Depositional and structural history of the Sedgwick basin, South Central Kansas in relation to petroleum entrapment

Abstract

The Sedgwick Basin is an important hydrocarbon producing area in Kansas. Subsurface structural and isopach (thickness) maps and cross-sections illustrate the depositional and tectonic history of the area. It has undergone several episodes of compression followed by tensional deformation during the Paleozoic, which formed anticlinal and fault bounded structures that were conducive to hydrocarbon accumulation. Also, there were several episodes of sea-level fall and attending subaerial exposure that produced unconformities and reservoir porosity. Approximately 110 million barrels of oil and 118 MCF of natural gas have been produced over the last 92 years in the area. The structural and stratigraphic mechanisms important in hydrocarbon entrapment and future potential in this area are assessed.