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

Open-File Report 2000-113
By: , and 

Links

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.
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Preliminary Gulf Coast Coalbed Methane Exploration Maps: Depth to Wilcox, Apparent Wilcox Thickness and Vitrinite Reflectance
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 2000-113
DOI 10.3133/ofr2000113
Edition -
Year Published 2000
Language ENGLISH
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Contributing office(s) U.S. Geological Survey
Description Report; 2 Plates; Downloads Directory
Online Only (Y/N) N
Additional Online Files (Y/N) Y
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details