Microseismic-Derived Correlations to Production in the Horn River Basin

Abstract

Production from two multilateral pads in the Horn River Basin is compared to microseismic-derived parameters. Microseismic was recorded on a near-surface array in both cases. The number of events recorded on each well tends to have a positive correlation to that well's initial production, while the magnitude of those events does not tend to be a good indicator of production in all zones. Fracture models created from located microseismic events also tend to correlate well to production: modeled fracture area, fracture volume and stimulated reservoir volume all show positive correlations. The method in which the rock fractures can also be an indicator of initial production. Wells with higher percentages of dip-slip type rock failures, which can be associated with hydraulic fractures, tend to have higher initial production. In contrast, wells with a larger proportion of strike-slip events, which are typical of fault reactivations in this zone, tend to have diminished production compared to neighboring wells with fewer reactivation events. By understanding what microseismic parameters positively and negatively impact initial production, operators can optimize well production. This can be done in real-time or in installments during lengthy completions programs through the identification of failure type, fracture geometry, and the relative number of events being recorded.