Abstract

Structural modeling, as an in-expensive tool for professionals to evaluate geologic concepts, remains an under-used technique in the search for and production of oil and gas. Structural modeling techniques were used by us during a 3-year regional study of parts of the Delaware and Val Verde Basins. Software used for this study was the GMAplus Seismic Structural Modeling System provided to WTERI by Geophysical Micro Computer Applications Inc. These techniques were combined with recently reprocessed vintage 2-D regional seismic profiles to evaluate the north flank of the Brown-Bassett field in Terrell County, and the overthrust play extending from Terrell into Pecos Counties. Modeling of the Brown-Bassett field resulted in establishing interpretations that suggest continuous folding and plastic deformation of sedimentary rock in conjunction with basement derived reverse faulting along the northern flank of the field. This information assists greatly in determining the type of traps which may exist immediately surrounding Brown-Bassett field. Modeling along the overthrust trend demonstrated that the structural style observed on seismic data is directly linked to interactions between the amount of sedimentation and style of folding and faulting found along the deformation front. Different locations along the deformation front display different amounts of sedimentation, and these variations in sedimentation alter the manner and intensity of local tectonic deformation. Thus the geometric style of traps which can be expected to exist will vary greatly along a single deformation front.