ABSTRACT

For the past three years exploratory success in the Eocene Wilcox formation of southwestern Mississippi has averaged 6.7%, far below the success of 1951-53 when an 11% success ratio was achieved with less than one-third of the wildcat wells now available for control. If we are to reverse this trend, the geologist must improve sampling and testing procedures in the field and more effectively utilize well data in the office and laboratory.

Serious errors in elevations and well locations, deviated hole problems, inadequate sampling of wildcat wells, and incomplete evaluation of oil shows have all contributed to an excessive number of dry holes.

The present success ratio can be improved by greater use of isopachs to supplement structural contouring, better understanding of the relationship of oil to regional subsidence and re-migration, and more careful evaluation of core analyses to differentiate between live oil and residual oil.