Test

• A pre-stack inversion was performed on available seismic data. Using this inversion, and specifically the p-impedance response, we were able to resolve the lower density sections of the Mowry.
  • important to note that it can be difficult to differentiate volumes of high TOC rock from bentonite-rich Mowry.
  • also important to note that due to localized, high-fluvial discharges, the Mowry often exhibits high levels of carbonaceous (woody) debris. This can also be confused with high porosity, high TOC mudstones.

Some key observations from the reservoir quality work are:

• 1. The bentonites greatly affect the geomechanical properties and vertical permeability of the Mowry;
• 2. Water saturation can range from 55-75% with an average of 64%;
• 3. Porosities range from <2-8% with a stratigraphic variation by member;
• 4. In seismic, carbonaceous rich mudstones can be confused with high TOC, high porosity mudstones, which may make standard seismic interpretation problematic.

Key controls on reservoir quality include fluvial input of nutrients that control planktonic bioproduction, oxygenation of bottom waters that control preservation and both depositional setting and volcanic ash fallout which together exert a significant control on silica content that impacts rheology and consequently the fracability of resulting sedimentary rock.