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Volume 54 Number 1

HGSBulletinHouston Geological Society

September 2011

AAPG Distinguished Ethics Lecture, 2011-2013Oil Spills, Ethics, and Society:How They Intersect and Where the Responsibilities ResidePage 29

page 31

Volume 54, Number 1 September 2011

Houston Geological Society

The

In Every Issue 5 From the President by Steve Earle

7 From the Editorby Ron Waszczak

36 GeoEvents Calendar 64 HGS MembershipApplication

65 HPAC 66 Professional Directory

Houston Geological SocietyOFFICERSSteven A. Earle PresidentMartin Cassidy President-electDavid Meaux Vice PresidentChristina M. Higginbotham TreasurerDonald Walker Treasurer-electMatthew Cowan SecretaryRon Waszczak Bulletin EditorPatricia Santogrossi Bulletin Editor-elect

DIRECTORSJohn Adamick

Jennifer L. Burton

Cecelia Baum Raborn

Gary Coburn

HGS OFFICE STAFFSandra Babcock Office ManagerGabriela Henriquez WebmasterMike Erpenbeck Office Committee Chair

EDITORIAL BOARDRon Waszczak EditorPatricia Santogrossi Editor-electFang Lin Advisory EditorJames Ragsdale Advisory EditorCharles Revilla Advisory EditorSandra Babcock Advertising EditorLisa Krueger Design Editor

The Houston Geological Society Bulletin (ISSN-018-6686) is published monthly except for July and August by the HoustonGeological Society, 14811 St. Mary’s Lane, Suite 250, Houston, Texas 77079-2916. Phone: 713-463-9476; fax: 281-679-5504Editorial correspondence and material submitted for publicationshould be addressed to the Editor, Houston Geological Society Bulletin, 14811 St. Mary’s Lane, Suite 250, Houston, Texas 77079-2916 or to [email protected]: Subscription to this publication is included in themembership dues ($24.00 annually). Subscription price for non-members within the contiguous U.S. is $30.00 per year. For thoseoutside the contiguous U.S. the subscription price is $46.00 per year. Single-copy price is $3.00. Periodicals postage paid inHouston, Texas.POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Houston GeologicalSociety Bulletin, 14811 St. Mary’s Lane, Suite 250, Houston,Texas 77079-2916

About the Cover: Spring issuing from Pleistocene glacial deposits on the north side of the TienShan Mountains, Kyrgyzstan. The peak in the background is underlain by Paleozoic sedimentaryrocks that have been uplifted by the frontal fault of the Tien Shan, an active thrust fault. Photo byMarli Miller

Bulletin

September 2011 Houston Geological Society Bulletin 1

Technical Meetings 25 HGS General Dinner Meeting

Practical Challenges in Correlation of Fluvio-Deltaic and Shallow Marine Deposits

29 HGS Environmental & Engineering Dinner MeetingAAPG Distinguished Ethics Lecture, 2011-2013 Oil Spills, Ethics, and Society: How They Intersect andWhere the Responsibilities Reside

31 Joint HGS International and North American Dinner MeetingMajor Characteristics and Aspects of Lacustrine Microbialites

39 HGS General Luncheon MeetingMacondo: A National Media Gusher in the Face of aMajor Environmental Disaster

Other Features 9 Vendor Corner Recognition and Thanks

13 10th HGS/PESGB ConferenceAfrica: a Legacy of Exploration and Discovery

16 2010-2011 President’s Night Houston Geological Society Awards

19 HGS Guest Nighton Guest Night… Allan J. FilipovGuest Night Reflections Rebecca Harkins

23 News From ASTM – Reflectance Measurement for Dispersed Vitrinite Paul C. Hackley

41 SIPES August Luncheon Meeting Seismic Imaging of Carbonate Formations and Reservoirs – An Odyssey 1971- 2011

41 SIPES September Luncheon Meeting Mesozoic/Cenozoic Tectonic Evolution, Basin Fairways,and Play Opportunities of Peru

51 28th Annual Skeet Shoot Tom McCarroll

53 HGS Field Trip to the Grand Canyon, 2012 Steve Earle

56 Government UpdateHenry M. Wise and Arlin Howles

63 September Crossword

64 June Crossword Answers

page 10

page 4

page 8

Time to RenewYour Membership

2 Houston Geological Society Bulletin September 2011

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Board of Directors 2011–12http://www.hgs.org/about_hgs/leadership.asp

President (P) Steve Earle Carrizo Oil and Gas 281-435-5020 [email protected] (PE) Martin Cassidy University of Houston 281-370-7346 [email protected] President (VP) David Meaux BP America 281-366-2847 [email protected] (S) Matthew Cowan Consultant 713-777-0534 [email protected](T) Christina Higginbotham Golder Associates, Inc. 281-620-7835 [email protected] (TE) Donald Walker ConocoPhillips 832-486-3924 [email protected] (E) Ron Waszczak ConocoPhillips 281-293-3088 [email protected] (EE) Patricia Santogrossi Statoil 713-918-8240 [email protected] 10-12 (D1) John Adamick TGS-NOPEC Geophysical 713-860-2114 [email protected] 10-12 (D2) Jennifer Burton Legado Resources 832-607-0074 [email protected] 11-13 (D3) Cecelia Baum Raborn Maersk Oil 713-346-5826 [email protected] 11-13 (D4) Gary Coburn Murphy Oil 281-782-7021 [email protected]

Committee Chairperson Phone Email Board Rep. AAPG House of Delegates Tarek Ghazi 281-961-7632 [email protected] PAcademic Liaison vacant D2Ad Hoc Advertising Sandra Babcock 713-463-9476 [email protected] EAfrica Conference Al Danforth 713-780-8622 [email protected] PArrangements (hotel contracts) David Meaux 281-366-2847 [email protected] VPBallot/Elections Paul Hoffman 713-871-2350 [email protected] SCalvert Fund Carl Norman 713-461-7420 [email protected] PEChristmas Party Kelly Limbaugh 713-972-9200 [email protected] D3Community Outreach Walter Light 713-823-8288 [email protected] D1Continuing Education Rosemary Laidacker 713-805-9672 [email protected] D1Directory Michael S. Benrud 713-785-8700 x104 [email protected] D1Earth Science Week Martha McRae 713-869-2045 [email protected] D2Engineering Council of Houston Claudia Ludwig 713-723-2511 [email protected] D2Environmental & Eng. Geologists Matthew Cowan 713-777-0534 [email protected] VPExhibits Bill Mason 281-367-0357 [email protected] D3Field Trips Gary Moore 713-466-8960 [email protected] D1Finance Joe Lynch 281-496-9898 x134 [email protected] TFoundation Fund John Adamick 713-860-2114 [email protected] PEGeneral Meeting David Meaux 281-366-2847 [email protected] VPGolf Tournament Mark Dennis 281-494-2522 [email protected] D4Government Affairs Arlin Howles 281-808-8629 [email protected] D4 Henry Wise 281-242-7190 [email protected] D4Guest Night Dave Reynolds 281-497-2485 [email protected] D4HGS New Publications Bill Rizer 281-392-0613 [email protected] D1Houston Energy Council Sandi Barber 713-935-7830 [email protected] PEHPAC Winona LaBrant Smith 713-952-2007 [email protected] SImperial Barrel Connie Mongold 832-315-4991 [email protected] D2International Explorationists Justin Vandenbrink 281-448-6188 [email protected] VPLegends Night Charles Sternbach 281-679-7333 [email protected] P John Tubb, Jr. 713-805-5649 [email protected] PMembership Shari Sartain 281-382-9855 [email protected] SMembership Growth Jeff Allen 713-871-2350 [email protected] D3Mudstone Conference Frank Walles 713-265-6319 [email protected] PMuseum of Natural Science Inda Immega 713-661-3494 [email protected] D2NeoGeo’s Sameer Baral 440-941-7121 [email protected] D3Nominations John Tubb, Jr. 713-805-5649 [email protected] PNorth American Interest Group Steve Getz 713-871-2346 [email protected] VPNorthsiders Simon Hughes 713-264-2167 [email protected] VP David Tonner 713-516-6894 [email protected] VPOffice Management Mike Erpenbeck 832-418-0221 [email protected] PEPublication Sales Dennis McConnell 281-362-4743 [email protected] D1Rememberances Art Berman 713-557-9067 [email protected] EEShrimp Peel Lee Shelton 281-381-1093 [email protected] D4Skeet Shoot Tom McCarroll 713-419-9414 [email protected] D4Social Media Dianna Phu 281-925-2491 [email protected] D3Speaker Awards Mike Deming 281-925-7239 [email protected] VPTechnoFest Deborah Sacrey 713-486-3260 [email protected] D4Tennis Tournament Steve Brachman 713-268-8810 [email protected] D4Vendor’s Corner Paul Babcock 713-859-0316 [email protected] TEVolunteer Coordinator Sue Pritchett 281-451-6522 [email protected] PWeb Management Linda Sternbach 281-679-7333 [email protected] D3

HGS Office Manager Sandra Babcock 713-463-9476 [email protected]


Alternately, you may fill out this form and return with your remittance—include your CURRENT EMAIL (important)

Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Member No.: __________________________________________________ Type: Active__ Associate__ Emeritus__ Full-time Student__

Current Email: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Preferred Address for HGS mail and Bulletin:

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

City: ____________________________________________ State: ____________ Zip Code: ____________________________

Phone: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

This is my home address _____ business address _____

Annual dues ($24) for the 2010–2011 year: ________________

Scholarship Contributions — Calvert: ____________________

HGS Foundation — Undergraduate: ____________________

TOTAL REMITTANCE: ______________________________

Send check and form to: HGS Office, HGS Membership Renewal, 14811 St. Mary’s Lane, Suite 250, Houston, Texas 77079or fax this form with credit card number to 281-679-5504

PAYMENT

Check # __________________________________________________________________________________________________

Credit Card number and type: __________________________________________________________________________________________________

Expiration Date (required): ____________________________CVV code (req’d):______________________________________

Name on Credit Card: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Daytime Phone number of Card Holder: __________________________________________________________________________________________

Billing Address for Card: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________

City, State and Zip: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

It’s Time to Renew Your HGS MembershipYour membership expired June 30, 2011

Annual dues are only $24.00Emeritus members pay $12.00, Full-time students free

Check your email for a reminder notice and renew online at www.hgs.org


From thePresidentSteve Earle

[email protected]

For 88 years, the Houston Geological Society has served its

membership and the community. We now embark on another

year and it’s truly an honor to get the chance to serve as your

President. I’ve been asked numerous times if I’m ready. I’m not

sure if one is ever really “ready,” but fortunately I’ll have a lot of

help. My goal will be to have an exciting year for the members and

a dull year for the Board.

A society with as rich and diverse a program as the HGS requires

a great deal of volunteer effort. I hope that you will take good

advantage of the many events and other opportunities available

to you. Our technical program consists of three annual conferences

— the Mudstone Conference, Techno-Conference, and the Africa

Conference; up to six technical talks a month — the General lunch

and dinner meetings, International and North American Interest

Group dinner meetings, Northsiders’ lunch meetings, and

Engineering and Environmental Geologists’ dinners at the Black

Lab Pub; and several continuing education courses and field trips.

We also offer our members many social

activities scattered throughout the year from

Guest Night to the Christmas “Ho-Ho-Ho-

Down,” from the Golf and Tennis

Tournaments to the Skeet Shoot, plus the

always popular Shrimp Peel. There is also

the NeoGeo’s group for our younger

geologists.

In addition to these member activities, your society is actively

working with the education community to encourage science as

an outstanding career choice. At the end of last season, we asked

for people to join Director Jennifer Burton as we refocus our

efforts with K-12 students. We were most fortunate to have over

50 people step up to this challenge and we would most certainly

welcome many more. Please contact Jennifer if you would like to

make a difference in the future of our students and our country.

I’m the first to recognize that my tenure here will only be as

successful as the many HGS volunteers make it. If you are one of

these special people, I can’t begin to thank you enough. I

encourage each and every one of you to find an area that you have

some passion for and get involved.

We do have some initiatives moving forward that I would like to

tell you about. The first is a redesign of the HGS website which is

being spearheaded by Linda Sternbach. By the time you read this,

we will have selected a design team and hopefully be well into the

process. Our hope is to roll it out to the membership early next

year and that you will find it a more user-friendly experience. As

too many of you know (even one would be too many), we had

some issues with the membership renewal process this year. If you

were affected, we offer our apology; we trust this will fix any issues

going forward. There were a number of other enhancements we

have always wanted, but just never got from our previous provider.

We will provide more information later as we get further into

this process.

The other news I want to tell you about involves the office and our

relationship with the Geophysical Society of Houston. As reported

at the end of last year, we went through a process to look at where

we were as an organization and where we want to be. Part of this

process involves the new mission and vision

statements already unveiled. One of the

issues we identified was that we would be

better served by having our own dedicated

staff. For this and other reasons, we decided

it was time to sever our long-standing

relationship with the GSH. A significant

percentage of the Board who voted on this

were members of both societies, and while

this was painful for many of us personally, it was a necessary step

for the HGS to move forward as the organization that we want it

to be for you, our members. Seeing as we could hardly split the

offices immediately, we have allowed for an appropriate period of

time to minimize the impact on either organization. So it may be

several months before we are ready to actually go our own ways.

In the meantime, I don’t anticipate you will see any impact to the

fine service we have come to expect from our outstanding staff.

I’d like to leave you with this last thought. We are united by our

passion for geology and the earth sciences. Get out there and

become engaged. The HGS is ready to help. Come rock with us. I

believe you will find it as rewarding as I have. �

From the President

Come Rock with Us

I encourage each and every

one of you to find an area

that you have some passion

for and get involved.


Registration and Information:

UPCOMINGEDUCATION SCHEDULE

Sedimentology and Sequence Stratigraphic Response of Paralic Deposits to Changes in Accommodation Sept 22 - 29

Grand Junction, Colorado

Fundamentals of Wrench Tectonics Sept 26 – Oct 1, 2011

Istanbul, Turkey

Complex Carbonates Reservoirs: Sedimentation and Tectonic Processes Oct 9 – 15, 2011

Begins in Naples, Ends in Rome, Italy

Fracture and Geomechanical Characterization of Hydrocarbon Reservoirs Oct 22 – 23, 2011

Milan Italy, with AAPG International conference and Exhibition

The Application of Geomechanics in International Shale Plays Oct 22 – 23, 2011

Milan, Italy, with AAPG International Conference and Exhibition

Fall Education Conference - Unconventional Resources: Focus on Shales Sept 12 – 16, 2011

Houston, Texas

Field Seminars

Short Courses

Last Chance

ColoradoGrand Junction,

Sedimentology and Sequence Str

Colorado

aphic Response of ParratigSedimentology and Sequence Str

Accommodationalic Deposits to Changes in aphic Response of Par

Sept 22 - 29Accommodation

Colorado

Ends in Rome,

urkey

Begins in Naples,

x Carbonates ReserComple

T TurkeyIstanbul,

of WrFundamentals

Grand Junction,

Colorado

Italy

ectonics

Ends in Rome,

ecto TTectonic Processes Sedimentation and voirs:x Carbonates Reser

h T Tectonicsencof Wr

ectonic Processes

2011

2011

Oct 9 – 15,

Sept 26 – Oct 1,

, with AAPG International conference and Exhibition

Fall Education Conference - Unconventional Resour

, with AAPG International Conference and ExhibitionMilan, Italy

The Application of Geomechanics in International Shale Plays

Milan Italy

Fracture and Geomechanical Characterization of Hydrocarbon Reser


ces: Focus on Shales

, with AAPG International Conference and Exhibition

Fall Education Conference - Unconventional Resour


Fracture and Geomechanical Characterization of Hydrocarbon Reser


ces: Focus on Shales

, with AAPG International Conference and Exhibition


voirs Fracture and Geomechanical Characterization of Hydrocarbon Reser

Oct 22 – 23, 2011

Sept 12 – 16, 2011

Oct 22 – 23, 2011

exasHouston, T

Sept 12 – 16, 2011

Iam privileged to serve HGS membership as your incomingEditor. I welcome this opportunity to participate with this year’s

leadership team in bringing to reality

HGS programs for 2011-2012 and in

planning programs that will be

implemented during the upcoming

years.

The overarching theme by which

this Board of Directors has opted to

operate is “HGS’ Strategic Plan:

Charting a Path for Growth”. All

members of the HGS are certainly

invited and encouraged to journey

together in this quest of our future

state. There are, and in the coming

months , there w i l l be many

opportunities to volunteer to work

on committees that will build-out

the specific goals, objectives, and programs aligned with the stated

vision and mission of the society. Consult the HGS Bulletin and

website to keep appraised of the processes and progress as we chart

the path forward.

It is by the virtues of its monthly technical program that HGS has

undoubtedly earned and maintained reputation as a premier

society for those with interest in the associated Earth science

disciplines. Credit for our outstanding technical program is owed

to many. However, I’d like to credit specifically those authors whom

have found the HGS Bulletin the preferred outlet for their

publications, and those presenters whom have found HGS Dinner

and Luncheon meetings the preferred forum for their

presentations. It is, after all, those authors and presenters that have

provided the sustenance of our monthly meetings and the relevant

content for our Bulletin. The continued success this program

requires the ongoing monthly contributions of authors and

presenters. I ask that each of our

member s con s ide r o f f e r i ng

for publication an abstract to

accompany a luncheon or dinner

talk, or a technical article on any

subject of interest to our readership,

or a letter to the Editor to voice an

opinion.

HGS has an expert organization of

committees that work to fuel our

monthly Dinner and Luncheon

meetings. Please contact the any of

the present committee members if

you would like to volunteer a

pre s en t a t i on : Dav id Meaux

(Ar rangements and Genera l

Meetings), Justin Vandenbrink (International Explorationists),

Steve Getz (North American Interest Group), Matthew Cowan

(Environmental and Engineering Geologists), and Simon Hughes

and David Tonner (Northsiders).

Finally, I must take this opportunity to recognize the volunteer

members of the Editorial Board for continuing their dedication,

hard work and support as we set out to produce this — the 54th

volume — of the Bulletin: thank you James Ragsdale, Charles

Revilla, and Fang Lin. Congratulations to Patricia Santogrossi

who assumes responsibility of Editor-elect. And there is one other

individual deserving special recognition: that is outgoing Editor

Barry Katz. Thank you Barry for providing me with much

appreciated and purposeful mentoring during my term as your

Editor-elect. �

From theEditor

From the Editor

Ron [email protected]

As We Set Out to Produce this –The 54th Volume – of the Bulletin


The HGS Strategic Plan: Charting a Path for Growth

Our Vision:To be the essential organization serving

earth science professionals in the Houston community

Our Mission:To provide earth science enrichment through technical education, networking opportunities,

and community service

Our Slogan:A local geosciences society with global reach


This year’s Saltwater Fishing Tournament will include an Offshore Division to be held on Friday, October 7 at the Fish Spot Marina,

Texas City, Texas. We are looking forward to a big event this Fall and we encourage full family participation.

Galveston Bay Complex DivisionTrophies will be awarded for the heaviest individual Redfish (Non-Tagged), Speckled Trout and Flounder. Trophies will also be

awarded for the heaviest individual Stringer-1 Redfish, 3 Speckled Trout, and 1 Flounder.

Galveston Offshore DivisionTrophies will be awarded for the heaviest individual Red Snapper, King Mackerel, and Mahi-mahi.

Registration fee includes: Launch Fee, GSH/HGS Fishing Cap, Fish Fry Meal after weigh-in, Refreshments, Trophies, and DOOR PRIZES.

The Geophysical Society of Houston and the Houston Geological Society are non-profit organizations serving the Geosciences

Community. Corporate and individual contributions are appreciated and will be acknowledged on several sponsor boards and

banners at the Weigh-In Station and Marina. All contributors will be recognized in the GSH Journal and HGS Bulletin following the

tournament. This is a great way to entertain friends, family, business associates, and clients. So spread the word!

GSH/HGS SALTWATER TOURNAMENT

NAME: ____________________________________________COMPANY: ____________________________________________

ADDRESS: ________________________________________________________________________________________________

PHONES: (H) ________________________ (B) __________________________________ (C) __________________________

E-MAIL ADDRESS: ________________________________________________________________________________________

Upon receipt of the registration form, each participant will be provided with a copy of the specific tournament itinerary and

rules sheet by e-mail. Please register EARLY.

Please return this form with your check for $60.00 per contestant payable to:

GSH SALTWATER TOURNAMENT and Mail to:

Geophysical Society of Houston, 14811 Saint Mary’s Lane, Suite 250 • Houston, Texas 77079

Registration Fee: $ ______________ + Sponsor Contribution: $ ________________ = TOTAL $ __________________________

DISCLAIMER:

I acknowledge that the Geophysical Society of Houston / Houston Geological Society will not be held responsible for injury or

accidents during this event. PRACTICE SAFETY!!!!!

Signature: ________________________________________________________ Date ____________________________________

For more information, please contact:Bobby Perez (HGS & GSH) • 281-240-1234 ext. 3103 Office • 281-240-4997 Fax • 281-787-2106 Cell • 281-495-8695 Home

E-mail addresses: [email protected] or [email protected]

11th ANNUAL GSH/HGS SALTWATER FISHING TOURNAMENT

Friday, October 7, 2011 • 8:30 AM to 5:30 PMThe FISH SPOT Marina • 4009 20th Street North • Texas City, Texas

Galveston Bay Complex and Offshore


Vendor Corner Recognition and Thanks

The Houston Geological Society would like to recognize and thank its many vendors who demonstrated their financial support

of the HGS by providing “Vendor Corners” for our 2010-2011 evening technical meetings. These are the folks who present

poster session displays of their company’s products, studies or services. They provided a great focal point for the attendees, during

the gathering and social period, prior to the meetings. The Vendor Corner fees that they pay are donated 100% to the HGS

Scholarship Fund (undergraduate geosciences students) and the HGS Student Membership Initiative.

The HGS would like to thank the following:*AOA Geophysics

*Dicksen International Geosciences (DIGS)*Fugro Grav. & Mag. Fugro Multi-Client

*Geochemical Solutions International (GSI)*Geomage Limited*ION GX TechnologyMicro-Strat Inc.

*Petrophysicqal SolutionsRock Solid ImagesSeiswave Inc.

Sequence Stratigraphic AssociatesSpatial Energy

Tsunami Development*Hosted more than one vendor corner

If you would like information regarding your company’s participation in a Vendor Corner during the upcoming

2011-2012 HGS dinner meetings, please contact Paul Babcock at [email protected] or 832 242 9650.

D I S C O V E R I E S D R I V E V A L U E TM

www.petrophysicalsolutions.com

Since 1983

MICRO-STRAT INC.

:Sequence aphic AssociatesSeq ec:Sequen phia Associacc Associaphi est Associa

Vendor Corner Recognition and Thanks


HGS Golf TournamentMonday – October 17, 2011Kingwood Country Club

Dust Off The Clubs, Polish The Shoes, And Pad The Handicaps, It’s Time For Golf!

Come out and join us for golf, food, friends and fun at the annual HGS Golf Tournament at Kingwood CountryClub. This year’s format will be a four man scramble, with three flights determined by handicap. First, second, andthird place awards (blind draw for 3rd place) will be awarded for each flight. There will be prizes awarded for clos-est to the pin (2 holes per course) and long drive (2 holes per course) as well as many great door prizes and raffleprizes for participants.

The entry fee is $125.00 per person or $500.00 per team on entries received by October 7th and $150.00 per personor $600.00 per team on entries received after October 7th. Individual entries will be grouped with other individualgolfers to make a foursome. Entries are limited and will be accepted on a first-in basis.

Companies or individuals interested in sponsoring the event should contact Mark Dennis at281-494-2522 (office), 281-705-4346 (cell) or by email at [email protected].

To enter, please fill out the entry form and email ([email protected]), fax or mail with your entry fee (payable toHGS Entertainment Fund) to:HGS Office14811 St Mary’s Lane, Suite 250 • Houston, TX 77079713-463-9476 (office), 281-679-5504 (fax)

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS8:00 – 9:45 a.m. Registration and free use of driving range

(Breakfast will be provided by Petro Log International, Inc.)

10:00 a.m. Shotgun start3:00 p.m. Cash bar, open buffet3:30 p.m. Door prizes and awards presentation

Team Captain ________________________ Phone ______________________Amount Enclosed ______________

Company ____________________________________ Email __________________________________________

Billing Address ______________________________________________________________________________

Credit card # ______________________________________________________________________________________

Exp. Date __________ Code# _________

Please Provide Email Addresses For All Team Members. All Communications Will Be Done Via Email.

Foursome Members Company Name Phone Number/Email Hdcp/Avg. Score(Please Print)

1. ________________________ ________________________ ____________________ ______________

2. ________________________ ________________________ ____________________ ______________

3. ________________________ ________________________ ____________________ ______________

4. ________________________ ________________________ ____________________ ______________


HGS Golf TournamentMonday – October 17, 2011Kingwood Country Club

Sponsorship Application

Trevino Sponsorship $ 500.00• Hole signs on all three courses.

• Company name displayed on sponsor recognition board at registration and awards banquet.

Hogan Sponsorship $ 750.00• Hole signs on all three courses.

• Company logo displayed on sponsor recognition board at registration and awards banquet.

Nicklaus Sponsorship $ 1,000.00• Hole signs on all three courses.

• Company logo prominently displayed on sponsorrecognition board at registration and awards banquet.

• Company logo displayed on driving range and practiceputting green.

Title Sponsorship $ 2,000.00• Hole signs on all three courses.

• Company logo prominently displayed on sponsorrecognition board at registration and awards banquet.

• Company logo displayed on driving range and practice putting green.

• Company logo displayed on beverage carts.

• Sponsorship includes tournament entry for one team (4 people).

To sponsor, please indicate your sponsorship level __________________________ and mail, fax or email sponsor application form along with payment (payable to HGS Entertainment Fund) to:Houston Geological Society Office14811 St Mary’s Lane, Suite 250 • Houston, TX 77079281-679-5504 (fax), 713-463-9476 (office), email: [email protected]

Name ______________________________ Phone ______________________Amount Enclosed ______________

Company ____________________________________ Email __________________________________________

Billing Address ______________________________________________________________________________

Credit card # ______________________________________________________________________________________

Exp. Date __________ Security Code# _________

Please email your company logo to Mark Dennis at [email protected]. Note: Company logos (high resolution file ) must be received no later than October 7th.If there are any questions, I can be reached at 281-705-4346 (cell) or 281-494-2522 (office).


2010–2011 President ’s Night

Celia Baum, Secretary Award

2010–2011 President’s Night

“Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!” was yelled out by then HGS

President John B. Tubb, Jr. at this year’s President’s Night

— and John sure did “Let the Good Times Roll!” The annual

President’s Night dinner is hosted by the Board President; it is a

time to celebrate and honor those volunteers, committee chairs,

and companies that had dedicated their time, talent and fortune

toward ensuring a successful year for the society. And this year,

there was much to celebrate!

There is something that very

few of you know… and that is

that John Tubb has been

planning this President’s Night

dinner since he was Treasurer-

elect four years ago. He and his

planning committee worked

very hard to make sure this

evening was going to be an

unforge t tab le one . John

ventured out with Awards

Chairman, Mike Deming, in

search of the perfect rocks and

minerals to serve as awards, because, according to John, “We are

not Plaqueologists, we are Geologists!” The awardees should be

very proud and pleased to know that much effort was taken to

match the perfect rock or mineral with each of them.

Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse looked beautiful that evening, with

the new HGS exhibits panel at the very front of the room and with

rocks and minerals perfectly displayed on the granite counter for

everyone to enjoy. The guests enjoyed the cocktail hour and

reunited with old friends. I had the pleasure of walking around

with John’s leather-bound volume of the 2010-2011 HGS Bulletins

making sure each board member, committee chairperson, and

friend signed it; this is a keepsake John wanted to make sure to

have. Our entrance foyer displayed three tables: at one table Nancy

Tubb, John’s daughter, received and welcomed guests; John Tubb,

III and his wife Robyn at a

second table , laminated

business cards into luggage

tags for our guests; and a

photo montage of this year’s

past events was displayed at

the third table. Did anyone

notice John’s ‘special’ picture?

Congratulations to all of our

HGS award recipients and

corporate star awardees for

their dedicated efforts on

behalf the HGS. And a big

“Thank You” goes out to John B. Tubb, Jr. for his service and idea

generation during his time as President. John really earned the

parting gifts given to him by his Board of Directors: a bottle of

12-year-old scotch and “The Judge” revolver! Luckily for us, John

won’t be going very far; he’s staying on as committee chairman of

the popular Legends Night event. Here’s to another great year! �

by Sandra Babcock and Ashley Harris

Steve Earle is passed the President’s hammer

Amy Sullivan, Vice President Award

Barry Katz, Editor Award Tarek Ghazi, Director Award

Debra Sacrey, Gerald A. Cooley Award Linda Sternbach, Honorary Life Membership

René Mott, Distinguished Service Award

Mike Deming, Distinguished Service Award


John Tubb, Jr’s gift of a mineral specimen

Robert Pledger, Director AwardJohn Tubb, Jr. and Sandra Babcock

John Tubb, Jr. and The Judge

Martha McRae, Distinguished Service AwardSteve Getz, Distinguished Service Award

2010–2011 President’s NightHouston Geological Society Awards


on HGS Guest Night…by Allan J. Filipov

Guest Night Reflections: The Arlington Archosaur Discovery and the Man Who Brought It to Us

by Rebecca Harkins

HGS Guest Night

Ijust experienced one of the most delightful evenings of my life. Iattended the Houston Geological Society’s annual “Guest Night”

at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. The evening began with

set tables, buffet dinner stations and beverage stands, all strategically

placed on the first and second floors among the exhibits in the main

halls. Socialization with colleagues was enjoyed by all. I learned that

there are portable, inflatable planetariums that are taken to schools

to teach astronomy to all school children.

Everyone was free to roam the exhibits; however my personal

highlight was desert. To get to the calories, one had to wander

thought the gem and mineral hall while beautiful music played. It

is far different than the jostling crowds on any given day at the

museum. To view the most beautiful minerals in peace and solitude

was a joy. Then you round the corner and there, in front of the gem

vault, were the bonanza of sweets and coffee. I also learned about

the mineral cuprosklodowskite, which I could never take time to

study when rambling through the museum with kids.

The main event was the speaker for the evening, Derek Main, a

lecturer in geology at University of Texas at Arlington. The subject

was the recent finds of new species of dinosaurs and crocodiles

within four miles of Arlington, within eyesight of Six Flags Over

Texas, the Rangers Ballpark and Cowboys Stadium. Paleontologists

are continuing to unearth a treasure trove of bones from sedimentary

rocks laid down in a former coastal deltaic environment that is

95,000,000 years old! Evidence of a new species of a giant (50’)

dinosaur-eating crocodile has been found along with the predecessor

to duck-billed dinosaurs. Allosaurus and other therapod fossils were

found. Most unique was evidence of a nursery where the big mama

was found with at least five of her young in a nest. Also found there

were turtle shells and dinosaur bones with tooth marks on them that

match the crocodile tooth patterns exactly, suggesting mama was

bringing home food for the five-foot long babies.

Interestingly, there are burned tree roots and charcoal throughout

the sedimentary section suggesting lightning-induced forest fires.

The site is still active, and the very learned and dynamic speaker is

seeking the support of donations and volunteers.

After a brief break, we then enjoyed the new 3D IMAX film “Born

to Be Wild”. The film chronicled efforts in Kenya to rescue

orphaned elephants, and in Borneo to rescue infant orangutans,

each with the intent to eventually return

the young animals to the wild. It was very

informative, and I’m sure there weren’t

many dry eyes in the house. But who

knows with those giant funky 3D glasses!

I thank Dave Reynolds and the other HGS

members for putting together such a

wonderful evening. �

Dinosaur bones aren’t exactly my “thing”, but after listening to

Derek Main’s passionate exposé on what he’s doing in Arlington

and why [see May 2011 Bulletin for more], I’m ready to grab a pick-

axe and join him. It’s not the bones, the intellectual challenge, or even

the geology that motivates me – it’s the man’s raw enthusiasm.

When I first volunteered for the 2011 HGS Annual Guest Night, I

focused on my responsibilities and didn’t pay much attention to

what the speaker or subject would be. After all, I had a job to do

and I was going to give it my best effort. The speaker would stand

or fall on his own efforts.

After helping Dave Reynolds with the student Science and

Engineering Fair awards, I sat down to give as much of my attention

as the subject warranted. Dinosaur bones are interesting, but not

exactly on my Top Ten list… I mean, dinosaurs are for kids, right?

Most of my professors were reserved and at least dressed “business

casual.” Some even sported a dress shirt or suit jacket when the

occasion called for it. Not so this PhD-in-progress. I’ve been

around long enough to stifle the “dress for success” concept, but I

was surprised to see that while we all dressed semi-formally for the

lecture, he didn’t. Still, I gave him the respect due any professional

giving his presentation.

I am glad I did. Derek Main’s infectious passion and raw

enthusiasm hit me head on. Not only was he excited about the

discoveries and eloquent enough to

intelligently discuss the significance, but

he was also humble enough to allow

others to get some of the limelight as well.

Now that is a rare discovery. If you’re

looking for a rewarding vacation, spend

some time helping at the Archosaur Site.

You’ll be glad you did. (http://www.

arlingtonarchosaursite.com/index.html).

Hope to see you there! �

HGS Guest Night continued on page 21


HGS Guest Night continued from page 19 _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

HGS Guest Night

Science Fair Winners: Jonathan Paulino – HGS Junior Division – ProjectTitle: “How does Water Flow in Earth’s Terrain?”; Arika Anderson – HGS 9thGrade Division – Project Title: “Soil Sleuth”; Rachel Adenekan – HGS SeniorDivision – Project Title: “Effects of Rising CO

2Levels on Phytoplankton”;

John Tubb, Jr.

Jonathan Hanson – HGS Intern at the HMNS – Project Title: “DoSunspots Cause Natural Disasters?”; Diego Arellanes – HGS Internat the HMNS – Project Title: “Turn it Down”; Rowanne Conway -HGS Intern at the HMNS - Project Title: "Fit for Purpose"


Leveraging Conventional and UnconventionalPlay Concepts in the Permian Basin -

The Value of Stratigraphy and Technology

2011 WTGS Fall SymposiumSeptember 28-30, 2011

Midland, Texas

WolfBerry! Avalon Shale! WolfBone! Leonard Shale!WolfFork! Atoka Wash! WolfBo! Or, just plain ole’ Ellenberger, San Andres, Wolfcamp, Morrow, Abo, Yates,Devonian! No matter what you call it, 300+ DrillingRigs in the Permian Basin are penetrating it!

The Permian Basin is HOT, and we would like to hearyour story during the 2011 WTGS Fall Symposium.

Please contact one of the following Technical Co-Chairs:

Lou Mazzullo 303.384.9668 [email protected]

Robert Nail 432.686.6771 [email protected]

www.wtgs.org


News from ASTM – Reflectance Measurement for Dispersed Vitrinite

by Paul C. Hackley, U.S. Geological Survey, Reston, VA

Anew American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

standard test method for measurement of the reflectance of

vitrinite dispersed in sedimentary rocks has been developed by an

international committee of technical experts

from government agencies, academia,

industry, and consultancies. This product

grew from the efforts of the International

Committee for Coal and Organic Petrology’s

(ICCP) Identification of Primary Vitrinite

Working Group, and is the result of an

international partnership between members

of ICCP, ASTM, the American Association of Petroleum Geologists

(AAPG), and The Society for Organic Petrology (TSOP). The new

consensus standard is available for purchase from ASTM link,

http://www.astm.org/Standards/D7708.htm and is included in the

2011 Annual Book of ASTM Standards, v. 05.06, Gaseous Fuels:

Coal and Coke, which can be obtained as a free yearly benefit to

ASTM members.

Development of the new test method (ASTM D7708-11) began in

2008 with a survey of common practices used in laboratories that

routinely measure the reflectance of dispersed vitrinite in shales.

The test method writing committee was identified from among the

survey respondents, and the existing ASTM coal vitrinite

reflectance standard (ASTM D2798) was used as an outline for the

new test method. Significant changes from the coal standard

include: 1) specialized terminology to include recycled vitrinite,

zooclasts, solid bitumens, and marine algae; 2) discussion of

potential for vitrinite suppression and retardation in certain

conditions; 3) inclusion of fluorescence observation and resulting

changes to equipment description and procedure; and 4) addition

of reporting requirements, including type and quality of sample

preparation and consideration of supporting data and information.

The new standard was successfully balloted through the

subcommittee and D05 main committee levels of the ASTM vetting

process with no negative votes received. However, users of the

standard and other interested parties can bring comments and

concerns to the attention of ASTM subcommittee D05.28,

Petrography of Coal and Coke, which is responsible for the

maintenance and revision of this and other ASTM petrography

standards. Interested HGS members who would like to contribute

to consensus standards development within subcommittee D05.28

are encouraged to contact Paul Hackley, U.S. Geological Survey

([email protected]), for additional information.

Anticipated users of the new D7708-11 standard include

government, academic, and service laboratories. The standard

will be used as the prescribed method for the dispersed vitrinite

reflectance accreditation program of the

I CCP, w h i c h c u r r e n t l y i n c l u d e s

approximately forty laboratories worldwide.

The test method is predicted to be most

relevant for shale gas plays where precise

information concerning thermal maturity is

considered key to successful basin analysis.

Anticipated future improvements to the

standard include the creation of quantified reproducibility and

repeatability values through inter-laboratory round-robin

exercises, and the development of a supplemental online image

atlas of dispersed organic matter in sedimentary rocks to aid in the

identification of indigenous vitrinite. �

Example of dispersed vitrinite in the Upper Cretaceous EagleFord Shale, Maverick Basin, south Texas.

General Inquiries:

Training Course Registration:

Consultants/Direct Hire Recruitment Services:

info scacompanies.com

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The test method is

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relevant for shale gas plays


Contact:

Scott Tinley

+1 832 351 8544

[email protected] cggveritas.com

NW LouisianaCGGVeritas multi-client data library offers an unprecedented subsurface view that enables E&P operators to make confident and informed decisions today while anticipating and planning the production optimization needs of the future.

Haynesville Shale


Afundamental problem in subsurface reservoir characterization

is determining the continuity of flow units and flow barriers

(i.e. sandstones, shales, and cements) in the

definition of reservoir-seal pairs. In any

given field, there will typically exist a

combination of field-wide elements,

elements that may extend between wells but

not across the entire field, and elements that

do not extend between wells.

The subsurface geologist must use facies

models and sequence stratigraphic concepts to correlate well data.

We show several examples of deltaic reservoirs that were originally

depicted as consisting of horizontal layers (i.e., “layer-cake”). Our

outcrop examples suggest that sandstones within the delta front

dip seaward. This fundamentally challenges reservoir models that

invoke flat versus dipping beds, and we demonstrate how this

can be applied to correlation of core and

well-log data sets. Our regional-scale

stratigraphic results also suggest very

different exploration models in the search

for basin-distal reservoir sandstones.

A key problem remains the correlation

of deltaic sandstones along depositional

strike, for which we have far less outcrop

data and do not yet understand the main controlling factors. The

choice of a stratigraphic datum is another significant challenge,

especially in well-log data sets (Bhattacharya, 2011). Flattening on

Practical Challenges in Correlation of Fluvio-Deltaic andShallow Marine Deposits

HGS General Dinner MeetingHGS General

Dinner Meeting Monday, September 12, 2011Westchase Hilton • 9999 WestheimerSocial Hour 5:30–6:30 p.m.Dinner 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Cost: $28 Preregistered members; $35 non-members & walk-ups

To guarantee a seat, you must pre-register on the HGS website and pre-paywith a credit card. Pre-registration without payment will not be accepted. You may still walk up and pay at the door, if extra seats are available.

Dr. Janok P. Bhattacharya Robert E. Sheriff Professor of Sequence Stratigraphy Geosciences Department University of Houston

1 km

20 m

1 km

20 m

A.

B.

Proximal Distal

HGS General Dinner continued on page 27

The subsurface geologist

must use facies models and

sequence stratigraphic

concepts to correlate


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a given log marker, such as a flooding surface, inevitably distorts

the actual stratigraphic relationships, which may result in serious

misinterpretation and incorrect correlation of sandstone bodies

(Fig. 1). Rule-based correlations can be used to create reasonable

looking correlations (Fig. 2), although over-correlation is another

common problem (Li et al., in press). Analog dimensional

data, from both modern and ancient systems, may be used

to constrain predicted sandstone body dimensions to help avoid

over-correlation. �

References:Bhattacharya, J.P., 2011, Practical problems in the application of

the sequence stratigraphic method and key surfaces: integrating

observations from ancient fluvial–deltaic wedges with Quaternary

and modelling studies. Sedimentology, v. 58, p. 120–169.

Li, W., Zhu, Y., and Bhattacharya, J.P., in press, Stratigraphic

uncertainty in sparse vs. rich data sets in a fluvial-deltaic outcrop

analogue: Ferron “Notom delta”, Henry Mountains region of Utah,

USA. AAPG Bulletin.

Tesson, M., Allen, G.P., and Ravènne, C.,1993, Late Pleistocene

shelf-perched lowstand wedges on the Rhone continental shelf.

In: Sequence Stratigraphy and Facies Associations (Eds. C.P.

Summerhayes and H.W. Posamentier) Int. Assoc. Sedimentol. Spec.

Publ. 18, p. 83-196.

Biographical SketchDR. JANOK P. BHATTACHARYA is the Robert E.

Sheriff Professor of Sequence Stratigraphy

at the University of Houston. His main

research interests are in fluvio-deltaic

sedimentology and sequence stratigraphy.

He received his B.Sc. in 1981 from Memorial

University of Newfoundland, Canada, and

worked at ESSO Resources Calgary, before

completing his Ph.D. in 1989 at McMaster

University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.

Following a post-doc at the Alberta Geological Survey, Dr.

Bhattacharya worked for the Texas Bureau of Economic Geology,

ARCO Exploration and Production

Research in Plano, Texas, and the

University of Texas at Dallas before

joining the University of Houston

in 2005. He is an AAPG Grover

Murray Distinguished Educator,

GCAGS Outstanding Educator, AAPG

Distinguished Lecturer, and AAPG

SW Section Distinguished Educator.

Dr. Bhattacharya was the 2008

GCSSEPM President, and has served

on various AAPG committees. He was

awarded the 2004 AAPG Certificate of

Merit, the 2004 Dallas Geological

Society Professional Service Award,

the 2004 CSPG Best Oral Presentation

award, the 2002 Frank Kottlowski

Memorial Presentation Award, the

2002 Houston Geological Society Best

Oral Paper Award, and the 2001 AAPG

“Al” Cox Award for best poster. He

is an associate editor for the Journal

of Sedimentary Research and AAPG

Bul l e t in . He has authored or

co-authored over 100 abstracts and 60

technical papers. He is an active

member of AAPG, SEPM, GSA, HGS,

and IAS.

HGS General Dinner Meeting

0 1 2Kilometers

20m

FloodplainChannel beltsDelta/shoreface

Marine shale

HGS General Dinner continued from page 25 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


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TASKGeosclenceTHE BOREHOLE IMAGE SPECIALISTS

H


Increasing global demand for energy has forced societies theworld over to look for and use ever more diverse and expensive

forms of energy to fuel their economies. Oil is a key part of this

energy supply, particularly in the arena of transportation fuels. The

corporations that supply energy have been pressed into increasingly

challenging environments to meet public and governmental

demands for inexpensive energy. Unfortunately, as we are reminded

by the Gulf of Mexico Deepwater Horizon incident, accidents can

happen, the environment can be damaged, and people can lose

their lives when we operate at the leading edges of technology.

When accidents occur, our responses typically tend to blame

individuals, corporations, or regulators, rather than the public

whose demand for cheap, readily available energy forces

exploration in new, more challenging frontiers. Public opinions on

this subject are shaped by a combination of self-education,

fulminating politicians, and aggressive, sensationalist journalists.

Exploring more than societal interests at a national level puts our

pursuit of inexpensive energy into context. This context pits the

competing interests of developing countries, which demand

ever-increasing shares of the world’s resources, against broader,

trans-national interest groups which are worried that continued

dependence on energy-dense fossil fuels may cause runaway global

warming and climate changes that may in turn destroy the earth’s

ecosystems.

Ultimate responsibilities for oil spills lie within this mix of

competing demands and expectations – a mix far more

complicated than most people are aware of or are willing to

consider. All of us who consume energy have an ethical obligation

to educate ourselves, and those around us, on the consequences of

our demands for energy and for the environment. �

Biographical SketchDR. W.C. RUSTY RIESE is a geoscientist based in Houston, Texas. He

is widely experienced, having worked in both minerals and

petroleum as a geologist, geochemist,

and manager during more than 39 years

in industry. He participated in the

National Petroleum Council evaluation

of natural gas supply and demand for

North America which was conducted at

the request of the Secretary of Energy; in

the more recent analysis of global supply

and demand requested by the same

agency; and in the National Research

Council analysis of coalbed produced waters and their

management in the western United States. He is currently a

member of the AAPG Committee on Resource Evaluations, and a

member of the House of Delegates.

Dr. Riese has written extensively and lectured on various topics

in economic geology including biogeochemistry, isotope

geochemistry, uranium ore deposits, sequence stratigraphy, and

coalbed methane petroleum systems; and he holds numerous

domestic and international patents. He has more than thirty years

of teaching experience including twenty-five years at Rice

University where he developed the curricula in petroleum geology

and industry risk and economic evaluation, as well as several other

courses. He is currently an Adjunct Professor at Rice University, the

Colorado State University, and the University of New Mexico,

where he sits on the Caswell Silver Endowment advisory board. He

is a fellow in the GSA and the Society of Economic Geologists and

a member of the AAPG and several other professional

organizations.

He earned his Ph.D. from the University of New Mexico in

1980; his M.S. in geology from the same university in 1977; and

his B.S. in geology from the New Mexico Institute of Mining

and Technology in 1973. He is a Certified Professional

Geologist, a Certified Petroleum Geologist, and is a Licensed

and Registered Geologist in the states of Texas and South

Carolina, respectively.

W.C. Rusty Riese, Ph.D., P.G.

HGS Environmental & EngineeringDinner Meeting

Wednesday, September 14, 2011Black Lab Pub, Churchill Room • 4100 Montrose Blvd.

Social 5:30 p.m., Dinner 6:30 p.m.


To guarantee a seat, you must pre-register on the HGS website and pre-pay witha credit card. Pre-registration without payment will not be accepted. You may still walk up and pay at the door, if extra seats are available.

HGS Environmental & Engineering Dinner Meeting

AAPG Distinguished Ethics Lecture, 2011-2013Oil Spills, Ethics, and Society: How They Intersect and

Where the Responsibilities Reside


Lacustrine microbialites are forming in many lakes today and

their record extends back at least 2,720 million years.

Stromatolites dominate with thrombolites constituting a minor

component in the fossil record, but are relatively more common in

extant lakes. In any given lake, microbialites are more likely to

develop when calcium input is high, the lake is

primarily balanced-filled to over-filled, clastic

sediment supply is low or lacking, nutrient

input is relatively low, turbidity is low, and

shallow-water conditions are relatively stable.

The Cenozoic record of lacustrine stromatolites

is the richest, followed by the Mesozoic and

Paleozoic, respectively. The pre-Phanerozoic, although spanning

more than seven times the duration of the Phanerozoic, has a

sparse record due to a number of factors. These factors include the

reduced likelihood of preserving such epicontinental deposits over

long spans of geological time, lakes are geologically short-lived, and

lakes are spatially restricted. The first of these factors helps to

explain the Cenozoic richness.

Lacustrine stromatolites often look different from their marine

counterparts and hence can be used to recognize ancient lacustrine

environments. Lacustrine stromatolites in many cases are

morphologically variable within a bioherm or biostrome (Figs.

1-3), exhibit macrolamination (Figs. 4&5). Lacustrine stromatolites

commonly show dark and light laminae that

are usually composed of calci-/dolo-micrite

and calci-/dolo-siltite, respectively (Fig. 4), have

moderate to sharp boundaries between

light and dark laminae (Fig. 4), have light

laminae composed of fibrous carbonate, have

intermediate colored/shaded laminae in

addition to alternating dark-light laminae

couplets (Fig. 4), have laminae and microstructure that are

exceedingly complex, with numerous voids (Fig. 5). Their laminae

often have a high degree of inheritance, exhibit bumpy, botryoidal

upper surface of the structure, and can be found to encrust solid

substrates such as clasts, logs, or twigs. Occasionally they preserve

calcimicrobes.

Major Characteristics and Aspects of Lacustrine Microbialites

Joint HGS International and North American Dinner MeetingJoint HGS International and North American

Dinner Meeting Monday, September 26, 2011Westchase Hilton • 9999 WestheimerSocial Hour 5:30–6:30 p.m.Dinner 6:30–7:30 p.m.


To guarantee a seat, you must pre-register on the HGS website and pre-paywith a credit card. Pre-registration without payment will not be accepted. You may still walk up and pay at the door, if extra seats are available.

Stanley M. AwramikDepartment of Earth Science, University of California,Santa Barbara, CA H. Paul BuchheimDepartment of Earth and Biological Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA

HGS International Dinner continued on page 33

Microbialites have

become the focus of a

great deal of attention in

the petroleum industry

Fig. 1. Multimeter-size microbialite bioherm composed of decimeter-sizedomical and columnar stromatolites, some of which have centimeter-sizecolumns and domes. Student at left-center for scale. Wilkins Peak Member, Green River Formation, Eocene, near La Barge, Wyoming, USA.

Fig. 2. Biostrome of variable thickness composed of laterally linked,mound-shaped stromatolites interbedded with shale. Bar scale = approx.0.5 m. Wilkins Peak Member, Green River Formation, Eocene, BitterCreek, southeast of Rock Springs, Wyoming, USA.


Domical, columnar-layered, and columnar shapes dominate the

lacustrine stromatolite record, with sizes ranging from

sub-millimeter to a few meters. Structures are often complex with

transitions at the microscopic scale (Fig. 5) and macroscopic scale

(Fig. 6). Large reefs (bioherms) are rare, while biostromes are more

common. Lacustrine oncoids are often larger than their marine

counterparts and show similar lamina patterns as lacustrine

stromatolites.

Although lacustrine stromatolites look different from marine

stromatolites, no single characteristic or feature mentioned above

can be used to recognize a lacustrine stromatolite. There is no

smoking gun. However, the combination of two or more of these

features increases the confidence that the stromatolite in question

is lacustrine. This can be a key to recognizing a lacustrine versus

marine depositional setting when other, more conventional

indicators are lacking, such as in core material.

The rich and diverse record of lacustrine microbialites provides a

valuable archive of the interactions of microbes and sediment

within the dynamics of lake basins. Microbialites have become the

focus of a great deal of attention in the petroleum industry due to

their recent discovery in the pre-salt lacustrine deposits of the

Santos Basin, off shore Brazil, and may assist in current exploration

for similar reservoirs in Angola. Understanding the factors and

dynamics of these complex microbially produced carbonates is

increasingly important.�

Joint HGS International and North American Dinner continued from page 31 _______________________________________________

Joint HGS International and North American Dinner Meeting

Fig. 4. A variety of lamina features in a Green River Formation stromatolite. Macrolaminae (M) are the dark and light banding, whichare composed of thinner laminae; light laminae are calcisiltite and darklaminae are calcimicrite; laminae have intermediate colors and not asimple binary dark-light arrangement; and laminae have a high degreeof inheritance (each successive laminae mimics the topography of theprevious laminae). Bar scale = approximately 1 cm. Angelo Member,Green River Formation, Eocene, east of Evanston, Wyoming, USA.

Fig. 3. Large meter-scale microbialite biostrome composed of “tufa-like”columnar pillars that are highly porous, but poorly laminated. This unitextends for kilometers. It overlies a flat-pebble grainstone that forms theinitiation flooding surface that provided the substrate for microbialitegrowth. Hammer for scale. Laney Member, Green River Formation,Eocene, Delaney Rim, southeast of Rock Springs, Wyoming, USA.

Fig. 5. Complex laminae and microstructure with voids. Inheritance ishigh for several successive laminae, changes abruptly leading to a newset, which often forms macrolaminae. Scale to right in millimeters. Ricardo Group, Miocene, El Paso Mountains, California, USA.

Fig. 6. Stromatolites that show a vertical growth transition from coalescing domes/columns at the base to the development of smallcolumns at the top, associated with ripple, cross-laminated grainstone.Portion of centimeter scale to lower left. Meentheena Member, TumbianaFormation, Late Archean, Pilbara Craton, Western Australia.


Biographical SketchesSTANLEYM. AWRAMIK –My research over

the last 35 years has primarily involved

microbialites. My interests and experience

covers microbialites of all ages (Archean

to Recent) and from all environments

(lakes, springs, and oceans) and combines

an understanding of the microbiology

of recent s t romato l i te s and the

paleomicrobiology of ancient stromatolites.

Much of this research has looked into the early history of life on

Earth.

A major theme of my current research is lacustrine microbialites,

in particular those from the Late Archean Meentheena Member

(Tumbiana Formation) in Western Australia and ones from the

Eocene Green River Formation in Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming.

The Meentheena Member and the Green River Formation

represent giant, lake systems rich in carbonates and microbialites.

Currently Paul Buchheim and I are working on determining the

factors that control initiation and development of the microbialites,

their expansion into biostromes and bioherms, and their

sedimentological context, stratigraphic distribution, and facies

relationships.

A native of the Boston area, I grew up outside of Niagara Falls, New

York. I returned to the Boston area and received my B.A. in Geology

from Boston University and Ph.D. in Geology from Harvard. I did

a one-year post-doc in Biology at Harvard. I then accepted a faculty

position at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where I am

currently a Professor in the Department of Earth Science.

PAUL BUCHHEIM has been a professor of geology at Loma Linda

University since 1979, where he conducts an active research

program on ancient lake deposits and teaches sedimentology,

stratigraphy, paleoenvironments, limnogeology, and various topics

on microbialites. He has over 35 years of research experience with

lacustr ine deposi t ional systems,

including a focused interest on lacustrine

stromatolites and microbialites. He

has conducted detailed studies of

microbialite-associated lacustrine deposits

in terms of their stratigraphic and

sedimentologic facies relationships,

geochemistry, stratigraphic architecture,

regional paleogeography, and sequence

stratigraphic relationships. This work has

included studies on lacustrine systems in the Eocene Green River

Formation of Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming; the Archean

Tumbiana Formation of Western Australia, the Pliocene Furnace

Creek Formation of Death Valley, California, and other systems.

His work in Wyoming has provided an opportunity for him to map

nearly 600 square miles of the southwestern corner of the state, that

will culminate in the publication of 12- 7.5 minute geologic

quadrangles over the next couple of years. In addition to his work

on lacustrine microbialites, he has conducted extensive studies on

the origin and paleoenvironments of lacustrine oil shale. This

coincides well with his current research on microbialites as oil shale

and stromatolites are frequently interbedded and form an integral

part of repetitive parasequences.

He has teamed up with Stanley Awramik of the University of

California, Santa Barbara to conduct in-depth studies of

microbialites in lacustrine systems. They have been conducting

studies as a collaborative effort for over 15 years and have a

combined experience with studies of over 80 lacustrine

microbialite-containing formations and recent microbialite

environments throughout the world.

He received his B.A. and M.A. in biology from Pacific Union

College in California, his Ph.D. in geology from the University of

Wyoming, and a post doctoral fellowship at The Johns Hopkins

University in Baltimore.

Joint HGS International and North American Dinner continued from page 33 _______________________________________________

Joint HGS International and North American Dinner Meeting

Specialists in 80 countries, 15 different Microfossil Groups, Cambrian -RecentIntegrated Biostratigraphic and Seismic Sequence Stratigraphy

Onshore / Offshore / Subsalt

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Gulf of Mexico

Shale Gas

Rocky Mountain Basins

Nevada - California

Gulf of Mexico

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Rocky Mountain Basins

Nevada - California

Specialists for 26 Years

DDoommeessttiicc && IInntteerrnnaattiioonnaall SSeerrvviicceess

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MICRO-STRAT INC.5755 Bonhomme, Suite 406, Houston, TX 77036

Phone: 713-977-2120, E-Mail: [email protected]: www.Micro-Strat.com

Since 1983

MICRO-STRAT INC.


10th PESGB/HGS Conference on Africa E&P

London

HGS Board Meeting6 p.m.

Members Pre-registered Prices:General Dinner Meeting.................. $28Nonmembers & walk-ups ................ $35Env. & Eng. ...................................... $25Luncheon Meeting .......................... $30Nonmembers & walk-ups ................ $35International Explorationists .......... $28North American Explorationists ...... $28

S u n d a y M o n d a y T u e s d a y

September 2011W e d n e s d a y

4

11

7

12

20

272625

14

5

19 21

28

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6

Reservations:The HGS prefers that you make your reservations on-line through the HGS website atwww.hgs.org. If you have no Internet access, you can e-mail [email protected], or callthe office at 713-463-9476. Reservations for HGS meetings must be made or cancelled bythe date shown on the HGS Website calendar, normally that is 24 hours before hand oron the last business day before the event. If you make your reservation on the Website orby email, an email confirmation will be sent to you. If you do not receive a confirmation,check with the [email protected]. Once the meals are ordered and name tags and lists areprepared, no more reservations can be added even if they are sent. No shows will be billed.

HGS General Dinner Meeting

“Practical Challenges in Correlation of Fluvio-Deltaic and Shallow Marine Deposits”, Dr. Janok P. Bhattacharya,

Westchase Hilton Page 25

Joint HGS International and NorthAmerican Dinner Meeting“Major Characteristics and Aspects of Lacustrine Microbialites”, Stanley M.Awramik, and H. Paul Buchheim,

Westchase Hilton Page 31

HGS Envionmental & Engineeering Dinner Meeting

“Oil Spills, Ethics, and Society: How TheyIntersect and Where the ResponsibilitiesReside”, W.C. Rusty Riese, Ph.D., P.G.,

Black Lab Pub Page 29

Eastern Section AAPG Annual MeetingWashington, D.C.

HGS GeneralLuncheon Meeting

“Macondo: A National Media Gusher in the Face of a Major Environmental Disaster” Don Van Nieuwenhuise,

Petroleum Club, Page 39

2011 WTGS Fall SymposiumMidland, TX

SEG 2011San Antonio, TX


T h u r s d a y

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16

GEOEVENTS

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S a t u r d a yF r i d a y

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Collarini Energy Staffing Inc.Full–Time and Temporary Exploration and Production Personnel

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11111 Richmond Avenue, Suite 126 www. collarini.com 4200 South I-10 Service Road, Suite 230 Houston, Texas 77082 Metairie, Louisiana 70001 Phone (832) 251-0553 Phone (504) 887-7127 Fax (832) 251-0157 Connecting the Industry ’s Exper ts Fax (504) 887-7162

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of Peru” George Devries Klein, Petroleum Club

Page 45

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Upcoming GeoEvents

October 9-12, 2011Geological Society of America Annual Meeting Minneapolis, MN

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October 23-26, 2011AAPG International Conference & Exhibition Milan, Italy

November 22-24, 2011GSL – Conference on CO

2SequestrationLondon, England

December 4-7, 2011GCSSEPM Foundation Bob F.Perkins Research ConferenceAttributes: New Views on Seismic Imaging—Their Use in Explorationand Production Note New Venue: Houston HiltonNorth, 12400 Greenspoint DriveHouston, Texas

April 22-25, 2012AAPG Annual Convention & Exhibition Long Beach, California

November 4 -7, 2012Geological Society of AmericaCharlotte, North Carolina

April 6-9, 2014AAPG Annual Convention & Exhibition Houston, Texas


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MICRO-STRAT INC., 5755 Bonhomme, Suite 406, Houston, TX 77036, Tel: 713-977-2120, Fax: 713-977-7684,e-mail:[email protected], Web-Site: www.Micro-Strat.com

Please Contact us at:

PROJECT DELIVERABLES1. Single well plots for each well with mapable Genetic

Sequences correlated with marker species, paleowaterdepth, well log and FAIRFIELD INDUSTRIES INC.,Extracted 3-D PSTM seismic panels (one mile in length).

2. Biostratigraphic and Sequence Stratigraphic table/well, withmarker species, paleowater depth, and age dated MFS(Seals).

3. Cross Sections (Dip and Strike) age dated MFS and well logs.4. Deliverables in two types of formats:

a. Hard copy binder (11”x 17”) printed on premium paperand includes written report, single plots, etc.

b. Report and raw data is delivered in digital format.

E-mail us for more details and a presentation

PROJECT BENEFITS�

�

�

�

�

�

Show the relationship between Genetic Sequences (intime), seals, potential reservoir sands, paleowater depth,especially in the Miocene section.7 to 12 Genetic Sequences associated with producing andpotential deep gas targets.Identify MFS (seals) on well-logs and 3-D seismic toprovide local and regional timelines.Use point of intersection of MFS and log to construct,isopach, sand %, structural and biofacies maps.Identify the type of reservoir sands in each Sequence, playconcepts and facies’ relationships within each Sequence.Correlate MFS with continuous reflectors on seismicpanels in a 360 degree arc from each project well with thecorresponding regional FAIRFIELD data set.

Project Cost:$7,900 High Island-Sabine Pass (30 wells)

$14,900 West-East Cameron (74 wells)$7,900 Vermilion-S. Marsh Island (30 wells)

$7,900 Eugene Island (30 wells)$7,900 Ship Shoal (30 wells)

$7,900 S.Timbalier-South Pelto (35 wells)

Digital well-logs:$900 High Island-Sabine Pass (30 logs)$1,800 West-East Cameron (74 logs)

$900 Vermilion-S. Marsh Island (30 logs)$900 Eugene Island (30 logs)$900 Ship Shoal (30 wells)

$900 S. Timbalier - S. Pelto (30 wells)

““DDEEEEPP TTOO MMEEDDIIUUMM GGAASS”” IINNDDIIVVIIDDUUAALL PPRROOJJEECCTTSS FFOORR TTHHEE 22001111//22001122

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DEMO CROSS SECTION


At the onset of the Macondo well blow-out and fire, news

reporting became a cascading succession of misinformation

and misunderstandings about what happened and what was being

done to stop the flow of oil. Overstated consequences became a

common theme while at the same time many in the public just

wanted to know what was happening and whether the flow of oil

would ever be stopped to prevent predicted catastrophic

consequences. Consequently, it became apparent that an

explanation of how well-control methods could and would work

seemed to be the most appropriate course to take when interacting

with live, taped, and written media. Information and explanation

was the course preferred and I will present insights behind the

scenes as this disaster and the media buzz around it played out until

the well was finally brought under control. �

Biographical SketchDR. DONVANNIEUWENHUISE is currently Director of the Petroleum

Geoscience Programs and a Research Associate Professor in the

Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the University

of Houston. He is also an Adjunct Professor in the Petroleum

Engineering program at UH. He frequently teaches petroleum

geology, integrated reservoir characterization,

physical geology, applied biostratigraphy,

and other specialized topics in stratigraphy

and sedimentology. His prev ious

experience includes 18 years with Amoco

in research and world-wide exploration.

His assignments included fields and

prospects within the U.S. and in over 40

other countries, thus giving him geologic

experience in the North Sea, the Norwegian Sea, the Atlantic

west of the Shetland Islands, Brazil, China, West Africa, and

Latin America. Prior to joining the Amoco Research Center in

Tulsa he was a geologist for Mobil in New Orleans, where he was

involved in the successful drilling of more than 15 exploration,

production, and blow-out relief wells. While in New Orleans,

he was also an Adjunct Professor in Petroleum Engineering at

Tulane University. There he taught reservoir characterization

and subsurface methods. Prior to his stint in New Orleans he

worked on Cretaceous through Recent stratigraphic problems of

the U.S. Gulf and Atlantic coastal plains with the USGS at the

Smithsonian Institution.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011Petroleum Club • 800 Bell (downtown) Social 11:15 AM, Luncheon 11:30 AM

Cost: $30 pre-registered members; $35 for non-members & walk-ups;Emeritus/Life/Honorary: $15; Students: FREETo guarantee a seat, you must pre-register on the HGS website (www.hgs.org) andpre-pay with a credit card. Pre-registration without payment will not be accepted. You may still walk up and pay at the door, if extra seats are available.

HGS General Luncheon Meeting

Don Van NieuwenhuiseUniversity of Houston

HGS General Luncheon Meeting

Macondo: A National Media Gusher in the Face of aMajor Environmental Disaster

Have you ever wondered how to go about tracking down core,paleo results, test data or mud logs on an old well? Pretend thatyou have a well absolutely critical to your prospect or idea. You are trying tofind additional information on a McFarlane Oil Company drilled back in the early 1980’s. Problem is – McFarlane Oil Company no longer exists. So what do you do, where do you go? “Googling” McFarlane OilCompany brings you 14 sources that mostly deal with dated reports and litigation.

If you have a copy of the “HGS Directory of Oil Company Name Changes”, you at least have a different and data-specific path to pursue.

This publication is a cross-referenced list of domestic oil and gas, exploration and production companies that have sold major assets or havechanged their names due to a merger, acquisition or reorganization. Thepurpose of this directory is to provide an oil company road map that mayassist geologists in tracking down logs, samples, cores, paleo, drilling reports, production histories and other well data that may be obscured bythese numerous name changes.

In the case of McFarlane Oil Company, a quick check of the Directory indicates that the Company ultimately went to Devon Energy. Under theDevon listing in the Directory, you learn that McFarlane went to Seagull Energy in 1982, Seagull went to Ocean Energy in 1999, and Ocean Energywent to Devon in 2003. While there are no guarantees that any of the desired well data made the entire transition, there is at least a road map onecan pursue to potentially locate the information. One could contact Devon to seeif they still have the old well files or possibly contact geoscientists who workedat any of the successor oil companies for their insights.

A new 21st edition (April 2011), of the HGS publication, “Directory of OilCompany Name Changes”, is now available through the Bureau of Economic Geology. The cost of the directory is $15.00 and it can be obtained from the BEG. The contact information is as follows:

Bureau of Economic GeologyUniversity of Texas in Austin, Attn: Publication SalesUniversity Station, Box X, Austin, Texas 78713-8924Phone: (888) 839-4365, www.beg.utexas.edu

Directory of Oil Company Name Changes – 21st Edition


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There is industry-wide awareness of the importance of carbonates in the commercial development and production of hydrocarbons.

Yet there is a mystique about them which arises partially from the nature of their genesis: their higher velocity/density (even when

geologically young) has made their seismic imaging a bit more challenging. Bright spots in carbonates, while not unheard of, are rare to

say the least.

Developments in seismic imaging over the last 40 years have been significant, and along several avenues, responded principally to particular

problem objectives of economic consequence. Carbonates, often geologically and geometrically conformable, with cyclicity in

development, and sometimes seismically “thin” in character, can present difficult imaging obstacles. Hence we emphasize here those

advances which address these issues, in particular, better and higher-resolution processing and improved seismic data presentations.

Results of such techniques are appreciated by reviewing examples from Africa, Canada, South America and Texas. These examples, while

personal in viewpoint, nevertheless represent the growth in industry capability and practice.

Zero-phase wavelet processing with better and more frequent velocity analyses were first steps. Next, following the early lead of Roy

Lindseth, the use of seismic inversion or velocity-scaling of seismic amplitudes offered great advantage for detecting velocity changes in

higher velocity formations. Extended visual dynamic range color displays then presented 20 to 25 times more information to the

interpreter. Most recently, replacing signal processing methods by holography produced highest possible resolution (HPR) seismic

imaging. Now the image frequency content could move beyond the source band, both on the low and high frequency end. Typical imaging

bandwidths from conventional seismic data acquisition were 3 to 5 times broader than the result of signal processing imaging. Such

increased resolution along with data displays provide, in many instances, remarkable information about deposition, pore fluids, porosity,

lithology and stratigraphy.

SIPES Luncheon MeetingSIPES August Luncheon Meeting

Seismic Imaging of Carbonate Formations and Reservoirs – An Odyssey 1971- 2011

Dr. Norman S. Neidell and James Charuk

This abstract is provided as a service to our membership. The actual presentation was made on Thursday, August 25, 2011.

SIPES Luncheon Meeting continued on page 43

Monoco-arbitrary line


Better images, better interpretations

and other available analyses methods

bode well for the future of finding,

defining and exploiting carbonate

reservoirs. Case studies dramatically

make this point. �

Biographical SketchNORMAN NEIDELL received a B.S.

Degree from New York University, a

Post Graduate Diploma in applied

Geophysics from Imperial College, and

a Ph.D. in Geodesy and Geophysics

from Cambridge University. He

acquired basic experience with Gulf

Oil and Seiscom-Delta, and then

undertook independent ventures and

consulting in 1971. His special interests

include seismic stratigraphy, reservoir

definition, and imaging technology. He

has extensive experience consulting

and lecturing in all aspects of seismic

data and imaging. Clients served

include most of the major oi l

companies, significant independents,

national oil companies as well as numerous small operators. He has authored numerous technical papers and patents.

Neidell co-founded GeoQuest International (now part of Petroleum Information) and GeoQuest Systems (now

a Schlumberger Company), and Zenith Exploration Co. serving as its President and Chief Executive Officer. He

co-founded Gandalf Explorers Intl. Ltd., which by merger became MMS Petroleum, PLC. He served as a Director

and Technical Advisor to MMS Petroleum PLC, until its acquisition in December 1998 by Ramco Energy. He

was with Zydeco Energy as Vice President of Technology. In July 1999, Neidell reinitiated his consulting practice.

Neidell was Adjunct professor in the Geology Department of the University of Houston. He is a Past President

and Honorary Member of the Geophysical Society of Houston (GSH), a Distinguished Lecturer for the SEG

and an Honorary Life Member, a past Associate Editor of Geophysics, and a member of several AAPG and SEG

committees. He lectures in continuing education programs for the AAPG, SEG and SPE as well as for several universities. He is a Registered

Professional Geophysicist (California) and Professional Geoscientist (Texas) and a Certified Geologist (Arkansas and SIPES).SIPES Luncheon Meeting

I

Time Slice - 3 Sec., Highest Possible Resolution Imaging, McMullin Co., Texas Inversion Format - Sligo Formation – Cretaceous Velocities OnlyComparison to Woleai Atoll and Great Barrier Reef

SIPES Luncheon Meeting continued from page 41________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

David Childers, ph: 713-658-0077, e-mail: [email protected] Plaza, 1201 Louisiana St., Suite 570, Houston, TX 77002


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To sponsor:Julie Simmons, Marketing ManagerE-mail: [email protected]: +1 918 560 2618

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The Mesozoic/Cenozoic tectonics of Peru were controlled by the westward convergence of the continental South American Plate and

the northeastern oblique convergence of the oceanic Nazca/Farallon Plate. This tectonic collision caused formation of a composite

transform-convergent margin characterized by normal and strike-slip faults that formed extensional/pull-apart basins along the western

margin of Peru. These extensional/pull-apart basins, such as Talara and Tumbes, are petroliferous and occur both offshore and along

Peru’s coast. Trench slope basins occur along the upper wall of the eastern side of the Peru-Chile Trench.

East of this coastal belt of basins are the Andes Mountains, which experienced episodic Late Cretaceous and Cenozoic uplift in response

to changing rates of plate convergence. The Andes consist of Paleozoic low-grade metamorphic and igneous rocks and sediments. Onshore,

within the northern and central Peruvian Andes, a large volcanic gap exists in response to flat-slab subduction during the past 10-7 my;

a classic Late Neogene and Quaternary volcanic arc is absent in this northern region, as are paired metamorphic belts. Successive orogenic

phases developed both fold-and-thrust belts and a series of intermontane and foreland basins.

Three major Cenozoic petroliferous foreland basins occur east of the Andes of Peru. These basins, the Maranon, Ucayali, and Madre de

Dios, comprise part of a north-south trending belt of productive foreland basins occurring from northern Venezuela to Argentina. In

Peru, these three foreland basins show regional changes in the age of petroleum systems, with Cretaceous petroleum systems occurring

towards the north (northern Maranon Basin) and Devonian-Permian petroleum systems present in the south (Madre de Dios Basin).

The 21 sedimentary basins of Peru are organized into four basin tectonic provinces each characterized by different tectonic architecture and

evolution. From west to east, they are the trench-slope basin province,

SIPES Luncheon MeetingSIPES September Luncheon Meeting

Mesozoic/Cenozoic Tectonic Evolution, Basin Fairways,and Play Opportunities of Peru

George Devries Klein (presenter), SED-STRAT Geoscience Consultants, Inc, Houston, TX ; Fernando J. Zúñiga y Rivero,

BPZ Resources, Inc., Houston, TX;Hugh Hay-Roe, Kingwood, TX; Estuardo Alvarez-Calderon, BPZ Resources, Inc., Houston, TX

(Redrawn from Zúñiga y Rivero et al, 2010)

TECTONIC CORRELATION DIAGRAM, NAZCA & FARALLON PLATES AND ANDES. PERU

ss spreading rate is faster (Pardo-Casas and Molnar, 1987)


Figure 1. Correlation diagram of major tectonic events on the Nazca Plate and Andes Mountains of Peru (Redrawn from Zúñiga y Rivero et al, 2010).Subduction along Peru-Chile Trench began 200 Ma (Shepherd and Moberly, 1981). Row width for rate of plate convergence widens where rate islarger (See Pardo-Casas and Molnar, 1987). Red stripe connects individual phases of Incaic and Quechua orogenies as per Benavides Cáceres (1999).


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IMAGES

the extensional/pull-apart basin province, the intermontane basin province, and the foreland basin province. Each is characterized by their

own petroleum systems.

The basin styles of Peru define four regional plays

• The extensional/wrench system play (Talara, Tumbes, and other basins in the extensional/pull-apart fairway)

• An incised valley/shelf edge delta/canyon/fan play (outer continental shelf of Peru)

• An inboard foreland basin play (Camisea, Candamo analogs) associated with a tectonically-driven water drive

• An outer foreland basin play associated with a gravity-driven water drive with hydrocarbons trapped by rollover anticlines and faults

and three opportunities for future exploration and production.

• Attic and by-passed opportunities (Talara Basin)

• Re-evaluation of past failures

• Re-evaluation of leads proposed by Perupetro, PARSEP, and Gaffney, Cline & Associates

The extensional/pull-apart basins and the foreland basins show the greatest potential for future exploration. Exploration focused on these

plays and opportunities should lead to new major oil and gas discoveries in Peru.

Published with permission of the Board of Directors of BPZ Resources, Inc. The authors wish to express their appreciation to Manolo Zúñiga-

Pflücker, President and CEO, BPZ Resources, Inc for facilitating this project. Dr. Victor Benavides-Cáceres is thanked for his helpful and cogent

review of an earlier version of this manuscript. Kelly Zuniaga-Lopez is thanked for providing outstanding geotechnical support and drafting.

Drafting was also completed by Enrique Bravo. Argelia Rozas and Angelica Rozas are thanked for their excellent clerical support.�

Biographical SketchGEORGE DEVRIES KLEIN is President and Chief Geologist of SED-STRAT Geoscience Consultants, Inc. His areas of expertise include play

concepts, clastic facies and reservoirs (fluvial to deepwater), sequence and seismic stratigraphy,


SIPES Luncheon MeetingSIPES Luncheon Meeting continued from page 45 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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SIPES Luncheon MeetingSIPES Luncheon Meeting continued from page 47 _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __

carbonates, basin analysis, and regional geology. Areas with which he has working experience include: the Gulf

Coast, Gulf of Mexico, East Texas, Maverick, Permian, Midland, Illinois, San Joaquin, Appalachian, Arkoma,

Powder River, Maracaibo, Macuspana, Eastern Venezuela, Marib, Orange River, Senegal, Lower Congo, Al Mado,

Nogal, Darror, Eastern Carpathian, Veracruz, and 21 basins in Peru. He has published 300 refereed articles,

books, and abstracts on these topics, including the book Sandstone Depositional Models for Exploration for Fossil

Fuels and a widely-used wall chart Vertical Sequences and Log Shapes of Major Sandstone Reservoir Systems.

Klein has received honors and awards, including the Outstanding Paper Award in the Journal of Sedimentary

Petrology (SEPM; 1972) and the Laurence L. Sloss Award of the Geological Society of America. He is a past

SIPES Distinguished Lecturer.

Klein earned degrees in geology from Kansas (M.A.) and Yale (Ph.D.). He worked as a Research Geologist for Sinclair Research and then

taught at the universities of Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania. He joined the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign in 1970 and worked

there until 1993. After serving as Executive Director of the New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium, and Director of the New Jersey Sea

Grant College Program, he opened a geological consulting practice in Houston in May, 1996. He is a licensed Texas Registered Geologist

(#440) and is a member of AAPG, HGS, SIPES, GCSSEPM, and GSA.

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Houston Petroleum Club in the Discovery Room, 800 Bell St. (downtown Houston). Social 11:15 AM, Luncheon 11:45 AM

Reservations Required:Make reservations by telephone (713-651-1639), fax (713-951-9659), website (www.sipes-houston.org), or [email protected] to B. K. Starbuck-Buongiorno by 12:00 noon on Tuesday preceding the meeting. You can now sign up for the meetingonline at www.sipes-houston.org, but payment is still required by regular mail or at the door.

Cost: $30 for SIPES Members and Chapter Affiliates who register by 12:00 Noon Tuesday; $35 for new registrations at the door. The pricefor guests, non-members and walk-ins is $35. No-shows will be billed.

CAMISEA FIELD, MADRE DE DIOS BASIN, 3-D SEISMIC DISPLAY AND CROSS-SECTION

and Zúñiga y Rivero et al, 2010)

AND CROSS-SECTION

(Redrawn from Luquez and Disalvo, 2004, and Zúñiga y Rivero et al, 2010)

Figure 2. Camisea Field, Madres De Dios Basin, Peru. 3-D seismic display and Cashiriari Field.


One-hundred and thirty-nine shooters showed up on June

18th to take part in the HGS 28th Annual Skeet Shoot at the

Greater Houston Gun Club in Missouri City. Gun club Manager

Kevin Dougherty and his staff had the fields and grounds in top

shape and made sure the registration and scoring went off without

a hitch. The weather was hot and dry, with not even a hint of a

chance of rain. The targets were perfect, the BBQ was excellent, the

beer was cold, and nobody got shot — can’t ask for much more

than that!

This year’s winners of beautiful trophy belt buckles were:

Ladies Class Runner-up: Helen Sellers (shooting 39 out of 50)

Ladies Class Champ: Denise Campbell (42 out of 50)

Class “C” Runner-up: David Tocco (21)

Class “C” Champ: Dante Stefani (21)

Class “B” Runner-up: Jack Bayless (30)

Class “B” Champ: Shawn Rice (30)

Class “A” Runner-up: Amy Vanderhill (36)

Class “A” Champ: Merrick Mainster (37)

Class “AA” Runner-up: Bob Eyeington (46)

Class “AA” Champ: Gary Martens (46)

The High Over All (HOA) Champion was Greg Moredock with a

49, and the runner-up was Lee Shelton with a 48.

Two-man Flurry Winners were John Walker and Tom McCarroll.

We also raffled off 25 gift cards from Academy Sporting Goods

ranging in value from $100 to $500.

We had terrific sponsorship this year: Halliburton’s BBQ Team

once again provided a delicious BBQ lunch in spite of the blistering

heat; Drake Directional Drilling and Fairfield Nodal sponsored

the Two-Man Flurry; ATP Oil and Gas, Core Lab, and INEXS

sponsored the caps. Beverage sponsors were Cross Creek Energy,

LLC, Geokinetics, and Merrick Mainster of FaultSeal, Ltd. Once

the guns were in the racks, Merrick personally selected and

delivered the beer keg which was greatly appreciated on a hot

afternoon. CLF Resources, Headwave, Sanchez

Oil & Gas, and Alan Warwick of Century

Exploration sponsored the ammunition.

PGS, ION Geophysical, Baker Hughes

Pressure Pumping from Alice, Texas, and

Schlumberger, TGS, and Seismic Exchange

sponsored skeet fields. The Vanderhill family,

Ken Burch of Gray, Burch and Haddad, and

Barry Rava of Icarus Oil & Gas were also

sponsors.

Thanks again to all the participants for making

this year’s shoot a safe and fun event, and to

our sponsors for supporting the HGS Skeet

Shoot! �

28th Annual Skeet Shoot by Tom McCarroll

28thAnnual Skeet Shoot


Don’t Miss Earth Science WeekOctober 8-16!

Mark your calendars for these important events and dates:

• Annual Family Energy Festival – October 8that Houston Museum of Natural Science

• Consumer Energy Alliance Energy Festival and Downtown Building Stones Fieldtrip – October 15th

• In celebration of National Fossil DayWhiskey Bridge Public Fieldtrip – October 16th

• Annual Art, Essay, and Photography ContestEntries accepted in September – Please tell your schools!

Check the ESW page at www.hgs.org for updates.Updates will also follow on HGS Facebook and Twitter.Or email ESW Chairman Martha McRae at

[email protected]

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HGS Field Trip to the Grand Canyon, 2012by Steve Earle, President of HGS,Grand Canyon field trip leader

The Houston Geological Society is pleased to once again offer

its popular Grand Canyon Field Trip. This “Journey Through

Time” will start in Las Vegas on July 8, 2012, and finish there on July

16. We will have the chance to become immersed in the stratigraphy

of the Four Corners area from the Triassic back into the

Precambrian. We will also see and discuss more recent events that

have shaped the canyon and continue to do so. This trip involves

seven nights of camping along the Colorado River and physical

activity that ranges from white water rafting to hikes up to 6 miles,

steep slopes, and occasional scrambling. Participants should be in

reasonably good physical condition to fully enjoy the trip.

Highlights of the 2010 TripThe last time this trip was offered was in June of 2010, when it was

enjoyed by twelve HGS members, their guests, and four families who

joined us. After gathering our possessions at McCarran Airport in

Las Vegas, we boarded our vehicles and drove to Zion National Park

to look at the impressive Navajo Sandstone outcrops there before

continuing on to Marble Canyon and our motel. In the morning

we were picked up by our outfitter, Hatch River Expeditions, and

taken to Lee’s Ferry, where we finished loading our two motorized

rafts that would be our main transportation for the next seven days

down the river. The Vermilion Cliffs formed a beautiful backdrop

here for our launch and we were quickly whisked into the canyon.

The canyon here consists of Permian

limestones, sands, and shales as we

drift down-section with a few stops

along the way to view fossil lizard

tracks in the Coconino Sandstone

and exfoliation jointing in sandstones

of the Supai Group.

Day two of our river trip finds us in

the Mississippian Redwall Limestone

as we raft down Marble Canyon.

Sights include Vasey’s Paradise, Nautiloid Canyon, and a

steep climb to visit an Anasazi Indian granary. Our

pleasant ride down-river is punctuated by the rapids

encountered at every side creek. Each evening our river

guides fixed us a fine feast. Nature, however, provided the

ambiance.

Our third day is perhaps my favorite of this trip, as we

descend into the classic transgressive Cambrian sequence

and arrive at the Little Colorado River. Here we have a

chance to play in the water and run a few “rapids” on our

own. The water here is the most incredible sky blue color

because of the significant amount of calcium carbonate

dissolved in the water. Continuing on, we enter into a

significant section of Precambrian sediments known as

the Unkar and Chuar groups. On the 2010 trip we had time to walk

up Carbon Creek to observe these ancient rocks and the Butte Fault

before returning down Lava Creek. This was our longest hike of

the trip.

The next day our rafts enter the Inner Gorge. The canyon narrows

as the steep walls, formed by Precambrian schist and granite, close

around us. Almost every side-creek now causes a major rapid and

we thrill in this exciting white water. A short walk up Clear Creek

to a wonderful waterfall is very welcome and then we float down

to Phantom Ranch and a little taste of civilization in the bottom

of the canyon. Our evening is spent farther down river.

Day five starts with more big rapids before we exit the Inner Gorge.

A stop at Elves Chasm is a must. This gem of a side canyon requires

a little scrambling, but we thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful pool

here. This day also includes a stop at Blacktail Canyon, where we

put our hands on the Great Unconformity, representing over one

billion years of time missing from the rock record.

HGS Field Trip to the Grand Canyon, 2012

HGS Field Trip to the Grand Canyon, 2012 continued on page 55


2011 HGS

Honky-Tonk Ho-Ho-Hoedown��

�

�

Monday, December 5, 20115:30pm - 11:00pm

Blanco’s Bar & Grill 3406 West Alabama @ Buffalo Speedway • Houston, Texas 77027 • (713) 439-0072

Howdy y’all!Once again, HGS is hosting the best dang holiday shindig in town. It will be a Rootin’ -

Tootin’ good time! Saddle up your horse and mosey on down to Blanco’s Bar and Grill onDecember 5 where you can eat tasty vittles, wet your whistle at the cash bar and wearyour cowboy boots for down and dirty country dancin’! Y’all register online, ya hear?

Preregistration: Members: $35 Non-members: $40At the door: Members: $40 Non-members: $45

Price includes dinner and 3 drink ticketsSEATS ARE LIMITED. REGISTER ONLINE at http://www.hgs.org/en/cev/1392

For more information, contact: Kelly Limbaugh at (713) 922-2913

HONKY-TONK HO-HO-HOEDOWN REGISTRATION FORMReservations and prepayment encouraged by online reservation or send check and form to:

HGS Office, 2011 HGS Honky-Tonk Ho-Ho-Hoedown, 14811 St. Mary’s Lane, Suite 250, Houston, Texas 77079 or fax this form with credit card number to 281-679-5504

Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Company: ________________________________________________________________________________________

Work Phone: ________________________________________ Email: ______________________________________________________

No. of tickets desired: Pre-registered Members & Spouses $35 ________________Non-members $40__________

Total amount enclosed: ______________ Membership No. ____________________________________________

(Please include names of all attendees): __________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Credit Card number and type: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

CVV or Card ID : ________________________________________________________ Expiration Date (required): __________________________________________

Name on Credit Card: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Daytime Phone number of Card Holder: __________________________________________________________________________________

Billing Address for Card: __________________________________________________________________________________________________

City, State and Zip: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If you’re hankering to be a SPONSOR:

Gold Nugget: $1,000 Silver Spur: $500 Bronze Bronco: $250

Give us a holler at [email protected] or [email protected] and HGS will send an

invoice for your sponsorship level OR you can use a credit card by calling the HGS office at (713)463-9476


The next day offers two wonderful hikes, the first being up Deer

Creek. There is some fascinating geology to see and the scenery is

exceptional as well. The second is up Matkatamiba Canyon and

provides an opportunity to do our most interesting scrambling yet.

We performed an impressive flash flood experiment here.

Our final day in the rafts includes a short walk to play in Havasu

Creek and then down to Lava Falls Rapids, perhaps the most

exhilarating rapids of the trip. The lava seen in this part of the

canyon is part of a series of basalt flows that dammed the ancient

Colorado River as many as 13 times, starting about one million

years ago and continuing to about 100,000 years ago. Our final

night on the river is bittersweet and the next morning we say

goodbye to our river guides and board helicopters that take us to

the Bar 10 Ranch and real showers. From here we fly back to Las

Vegas and the conclusion of this fine trip.

The 2012 TripPlease join us next year and consider bringing your family

members. There is a wealth of geology to see and discuss. We will

try to keep the main discussion at a level that can be appreciated

by the layman, but there is also time to delve deeper into the

geology and other aspects of this fascinating area. We will also

discuss its natural and human history. The scenery is of course

phenomenal and different from the experience of looking down at

it from the rim. The white water is as thrilling as you care to make

it, depending on where you sit on the raft. Our rafts are big and

very stable in the water and the river guides are quite experienced

in navigating these rapids. They also are helpful during the hikes

and are great cooks. This trip offers something for anyone who

enjoys the outdoors, and it is particularly great for high school or

college students who have an interest in the sciences.

Your trip leader has had plenty of experience in the Grand Canyon.

I graduated from the University of Arizona with a B.S. in

Geoscience in 1974. During my time there, I had the opportunity

to hike many areas in the Grand Canyon, getting to know it

intimately. This will be my third raft trip down the river. This field

trip was originally put together by Dave Lazor who ran it for many

years before retiring and turning it over to me. You may contact

me with questions at [email protected] or at 281-435-5020.

Cost of this trip is $3,100, which includes all transportation from

Las Vegas to the canyon and back, one night in a motel, food and

drink while on the river, and a sleeping kit for camping. Not

included are airfare to Las Vegas, your first dinner on our travel

day, any special libations you feel you need, and optional tips for

the river guides. A $300 deposit is all that is required at this time to

hold your spot, with the balance due by January 10, 2012. You can

register on the HGS website. The rafts hold a maximum of 28

participants and registration for the trip commonly fills fairly

quickly so you are encouraged to sign up early to avoid

disappointment. Don’t miss this chance to experience the

magnificence and grandeur of the Grand Canyon up close. �

iews on Seismic Imaging—Their Use in ExplorNew Views on Seismic Imaging—Their Use in Exploriews on Seismic Imaging—Their Use in Exploration and Productioniews on Seismic Imaging—Their Use in ExplorNew Views on Seismic Imaging—Their Use in Exploriews on Seismic Imaging—Their Use in Exploration and Productioniews on Seismic Imaging—Their Use in Explor

HGS Field Trip to the Grand Canyon, 2012 continued from page 53 ___________________________________________________________________________

HGS Field Trip to the Grand Canyon, 2012


Bills of Interest Passed by the 82nd Texas State Legislative SessionThe regular legislative session has ended and below is the final list

of bills that have passed this legislative session and may be of

interest to geologists. These have all been signed by the Governor:

HB-444, by Creighton. Relating to notification of applications for

permits for certain injection wells, effective immediately. “If an

application is received in proper form for a permit for an injection

well to dispose of industrial and municipal waste and the proposed

location of the injection well is in the territory of a groundwater

conservation district, the executive director shall submit a copy of

the application to the governing body of the groundwater

conservation district. The groundwater conservation district may

make recommendations to the commission concerning any aspect

of the application...”. For more information go to: http://www.capitol.

state.tx.us/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=82R&Bill=HB444

HB-2067, by Callegari. Relating to the regulation of the practice

of engineering by individuals engaged in the evaluation of oil and

gas resources, effective immediately. Allows out-of-state engineers

to determine oil and gas reserves in Texas. For more information

go to: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/history.aspx?Leg

Sess=82R&Bill=HB2067

HB-2694, by Smith. A summary of the geological interests within

this bill, which relates to the TCEQ Sunsetting Legislation for this

session is as follows:

• Continues the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for

12 years to 2023.

• Requires that TCEQ Commissioners resign their position if

contributions are accepted for a campaign for an elected office.

• Provides for a process to develop Petroleum Storage Tanks (PST)

remediation contracts to allow contractors currently cleaning up

sites that have been eligible for reimbursement to continue their

work for the TCEQ PST State Lead Program.

• Transfers, on September 1, 2011 the authority for making

groundwater protection recommendations regarding oil and gas

activities from TCEQ to the Railroad Commission (RRC).

• Authorizes RRC, not TCEQ to issue letters of determination associated

with geologic storage of anthropogenic carbon dioxide (CO2).

• Requires changes to the current Compliance History program

requirements.

• Expands the use of the PST remediation fee to remove underground

or aboveground storage tanks if certain criteria are met.

• Reauthorizes the PST remediation fee at the current level with no

expiration date.

• Requires water right holders to provide monthly water use reports

to commission upon request during times of drought or

emergency shortages of water or to respond to a complaint.

• Authorizes that in a “period of drought or other emergency

shortage of water” the executive director may temporarily

suspend a water right and adjust the diversion of water between

water right holders based on 11.024 & 11.027, TWC.

• Abolishes Texas On-site Wastewater Treatment Research

Council (TOWTRC) and transfers duties to TCEQ on

September 1, 2011.

Effective 9/1/2011. For more information go to: http://www.capitol.

state.tx.us/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=82R&Bill=HB2694

HB-3328, by Keffer. Relating to the disclosure of the composition

of hydraulic fracturing fluids used in hydraulic fracturing

treatments. Effective 9/1/2011. For more information go to:

http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=82

R&Bill=HB3328

SB-332, by Fraser, Davis & Duncan. Relating to the ownership of

groundwater below the surface of land, the right to produce that

groundwater, and the management of groundwater in this state.

Effective 9/1/2011. For more information go to: http://www.capitol.

state.tx.us/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=82R&Bill=SB332

SB-430, by Watson. Adds a requirement to notify the governing

groundwater conservation district to the list of required

notifications of contaminated groundwater. Effective 9/1/2011. For

more information go to: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/

history.aspx?LegSess=82R&Bill=SB430

SB-652, by Hegar. Relating to governmental entities subject to the

sunset review process. Extends the Sunset Review for the Texas

Board of Professional Geoscientests to 2019. Effective immediately.

For more information go to: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/Bill

Lookup/history.aspx?LegSess=82R&Bill=SB652

SB-691, by Estes. Relating to the exemption from permitting by

groundwater conservation districts for certain water wells used for

domestic, livestock, and poultry watering purposes. Effective

9/1/2011. For more information go to: http://www.capitol.state.

tx.us/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=82R&Bill=SB691

Government Updateby Henry M. Wise, P.G. and Arlin Howles, P.G.

If you’d like the most up-to-date information on Texas rules, regulations, and

governmental meetings, we direct you to the HGS website to review The Wise Report.

This report, which comes out as needed, but not more often than once a week, offers

the most up-to-date information that may be of interest to Texas geologists.

Government Update


SB-692, by Estes. Relating to exemptions from groundwater

conservation district permit requirements. Effective immediately.

For more information go to: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/Bill

Lookup/history.aspx?LegSess=82R&Bill=SB692

SB-737, by Hegar. Relating to the management of groundwater

production by groundwater conservation districts. Effective

9/1/2011. For more information go to: http://www.capitol.state.

tx.us/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=82R&Bill=SB737

SB-1295, by Hegar. Relating to the mining and reclamation of

certain land previously affected by surface coal mining operations.

Effective immediately. For more information go to: http://www.capitol.

state.tx.us/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=82R&Bill=SB1295

SB-1303, by West. Relating to nonsubstantive additions to and

corrections in enacted codes, to the nonsubstantive codification or

disposition of various laws omitted from enacted codes, and to

conforming codifications enacted by the 81st Legislature to other

Acts of that legislature. Effective 9/1/2011. For more information


Sess=82R&Bill=SB1303

SB-1478, by Hegar. Relating to permit review timelines of the

surface mining and reclamation division of the Railroad

Commission of Texas. Effective immediately. For more information


Sess=82R&Bill=SB1478

Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists BudgetPassedAfter a threat by the Governor’s office to either defund or combine

the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists (TBPG) a number of

Texas and national geological societies, including the HGS, AAPG,

and AEG, formed a task force to counteract this threat to the TBPG.

It proved to be a difficult challenge, partially because the situation

was changing rapidly, especially during the first month of the

Legislative Session. The net result, however, is that the TBPG will

remain intact and fully funded for another two years. However, the

legislature has proposed that a study be conducted to look into the

possibility of combining a number of Texas Boards, including the

TBPG. The task force will continue to monitor the situation and

provide input to this study to assure that, whatever transpires, the

interests of Texas Professional Geoscientists are maintained.

AGI Government Affairs Monthly Review (April 2011)Rare Earth Bills Introduced in March and April

Four different rare earth bills were introduced in late March and

April, while a draft of a fifth bill was made available for public

comment. Representative Hank Johnson’s (D-GA) Resource

Assessment of Rare Earths (RARE) Act of 2011 (H.R. 1314) would

direct the Secretary of the Interior, through the U.S. Geological

Survey (USGS), to submit a comprehensive report on global rare

earth element resources and potential future global supplies of such

resources. The report would have to include recommendations on

areas needing geological research related to rare earth elements and

other critical materials. Johnson’s bill has been cosponsored by

Representatives Ed Markey (D-MA), John Garamendi (D-CA),

Daniel Lipinski (D-IL), and others.

Sponsored by Mike Coffman and other western and mid-western

Republicans, the Rare Earths Supply-Chain Technology and

Resources Transformation (RESTART) Act of 2011 (H.R. 1388)

would create a task force of representatives from government

agencies to find ways of accelerating the completion of projects to

increase investment in, exploration for, and development of rare

earth elements. Whereas Johnson’s RARE Act would require the

USGS to only report on global resources and recommend future

research opportunities, the RESTART Act would establish a

research and development rare earths materials program at the

USGS to explore, discover, and recover rare earth materials;

improve methods of extraction; identify and test substitute

materials; and to collect, catalog, and disseminate information on

rare earths. Furthermore, it is the only bill introduced in April that

would require a federal stockpile of specific materials and alloys.

Representative Brad Miller’s (D-NC) Energy Critical Elements

Renewal Act of 2011 (H.R. 952) has been referred to the

Subcommittee on Energy and Environment of the, House Science,

Space and Technology Committee, where Miller is Ranking

Member. It is similar to Representative Leonard Boswell’s (D-IA)

legislation, the Rare Earths and Critical Materials Revitalization Act

of 2011 (H.R. 618). The two bills would each establish a program

at the Department of Energy to fund research and development of

rare earths. Miller’s bill would include other “energy critical

elements” that are not rare earths, such as cobalt, lithium, gallium,

and indium. Both bills would provide for temporary loan

guarantees under the Energy Policy Act of 2005.

Uranium Mining Bill Introduced

Representatives Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM) and Martin Heinrich (D-

NM) introduced the Uranium Resources Stewardship Act (H.R.

1452) to manage uranium mining on federal lands through a

competitive leasing program and to impose a 12.5 percent royalty

on uranium. Under current law, the General Mining Act of 1872,

companies do not pay royalties for minerals taken from public

lands. Advocates for the bill say companies are not paying for

cleanup and reclamation costs. Mining companies are opposed to

any new measure that requires added fees. Senator Jeff Bingaman

(D-NM) introduced similar legislation in 2009, but the bill did not

advance in the Senate.

House Committee Launches Yucca Mountain Investigation

The Environment and the

Government Update

Government Update continued on page 58


Economy Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce

Committee sent a letter to Secretary Steven Chu of the Department

of Energy and a letter to Chairman Gregory Jaczko of the Nuclear

Regulatory Commission (NRC) about an investigation of the

reasons for terminating the Yucca Mountain high-level nuclear

waste repository. The letters seek information that led to the

decision to withdraw the licensing application that was pending

before the NRC. The letters, signed by Chairman Fred Upton of the

full committee and Chairman John Shimkus of the subcommittee,

informed the two federal officials that their actions are being

evaluated with respect to their responsibilities and obligations under

the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982

Tennessee House Passes Anti-Evolution Bill; Louisiana’s Revisited On April 7, 2011, the Tennessee House of Representatives passed

the “anti-evolution” bill HB 368 on a party-line vote. The bill would

require education authorities to “assist teachers to find effective

ways to present the science curriculum as it addresses scientific

controversies” and allow teachers to “help students understand,

analyze, critique, and review in an objective manner the scientific

strengths and scientific weaknesses of existing scientific theories

covered in the course being taught.” The bill specifically identifies

scientific topics of “biological evolution, the chemical origins of

life, global warming, and human cloning.” Tennessee State Senator

Bo Watson, who had crafted a companion bill to HB 368, has

officially tabled his legislation. Concern from local scientists

convinced Watson to defer the bill.

Interestingly, Louisiana’s similar law which was passed in 2008 is

coming under fire at the same time Tennessee is trying to pass

theirs. Baton Rouge high school senior Zack Kopplin has

spearheaded an effort to support SB 70, legislation to repeal the

2008 Louisiana Science Education Act. Similar to Tennessee’s

proposed HB 368, Louisiana’s current law permits teachers to single

out certain scientific theories, including evolution and global

warming, as controversial, and to teach alternate theories. A

collection of scientists, including 42 Nobel laureates have signed

on to Kopplin’s efforts.

AGI Government Affairs Monthly Review (May 2011)More Critical Minerals Bills Introduced

After soliciting public comments last month, Senator Lisa

Murkowski (R-AK) introduced Critical Minerals Policy Act of 2011

(S. 1113) to facilitate the reestablishment of a critical minerals

industry, workforce, and research and development capabilities in

the United States. The critical minerals include the rare earth

elements, yttrium, scandium, cobalt, helium, phosphate, potash,

lead, and thorium. The bill has bipartisan support from 16 senate

co-sponsors; however, it has not been embraced by the Energy and

Natural Resources Committee Chairman, Jeff Bingaman (D-NM).

He is concerned with some of the bill’s mining provisions that

expedite permitting for extraction and exploration.

Doug Lamborn (R-CO), chairman of the Subcommittee on Energy

and Minerals in the Committee on Natural Resources has

introduced a bill (H.R. 2011) to assess the nation’s capability to

meet current and future demands for critical minerals. “The

National Strategic and Critical Minerals Policy Act of 2011” directs

the Secretary of the Interior (the Secretary) to prepare a report

assessing the non-fossil-fuel mineral potential of land under the

jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management and the National

Forest Service. The report would detail the required permitting

steps and identify measures to streamline the processing of the

applications. One provision would require the Secretary to assess

the number of federal employees with educational degrees or

experience in geology, geochemistry, mining, industrial minerals,

metallurgy, metallurgical engineering, and mining engineering and

compare the existing federal salaries with those offered in the

mining industry. The bill is cosponsored by Doc Hastings (R-WA),

chairman of the full committee.

Senator Tester Proposes Mine Reclamation Measure

Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) has reintroduced legislation to amend

the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (30

U.S.C. 1235(l)). His bill, S.1003, would limit the liability of a state

performing reclamation work under an approved state abandoned

mine reclamation plan. This is a replica of a bill (S.3252) that Tester

introduced in the last Congress.

Government Update Government Update continued from page 57________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Government Update

Kevin J. McMichael

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Arizona Legislators Sponsor Copper Mine Bill

Representative Paul Gosar (R-AZ) has introduced the Southeast

Arizona Land Exchange and Conservation Act of 2011 (H.R. 1904)

to facilitate the construction of a large copper mine in Pinal

County, Arizona. The bill would aid the transfer of roughly 2,400

acres of federal land on which lies a large undeveloped copper

deposit to Resolution Copper Company in exchange for 5,300 acres

of company property. Officials from Resolution Copper and

supporters of the bill say the company land has a high conservation

value and would provide thousands of acres of riparian area to

public land. A compromise version of this bill passed the Senate

Energy and Natural Resources Committee in the 111th Congress

and has had bipartisan support in the past. The new bill has been

cosponsored by only the Arizona Republicans in the House

however, and will likely face opposition from Representative Raul

Grijalva (D-AZ) who sits on the House Natural Resources

committee with Gosar and is a staunch conservationist.

Carbon Capture and Sequestration Bills Introduced and

Marked Up

Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Michael Enzi (R-WY), and Jeff

Bingaman (D-NM) have introduced legislation to award cash

prizes to researchers who develop and implement technologies to

capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. A similar version of

the bill (S. 757) was previously introduced last Congress, but never

made it passed the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

Bingaman and Barrasso have also teamed up on a related piece of

legislation (S. 699) which would establish a program within the

Department of Energy to institute ten commercial-scale carbon

capture and sequestration projects. On May 26, 2011 both bills

were amended and passed in committee.

Bill to Analyze Impacts of EPA Regulations Offered

Representatives John Sullivan (R-OK) and Jim Matheson (D-UT)

introduced the Transparency in Regulation Analysis of Impacts on

the Nation (TRAIN) Act of 2011 (H.R. 1705) in May. The TRAIN

Act would form a committee to analyze the economic impacts of

covered rules and actions undertaken by the Environmental

Protection Agency (EPA) on energy and manufacturing in the

United States. Specific rules regulated by the EPA to be considered

by the committee include hazardous air pollutants emissions

standards, air quality standards, and waste management rules. The

committee would also analyze the impacts of any actions undertaken

by the EPA under the Clean Air Act (42 USC 7411) to combat climate

change as a result of the 2009 endangerment finding. The bill has

been referred to the Energy and Commerce Committee.

Senator Burr Proposes Department of Energy and Environment

Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) introduced legislation this May that

would create the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE)

by effectively combining the Department of Energy (DOE) with the

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Consolidation of

Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency Act

of 2011 (S. 892) is being touted as a shrewd way of providing savings

and streamlining a coordinated approach to the administration of

energy and environmental policies. As part of the transition, there

would be a reduction of funding for oil and gas research and

development (R&D), energy technology development (including

the Advanced Research Program Agency – Energy), a repeal of ultra-

deepwater and unconventional on-shore natural gas R&D, and a

prohibition on refurbishing the Los Alamos Neutron Science

Center. Major EPA programs that would be reduced include

multiple water-related grants and pollution control programs while

local government climate change grants, diesel emissions reduction

grants, and target watershed infrastructure grants would all be

terminated. The bill has been referred to the Committee on

Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.

Nuclear Waste Debate Continues in U.S. and Elsewhere Japan continues to struggle with its severely damaged Fukushima

Daiichi nuclear power plant after the March 11, 2011 Tohoku

earthquake and tsunami. Reactors 1, 2 and 3 where the fuel cores

have melted remain unstable though a full meltdown has not

occurred. Tokyo Electric Power Company hopes to have the

reactors under control by January 2012; however, outside experts

Government Update continued on page 60


Government Update Government Update continued from page 59________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

are growing more uncertain about this time table. Smaller incidents

such as the removal of two workers with radiation exposure, an oil

leak near reactors 5 and 6 and an explosion near reactor 4 continue

to cause concern in Japan and abroad. The International Atomic

Energy Agency (IAEA) released a draft assessment on June 1, 2011

indicating that Japan had underestimated the tsunami danger and

had inadequate safety measures. IAEA maintains an update page

on Fukushima’s status.

After significant public protests and election defeats, the German

government led by Chancellor Angela Merkel announced that

Germany will phase out nuclear power plants in the country by

2022. Eight suspended reactors will not be restarted and the other

9 working reactors will be phased out over time. Germany gets

about 25 percent of its electricity from nuclear power. The fraction

will be replaced by a 10 percent reduction in consumption and a

35 percent increase in renewable energy resources. In the United

States, policymakers continue to debate nuclear energy and nuclear

waste, though the public has not expressed much sentiment.

In May, the Institute for Policy Studies released a report entitled

Spent Nuclear Fuel Pools in the U.S.: Reducing the Deadly Risks of

Storage that provoked lots of media attention and concern by its

title alone. The report notes that U.S. nuclear power plants have

generated about 65,000 metric tons of spent fuel and 75 percent of

this spent fuel is stored in pools. The authors recommend that spent

fuel older than 5 years be transferred to dry, hardened storage casks

that are safer than pools for longer term storage. This would cost

between $3.5 and $7 billion and take about 10 years. The funds

could be derived from a 0.4 cent per kilowatt-hour fee to nuclear

power consumers or taken from the $18.1 billion collected for waste

storage as part of the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982. The idea of

transferring spent fuel from pools to dry storage is consistent with

recommendations from a 2005 National Academies report.

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) released two reports

on spent fuel scenarios if Yucca Mountain is terminated, one on

Commercial Nuclear Waste and one on DOE Nuclear Waste. The GAO

reports note that commercial nuclear power has generated 65,000

metric tons plus 2,000 metric tons per year in the future at current

rates. The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Navy are furthermore

responsible for 13,000 metric tons of spent fuel from research and

naval operations and much of this is in pools. DOE estimates

additional costs of $918 million (2010 constant dollars) to maintain

current storage facilities or add more storage from 2020-2040.

Since 1983, DOE has spent $15 billion ($9.5 billion from the waste

fund) on the evaluation and license application for the Yucca

Mountain geologic waste repository and Congress has

appropriated an additional $5 billion for Yucca Mountain activities.

There is about $25 billion (2010 constant dollars) in the waste fund

as of March 2011 while almost $1 billion has been paid out to

companies suing the government for delays in opening a

permanent geologic repository. The GAO report notes that the

termination of Yucca Mountain means longer term temporary

storage and there are no alternatives being considered.

Congress continues to grapple with nuclear waste storage in

hearings and legislation. Many oppose the termination of the Yucca

Mountain geologic waste repository and no legislation has been

introduced that would allow the termination of Yucca Mountain.

While DOE has proceeded with termination because the President

has ended funding for the project, it will require an act of Congress

to change the law. Instead several bills (Roadmap for America’s

Energy Future, H.R. 909, and the No More Excuses Energy Act of

2011, H.R. 1023) have been introduced that would force Yucca

Mountain to move forward.

The President’s Blue Ribbon Commission on America’s Nuclear

Future released a draft report suggesting an independent federal

agency develop one or more new interim or permanent storage

facilities in communities that would accept these projects. The draft

report elicited stronger criticism from policymakers opposed to

terminating Yucca Mountain. For now, it appears that Congress

and the Administration will await the final report of the

commission before taking any further action. �

E. H. STORK, JR., & ASSOCIATES, INC.

Biostratigraphic Specialists* Extensive Regional Paleo Database

* Onshore – Offshore Texas & Louisiana* Over 5,000 Well Inventory

Current Analysis — Drilling Wells


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Onshore – Offshore Texas & Louisiana**

Biostratigraphic Specialists


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Extensiv o Data

Biostrat ecial


Over 5,000 Well Inventory Onshore – Offshore Texas & Louisiana

Extensive Regional Paleo Database

Biostratigraphic Specialists





1 2

3 4 5

6 7

8

9

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13 14 15 16

17 18 19

20

21 22

23

September Crossword of Geologic Terms

ACROSS

3 glacial period from 300,000 to 130,000 years ago

4 passage from Scotia Sea to Pacific Ocean

8 degree to which the Earth’s orbit around the sun varies from aperfect circle

9 underground layer of water-bearing permeable orunconsolidated rock

12 multiple scratches, generally parallel, inscribed on a rocksurface

17 unconsolidated, wind-deposited silt-sized sediment

19 advance and retreat of the last North American continentalice sheet

20 high-density air carried from high elevation down slope

21 reflectivity

22 strait from Arctic Ocean to Greenland Sea

23 crack caused by rapid extension

DOWN

1 continent where exploitation of all mineral resources isbanned until 2048

2 strait from Chukchi Sea to Pacific Ocean

5 rock debris deposited by glaciers

6 low land covered wholly or partly with water, alkaline soil andcharacteristic flora

7 study of water flow in the subsurface

10 outburst flooding from an ice dam break

11 trapped gas compounds buried in permafrost and seabeds

13 accumulation of partially decayed vegetation matter

14 long winding ridge of stratified sand and gravel deposited by asubglacial stream

15 term to describe Earth when the surface became entirelyfrozen

16 glacial period from 110,000 to 10,000 years ago

18 intrapermafrost ice-cored mound

September Crossword of Geologic Terms


A D C C H E R T I I R A C R E A G E O R O X F R Q Y B A U X I T E U I U J O I N T R H E M S T I T E G A B L O W O U T A E F E L S I C S A R H Y P A A L K A L I Q O G U Y O T S E L L V U L D E R D E E P I C E N T E R D R E A C O A B E D R O C K B A T H O L I T H L T R A H U K N O B B U T T E I D G M C A N T H R A C I T E Y I C G Y F G I D I D R A W D O W N N A R N I R I K E O F S A T O L L M A N X T I C G M B S I F H L O R L I M B D R I F T C O E T N E N I R K L R R T E O L I A N M E T A M O R P H I S M A I N F A E B O A A S T H E N O S P H E R E F L I T L I U T R S I L O D E N I O I O K C M T O N T N E G R A B E N N Y E K A R S T

June Crossword Answers June Crossword Puzzle Answers

HGS Welcomes New Members

ACTIVE MEMBERS

Emily Allinson

Neil Appleby

James Beck

Donald Cameron

Joe Dellinger

Camilo Dongo

Don Dunbar

Jack Flannery

Jason Francis

Damian Friend

William Gallin

Khaled Ghuneim

Ernest Grodi

Becky Kowalski

Gerrit Leeftink

Doug Leggate

Natalia Leon-Diaz

Dave Markus

Alex Martinez

Trae Milam

Karyn Olschesky

Julie Parra

Jeffery Ready

Thomas Roberts

Allan Scardina

Andrea Smith

Mitchell Srack

Eric Stiffler

Thomas Wyche

John Yantosca

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

Lucas Fava

Maurice Crowell

David Felty

Tamara Kittleson

Dave Montana

Veronica Tovar

EMERITUS MEMBERS

Donald Lane

John Berry

Rob Dammer

Gaylon Haigood

STUDENT MEMBERS

Nicole Arres

Bryan Byrd

Seth Crawley

Janette England

Garrett Felda

Jessica Hayward

Landon Jones

New Members Effective June and July, 2011

Welcome New Members

HGS Welcomes New Members


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The 2010-2011 year for HPAC is

beginning with such enthusiasm and

high spirits. Our President, Kathi Hilterman,

is completing our Event Calendar and the

committees are finishing their yearly

planning. One committee functioning at

an exciting pace is our Book Club. Martha

Lou Broussard is reviewing Firefly Lane, by

Kristian Hannah, for the November

meeting in the home of Edie Bishop. Guests are encouraged to join

us. Hope all enjoyed their summer and are ready to begin an

extraordinary year.

It is with a great deal of hope for our future that we see such

talented geological graduates enter our industry. Sarah Power

exemplifies this type of graduate. She began her career as a

Schlumberger Intern in the summer 2010, and is now a full-time

employee in Houston at WesternGeco with the GeoSolutions team.

She works on multi-client data from the Gulf of Mexico under the

guidance of her mentor, John Law. Sarah graduated from Stephen

F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, Texas, in December 2010,

with a Bachelor of Science degree in geology with a minor in

Geospatial Science. Sarah had no lack of work experience: she

served as an administrative assistant in the SFASU Geology

Department and at Outdoor Pursuits as an Office Assistant, SFASU

Campus Recreation. At Outdoor Pursuits she helped in the

planning of outdoor trips, educating students on the outdoors, and

taught in the clinic series. She helped plan the annual Earth Day

festivities and taught the positive impacts of going green. Sarah

received numerous awards while at SFASU: Outstanding Student

in Geology (2010), Outstanding Field Camper (2009), and

Outstanding Student in Stratigraphy (2008). She was elected to

membership in Sigma Gamma Epsilon, the National Honor

Society of Earth Sciences, in 2009 and is a Life Member. She was a

member of the AAPG Student Chapter while at SFASU. and served

as chapter Treasurer, Vice President, and President. SFASU was

awarded Honorable Mention in 2010 and again in 2011 for

Outstanding Student Chapter of the year. She is currently a

member of the AAPG Student Expo Committee and has been since

2009. The Expo is held in Houston every fall and is an event to link

students to industry professionals. In 2009 she attended the AAPG

Student Chapter Leadership Summit in conjunction with AAPG

Leadership Days. This conference is where she first met John Tubb.

Sarah belongs to AAPG and the HGS and is active in the NeoGeos.

She presented a paper in 2008 at the Texas Academy of Science

and the SFASU Undergraduate Research Conference (URC):

Paragenetic Sequence and Glacial Effects of the Ophiolite Complex

and Surrounding Area of Gros Morne National Park, Canada.

In 2010 Sarah presented a paper at the GSA North-Central and

South-Central Sections’ Joint Annual Meeting and the SFASU

URC: Geological GIS Mapping of the Northernmost Portion of

the Semail Ophiolite Complex, United Arab Emirates, Eastern

Arabian Plate. She started the research early in 2009 and during

spring break of that year traveled to the United Arab Emirates for

almost three weeks.

Sarah competed in the Imperial Barrel Award program in the

spring of 2010. This is an AAPG International competition that

allows students to work on industry data and then present to

professionals. She was one of two undergraduates worldwide; all

others were Masters and Ph.D. candidates.

Sarah Power was born in St. John’s, Newfoundland in 1988. She

lived in the small town of Goulds, Newfoundland, until she was 11

years old, and was active in sports such as basketball, figure skating,

and ice hockey. She spent summers near the UNESCO World

Heritage Site and national park, Gros Morne. During this time she

fell in love with nature and geology. Sarah became interested in the

oil and gas industry because of her dad’s work on the huge

Hibernia Field Project in Newfoundland. A family day was held to

showcase the hard work that had been done and it left a lasting

impression on her at an early age. Sarah’s mother and father moved

to Humble, Texas, in 1999. Her dad is a mechanical engineer/

QAQC manager for Kellogg Brown and Root, currently on

assignment in Nigeria. Sarah has two brothers, both engineers

working in the petroleum industry.

Because her dad has worked all over the world, Sarah has had the

opportunity to travel extensively. Some of the places include:

United Arab Emirates, Netherlands, Scotland (for Mission work),

Guatemala, Mexico, twenty-six U.S. states, Washington D.C, and

six Canadian provinces. Sarah is actively involved with a youth

outreach church that focuses on the next generation and provides

activities for the youth of the community. What an incredible

young woman.

Remember that HPAC has several Interest Groups: Bridge (contacts:

Audrey Thompkins, 713-686-0005 or Daisy Wood, 713-977-7319)

and/or Book Club (contacts: Martha Lou Broussard, 713-665-4428

or Phyllis Carter, 281-397-9888) and HPAC Exploring Houston

(contact: Martha Lou Broussard, 713-665-4428 or mlbrou@

rice.edu).

Geologists, please encourage your spouses to join HPAC, where

they will have the opportunity to meet other spouses of Geologists,

Geophysicists, Engineers and Landmen. They will participate in

informative and entertaining programs, delicious lunches and

welcoming fellowship.

A HPAC membership form is included on the next page. (Contact:

Winona LaBrant Smith at 713-952-2007 or [email protected]) �

Houston Petroleum Auxiliary CouncilNewsHouston Petroleum Auxiliary Council News

Winona LaBrant Smith, HGS Liaison


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HGS Bulletin 2010-2011 Technical Index2-D seismic..............................................................Sept. 49; Jan. 213-D seismic.........................Nov. 21; Dec. 35; April 53; May 32, 40δ13C ......................................................................................Nov. 29δ15N......................................................................................Nov. 29Abrams, Michael A.................................................................Jan. 25Africa.....................................................................................Sept. 29Agrio Formation ...................................................................Dec. 45Alaminos Canyon.................................................................Sept. 35Alaska ....................................................................................Sept. 43Albertin, Martin L................................................................Sept. 35Allostratigraphy.....................................................................Oct. 23Ameen, Mohammed S.........................................................April 45Analog ....................................................................................Oct. 17Anardarko..............................................................................May 31Anisotropy............................................................................April 53Antarctica .........................................................Nov. 29, 35; Dec. 47Aquifer ...................................................................................Oct. 18Archaeology ..........................................................................Mar. 27Archetypes...............................................................Sept. 35; Jan. 30Arctic.......................................................................................Jan. 21Argentina...............................................................................Dec. 45Arkoma Basin ........................................................................Feb. 21Arlington Archosaur............................................................April 21Armitage, Dominic A. ..........................................................Mar. 47Asymptotic analysis ..............................................................Dec. 47Atlanta Field ..........................................................................Dec. 27Atwater...................................................................................Oct. 11Australia.................................................................................May 39Autochthon...........................................................................Sept. 35AVO anomaly........................................................Sept. 47; April 27Bain, Richard C. ....................................................................May 40Banks Island ...........................................................................Jan. 21Barnard, Alex ........................................................................Nov. 29Barnett ...................................................................................May 25Barreirinhas Basin ................................................................Mar. 29Bashore, Bill...........................................................................May 25Beascochea Bay .....................................................................Nov. 35Beaufort Sea ...........................................................................Jan. 21Bentonite................................................................................Oct. 23Berman, Arthur E...................................................................Jan. 39Best practice ...........................................................................Jan. 25Bevis, Michael ........................................................................Feb. 43Bhattacharya, Janok P. ..........................................................Oct. 23Big Bend State Park...............................................................May 21Biot theory.............................................................................Dec. 47Bioturbation..........................................................................Dec. 47Bishop, Richard S..................................................................Mar. 32Black shale .............................................................................Oct. 21Blind energy map.................................................................Sept. 53Blowout .................................................................................Nov. 43Bludau, Charles E. ................................................................Mar. 27Borehole images.....................................................................Feb. 21Bossier .......................................................Oct. 27; Nov. 39; Feb. 27BP...........................................................................................Nov. 43Bradley, Christopher H. ......................................................April 27Bradore Formation ...............................................................Dec. 45Bransfield Basin ....................................................................Nov. 29

Brazil .......................................................................Dec. 27; Mar. 29Brittenham, Marvin D. .........................................................Oct. 27Cambrian .............................................................................April 49Campbell, Bruce ..................................................................April 53Canada ....................................................................Mar. 47; May 39Caputo, Dennis L...................................................................Feb. 29Carbonate platform..................................Nov. 39; Jan. 30; Mar. 25Carbonate reservoir .......................................................April 45, 49Caribbean Large Igneous Province .....................................Nov. 29Carrizo Block .........................................................................Feb. 15Case studies ..........................................................................Sept. 43Chabyshova, Elmira..............................................................Dec. 47Chalk .....................................................................................Mar. 25Channels................................................................................Nov. 23Chemostratigraphy..............................................................April 31Chile .......................................................................................Feb. 43Climate change ......................................................Nov. 29; Nov. 45CO

2........................................................................................Nov. 23

Coal bed methane .................................................................Oct. 15Commerciality........................................................................Jan. 39Composition..........................................................................Oct. 21Concepción ............................................................................Feb. 43Continent-ocean boundary...................................................Jan. 21Costa Rica .............................................................................Nov. 29Covault, Jacob A. ..................................................................Mar. 47Cretaceous ...................................Oct. 23; Mar. 29; April 21, 27, 33Crustal structure ....................................................................Jan. 21DC-4500.................................................................................Oct. 18Deep water................. Sept. 35; Oct. 11; Nov. 43; Dec. 27; Jan. 17;

Feb. 21; April 27Depositional Environment....................Nov. 39; Mar. 21; April 51Devon .....................................................................................Feb. 27Devonian ...............................................................................Dec. 35Diachroneity ...........................................................Oct. 23; Nov. 29Diatomaceous mud ..............................................................Nov. 29Dinkelman, Menno G............................................................Jan. 21Dong, Chi ..............................................................................Oct. 18Dorobek, Steven .....................................................................Jan. 30Duncan, Peter M...................................................................June 54Dzata-1 well .........................................................................April 27Eagle Ford.......................................................................April 31, 53Earthquake .............................................................................Feb. 43Eastwood, Ray.......................................................................Nov. 39Economics.............................................................................Mar. 37Economides, Michael J. .........................................................Feb. 30Egypt ......................................................................................May 39Encana....................................................................................Oct. 27Environmental assessment....................................................Feb. 29Ethics.......................................................................................Jan. 29Eocene....................................................................................Dec. 27EOR .......................................................................................Nov. 23Eugene Island Block 10........................................................Sept. 47Explorers Cove ......................................................................Dec. 47Facies......................................................................................Dec. 45Farris, G. Steven ....................................................................May 39Florida...................................................................................Sept. 49Fluvial ....................................................................................Nov. 35

2010–2011 Technical Index

Keyword Issue Page #


Foldbelt .................................................................................Sept. 35Fore-arc .................................................................................Nov. 35Foreign policy ........................................................Mar. 37; Mar. 47Forensic investigation............................................................Feb. 29Fracture..................................................................April 45; June 57Frio Formation......................................................................May 40Frye, Donald W. ...................................................................Sept. 47Full azimuth ..........................................................................Dec. 35Future directions....................................................Dec. 23; Mar. 32Gangdese ...............................................................................Nov. 37Gas chimney.........................................................................April 27Gas shale.............................................Oct. 27; Feb. 27; April 31, 53Geochemical technique .......................................................Sept. 43Geochemistry ........................................................Nov. 29; April 31Geochronology.......................................................Nov. 37; Dec. 45Geococktail ...........................................................................Sept. 55Ghana ...................................................................................April 27Gilbert, Ed.............................................................................Mar. 29GIS .........................................................................................Mar. 27Gittens, Adrian......................................................................Dec. 45Glaciation..............................................................................Nov. 35Glacier ...................................................................................Mar. 47Global oil supply...................................................................Mar. 32Godzilla Megamullion..........................................................Dec. 49Goldsberry, Fred...................................................................Sept. 51Graham, Rod ........................................................................Sept. 35Gravity-flow...........................................................................Feb. 21Gregory, Phil .........................................................................Dec. 23Groundwater .........................................................................Oct. 18Growth fault ...........................................................Oct. 35; Nov. 25Gulf of Mexico............................Sept. 35; Oct. 11; Jan. 17; Feb. 21Half-graben...........................................................................Nov. 35Hall, Blaine R.........................................................................May 21Hammes, Ursula ...................................................................Nov. 39Hardin, Laurin ......................................................................Nov. 35Hart, William H. ..................................................................Sept. 35Hatch, Greg...........................................................................Sept. 49Hauterivian ...........................................................................Dec. 45Hayesville ..................................................Oct. 27; Nov. 39; Feb. 27Heavy oil..................................................................Dec. 27; Feb. 15Heterogeneity ........................................................Dec. 47; April 51Highway 290 ..........................................................................Oct. 35Hildred, G.............................................................................April 31Hockley Fault.........................................................................Oct. 35Holocene .........................................................................Nov. 29, 35Horizon rig............................................................................Nov. 43Horizontal drilling ...............................................................Sept. 55Houston..................................................................Sept. 45; Oct. 35Hubbert Curve......................................................................Mar. 32Hull A-102 well ......................................................................Feb. 27Iapetus ...................................................................................Dec. 45Impact craters ........................................................................Feb. 37Imrecke, Daniel.....................................................................Nov. 35Interior Seaway of North America.......................................Oct. 23International..........................................................................Oct. 15John Amoruso field...............................................................Oct. 27Jurassic.......................................................Oct. 27; Nov. 39; Feb. 27

Kelly, Wayne L.......................................................................Mar. 32Key challenges ......................................................................Sept. 31Kilsdonk, Bill ........................................................................Sept. 35Kimmeridgian.......................................................................Nov. 39Krueger, Ana .........................................................................Mar. 29Laboratory measurement.....................................................Dec. 23Lacustrine ..............................................................Nov. 35; April 27Lapout relationships .............................................................Oct. 23Laurentian .............................................................................Dec. 45Law, Carol..............................................................................May 31Levantine Basin.....................................................................Mar. 21Lienhard, John H. ................................................................Sept. 45Limestone ................................................................Dec. 45; Feb. 27Lithostratigraphy...................................................................Oct. 23Log..........................................................................................Oct. 21Loocke, Matthew...................................................................Dec. 49Louisiana ...............................................................................Nov. 39Lower Tuscaloosa Field ........................................................Nov. 21Lunar regolith ......................................................................April 43Macgregor, Duncan..............................................................Sept. 29Mackenzie Delta.....................................................................Jan. 21Macondo well........................................................................Nov. 43Magallanes Block...................................................................Feb. 15Magnetic susceptibility.........................................................Nov. 29Main, Derek J. ......................................................................April 21Marcellus ...............................................................................Dec. 35Marine ..................................................................................April 27Marlow, Lisa..........................................................................Mar. 21Martin, Phil ..........................................................................Sept. 55McAllen Ranch Field ............................................................May 40McCaffrey, Mark ..................................................................Sept. 43McLain, Bill ..........................................................................April 53McMaster, Glenn...................................................................Oct. 15Mead, Kimberly ....................................................................Dec. 47Mediterranean ......................................................................Mar. 21Methodology .........................................................................Oct. 21Mexico....................................................................................Feb. 15Microfabrics...........................................................................Oct. 21Microseismic .........................................................................June 54Miocene .....................................................Oct. 11; Nov. 35; Jan. 17Mississippi.............................................................................Nov. 21Moore, Michael G. ................................................................Oct. 11Moratorium ..........................................................................Nov. 45Mozambique .........................................................................May 31Mulligan, Jim ........................................................................Nov. 21Multi-stage frac ....................................................................Sept. 55Multi-variate statistics ..........................................................May 25Murphy, Mike .......................................................................Mar. 29NASA....................................................................................April 43Nash, Sean R. ........................................................................Mar. 27National energy policy .........................................................Nov. 45Natural gas .................................Nov. 45; Feb. 30; Mar. 47; May 40Neogene.................................................................................Nov. 35Neptune .................................................................................Oct. 11Neuquen Basin......................................................................Dec. 45Newfoundland ......................................................................Dec. 45Nunneley, Jeffrey E. ...............................................................Oct. 21

2010–2011 Technical Index


Offshore.......................Sept. 49; Nov. 43; Dec. 27; Jan. 21; May 31Oklahoma ..............................................................................Feb. 21Onshore....................................................Feb. 15; April 45; May 31Ordovician.............................................................Dec. 45; April 49Organic geochemistry ..........................................................Dec. 45Organic-rich mudrock..........................................................Oct. 21Orogeny.....................................................Dec. 45; Feb. 43; May 21Pamir .....................................................................................Nov. 35Paleocurrent..........................................................................Nov. 37Paleoecology.........................................................................April 21Paleogeography .....................................................................Dec. 45Paradigm shift......................................................................April 45Pennsylvania..........................................................................Dec. 35Perdido..................................................................................Sept. 35Peridotite ................................................................Nov. 29; Dec. 49Permeability ..........................................................................Nov. 27Permo-Triassic .....................................................................April 45Petroleum system..................................................................Mar. 21Petrophysics ..........................................................................Nov. 39Phase reversal .......................................................................Sept. 47Pickens, T. Boone..................................................................Mar. 51Pilcher, Robin .......................................................................Sept. 35Play breakers.........................................................................Sept. 29Pliocene .................................................................................Nov. 35Porfiri, Gisela.........................................................................Dec. 45Precambrian ..........................................................................Dec. 45Pressure ..................................................Sept. 51; Nov. 23; April 55Production allocation ..........................................................Sept. 43Production logging ..............................................................Sept. 43Production..............................................Sept. 55; April 49; May 25Qiuwu Formation.................................................................Nov. 37Quantitative model...............................................................Nov. 25Rajmon, David.......................................................................Feb. 37Ratcliffe, K. ...........................................................................April 31Rebec, Tony ...........................................................................Dec. 35Regional geology ..................................................................Sept. 29Renewable energy .................................................................Mar. 51Reservoir characteristics .......................................Nov. 39; April 45Reservoir geometry ..............................................................Sept. 51Reservoir thickness ...............................................................Nov. 23Resource play...........................................Sept. 55; Jan. 39; April 31Reynolds, Dave.....................................................................April 21Rift .........................................................................................Dec. 49Rock physics ..........................................................................Dec. 23Roth, Murray.........................................................................May 25Rovuma Basin .......................................................................May 31Rowan, Mark ..........................................................................Jan. 17Salt .......................................................Nov. 39; Jan. 17, 35; Mar. 21Sampling ................................................................................Oct. 21Sanchez, Veronica .................................................................Nov. 37Santa Elena Ophiolite Complex ..........................................Nov. 29Santos Basin ..........................................................................Dec. 27Santuario Block .....................................................................Feb. 15Saribudak, Mustafa ...............................................................Oct. 35Saudi Arabia.........................................................................April 45Scale........................................................................................Oct. 21Scotian Slope.........................................................................Mar. 47

Scott, Tony.............................................................................Mar. 27Sedimentation rate ...............................................................Nov. 35Seep .........................................................................................Jan. 25Seismic attenuation ..............................................................Dec. 47Seismic imaging.....................................................................Oct. 11Seismoelectric........................................................................Oct. 18Sequence stratigraphy ..............................Oct. 23; Nov. 39; Feb. 27Schellhorn, Bob.....................................................................Nov. 21Schmidt, K............................................................................April 31Shale gas .......................Oct. 15; Nov. 39; Jan. 39; May 25; June 54Shaley gouge..........................................................................Nov. 27Sondergeld, Carl H. ..............................................................Dec. 23South Marsh Island..............................................................Sept. 47Spinel Cr# ...............................................................Nov. 29; Dec. 49Stabler, Colin..........................................................................Feb. 15Sternbach, Charles A. ..........................................................April 49Stone, Charles D. .................................................................April 43Stress regime .........................................................................June 55Strike-slip ..............................................................................Nov. 35Structure..Nov. 25; Nov. 39; Dec. 35; Jan. 17; Mar. 29; May 32, 40Structural framework ..........................................................Sept. 35Structure map.......................................................................Sept. 53Subsalt...................................................................................Sept. 35Suture zone ...........................................................................Nov. 37Syn-halokinetic growth strata ...............................................Jan. 30Taconian ................................................................................Dec. 45Tano Basin............................................................................April 27Tearpock, Daniel J. .................................................................Jan. 29Tectonic ....................................................Oct. 23; Nov. 37; Mar. 21Tertiary....................................................................Mar. 29; May 31Tethyan ..................................................................................Nov. 37Texas ..............................Nov. 39; Feb. 27; April 21, 31, 49; May 40Thermal history ....................................................................Mar. 21Tibet.......................................................................................Nov. 37Time-lapse 4D seismic .........................................................Nov. 23Tithonian...............................................................................Nov. 39Trap classification.................................................................Sept. 35Treadgold, Galen..................................................................April 53Turbidite ....................................Oct. 11; Dec. 27; Mar. 21; Mar. 47Ultra-deep.............................................................................Sept. 47Uncertainty ..............................................................Oct. 11; Feb. 21Unconformity ......................................................................April 51Unconventional.................................................Oct. 15, 27; May 25UPR/Cabot Etouffe ..............................................................Sept. 47Velocity Model ......................................................................May 40Vorce, Charles L. ....................................................................Feb. 27Walsh, John ...........................................................................Nov. 25Waqia Valley..........................................................................Nov. 35Waterways.............................................................................Sept. 45Wave mechanics ...................................................................Sept. 51Wilcox ...................................................................................Sept. 35Willis, Gar C. ........................................................................Sept. 47Wright, Shawn ......................................................................Nov. 29Xigaze Group ........................................................................Nov. 37Xu, Chunming .......................................................................Feb. 21Zircon ....................................................................................Dec. 45

2010–2011 Technical Index 2010–2011 Technical Index continued from page 79 _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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