Applied Subsurface Geological Mapping

Disciplines
Geoscience
Category
Seismic Interpretation • Mapping • Foundational • Development • Unconventional Reservoir • Conventional Reservoir • Geophysics • Subsurface
Format
Classroom 
Available
Public • Private 

Who Should Attend

Geologists, geophysicists, engineers, managers and support staff involved in exploration or development.

Description

SCA is pleased to announce that participants of this course will now receive the Applied 3D Subsurface Geological Mapping with Structural Methods 3rd Edition textbook. Hear from the authors as they review the updates and how it changes SCA's flagship class: https://youtu.be/cMhtV2x6p2I

Our flagship course covers both fundamental and advanced methods of subsurface mapping that have been used by the most proficient exploration and development geoscientists in the industry, as well as an introduction to some of the more recent advances in interpretation. Mapping techniques, examples and exercises for extensional and compressional tectonic settings are the core of the course. Diapiric and strike-slip faulted structures are also discussed. In addition, volumetric mapping is presented as well as some of the numerous pitfalls in reservoir volume determinations using isochore maps.

This course provides the applied, hands-on knowledge required to generate sound subsurface maps. Subsurface geologic maps are the most important and widely used documents in petroleum exploration and development. Geoscientists and engineers are expected to understand and be able to efficiently and accurately generate many types of subsurface maps. Nevertheless, many geoscientists have not had sufficient formal training in the fundamental principles and methods that underlie accurately constructed subsurface maps, whether the data source is a seismic interpretation, well log correlation or both. Participants of this course will receive the Applied 3D Subsurface Geological Mapping with Structural Methods 3rd Edition textbook (2020) and a lab manual with exercises.

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the application of different hand contouring and the pitfalls of selected computer contouring methods.
  • Capability of integrating fault data from well logs and seismic data.
  • Generate fault surface interpretations and maps.
  • Understand the construction and application of various types of cross sections.
  • Generate net pay isochore maps for both bottom and edge water reservoirs.

Course Content

  • Philosophical doctrine, workflow and methodology of mapping
  • Contouring and contouring techniques
  • Directionally drilled wells and directional surveys (applications to mapping)
  • Log correlation techniques for vertical and deviated wells (applications to mapping)
  • Integration of geophysical data in subsurface mapping
  • Cross section construction for extensional, compressional strike-slip and diapiric tectonic settings
  • Fault surface mapping using well log and seismic data
  • Structure mapping in extensional, compressional, strike-slip and diapiric tectonic settings
  • Isochore map construction (bottom water and edge water reservoirs)
  • Net sand and pay correction factors for directionally drilled wells
  • Structure vs porosity top mapping
  • Walking wells
  • Fault wedge mapping
  • Pitfalls of computer generated maps
  • Volumetric calculations
  • Isopach map construction

Instructor
Jim Brenneke
Venue
Midland Training Center - Midland
Cost
$3,775.00
Date(s)
September 29-October 3, 2025

Sample Topic