Preliminary Gulf Coast Coalbed Methane Exploration Maps: Depth to Wilcox, Apparent Wilcox Thickness and Vitrinite Reflectance

Barker, Charles E.; Biewick, Laura R.; Warwick, Peter D.; SanFilipo, John R.

Abstract:

Strong economic controls on the viability of coalbed methane (CBM) prospects make coal geometry and coal property maps key elements in identifying sweet spots and production fairways. Therefore, this study seeks to identify the apparent prospective areas for CBM exploration in the Wilcox Group (Paleocene-Eocene) lignite and coalbeds by mapping net coal thickness, depth to coal, and coal rank (vitrinite reflectance). Economic factors are not considered in this CBM prospects study. Given the comparatively extensive gas pipeline and other production infrastructure development in the Gulf Coast Region, these factors seem less a control compared to other areas. However, open leasable public lands are minimal or nonexistent in the Gulf Coast region and access to the CBM prospects could be a problem.

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USGS Numbered Series

ProdID:

32321

Citation Author:

Barker, Charles E.; Biewick, Laura R.; Warwick, Peter D.; SanFilipo, John R.

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U.S. Geological Survey

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ENGLISH

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Report; 2 Plates; Downloads Directory

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Citation Publisher:

U.S. Geological Survey

Citation Series:

Open-File Report

Citation Series Code:

OFR

Citation Series Number:

2000-113

Citation Search Results Text:

Preliminary Gulf Coast Coalbed Methane Exploration Maps: Depth to Wilcox, Apparent Wilcox Thickness and Vitrinite Reflectance; 2000; OFR; 2000-113; Barker, Charles E.; Biewick, Laura R.; Warwick, Peter D.; SanFilipo, John R.