The effects of anisotropy on Canadian foothills exploration: A case history

Abstract

This case history demonstrates the impact of anisotropy on the results of exploration in the Canadian foothills. The results of recent drilling show the dramatic impact of anisotropy on the positioning of the pre-drill target location. This impact creates cost overruns from a drilling perspective as well as increased cycle time to production. In some cases, by optimizing the location of the borehole on the structure to encounter an area of increased fracturing, higher production rates have resulted. An intangible impact is a perception of increased technical risk on the play if the cause of the error in positioning is not fully understood. This analysis is based on drilling information gained from several wells in an area covered by a large 3-D seismic survey in the Alberta foothills.