Williston Basin Architecture and Hydrocarbon Potential in Eastern Saskatchewan and Western Manitoba

Targeted Geoscience Initiative II
(TGI II)

Saskatchewan Industry and Resources, Manitoba Industry, Economic Development and Mines, Geological Survey of Canada, University of Alberta and University of Saskatchewan


Regional geoscience knowledge is an essential component in deciphering large-scale basin processes that lead toward effective hydrocarbon- and mineral-exploration strategies. The stratigraphic framework and hydrocarbon potential of the Williston Basin are currently being re-examined in eastern Saskatchewan and western Manitoba as part of the Williston Basin Architecture and Hydrocarbon Potential Project.  This is a two-year collaborative program involving Saskatchewan Industry and Resources, Manitoba Industry, Economic Development and Mines, Natural Resources Canada and academia. The primary objective of this Targeted Geoscience Initiative (TGI) is to develop an integrated geoscience dataset incorporating new stratigraphic data, seismic, gravity and aeromagnetic information, hydrogeological mapping, and remotely sensed data over a large area encompassing the Phanerozoic succession of the northeastern Williston Basin. Exploration for prospective hydrocarbon reservoirs and mineral resources in the Williston Basin is usually led by small Canadian companies, which rely on government and universities for development of advanced modeling techniques of basins. These large regional syntheses provide a consistent framework to develop new exploration ideas in a mature basin. Enhanced knowledge of the distribution of subsurface minerals (e.g. brines and potash), hydrocarbon migration pathways and entrapment mechanisms within and beyond traditional geographic areas of hydrocarbon production have been realized from this regional and integrated approach. A seamless 3-D geological model of Paleozoic- and Mesozoic-aged rocks from subsurface to outcrop in eastern Saskatchewan and Manitoba on which to base further, and more detailed, geological investigations will also be a final product, to be released in September, 2005.

Presently, a preliminary version of the Lower Paleozoic stratigraphic maps (structure and isopach) will be released at the 13th Williston Basin Petroleum Conference. All maps will be available on the Williston Basin TGI website (www.WillistonTGI.com), which will go live on April 25th, 2005. Along with the maps, the website will display the project bibliography for the Williston Basin, regional cross sections, abstracts for upcoming conferences, and the maps.

The final set of maps and report will be released in September, 2005. It is suggested that the user visit the site regularly to view new updates as maps are released as the project moves up the stratigraphic column.