GSC Calgary maintains a repository of subsurface rock samples (core, cuttings & documentation) derived from petroleum exploration drilling in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and the frontier regions of northern Canada and offshore regions of the east and west coasts. Non-confidential samples can be examined by the public (Alberta samples can be examined at the adjacent facilities of the Alberta Government). Samples from the frontier regions are managed by GSC Calgary on behalf of the National Energy Board.

Repository staff retrieve material for examination and sampling as requested. There are 14 examination booths and seven core tables available for use by internal researchers and the public.

Sampling

Sampling of cores and unwashed cuttings is permitted under strict guidelines, and any resulting thin sections, polished sections and data must be returned at the end of the loan period, when they become part of the Processed Subsurface Collection.

Policy for sampling cores depends on the condition of the core and the requirements of the proposed analysis. The maximum permitted sample volume is one cubic inch per linear foot and no sample may include a significant fraction of the core diameter of any horizon. Under special circumstances, permission may be granted for over-sampling. All requests for sampling that threaten to impair the geological value of the core will be refused.

Requests for cuts of unwashed drill cuttings are on a first-come first-served basis. A maximum of 20g per sample interval is permitted for each procedure.

A maximum of 6-8 grains per vial is allowed for washed cuttings, depending on the volume of material in the vial. The remaining contents of each vial must contain essentially the same proportion of constituents prior to sampling.

All resulting analytical data, petrographic thin sections, recovered macrofossils, microfossils, palynomorph slides and preparations must be returned to the Repository, where they will contribute to the inventory of subsurface material. Any unused core material and other residues or unprocessed material should also be returned. Except under exceptional circumstances, loans are for a period of 6 months.

Anyone wishing to sample well material should address their requests in writing to the Repository Superintendent Al Scott, indicating the purpose of the studies, the volume of material required, and the name and intervals of interest for each well. Permission to over-sample requires explanation of the relevance of the work to the geoscientific community. If permission to sample is received, arrangements for sampling can be made by calling the Repository 1 - 403 - 292-7057).

Note: Cores and cuttings are not usually provided ahead of time. Alberta washed cuttings are not available to the public.

Hours:  Monday - Friday

Rates:  Sample booth or core table

Photocopying : $0.25/copy

Charges may be waived (with the approval of an officer of GSC Calgary) for individuals conducting research as part of a university program, for employees of the Government of Canada or a province of Canada, or for the benefit of an educational or scientific society.

Contact: Al Scott