Stratigraphy and lithologic heterogeneity in the Mannville Group (southeast Saskatchewan) defined by integrating 3-D seismic and log data

Abstract

Abstract Wireline log and 3-D seismic data were integrated to define stratigraphic units and lithologic heterogeneity in the Mannville Group of southeast Saskatchewan. The Mannville in this area is a stratigraphically complex unit formed of fluvial to marine deposits that, although non-prospective for hydrocarbons in this area, share many similarities with time-equivalent strata in areas of heavy oil production. Seismic sequence stratigraphic principles permitted us to subdivide the Mannville into three packages. The ability to visualize the 3-D seismic data in a variety of ways, including arbitrary lines and stratal or horizon slicing techniques, helped us to define stratigraphic features that would affect fluid flow in hydrocarbon producing areas. These features include channels of various sizes and orientations, and channel elements such as scroll bars and lateral accretion surfaces, that are present within specific portions of the Group. Because the effectiveness of enhanced recovery methods such as steam-assisted gravity drainage depends on a development team's ability to recognize reservoir heterogeneity, similar integration of 3-D seismic, well logs and other data types would assist greatly in developing the Mannville in heavy oil areas. There is close, but not one-to-one, correspondence between the stratigraphic units we defined and those established by regional log- and core-based correlations. Seismic resolution problems or log correlation styles could be responsible for the differences.