December 2013 Outcrop

OUTCROPNewsletter of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

Volume 62 • No. 12 • December 2013

December 2013Vol. 62, No.12 222

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Sponsored by Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists & Denver Geophysical Society

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www.rmag.org3OUTCROP

The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists (RMAG) is a nonprofit organization whose purposes are to promote interest in geology and allied sciences and their practical application, to foster scientific research and to encourage fellowship and cooperation among its members. The Outcrop is a monthly publication of the RMAG.

The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists910 16th Street • Suite 1214 • Denver, CO 80202 • 303-476-2241

ADVERTISINGPROFESSIONAL CARDS Will be actual size.

HELPFUL HINTSBoth black and white, and color art will be accepted. If you are submitting digital files, please save in PC format. Please submit png, jpg, eps, pdf or tif files for ads, artwork or photos at a minimum of 300 dpi. When saving pdf files, export at the highest quality available. An advertising agreement will be sent to you.

The Rocky Mountain Association of GeologistsOUTCROP

President – Debra [email protected]@usgs.gov

President-Elect – Matt [email protected]@bayless-cos.com

1st Vice-President – Larry [email protected]@whiting.com

2nd Vice-President – Laura Mauro [email protected]

Secretary – Jacinda Nettik [email protected]@caerusoilandgas.com

Treasurer – Mike [email protected]@yatespetroleum.com

Treasurer Elect – Reed [email protected]@cometridgeresources.com

Counselor (2 Year) – Laura L. [email protected]@wpxenergy.com

Counselor (1 Year) – John [email protected]@fmr.com

2013 Officers and Board of Directors

Advertising rates apply to either black and white or color ads. Submit color ads in RGB color to be compatible with web format.Borders are recommended for advertisements that comprise less than one half page. Digital files must be PC compatible submitted in png, jpg, tif, pdf or eps formats at a minimum of 300 dpi. If you have any questions, please call the RMAG office at 303-573-8621.

Ad copy, signed contract and payment must be received before advertising insertion. Contact the RMAG office for details.

DEADLINES: ad submissions are the 1st of every month for the following month's publication.

The Outcrop is a monthly publication of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists910 16th Street, Suite 1125• Denver, CO 80202

RMAG Staff Executive DirectorEmily [email protected]@rmag.org

Office & Programs ManagerCarrie Veatch, MA [email protected]@rmag.org

AccountantCarol [email protected]@rmag.org

Co-Editors Kristine Peterson [email protected]@laramidegeo.com

Holly Sell [email protected]@yahoo.com

Catherine [email protected]@bayless-cos.com

Cheryl [email protected]@laramidegeo.com

Design/ProductionDebbie Downs [email protected]

Wednesday Noon Luncheon Reservations RMAG Office: 303-573-8621Fax: [email protected]

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RMAG October Board of Directors MeetingBy Jacinda Nettik Brown, Secretary ([email protected])

The Board of Directors meeting was held on October 16, 2013 at the second floor conference room of the RMAG office building. This meeting was lengthy with several motions up for discussion and votes.

We began this meet ing with approval of last month’s minutes and followed up with the Continuing Education report by Laura Mauro Johnson. She noted that the first ever RMAG Sporting Clay Tournament was well attended. Look for this to be an annual event. The next topic was the AAPG Geoscience Technology Workshop (GTW). A motion approving RMAG to partner in the AAPG GTW passed. Partnering will provide RMAG members a discounted price when registering as well as give RMAG a voice in planning of the workshop.

Reed Johnson gave the Financial Report and then the office staff reviewed the revised 2014 budget with the board. Not included in the budget was money for RMAG’s participation in GeoScienceWorld. A lengthy discussion ensued about RMAG’s participation in GSW and the financial implications. A motion was passed to defer the GSW participation discussion until next year. defer the GSW participation discussion until next year.


defer the GSW participation discussion until next year.


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Business Card $17 $17 $14 $12

Money will not be included in the 2014 budget for GSW. In the end a motion to approve the budget as amended was passed.

Next, a motion to approve the modified by-laws was put on the table. This was seconded with discussion and passed with amended corrections and additions. The modified By-laws went out to members on November 1.

New business included the Public Affairs Committee stance that RMAG is not an advocacy group so they will offer appropriate information and materials to its members but will not take a position on matters of controversial nature.

Please note by the time this article is published in the Outcrop the RMAG Office will have moved to its new location. RMAG will be in the same building, but in a new suite. You can now find them at 910 16th Street Mall, Suite 1214, Denver, CO 80202.

Last, I’d like to thank my fellow board members Matt Silverman, Laura Wray and John Ladd for covering my RMAG Secretary duties while I was on a maternity leave bonding with my new baby boy. leave bonding with my new baby boy. leave bonding with my new baby boy.

»»

Please note by the time this article is published

in the Outcrop the RMAG Office will have moved to its new location. RMAG will be

in the same building, but in a new suite.


C O N T E N T S

OUTCROP

Volume 62 • No. 12 • December 2013

COVER PHOTOWater levels of flooded lakes are recorded Water levels of flooded lakes are recorded by cottonwood trees in Bear Creek Lake Park by cottonwood trees in Bear Creek Lake Park in Lakewood. Flood waters have receded in Lakewood. Flood waters have receded since the mid-September, 2013 rains along since the mid-September, 2013 rains along the Front Range of Colorado. Bear Creek the Front Range of Colorado. Bear Creek dam was completed in 1982. The September dam was completed in 1982. The September floods brought the water level of the lake to floods brought the water level of the lake to a new record high of 5593.2 ‘ at midnight on a new record high of 5593.2 ‘ at midnight on September 16, 2013. The water level was as September 16, 2013. The water level was as much as 43 ‘above normal. The view is to much as 43 ‘above normal. The view is to the southwest with a backdrop of the Dakota the southwest with a backdrop of the Dakota Hogback. Photo by Debra Higley

Newsletter of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

Features8 Lead Story: RMAG On-

the-Rocks Field Trip

association news2 20th Annual 3D

Seismic Symposium13 RMAG Awards14 The Mountain

Geologist Goes All-Digital Beginning in 2014

16 RMAG/PTTC Geosteering Forum Call for Abstracts

17 2014 Rocky Mountain Section-AAPG Annual Meeting Call for Papers!

19 Studies in Geology 65 Pre-Sale Form

20 Colorado School of Mines Invites Applications for the Robert J. Weimer Distinguished Chair in Sedimentary and Petroleum Geology

23 The Artists of RMAG25 20th Annual 3D

Seismic Symposium Invitation and Speaker Commitment Form

28 We want you back! We need you!

29 2013 RMAG Dues Renewal

31 Authors and Editors Needed: RMAG Oil & Gas Fields of Colorado

32 Connect with RMAG Online!

33 Thank you to 2012 RMAG Foundation Donors

34 RMAG 2013 Summit Sponsors

39 RMAG Presents NAPE on the Rocks

41 Submit a Manuscript to The Mountain Geologist

Departments4 RMAG October Board

of Directors Meeting

4 Advertising Rates6 President's Column

22 Check it out!32 New Members35 RMAG Luncheon Programs40 In the Pipeline43 Advertisers Index43 Calendar of Events


Praise and thanks!

President’s ColumnBy Debra Higley

One nice thing about December is that rocks are more visible because they aren’t covered by a bunch of greenery. However, I do look forward to spring, a time of renewed growth and an explosion of colors. Not visible in this summer’s photo are slabs of Permian Lyons Sandstone, and various sized boulders that were transported to the yard by glaciers and a 1992 Ford Ranger.

RMAG was founded in 1922, and we currently have more than 2,000 members. During this time, rocks have not changed, other than a bit of erosion here and there and new interpretations. Our organization and science have undergone numerous changes over the decades. What remains strong is our love of geoscience and of sharing our knowledge. RMAG volunteers and sponsors have kept RMAG strong and flexible.

Congratulations to the 2014 RMAG Board members and best wishes for a wonderful new year. I have learned a lot over the last 2 years about teamwork, planning, finances, and other aspects of our organization, and thank all of you for allowing me to serve you. It has been a good year of building on our RMAG infrastructure, expanding the reach of our publications, and providing service to RMAG members through our events, information, and publications.

I would like to thank our office staff, Emily Tompkins, Carrie Veatch, Carol Dalton, and all my fellow Board members for donating so much of their time, energy, and expertise.

Thanks also for your input and humor during our meetings and email streams. This is also the first year that the RMAG Board has had two pregnant officers, Laura Mauro Johnson, 2nd VP, and Jacinda Nettik Brown, Secretary. Their boys were the youngest attendees for Board meetings, up to the dates of their June births. Matt Silverman, President Elect, has been invaluable as a source of information and for overseeing a number of committees and events. Larry Rasmussen, 1st VP, has been very active on the Board and as the contact with the Publications Committee; he will chair that committee next year. Laura Mauro Johnson, 2nd VP, is a very active and efficient Board contact with the Continuing Education committee, which she will co-chair next year. Mike Kozimko, Treasurer, oversaw RMAG finances over the last two years with the assistance of Reed Johnson, Treasurer Elect, and Carol Dalton, Bookkeeper. Jacinda Nettik Brown provided excellent minutes of Board meetings and synopses for the monthly Outcrops. Our two counselors, John Ladd (2nd Year) and Laura Wray (1st year) gave us historical and bylaws perspectives on our RMAG plans, and were also active contacts within RMAG committees. It has been my privilege to serve with you.

photo are slabs of Permian Lyons Sandstone, and various Thanks also for your input and humor during

Vol. 62, No.12 666 December 2013

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LEAD STORY – RMAG On-the-Rocks Field Trip

Vineyards and Adobes and Gravels – Oh My! Wine Tasting and Geologic Exploration of the North Fork Valley, Western Colorado, September 7, 2013By Sandra Mark

How fortunate were the 23 participants of the grand finale of the 2013 On-The-Rocks field trip season! Not only did we get a preview of new mapping and compelling new geologic interpretations, but we discovered a little known wine-growing area of Colorado. With the capable guidance of Dr. Dave Noe of the Colorado Geological Survey, we explored the landscapes of the North Fork Valley, home to the West Elks American Viticultural Area. Because the trip was interspersed with wine tasting, participants enjoyed being conveyed in comfortable vans, driven by designated drivers. The trip was unique in that the owner and wine-maker of a local winery (Alfred Eames Cellars) and his family joined the trip in their own vehicle. Eames had taken some geology courses in college and was curious about what he sees out his back door. Having them along was a great example of local outreach; he and his family were totally engaged the entire day.

Here follows a series of photos from the field trip, with many of the annotations taken from the excellent guidebook that was prepared by Dr. Noe.

ReferencesNoe, D.C., in preparation, Paonia quadrangle

geologic map, Delta County, Colorado: Colorado

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Geological Survey, scale 1:24,000.Noe, D.C., Logan, Z.D., McCall, K.J., and Warden,

G.W., in preparation, Lazear quadrangle geologic map, Delta County, Colorado: Colorado Geological Survey, scale 1:24,000.

Noe, D.C., and Rodgers, E.L., in preparation, Hotchkiss quadrangle geologic map, Delta County, Colorado: Colorado Geological Survey, scale 1:24,000.

Noe, D.C., and Zawaski, M.J., 2013, Orchard City quadrangle geologic map, Delta County, Colorado: Colorado Geological Survey, 33 p., 12 plates, scale


1:24,000. Available for free download at http://geosurveystore.state.co.us/p-1452-orchard-city-quadrangle-geologic-map-delta-county-colorado.aspx.

Lead Story

Continued on page 10 »

Group photo taken in the Puesta del Sol Vineyard at Alfred Eames Cellars, Paonia, Colorado. From left: Dick Castle, Peggy Castle, Ron Parker, Devin Petersen, Pam Petersen, Doug Brown, Rob Taylor, Logan MacMillan, Alfred Eames Petersen, Fred Mark, Mary Pritchett, Andy Parker, Ron Pritchett, Sandra Mark, Dale Murphy, Randa MacMillan, Leaf Petersen, Dave Noe, Elaine Bateman, Mike Seal, Rozolen Stanford, Denis Foley, Celia Greenman. Photo by Ron Parker.

Confluence of the North Fork and Gunnison Rivers above Pleasure Park, Gunnison Gorge Conservation Area. Dr. Dave Noe points out alluvial terraces of the Gunnison and North Fork Rivers. Older rocks in view are the Dakota Sandstone, and Morrison Formation. Photo by Sandra Mark

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Lead StoryContinued from page 9

Terror Creek Winery, Paonia, Colorado, has the distinction of being the highest winery in the world (elevation 6400 feet). The winery and tasting room offers spectacular views of the vineyards and the West Elk Mountains (Oligocene laccoliths.) Photo by Ron Parker.

Ron Pritchett partakes of wine tasting at Mesa Winds Winery, Hotchkiss, Colorado. Photo by Sandra Mark.

A landslide head scarp along the southern edge of Redlands Mesa exposes up to 140 feet of middle Pleistocene-age debris-flow deposits. The clasts (commonly as large as 6 feet long) are comprised of basalt derived from Grand Mesa, which was periodically glaciated during the Pleistocene. Many of the wineries that we visited on the field trip are sited atop mesas that are underlain by similar gravel deposits. Below is “Mancos Blonde”, oxidation of the shale, a near-surface weathering phenomenon commonly seen when the Mancos is overlain by a gravel deposit. Photo by Ron Parker.

Alfred Eames Cellars. It is the only winery in the West Elks American Viticultural Area that is located on the porphyry clast, gravelly mud deposits to the south of the North Fork River. Photo by Sandra Mark.

The 'Adobes Triangle', bounded by the towns of Paonia, Hotchkiss, and Crawford, consists of exquisitely exposed outcrops of Mancos Shale. At this stop, we were in the middle of the Smoky Hill Member. A number of thick-shelled Inoceramid fragments were collected. Landsend Peak in the background. Photo by Ron Parker.

Vol. 62, No.12 101010


Rocky Mtn. PTTC Workshops GeoGraphix Training: An Overview and Refresher Course Wednesday, November 20, 2013, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Colorado School of Mines, Berthoud Hall Rm. 201 Fee: $250, includes food at breaks, workbook, and PDH certificate. Instructor: Fred Poland, Littleton, CO

Well Bore Integrity throughout its Life Cycle Tuesday, December 10, 2013, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Colorado School of Mines, Ben Parker Student Center Ballroom A Fee: $250, includes food at breaks, workbook, and PDH certificate. Instructor: Talib Syed, PE

Carbonate Depositional Systems and Seismic Sequence Stratigraphy Tuesday-Wednesday, January 21-22, 2014, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Colorado School of Mines, Ben Parker Student Center Ballroom E Fee: $500, includes food at breaks, workbook, and PDH certificate. Instructors: Dr. John Humphrey and Dr. Joseph Richard Sarg Basic Well Log Interpretation Monday-Wednesday, February 18-20, 2013, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Colorado School of Mines, Ben Parker Student Center Ballroom BC Fee: $650, includes food at breaks, class notes, and PDH certificate Instructor: Dr. Dan Krygowski, The Discovery Group, Denver, CO Limit: 60 persons Stranded Gas to Value Tuesday March 5, 2014, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Colorado School of Mines, Ben Parker Student Center Ballroom AB Fee: $250, includes lunch, class notes, and PDH certificate Multiple speakers Limit: 100 persons Well-Log Sequence Stratigraphy: Applications to Sandstones and Shales Tuesday – Thursday, March 11-13, 2014, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Colorado School of Mines, Berthoud Hall rm. 243 Fee: $700, includes food at breaks, class notes, and PDH certificate Instructor: Dr. Jeff May

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RMAG Honorary Membership 2013Charles W. Spencer

The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists is pleased to present Honorary Membership, the association’s most prestigious award, to Charles W. (Chuck) Spencer. Chuck earned this award through many years of contributions and accomplishments to the geologic profession and, in particular, to the RMAG.

Though Chuck worked at Texaco for a 15-year stint between 1959 and 1974, he is probably best known for his work on behalf of the United States Geological Survey (USGS). His first effort with the USGS began in 1955 when he was hired to study both minerals and ground water in the eastern United States. However, in 1959, Chuck transferred to the oil and gas division in the western United States. Apparently the oil and gas arena was quite enticing since that was the area of focus for the rest of his career, both in government and in industry. After moving on from his managerial role at Texaco (first as District Geologist and then as manager of the Rocky Mountain Division Lab), Chuck once again joined the USGS where he became one of the first proponents of

unconventional resources; specifically basin-centered, tight gas sand accumulations. On this subject, he and his team wrote extensively with one of his many papers earning him and his co-author, Ben Law, the 1981 AAPG A.I. Levorsen Award. Chuck’s contributions to the science supporting oil and gas exploration also earned him the 1994 RMAG Outstanding Scientist award. It is fitting to say that his legacy of work has earned him high regard and respect, not only from within the United States, but from around the world.

Chuck is not only known for his contributions to the characterization of unconventional resources, but he has also been lauded for his participation in the local and national geologic community. For example, he has been an active member in the RMAG since 1961. Chuck chaired the 1975 Symposium and Field Trip, served as a trustee to the RMAG Foundation, contributed to the research committee, and edited special RMAG publications. When RMAG President Neal Harr passed away in 1979, Chuck stepped up from his Vice President

position to President to lead the RMAG through a time of sorrow and transition. On the national stage, Chuck served as a delegate to the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG), authored or co-authored many papers and talks for that association, and was selected President of the Rocky Mountain Section of the AAPG in 1984-1985.

Because of his active service, Chuck has received several awards from both the RMAG and AAPG. In 1982, Chuck received the RMAG Distinguished Service to the Earth Sciences Award and in 1993 he was presented with the AAPG Public Service Award.

The membership of the RMAG believes that there is one more award that Chuck deserves. It is with great honor that the RMAG bestows the 2013 RMAG Honorary Membership Award to Charles W. (Chuck) Spencer.

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RMAG Best Luncheon Speaker Award 2013Jeffrey A. May

The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists is please to give the Best Luncheon Speaker Award to Jeffrey A. May. On July 10, 2013 Jeff gave a presentation to an RMAG luncheon audience titled “The Sedimentology of Mudrocks: Organics, Organisms, and Occasional Occurrences”. He discussed the relationship between compositional variability and the interaction between

detrital input and biologic productivity along with the preservation versus destruction of organic material.

Randomly selected reviewers judged all the luncheon presentations and Jeff’s scores were the highest of the year. Congratulations Jeff and thanks for a great presentation!

February 2014

Dear Past Non-RMAG Member Subscribers to The Mountain Geologist,

We are proud to announce that our journal The Mountain Geologist has gone all-digital The Mountain Geologist has gone all-digital The Mountain Geologistbeginning in 2014, and the printed issues have been discontinued. We look forward to being a paperless journal! Our members went digital in 2013, and only non-member subscribers received print issues in 2013. This means we will no longer be mailing print issues of our journal, and we will no longer be offering subscriptions to The Mountain Geologist. Subscribers to the 2013 volume 50 were notified of the change in October/November, 2013.

It will be possible to receive our digital issues for personal use in one of two ways: either by becoming a member of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists for $41 annually (http://www.rmag.org) which will enable downloading issues from the website, or by pay-per-view from AAPG’s DataPages (http://www.datapages.com). University and corporate subscription options are also available through DataPages. We are currently exploring other subscription options; please let us know directly if you wish to be appraised of developments in this area.

The Mountain Geologist Goes All-Digital Beginning in 2014

Respectfully,Joyce Trygstad NelsonExecutive Editor, The Mountain [email protected]

Emily Tompkins Executive Director, Rocky Mountain Association of [email protected]


Geophysical Society further enhance his background of knowledge and organization capabilities.

Kurt received the RMAG Outstanding Explorer Award in 1988 as a result of his 1985 discovery of Luckey Ditch field in southwest Wyoming, when he was Central Rocky Mountain District Geologist with Sun Exploration and Production Company. He received the Distinguished Service to RMAG Award in 2010 in recognition of almost a decade of contributing his expertise. He has served as coordinator of and contributor to numerous RMAG committees and events that include RMAG luncheon speakers (2005-2008), 2nd Vice President in 2008, chair of the Continuing Education Committee in 2009, Sponsorship Chair for the RMAG/COGA Energy Epicenter in 2010, co-chair for the 2010 RMAG Fall Symposium on New Drilling and Completion Techniques.

Kurt initiated the RMAG Summit Sponsorship Committee in 2011 and serves as chairman. The Summit Sponsorship Committee provides for a stable funding source for RMAG and also increases our contacts with and support for the organizations that so generously sponsor RMAG events. For this, and his years of service to the scientific community, the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists is pleased to present to Kurt Reisser the Presidents Award.

The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists is pleased to present to Kurt Reisser the Presidents Award. Kurt is being awarded this honor for his service to RMAG and to the scientific community.

Kurt has more than 37 years of experience as a petroleum geologist in exploration, acquisitions, and divestitures in the U.S. and abroad. As is the case with most petroleum geoscientists, he has worked for multiple companies while living in New Orleans, Denver, and Dallas, and through time has worn numerous leadership hats. The scientific community has benefited from his extensive background of experience, enthusiastic sharing of knowledge and abilities, and his contacts within industry, organizations, academia, and government. His memberships with the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists, American Association of Petroleum Geologists, Houston Geological Society, and Denver

RMAG President's Award 2013Kurt D. Reisser

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December 2013Vol. 62, No.12 161616

RMAG/PTTC GEOSTEERING FORUM IMPACTING THE BOTTOM LINE

Presented by The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists and PTTC

TUESDAY, APRIL 29th, 2014

CALL FOR ABSTRACTS Deadline January 31, 2014

Maximize your visibility and work by actively participating in this PREMIER event!

RMAG and PTTC are pleased to announce their 1st Geosteering Forum. The objectives are to examine advanced geosteering techniques and applications in horizontal wells among geoscientists and engineers. Topics include software analysis, downhole tools and techniques, and their usefulness in well planning, stratigraphic interpretation, staying in-zone, dealing with hazards, drilling efficiency, and maximizing productivity of horizontal wells. Topics include but are not limited to the following:

• Geosteering techniques and applications • Case histories • Pros/cons of software packages • Downhole tools and techniques • Well planning/stratigraphic interpretation • Dealing with hazards and drilling efficiency • Analyzing geosteering data to understand and boost production • The relative merits of remote, on-location and in-house geosteering

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For EXHIBITOR, SPONSOR, and ABSTRACT info visit WWW.RMAG.ORG or contact the RMAG office [email protected] 303-573-8621


CALL FOR PAPERS!2014 Rocky Mountain Section-AAPG Annual Meeting

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—— PRE-SALE FORM —— Studies in Geology 65

Application of Structural Methods to Rocky Mountain Hydrocarbon Exploration and Development

Edited by: Constance N. Knight, Jerome J. Cuzella, Leland D. Cress

Co-published by The American Association of Petroleum Geologists

The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

With increasing industry emphasis on developing “unconventional” tight reservoirs and on enhancing recovery from existing fields, geologists are facing new challenges. Identifying fracture characteristics within petroleum systems is essential. Understanding the timing of tectonics and the formation of structures is important, as these factors strongly influence hydrocarbon generation, migration, entrap-ment, and preservation. The purpose in publishing this collection of key papers is to aid future works in addressing complex interrelationships between structural geology and hydrocarbon exploration and development. The first four chapters of this book focus on structural concepts and techniques. The second part of this book is a collection of Rocky Mountain fault and fracture studies. These well-documented studies are valuable reference materials for all petroleum geologists.

I agree to pay the RMAG:

RMAG member—$159 X ___ (# ordering) = _____ + sales tax + shipping*

non-member—$249 X ___ (# ordering) = ______ + sales tax + shipping* *shipping is based on UPS rates, therefore we will charge you based on your shipping zip code Name as it appears on card: _______________________________________________________ Billing address on card: ___________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Credit Card Number: _____________________________________________________________ Verification/security code: ____________________ Expiration Date: ______________________ Signature: _______________________________________________ Date: _________________ Email address for receipt: __________________________________________________________

More information is available on the RMAG website under Publications. Questions? Would you like to pay by check?

Please call the RMAG office (303) 573-8621 or email [email protected]

Coming in September! Order your copy today!


—— PRE-SALE FORM —— Studies in Geology 65

Application of Structural Methods to Rocky Mountain Hydrocarbon Exploration and Development

Edited by: Constance N. Knight, Jerome J. Cuzella, Leland D. Cress

Co-published by The American Association of Petroleum Geologists

The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

With increasing industry emphasis on developing “unconventional” tight reservoirs and on enhancing recovery from existing fields, geologists are facing new challenges. Identifying fracture characteristics within petroleum systems is essential. Understanding the timing of tectonics and the formation of structures is important, as these factors strongly influence hydrocarbon generation, migration, entrap-ment, and preservation. The purpose in publishing this collection of key papers is to aid future works in addressing complex interrelationships between structural geology and hydrocarbon exploration and development. The first four chapters of this book focus on structural concepts and techniques. The second part of this book is a collection of Rocky Mountain fault and fracture studies. These well-documented studies are valuable reference materials for all petroleum geologists.

I agree to pay the RMAG:

RMAG member—$159 X ___ (# ordering) = _____ + sales tax + shipping*

non-member—$249 X ___ (# ordering) = ______ + sales tax + shipping* *shipping is based on UPS rates, therefore we will charge you based on your shipping zip code Name as it appears on card: _______________________________________________________ Billing address on card: ___________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Credit Card Number: _____________________________________________________________ Verification/security code: ____________________ Expiration Date: ______________________ Signature: _______________________________________________ Date: _________________ Email address for receipt: __________________________________________________________

More information is available on the RMAG website under Publications. Questions? Would you like to pay by check?

Please call the RMAG office (303) 573-8621 or email [email protected]

Coming in September! Order your copy today!



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Outcrop Deadlines for the Outcrop advertising is the 1st of the month, the deadline for

other content is the 5th of the

month.

December 2013Vol. 62, No.12 222222

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»


The Artists of RMAGFor several months this past year, we ran an “ad” in

the Outcrop seeking the artists of RMAG to submit their geologic works for a virtual art show. We know that there

are more of you out there, but only three brave hearts submitted their work. We salute the artists of RMAG.

“Anorthosite at Split Rock”Oil painting by Don Stone

These majestic anorthosite bluffs rise 130 feet above the lake level at Split Rock State Park, Minnesota, on the northwest shore of Lake Superior, the world’s largest lake. The famous Split Rock Lighthouse (built in 1910) sits on the Proterozoic anorthosite, a phaneritic igneous rock composed predominantly of plagioclase feldspar, accounting for its light, weathered color. The anorthosite is intruded into Duluth gabbroic volcanics that erupted from the Midcontinent Rift System ~1.1 billion years ago. I viewed this striking georama from a cruise ship passing along the base of the cliffs and converted it to an oil painting on a 42” by 32” canvas just this year.

“Chaco Canyon Summer Solstice”Oil on canvas, 12”x16” by Sandra Mark, 2-13

Cliff House Sandstone (Late Cretaceous) forms the backdrop for the ruins of Chaco Culture National Historical Park, San Juan Basin, Northwestern New Mexico. Ancestral Puebloans built great houses in numerous communities along Chaco Wash and the surrounding area between 850 AD and 1250 AD. The painting depicts Zuni Dancers during the summer solstice, 2010 in the plaza of Pueblo Bonito. For more information on Chaco geology and culture: http://3dparks.wr.usgs.gov/coloradoplateau/chaco_strat.h




Three Geologic Art Quilts Fabric quilts approximately 2.5 feet on a side by Barbara Rogers

These quilts were inspired by the covers of her husband, Jim’s AAPG Explorer and Bulletins. Barbara captures the overall impression of the geologic exposure by her choice of “rock” fabric and stitchery.

The Artists of RMAGContinued from page 23

»




20th Annual 3D Seismic Symposium


December 2013Vol. 62, No.12 282828

Every RMAG member is being requested

to keep his/her online membership profile information

up to date.

We want you back! We need you!

The RMAG is facing a serious membership dilemma.During 2013, over 700 RMAG memberships have lapsed.

The recent l y c reated membership committee, the RMAG board of directors, and the RMAG office staff are working to resolve membership issues. We need your help. Recently Debra Higley, Dudley Bolyard, Matt Silverman, and Connie Knight contacted some of the “lapsed” members by phone and by email. Of the members contacted, most

were very concerned that their memberships had lapsed.

Every RMAG member is being requested to keep his/her online membership profile information up to date. We need your help to resolve this problem. If (after reading the profile article of this issue) you require assistance using the online RMAG website and database, please contact the RMAG office.

»


Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists, RMAG 910 16th Street Mall, Suite 1125, Denver, CO 80202

(303) 573-8621 phone (303) 628-0546 fax

www.rmag.org [email protected]

2013 RMAG Dues Renewal

Name: _____________________________________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________________________________________ City: ________________________________ State: _________ Zip code: ______________ Current email address: _______________________________________________________ 2013 Dues: $41.00 (December 1, 2012 - November 30, 2013) **$25.00 (June 1, 2013 – November 30, 2013)** half year dues + late fee Other Optional Contributions: RMAG Contribution: $_________

(which supports the calendar of 2013 of RMAG events, including short courses, symposia, social events, monthly luncheons, and more)

RMAG Foundation General Fund Contribution: $_________

(which helps support the following: Norman H. Foster Scholarship, University of Colorado (Bolyard) Scholarship, Colorado School of Mines (CSM) Scholarship, Colorado State University (CSU) Scholarship, Veterans Memorial Scholarship, Stone/Hollberg Graduate Scholarship in Structural Geology, Philip J. McKenna Scholarship, Babcock Scholarship)

Total Contribution Payment: $_________

All contributions are tax deductible under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS. Please return this form with payment: Payments may be made by check (payable to RMAG) or credit card (please either fill out the enclosed credit card authorization form or go to www.rmag.org to pay online). Easy steps to update your membership online:

1. Go to RMAG website at www.rmag.org 2. Click on MEMBERSHIP 3. Under MEMBERSHIP, click on Member Log In 4. Under the Member Login box, click where it says “Forgot your information? Click here” 5. Enter your current email address 6. You will then receive an email with your login information

If this is unsuccessful, please contact the RMAG office at (303) 573-8621 or by email at [email protected] for further assistance.

2013 RMAG Dues Renewal


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Authors and Editors Needed:RMAG Oil & Gas Fields of Colorado!

RMAG is working toward the publication of a guidebook dedicated to short field studies of a set of selected oil and gas fields in Colorado. In large part the format will be similar to earlier publications of this type: a several page article that will include a one page summary with a small set of maps and cross-sections adequate to give the reader a lot of information in a short amount of time. The RMAG committee working on this publication has selected 85 fields for review. In addition, we expect to have extended discussion around several large “resource play” areas such as the Piceance Basin or the Greater Wattenberg complex including the recent horizontal Niobrara play.

The committee is currently looking for authors to do field studies and to put together material for publication. Each author may contribute one or multiple field studies. We will also need a group of editors for both technical and copy (grammatical and graphical) review.

Please volunteer! Committee contacts below:

Dean DuBois, Committee Chair [email protected]

James Milne303-894-2100 [email protected]

James [email protected][email protected]

Steve [email protected]

Marshall [email protected]

Tom [email protected]

Chris [email protected]

Well SiteGeologicalConsulting

andMudlogging

Services~ Since 1980 ~

Info:

OUR COMMITMENT

December 2013Vol. 62, No.12 323232

New MembersWelcome to New RMAG Members...

Gregory Hinds Gregory Hinds works for Jagged Peak Energy.works for Jagged Peak Energy.

Christopher LaddChristopher Ladd lives in Denver, CO. lives in Denver, CO.

Joseph CainJoseph Cain works for Montrose GIS & Geologic. works for Montrose GIS & Geologic.

Ethan MelvilleEthan Melville lives in Rapid City, SD. lives in Rapid City, SD.

Kasey HundtKasey Hundt works for Newfield Exploration. works for Newfield Exploration.

Joe CrownoverJoe Crownover works for Buckley Powder works for Buckley Powder Company.Company.

Dan BentleyDan Bentley lives in Billings, MT. lives in Billings, MT.

Eric PasternackEric Pasternack works for Outsource works for Outsource Eric PasternackEric Pasternack works for Outsource Eric PasternackEric PasternackPetrophysics, Inc.Petrophysics, Inc.

Zeyneo OnerZeyneo Oner works for the South Dakota School works for the South Dakota School of Mines.of Mines.

Jeff Hamlin Jeff Hamlin works for Kodiak Oil & Gas.works for Kodiak Oil & Gas.

John BuggenhamJohn Buggenham works for Whitewater works for Whitewater Exploration.Exploration.

Richard Sorensen works for Cirque Resources.

Vol. 62, No.12 323232

CONNECT WITH US ON LINKEDIN!

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER!

Connect with RMAG Online! You can now connect tothe RMAGon Linkedin, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can now connect tothe RMAGon Linkedin, Twitter, and Facebook.

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»

http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=3355814&trk=myg_ugrp_ovr

https://www.facebook.com/RMAG1922

https://twitter.com/RMAGDenver


THANK YOU TO 2012 RMAG FOUNDATION DONORS

The Trustees of the RMAG Foundation wish to acknowledge the generous support of the Foundation’s donors in 2012. Approximately $35,000 was raised for student scholarships and the general fund which supports geologic endeavors within the geologic community at large. The Foundation, a tax-exempt organization under section 501 (c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Code (Tax ID # 84-0730294), relies on these donations for its ongoing contributions which are made each year from the interest accrued by the fund.

In addition to the individuals, companies, and corporations on the facing page who gave in 2012, the Foundation would like to recognize a major gift to the scholarship funds by the RMAG Golf Tournament contributors. Thank you to all who organized and played in that tournament!

If any donor has failed to be thanked individually by letter, please contact:

RMAG Foundation, #165 Independence Plaza 1001 16th Street, B-180 Denver, CO 80265

November 201333Vol. 62, No. 8

December 201334Vol. 62, No.12 34 www.rmag.org34OUTCROP


RMAG Luncheon Programs – December 4th

» »

Luncheon will be held at the Marriott City Center at California and 17th St. Please check the event listing in the lobby for the room. Check-in/walk-in registration begins at 11:30 a.m., lunch is served at 12:00 noon, and the talk begins at 12:20 p.m. The luncheon price is $30.00. To listen only to the talk, walk-in price is $10.00. If you make a reservation and do not attend the luncheon, you will be billed for the luncheon. Online registration closes at 4:00 p.m. on the Thursday before the luncheon. Cancellations are not guaranteed after that time.

Luncheon ReseRvations & infoRmation

Call 303-573-8621, email [email protected],

or register online.

Your attendance is welcomed and encouraged. Bring a guest or new member!

The Golden Thrust System – Peculiar Geometries Associated with Backthrusts in a System of Stacked Triangle Zones along the Eastern Flank of the Colorado Front Range By Ned Sterne, December 4, 2013

The rare exposures of the fault show it to have a variety of attitudes and age juxtapositions and when viewed individually have been used to support either of these two other models..

Since the first observations in the Golden, Colorado area during the Hayden Survey, geologists have puzzled over the peculiarities of the Golden Fault. The fault is expressed over a strike distance of approximately 20 miles and reaches its point of maximum stratigraphic separation at Clear Creek where the upper part of the Cretaceous Pierre Shale is juxtaposed against the lower part of the Pennsylvanian Fountain Formation, an attenuation of 9,000’ of section. The fault approximately parallels the upper part of the Pierre for the whole of its length on the east, and ramps across older units on the west as its gains separation. The fault embays west to its point of maximum separation. Geologists have presented numerous interpretations for the geometry of the fault. The earliest considered it a peculiar east-dipping, west-directed, younger-over-older fault. Subsequent workers saw it as a west-dipping, east-directed, older-over-younger reverse fault. The rare exposures of the fault show it to have a variety of attitudes and age juxtapositions and when viewed individually have been used to support either of these two other models.

To accommodate such disparate data, the author proposes a modified triangle zone model – one that allows backthrusts within the intercutaneous wedge. Such a construct anticipates a linked system of thrusts displaying


December 2013Vol. 62, No.12 363636

a variety of geometries with both east- and west-dipping thrusts that show both standard older-over-younger and nonstandard younger-over-older age juxtapositions that explain the apparently conflicting field data. It also explains the peculiar map pattern created by the westward embayment of the Golden Thrust. A full explanation of the mountain front also requires that such triangle zones stack through the sedimentary section. Preferred detachments near the top of basement, in the Cretaceous Benton, the lower Pierre Shale and the upper Pierre Shale are occupied then abandoned as the thrust system steps its way up section and to the erosional or free surface.

Such geometries make it necessary to rethink how geologists interpret geologic maps and construct cross sections. Unless the attitude and direction of slip of a thrust are known, multiple interpretations of the geologic structure are possible. When younger-over-older thrust relationships come into the mix, the interpretive process becomes more challenging but also more interesting.

Armed with some additional ways to think about structural geometries, the incomplete information available to geologists can build into a family of permissible and testable hypotheses that address the complexity seen in the rocks. Outcrop geology, trench, adit and well information, and seismic data will be presented to show the variety of geometries seen at Golden and elsewhere along the mountain front and to support this structural model.

RMAG LuncheonsContinued from page 35

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RMAG Luncheon Programs – January 8th

The Unconventional Oil & Gas Revolution: Another Look Under the Hood By Pete Stark, IHS Senior Research Director and Advisor and Steve Trammel, IHS Research Director and Advisor, January 8, 2014

The implications of the unconventional oil and gas revolution are enormous. This discussion will review insights about the opportunities and challenges that will shape the eventual size of the prize for unconventional oil and gas. .

Unprecedented breakthroughs in liberating production from source rocks and tight reservoirs have stimulated dramatic shifts in oil and gas supplies and market factors. After an extended scramble to secure and evaluate leases, the unconventional revolution is entering a new phase with focus on efficient play development and expansion of supplies. The “shale gale” unlocked a 100 year supply for natural gas. But it also triggered excess production capacity and a collapse of gas prices that have forced massive adjustments across the supply chain. 2014 shapes up as a transformational year as gas markets adjust to abundant low-cost gas and NGL supplies and demand improves along with the economy. The “great revival” of U.S. oil production will continue to lead the world in annual supply growth. The unconventional oil and gas revolution is an invaluable engine for job creation – 2.1 million jobs by 2012 – and economic growth, delivering $75 billion in federal and state taxes and $283 billion to US GDP during 2012 alone. But heightened public concerns about perceived risks from horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing and complacency with “the way things are” undermine our collective ability to maximize the advantage of this huge bonus for U.S. energy. So, for those who do not want shale gas or tight oil we will review what it would be like in the US if the unconventional revolution did not happen.

For those who do want shale gas and tight oil, we also will review some of the significant trends in the evolution of US unconventional plays. The mighty Marcellus has become the “king kong” play for U.S. natural gas - far surpassing even optimistic views from two years ago. The Eagle Ford and Bakken – Three Forks duke it out for leadership in U.S. tight oil. The Eagle Ford has surged into the lead for oil supplies but what is the long term outlook? The Permian smorgasbord is the third leg of the tight oil stool and the combination of Niobrara, Mississippi Lime, Granite Wash (and Oklahoma cousins), Wasatch, Tuscaloosa Marine and Utica comprise the fourth leg that will drive U.S. tight oil production beyond 4 MMb/d by 2020. To connect the dots, U.S. infrastructure is expanding at an unprecedented pace as is investment in energy dependent chemical and manufacturing plants. Looking abroad, international shale gas and tight oil potential rivals that of North America but the road to implementation is challenged by more potholes than pavement.

The implications of the unconventional oil and gas revolution are enormous. This discussion will review insights about the opportunities and challenges that will shape the eventual size of the prize for unconventional oil and gas.



RMAG Luncheon Programs – January 8th

Outcrop Deadlines for the Outcrop advertising is the 1st of the

month, the deadline for other content is the 5th of the month.

Ordovician-sourced Oils from the Williston Basin, USA: Where did they come from and where have they gone? By John B. Curtis, Colorado School of Mines and John E. Zumberge, GeoMark Research, Ltd., February 5, 2014

These oils are also characterized by relatively high C19 tricyclic terpane and C24 tetracyclic to C23 tricyclic terpane ratios as well as having the most positive (enriched) stable carbon isotope compositions of oils from the Williston Basin.

Using multivariate statistics, over 350 Williston Basin oils were grouped into families which share common sources based on genetic-specific biomarkers and stable carbon isotope compositions. Ninety (90) Middle Ordovician-sourced oils were identified by their unique n-paraffin distributions (odd over even carbon number preference around n-C17 and n-C19 and greatly diminished isoprenoids) due to the microorganism G. prisca. These oils are also characterized by relatively high C19 tricyclic terpane and C24 tetracyclic to C23 tricyclic terpane ratios as well as having the most positive (enriched) stable carbon isotope compositions of oils from the Williston Basin.

Most of these oils were produced from the Ordovician Red River Formation, and source rock evaluation of Red River cores and cuttings (e.g., TOC and Rock-EvalTM data) suggests that the Red River is also the principal source rock unit. Estimates of oil thermal maturity based on biomarkers show that the most mature oils exist within the basin depocenter while the least mature oils are located along the Cedar Creek Anticline. Furthermore, another smaller set of oils (<10) contain G. prisca biomarkers (albeit diminished) but have very negative (depleted) stable carbon isotopic compositions; these oils may have been generated from shales of the Ordovician Winnipeg Group. Finally, a few oils with predominantly Mississippian carbonate biomarkers (i.e., Lodgepole Formation source) appear to have an Ordovician component as revealed by principal component analysis.

These oil data and observations have been integrated with mapped source rock occurrence, quality and thermal maturity to yield new insight into the Ordovician petroleum systems of the US portion of the Williston Basin. »


NAPE ON THE ROCKS Dec 11th, 2013

3-5pm Welcome reception for nape rockies

COLORADO Convention Center

The Rocky Mountain Association of

Geologists PRESENTS

Sponsorship Opportunities Available! Contact Sue Jackson at [email protected]

December 2013Vol. 62, No.12 404040

In the PipelineIn the PipelineDecember 4, 2013

RMAG Luncheon. RMAG Luncheon. Speaker Ned Speaker Ned Sterne. “The Golden Thrust System – Sterne. “The Golden Thrust System – Peculiar Geometries Associated with Peculiar Geometries Associated with Backthrusts in a System of Stacked Backthrusts in a System of Stacked Triangle Zones along the Eastern Triangle Zones along the Eastern Flank of the Colorado Front Range."Flank of the Colorado Front Range."

December 9, 2013DWLS Holiday Party. DWLS Holiday Party. Marlowe’s Marlowe’s

4:30-7:30 PM.4:30-7:30 PM.

December 10, 2013PTTC Course.PTTC Course. Instructor Talib Instructor Talib

Syed. “Wellbore Integrity Throughout Syed. “Wellbore Integrity Throughout Its Life Cycle.” CSM, Golden, CO.Its Life Cycle.” CSM, Golden, CO.

December 10, 2013Desk and Derrick Luncheon. Desk and Derrick Luncheon. For For

reservations, please contact RSVP@reservations, please contact [email protected]

December 11, 2013RMAG NAPE on the Rocks. RMAG NAPE on the Rocks.

Welcome Reception. Colorado Welcome Reception. Colorado Convention Center, 3-5PM.Convention Center, 3-5PM.

December 11-13 , 2013N A P E Ro c k i e s .N A P E Ro c k i e s . C o l o r a d o C o l o r a d o

Convention Center, Denver, CO. Convention Center, Denver, CO.

December 12, 2013DGS Luncheon.DGS Luncheon.

December 13, 2013DIPS Luncheon. DIPS Luncheon. Speaker John Speaker John

Fredrick.” New Zealand Oil and Gas Fredrick.” New Zealand Oil and Gas Potential.”Potential.”

If you have any events that you would like to post in this column, please submit via email to Holly Sell at [email protected] or to the RMAG office at [email protected] for consideration.

»»

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The Mountain Geologist is a quarterly, online, peer-reviewed

journal published by the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists

since 1964. Circulation is about 2600. Editors for The Mountain

Geologist welcome manuscripts that focus on or relate to geology

Geologist welcome manuscripts that focus on or relate to geology

Geologistof the U.S. Rocky Mountain region and environs.

When writing a manuscript for The Mountain Geologist, please

refer to the downloadable “Author Style Guide” found under

“Publications – The Mountain Geologist” on the RMAG website: www.

rmag.org It is important to write your manuscript according to this

g It is important to write your manuscript according to this

ggstyle guide to mitigate revision time for both authors and editors.

The style guide is being updated in 2013; please send inquiries to

the Executive Editor at [email protected] or refer to issues published or refer to issues published or refer to issues published

in 2012-2013 when questions arise.

Back issuesA bibliography and index is available on the RMAG website (1964-

2009, see The Mountain Geologist web page, The Mountain Geologist web page, The Mountain Geologist www.rmag.org). See

also, “Cumulative Bibliography and Index to The Mountain Geologist,

1999-2010” by Michele Bishop, The Mountain Geologist, July 2011,

v. 48, no. 3, p. 59-80 .

Back issues of the journal are available on DVD (The Mountain

Geologist 1964-2005 except 1985, v. 22, no. 4; The Mountain

Geologist 2006-2010 with 1985, v. 22, no. 4) available through the

Geologist 2006-2010 with 1985, v. 22, no. 4) available through the

GeologistRMAG office, 303-573-8621, or online on the RMAG website. Some

issues in hard copies are also available from the RMAG office for

issues in hard copies are also available from the RMAG office for

$15.

»Submit a Manuscript to


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December 2013 anuary 1 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

Advertisers IndexAAPG .............................................. 12

Bowler Petrophysics ..................... 15

Breckenridge Expl. Inc. ...................7

Canadian Discovery .........................8

Columbine Logging ....................... 31

Decollement Consulting, Inc ....... 28

The Discovery Group, Inc. ............. 23

Dolan Integration Group ..................9

Donovan Brothers Inc. .................. 32

Fluid Inclusion Technologies .30, 40

Geosteering ................................ 22

Gustavson, John B...................... 15

Horizontal Solutions Intl. .......8, 20

Karo, James C. ........................... 31

Kestrel Geoscience, LLC ........... 12

Kluth and Associates ................. 21

MJ Systems ................................ 22

Mazzullo Energy Corp. ................. 7

Noble Energy ................................ 8

PTTC ............................................ 11

Quantum Water Consulting ................ 6

RPM Geologic, LLC ...........................13

Stoner Engineering, LLC ................... 27

Summit Mudlogging Services ..........21

TGS .....................................................18

Weatherford Laboratories ...21, 36, 42

Weber Law Firm, LLC ........................21

Whitehead, Neil H. ............................21

RMAG Luncheon: Ned Sterne

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30 31

Desk & Derrick

LuncheonDGS

Luncheon

CHRISTMAS

NEW YEAR'S

EVE

NAPE Rockies, Colorado NAPE Rockies, Colorado NAPE Rockies, Colorado Convention Center, Denver, COConvention Center, Denver, COConvention Center, Denver, CO

RMAG NAPE OTR Welcome

PTTC Course

DIPS Luncheon

DWLS Holiday Party

RMAG Office CLOSED December 23rd through January 1st

RMAG Office CLOSED

Documents

December 2013 Outcrop