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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database
Houston Geological Society Bulletin
Abstract
Abstract: South Texas Sub-
Regional
Evaluation: Area-Wide
Integrated Structural and
Stratigraphic
Framework of
the Frio and Vicksburg Yields New Plays and Leads
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By
OMNI Laboratories, Inc.
Houston, TX
ExxonMobil recently completed an area-wide evaluation of
the South Texas Oligocene Frio and
Vicksburg Formations. This evaluation
resulted in the identification of new plays
and leads within this mature gas-producing
region. The foundation of the evaluation
was the development of an integrated
structural and stratigraphic
framework.
This framework was developed through
integrated interpretation of extensive well,
2D and 3D
seismic
, and biostratigraphic
data.
Due to the influence of growth faults
during a time of high sedimentation rates,
the Frio and Vicksburg stacking patterns generally do not reflect
the global sea level curves for most 3rd-order assemblages. The
extensive use of biostratigraphic data, integrated with well and
seismic
interpretations, led to this paradigm change in the
approach to framework development here.
Growth faults in the early Oligocene (Lower Vicksburg) were initiated by loading and subsequent failure of the Eocene (Jackson) shelf margin. The growth fault systems continued to be a primary control on sedimentation through the Vicksburg and Frio. Mapping indicates that throughout the Frio and Vicksburg sand-prone delta systems are spatially related to active, age-equivalent fault systems. Additional prospectivity was identified through recognition of sand-prone deltaic assemblages associated with growth faults downdip of shaled-out packages, emplaced via bypass over portions of the shelf.
Detailed EOD evaluations led to the identification of Frio upper
slope sands, which may offer a new play type in South Texas.
These fan deposits appear to be fed by large (>500 ft. deep),
up-dip submarine canyons.
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