Shelf-to-Basin Seismic Stratigraphy Applied to Static Earth Modeling—An Integrated Approach in Characterizing Wolfcampian–Lower Leonardian Mixed Systems of the Midland Basin

Interpreting shelf-to-basin stratigraphic architectures in the subsurface relies on a multitude of data types that are commonly independent of one another. Integrating seismic, well-logs, and geomodelling approaches provides a holistic approach in characterizing the complexities associated with shelf-to-basin profiles. Outcrop analogs further provide large-scale conceptual models that help guide subsurface interpretations. This study utilizes an integrated approach combining 2D and 3D seismic, core, and triple combo well logs along the margins of the Midland basin of west Texas to construct a shelf-to-basin chronostratigraphic framework spanning Wolfcampian through lower Leonardian stratigraphy. Seismic well ties are achieved by using sonic logs, with well-log correlations tied to published biostratigraphy further constraining shelf-to-basin architectures. Principles of seismic stratigraphy are implemented on all 2D lines in the study area, allowing the mapping of margin, slope, and toe of slope geometries for all 3rd order composite sequences. Seismic interpretations, coupled with formation top mapping of 3rd order composite sequences, are then used to constrain geocellular model parameters. Small sector models were initially constructed, encompassing the 2D and 3D seismic footprints. Numerous rounds of static earth modeling, including both zoneless and zoned approaches, were carried out to evaluate the propagation parameters throughout the modeled volumes. The final geocellular volume includes all sector models stitched together, combining structural and stratigraphic properties from all datasets. Integrating interpretations from multiple dataset types into an encompassing geomodel provides further constrain on characterizing the shelf-to-basin stratigraphic architecture, while allowing the propagation of interpretations in data-lean regions.