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

Targeted Geoscience Initiative II
(TGI II)

Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and Resources, Manitoba Science, Technology, Energy 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 has re-examined in eastern Saskatchewan and western Manitoba as part of the Williston Basin Architecture and Hydrocarbon Potential Project. This is a collaborative program involving Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and Resources, Manitoba Science, Technology, Energy and Mines, Natural Resources Canada and academia. The primary objective of this Targeted Geoscience Initiative (TGI) was 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 2008.

All maps produced from this project will be available for free download in the Maps section. Along with the maps, the website displays the project bibliography for the Williston Basin, regional cross sections, abstracts, papers from conferences, final geophysical report and maps, virtual field trips, and geological tops database.

The final set of maps and report will be released in stages in 2008. 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.

TGI study area