CNSOPB geoscientists are conducting research to improve the understanding of Nova Scotia's offshore geology.
Technical staff are actively developing a regional seismic, stratigraphic and structural framework for the margin using a number of 2D and 3D reflection seismic data-sets and available wells. The framework will improve the understanding of Jurassic, Cretaceous and Tertiary paleogeography, and will help address several key questions about the hydrocarbon potential of the Scotian shelf and slope.
A particular focus is placed on improving the understanding of deep-water depositional systems where mobile salt has generated a complex array of structures and potential traps on the slope. A number of key questions will be considered: When and where were submarine fans deposited and what are their characteristics? How did slope morphology change through time and what was the impact on fan deposition? Did sand trapping mechanisms exist on the slope and where? What role did along-slope contour currents play in shaping the margin? Do resedimented Cretaceous and Eocene chalks have reservoir potential like they do in the North Sea?
Addressing these questions will help identify potential plays, and will improve the understanding of key risk elements for hydrocarbon exploration on the Scotian margin, including the presence, distribution, and quality of deep-water reservoirs. This work will be particularly useful for new companies wishing to consider exploring deep-water acreage off Nova Scotia.
