Development Design of Midland Basin Edge Using Measurements and Modeling

Abstract The Midland basin is one of the most actively developed basins in the world. The primary unconventional reservoirs, Wolfcamp and Spraberry, are targeted basin-wide by various operators. While many of the development decisions across the broader Midland basin are well studied and published, including target benches/sub-benches, well spacing, completion intensity, and frac order, there is often limited applicability of prior data and learnings to structurally isolated mini-basins within Midland basin. To better understand fracture growth, vertical communication, and development choices specific to the mini-basin, a data acquisition program was designed and executed. The data acquisition program consisted of a vertical well with open hole logging suite, geochemistry sampling, and external pressure gauges. In addition, six horizontal wells were monitored during the stimulation and production phases. Interpretation of the acquired data, coupled with integrated fracture and reservoir models, enabled rigorous testing/validation of development choices. Fracture sequence and completion intensity has been observed to refine well spacing and target benches. This paper covers the integrated workflow that coupled interpretation of data acquired through a unique data acquisition program, modeling, and sensitivity analysis to inform future development and targeted appraisal choices in the mini-basin.