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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

Ohio Geological Society

Abstract

OGS-AAPG

Structural Influences on Oil and Gas Reservoirs: Third Annual Technical Symposium, October 25, 1995

Pages 21- 30

STRESS, SEISMICITY, AND STRUCTURE OF SHALLOW FRACTURED CARBONATE RESERVOIRS OF CLINTON COUNTY, KENTUCKY

Terence Hamilton-Smith, Applied Earth Science, 535 Fairfield Drive, Lexington, KY 40503

ABSTRACT

High-volume oil production in a shallow field producing from the High Bridge Group in northern Clinton County, Kentucky, was closely associated, both spatially and temporally, with low-magnitude microseismic activity. Three-dimensional mapping of microseismic hypocenter locations delineated numerous low-angle planar features, interpreted as a set of synthetic and antithetic thrust faults striking approximately N65E. A composite fault plane solution indicated a predominantly thrusting mechanism, with the maximum horizontal compressive stress striking N32W. Well correlations suggest only a few feet of fault displacement. Calculation of the expected local stress state indicated a thrust fault regime, but with a maximum horizontal stress orientation between ENE and EW. The apparent rotation of the direction of maximum horizontal stress suggested that strike-slip displacement may have been involved and that transpressive structures may be expected. The following interpretation is suggested. A major EW trending basement normal fault in northern Clinton County was originally developed during Iapetean rifting. Reactivation and dissolution after Knox deposition resulted in an associated low on the Knox paleokarst surface with relief of as much as 100 feet. Continued deposition and compaction resulted in the upwards propagation of a structural low of diminished relief throughout the Paleozoic section, mapped in outcrop as the Indian Creek syncline. Post-Mississippian dextral strike-slip reactivation led to the growth of low-relief en echelon anticlines at the top Chattanooga level, a partial structural inversion by transpressive structures. These low-relief anticlines are cored by thrust faults in the High Bridge section, which are closely associated with the producing oil reservoir.

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