ABSTRACT

After a somewhat difficult start-up period, the use of the 3-D seismic method is now accepted as an important technique in the reservoir delineation of established oil and gas pools in the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin (WCSB).

The correct visualization of the depositional and structurally distinct entity that we call a "pool", is the key to efficiently exploring for and exploiting the resources within it. Until recently, we have had to "jerry-rig" this picture. Most geologists would greatly appreciate a methodology that would allow them to see that reservoir geology directly. Within certain constraints, 3-D seismic makes it possible to do just that. However, delineation of a producing reservoir is not the only advantage to the use of 3-D seismic. As an example, from an exploration point of view, it should be remembered that WCSB stratigraphic traps are initially only sideswiped by the 2-D seismic acquired in the normal course of events. It would be useful to transform that initial "glimpse" into a "vicinity" indicator, which could be used to explore for a specific play type. 3-D seismic makes it possible to test such geological concepts before drilling.

Several currently available 3-D seismic programs will be examined from this vantage point. Two such areas, Tableland and High Prairie, have very different depositional environments and provide a unique look at the geological use of 3-D seismic. In the course of examining these areas, this paper reviews the current use of the method and proposes that it can also be a cost-effective tool for grass-roots exploration.

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