Date of Graduation

12-2016

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Geology (MS)

Degree Level

Graduate

Department

Geosciences

Advisor/Mentor

Zachry, Doy L.

Committee Member

Potra, Adriana

Second Committee Member

Dumond, Gregory

Keywords

Earth sciences; Arkoma basin; Depositional environment; Middle Atoka Formation; Stratigraphy

Abstract

Wire line logs are widely used in analysis of the subsurface stratigraphy of the middle Atoka Formation, Central Arkoma Basin, Western Arkansas. SP log, Gamma ray log, resistivity log and conductivity log provide valuable information to construct cross sections.

The middle Atoka formation is composed of a succession of shale and sandstone alternations with thickness reaching approximately 3000 feet in the study area. It contains several sandstone units which include Morris, Tackett, Areci, Bynum, Casey and Dunn”A” separated by shale intervals. The purpose of this study is to identify these units and predict sequence stratigraphy and depositional environment by constructing cross-sections, observing wireline logs and associating previous research. Several isopach maps are made, explaining the development of sandstone in target units such as Tackett and Casey.

The sequence stratigraphy of the middle Atoka formation is mainly composed of transgressive systems tracts and part of a highstands systems tract. The intervals indicate successive sea-level cycles associated transgression and regression from shallow marine to shoreface.

The middle Atoka formation has been proved as a significant exploration target since 1950’s. In order to understand geologic setting and find potential reservoirs within the Arkoma basin, it is vital to comprehend the sequence development and depositional environment of the intervals within the middle Atoka.

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