This 3D property model of the Lower Triassic Montney Formation in west-central Alberta is composed of seven properties: gamma-ray response, total porosity, and total organic carbon that were modelled in 3D, and pressure gradient, temperature gradient, gas-oil ratio, and condensate-gas ratio that were modelled in 2D. We modelled gamma-ray response, total porosity, and total organic carbon in a 3D grid from petrophysical well-log analysis, but modelled pressure gradient, temperature gradient, gas-oil ratio, and condensate-gas ratio in two dimensions based on data that is more sparse and uncertain. We modelled the 2D properties to align with the 3D grid to allow for calculations using all of the properties. We simulated all of the properties using the Gaussian Random Function Simulation (GRFS) algorithm in Schlumberger’s Petrel 2015. In total, 100 realizations were simulated for each of the properties to represent the range of uncertainty in the model.

The model area covers approximately 88 000 km2 and is bounded by the Alberta-British Columbia border in the west, the deformation edge associated with the Rocky Mountains to the southwest, and the erosional edge of the Montney Formation to the north and east. The volume of the model is defined by Montney Formation top and base surfaces that were interpolated from stratigraphic picks. Internal surfaces representing the top and base of the turbidite and coquina geobodies were interpolated.

This model is available for download in the following packages, 

  • a deconstructed model dataset composed of discrete and continuous model horizons as Esri format grids, and zone model extent shapefiles [Download, 6 MB],
  • populated model properties as point data in ASCII format [Download, 1.7 GB],
  • an iMOD model dataset package [Download, 1 GB], and
  • the Petrel project file [Download, 2.2 GB], or
  • all of the above data [Download, 5 GB].

All of the standard format digital datasets can be viewed in iMOD, an open source software, and Petrel, enabling users to visualize rotate, slice, explode, and toggle data on and off in 3D. The iMOD software provides users with an interactive geospatial environment where end users can manipulate 3D geological models and into which they can import their own geospatially referenced subsurface and surface data.

The Lower Triassic Montney Formation extends over a large area of west-central Alberta and is a major drilling target for unconventional oil and gas, with a significant amount of natural gas liquids. The Montney Formation is made up primarily of siltstone, and includes coquinas and turbidite deposits.

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Lyster, S. Playter, T.L., Marshall, F.H. and Berhane, H. (2019): Three-dimensional property model of the Montney Formation in Alberta (dataset, multiple files), Alberta Energy Regulator / Alberta Geological Survey, AER/AGS Model 2019-01.