Stratigraphy, sedimentology and resource potential of the upper devonian duperow formation, Southwestern Manitoba

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Exploration for conventional oil and gas resources in western Canada is generally considered to be at a mature stage. However in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, considerable potential still exists for new conventional resources in deep formations such as the Devonian-age Duperow Formation. These formations have been under-explored, particularly in Manitoba, due in large part to the limited geological knowledge available about the formations. The proposed project will investigate the stratigraphic and sedimentological characteristics of the Duperow Formation in southwestern Manitoba in order to understand the controls on the reservoir and source rock potential of the formation. The project is a partnership with ARC Resources Ltd. in Calgary, Alberta. A multi-disciplinary approach will be used which includes (1) characterizing and interpreting the sedimentation pattern of the platform deposits, (2) describing the post-depositional features and interpreting their sequence of formation, (3) using geochemical techniques to assess the influence of biological processes, paleotemperature and rock-water interactions on post-depositional alteration, and (4) evaluating the factors that control porosity and permeability in potential reservoir rocks, and organic matter accumulation in source rocks. The results of the project will help refine geological models for the evolution of Devonian platforms and for the origin of Devonian petroleum reservoir rocks and source rocks. These results may potentially contribute to the economy of Canada by stimulating petroleum companies to undertake new exploration in the Duperow Formation in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. The project will help to address the trend of decreasing numbers of geoscientists working in the Canadian petroleum industry by providing career-related training of highly qualified personnel.