Computer-Based Subsurface Mapping - CSM

For geoscientists, contour maps have long been one of the most common tools used to convey information. In the modern petroleum industry, contour maps are generally derived from grids created in interpretation software packages. Maps, or the grids themselves, are used to evaluate prospectivity, estimate prospect volumes, pick drilling locations, and are the inputs for basin models, and static reservoir models. Despite the importance of these maps and the underlying grids, there is often a poor understanding of how the grids are generated and what the implications may be for the final map. The underlying theme in this course is to think about what you are mapping. Common gridding algorithms and parameters are reviewed, with an emphasis on their strengths and weaknesses for different geological problems and input data sets. Participants are asked to generate a variety of maps from different input data types, seeing the impact that varying parameters can have on a single input data set. Participants will also utilize various methods of quality control, grid editing, and grid manipulation (operations).