ABSTRACT

Photogeologic study has proved successful as an exploratory tool in the Gulf Coast, West Texas, Denver and Anadarko basins and the Canadian plains. Reflection of structure persists through relatively young sedimentary cover and is evident on the surface. A review of actual photogeologic studies in the several producing provinces is substantiated by evaluation in subsequent exploratory drilling.

Photogeologic anomalies are identified by subtle physiographic and geomorphic deviations from the normal as expressed in abnormal tonal and textural values. Color tone of the surface is determined by soil type and moisture content; texture is the product principally of sheet erosion and in coarser grain stream erosion. The tonal and textural contrasts are the result of small relief differentials and are generally combined in producing anomalous effects. Application of these criteria is demonstrated in Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma and Canada.

Confirmation of this technique is established in presentation of exploratory case histories of four discoveries credited to photogeologic interpretation.

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