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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 63 (1979)

Issue: 5. (May)

First Page: 839

Last Page: 839

Title: Minnelusa-Powder River Basin--Past, Present, and Future: ABSTRACT

Author(s): Robert C. Roehrs

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

The Permian-Pennsylvanian Minnelusa Formation of the eastern Powder River basin in northeastern Wyoming has yielded nearly 200 million bbl of oil since the initial discovery 20 years ago. This represents an average of approximately 350,000 bbl per well and it is anticipated that production will ultimately average 500,000 bbl per well. Many wells have already produced more than 1 million bbl. Production is derived predominantly from sandstones in the upper part of the Minnelusa from structural and/or stratigraphic traps. Exploratory activity has remained relatively steady until recently when competition for leases and drilling prospects accelerated significantly. Minnelusa oil has been discovered at depths ranging from 5,000 ft (1,500 m) on the east flank to 15,000 ft (4,5 0 m) near the basin axis in Reno field, Johnson County. Although the greatest exploratory effort has been directed toward the shallower east flank, with corresponding success, increasing attention is being given to Minnelusa prospects at depths below 10,000 ft (3,000 m) nearer the basin axis. Sophisticated geophysical techniques are being employed which should partly reduce risks inherent in stratigraphic exploration. This deeper part of the basin may yield an additional 500 million bbl from the Minnelusa, as well as additional production from Cretaceous sandstones which will be encountered at shallower depths.

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