seismic

202 lines of high quality, two dimensional, multi-channel seismic reflection data (approximately 3,500 kilometers in total length) were studied to decipher the geometry and architecture of Upper Cretaceous strata in the study area. The stratal patterns as interpreted from seismic reflector configurations are distinct for different positions on the continental shelf. Four major sequence boundaries and two maximum flooding surfaces were identified from seismic reflector configurations and traced across the shelf. The four sequence boundaries correspond to major regional unconformities as recognized from outcrop and core studies. These include a mid-Cenomanian unconformity, a Turonian-Coniacian unconformity, a Campanian-Maastrichtian unconformity, and a Maastrichtian-Paleocene unconformity and two maximum flooding surfaces that occur in the Tuscaloosa Marine Shale (Late Cenomanian to Early Turonian) and middle Mooreville Chalk (Early Campanian) intervals. The maximum flooding surface for the upper-most sequence was not recognized from seismic data.

Well log information was integrated with seismic reflection data through the use of synthetic seismograms and check shot surveys to establish an integrated seismic and sequence stratigraphic framework. Facies architecture from middle shelf to outer shelf areas is interpreted from seismic facies analysis and well log correlations.