavour International Corp. Piceance Basin Rim Niobrara Play, NW Colorado Liquids-Rich Pot-O'-Gold or Blarney Stone?

Speaker: Andrew Heger - Colorado School of Mines

Stratigraphic Variability and Reservoir Characterization of the Turner Sandstone, Powder River Basin

Speaker: Preston Kerr - SM Energy

The Lower Smackover Brown Dense Play: What’s Hot and What’s Not

Speaker: Steve Sonnenberg - Colorado School of Mines The Graneros-Greenhorn Petroleum System, a Possible New Resource Play, Rocky Mountain Region, USA

Speaker: Rob Sterling - Cirque Resources A Review of the Northern DJ Oil Resource Play

Unlayering the Shannon Formation

Speaker: Michael Tischer - Consulting Geologist

Speaker: Randy Koepsell - Schlumberger

What makes a play hot? The Tectonic Perspective.

Layer Centric 3D Geologic Resolution to Predict Hydrolic Fracture Stimulation

Limited day of registration is available. Please visit www.rmag.org for more information.

With all the unconventional activity occurring across the globe, it is time to review what is driving the technical quality of the “Hot Plays” in the greater Rocky Mountain region. Please mark your calendars for what is sure to be the “HOTTEST” event of the Fall 2015 Technical Season. Geological, Geophysical, Geochemical, Petrophysical, and Structural technical drivers will be presented, describing what the RMAG membership has determined to be the Hottest Plays in the Rocky Mountains.

email: staff@rmag.org

phone: 303.573.8621

Vol. No. 10 | #1214, www.rmag.org 91064, 16th Street Denver, CO,

80202

fax: 303.476.2241 59

web: www.rmag.org

OUTCROP follow: @rmagdenver

| October 2015


CALENDAR | OCTOBER 2015 SUNDAY

4

11

MONDAY

TUESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

1

2

3

8

9

10

RMAG Luncheon. Speaker Terri Olson

RMAG Fall Symposium.

RMAG Fall Symposium Core Workshop.

13

14

15

16

17

20

21

22

23

24

5

WEDNESDAY

6

12

7

COLUMBUS DAY

18

19 SEG Annual Meeting.

25 RMAG On the Rocks Field Trip.

26

DWLS Luncheon. Speaker Gary Simpson.

RMAG On the Rocks Field Trip.

27

28

29

RMAG Happy Hour. PTTC Short Course.

Oilfield Christian Fellowship.

30

Payne Institute for Earth Resources: Annual Energy Outlook.

Hart DUG-Eagleford.

31

RMAG FOUNDATION

2013-14 +

SCHOLARSHIPS CONTRIBUTIONS

McKenna Fund

Babcock Fund

Stone/Holberg Fund

CSU Fund Bolyard Fund

Veterans Fund

Colorado School of Mines

Colorado College

SCHOLARSHIPS CU Boulder

Rocky Mtn region Universities awarded to veterans attending Rocky Mtn Region Universities

University of WY Fund

AAPG - Imperial Barrel

Morrison Natural History

AAPG Student Leadership

PTTC Futures in Energy

Friend of Dinosaur Ridge

Denver Public Schools

Rocky Mtn Section Rocky Mtn Section

Inner City School attendance Rocky Mtn Section

Golden Pick Award RMAG

Guidebook contribution AAPG Sectional meeting Rockbuster Ball awards

Studying Rocky Mtn Structural Geology Golden

Foster

Studying Rocky Mtn Geology

RMAG Student Summit sponsor CO Science Teacher of the Year CO State Science Fair winners

CONTRIBUTIONS

mineral sets

Contibutions can be made at https://www.rmag.org/i4a/ams/publicLogin.cfm for RMAG members RMAG Foundation | 910 16th Street Mall, Suite 1214 | Denver, CO 80202

OUTCROP | October 2015

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Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org


ADVERTISER INDEX • AAPG ���������������������������������������������������������������������� 25

• Johnson Geo-Consulting, LLC �������������������������������� 22

• Alliance Insurance Agency ������������������������������������ 32

• Kestrel Geoscience, LLC ���������������������������������������� 14

• Anschutz ������������������������������������������������������������������� 8

• Lario Oil & Gas Company ��������������������������������������� 15

• Breckenridge Geophysical ��������������������������������������� 9

• Louis J. Mazzullo, LLC �������������������������������������������� 16

• Crown Geochemistry ���������������������������������������������� 14

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• MJ Systems ����������������������������������������������������������� 14

• Devon ��������������������������������������������������������������������� 20

• Neil H. Whitehead, III �������������������������������������������� 13

• Dolan Integration Group (DIG) ��������������������������������� 7

• PTTC ����������������������������������������������������������������������� 29

• Donovan Brothers Inc. �������������������������������������������� 18

• QEP Resources ������������������������������������������������������� 23

• Encana �������������������������������������������������������������������� 11

• Rocky Mountain Oil Journal ���������������������������������� 28

• Enerplus ����������������������������������������������������������������� 31

• Samson Energy ������������������������������������������������������ 32

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• Sinclair Petroleum Engineering, Inc. ���������������������� 22

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• Stephens Production Company ������������������������������ 19

• GeoSteering ����������������������������������������������������������� 31

• Stoner Engineering (SES) ��������������������������������������� 33

• Great Western Oil & Gas Company ����������������������� 30

• Tracker Resource Development LLC ���������������������� 30

• Horizontal Solutions Intl. (HSI) ��������������������������� 6, 13

• T-Rex Oil Inc. ���������������������������������������������������������� 16

• iBall Instruments ���������������������������������������������������� 35

• Weatherford Laboratories ������������������������������������� 15

• James C. Karo Associates Land Services �������������� 18

• Whiting Petroleum Corporation ����������������������������� 34

OUTCROP ADVERTISING RATES 1 Time

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Vol. 64, No. 10 | www.rmag.org

61

OUTCROP | October 2015


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