Report of Operations, 1945 Through 1954, Naval Petroleum Reserve No. 1, Elk Hills

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents the progress of operations within the Elk Hills field for the period 1945 to 1954. Since World War II and the subsequent shut-in of this field, many projects were initiated to determine the best method of protecting the various reservoirs. All of the Shallow Oil Zone programs were predicated around a reservoir which was in a state of pressure unbalance caused by heavy withdrawals of fluid in relatively short periods of time. The basic studies centered around: the use of gas injection, evaluation of an unrestricted water encroachment and its opposite heavy downdip withdrawals to utilize gravitational drainage, general studies of movement of reservoir fluids, and the protection of surface equipment. These programs have been changed from time to time, depending upon results obtained. Some of the results are unique. Currently the programs involve controlling encroachment through production from invaded areas and remedial measures to stop or minimize the downdip migration of oil. A primary objective of all programs is to maintain the Reserve in a state of readiness whereby it will be able to produce oil in substantial quantities whenever the strategic situation of the United States so requires. An active drilling program has resulted in further development of the Shallow Oil Zone, the exploration and development of the Stevens Zone, and adding a new and as yet untested pool, the Carneros. History and Stratigraphy This paper is intended to supplement an original technical publication titled "Experimental Production Projects and Exploratory Drilling at Elk Hills" by M. C. Eastman and F. L. Ruhlman, which was presented at the Petroleum Branch, AIME, Fall Meeting of 1947. It will report the progress of operations made since January of that year.