Integrated outcrop to seismic calibration of depositional sequences in the Upper Cretaceous Mesaverde Group, Rock Springs uplift, southwestern Wyoming

Conference · Fri Mar 01 04:00:00 EST 1991 · AAPG Bulletin (American Association of Petroleum Geologists); (United States)

OSTI ID:5529736

Devlin, W J; Rudolph, K W; Rahmanian, V D; Chen, Yowyuh; Pflum, C E; Wright, R C ^[1]

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1. Exxon Production Research Co., Houston, TX (United States)

An integrated study of Upper Cretaceous strata in the Rock Springs uplift has established a detailed sequence stratigraphic framework in outcrop, biofacies, and well-log and seismic data sets. Third- and fourth-order sequences, component systems tracts, and attendant depositional facies are documented. The physical stratigraphy from the outcrop is tied into the subsurface by correlation of measured sections with well logs from nearby coreholes. Physical surfaces and stratal stacking patterns identified in outcrop have direct counterparts in the well logs. Constructed well-log sections carry the sequence framework further basinward in the subsurface. Biofacies data delineate the third-order depositional cyclicity by indicating relative proximity to the paleoshoreline and paleobathymetric estimates. Seismic data was acquired from the location of the outcrops into the Washakie basin, allowing for the direct integration and calibration of these data as well. Reflection terminations on the seismic data are associated with both the third- and fourth-order physical surfaces identified in the outcrop and wells. Sequence boundaries exhibit truncation, toplap, and downlap, and maximum flooding surfaces are demonstrated to be downlap surfaces. Internal reflection geometry within sequences consists of low-angle, basinward-dipping clinoforms. Nonmarine strata exhibit shingled reflections in dip section and channelized to subhorizontal geometry in strike sections (in braided fluvial and coastal plain facies, respectively). Integration of all data bases thoroughly documents the sequence framework and provides compelling support for sequence stratigraphic methodology and interpretation in each individual data set.

• OSTI ID: 5529736
• Report Number(s): CONF-910403--
• Conference Information: Journal Name: AAPG Bulletin (American Association of Petroleum Geologists); (United States) Journal Volume: 75:3
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

58 GEOSCIENCES
580000* -- Geosciences
BIOLOGICAL MARKERS
CORRELATIONS
CRETACEOUS PERIOD
DEPOSITION
DEVELOPED COUNTRIES
EXPLORATORY WELLS
FEDERAL REGION VIII
GEOLOGIC AGES
GEOLOGIC FORMATIONS
GEOLOGIC STRUCTURES
GEOLOGY
GEOPHYSICAL SURVEYS
MESOZOIC ERA
NORTH AMERICA
SEDIMENTARY BASINS
SEISMIC SURVEYS
STRATIGRAPHY
SURVEYS
USA
WELL LOGGING
WELLS
WYOMING