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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

Utah Geological Association

Abstract


Geology and Resources of the Paradox Basin, 1996
Pages 29-38

Petroleum Geology and Hydrocarbon Potential of pre-Dakota Strata, Western Portion of the Southern Ute Indian Reservation, Colorado

C. William Keighin

Abstract

The Southern Ute Indian Reservation in southwestern Colorado is located on the northern margin of the San Juan Basin, adjacent to the Four Corners Platform. Significant quantities of natural gas are produced from the basin, and from the Reservation, primarily from sandstones and coals of Cretaceous age. In addition to Cretaceous production, three fields: Alkali Gulch, Alkali Gulch West, and Red Mesa, in the western part of the Reservation, yield mainly non-associated gas from thin zones of predominantly shallow-water algal and biostromal carbonates within the Paradox Formation of Pennsylvanian age. The depth of the gas-bearing zones ranges from approximately 8,500 ft (2,600 m) to almost 10,000 ft (3,000 m) beneath the surface. Lateral changes of gas-bearing reservoir facies within the Paradox Formation are complex, and few data are available for detailed mapping of reservoir continuity or distribution in the subsurface. The thermal history of the Paradox Formation in the western portion of the Southern Ute Indian Reservation essentially precludes the possibility of finding oil in these strata. Available data on size, depth, and distribution of gas-bearing strata of pre- Dakota age in the western portion of the Reservation are sparse, but suggest only limited potential for development under existing economic conditions. Although seismic data for this portion of the Reservation are limited, it appears that the most efficient method for further exploration will be the application of new seismic techniques.


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