Sampling of Formation Water from Wells in the Athabasca Oil Sands (In Situ) Area, Alberta, 1999-2001 - A Compilation of Protocols and Methods

Between 1999 and 2001, the Alberta Geological Survey (AGS) completed a water-sampling program in northeastern Alberta. Water samples were collected from gas wells completed in the Lower Cretaceous Viking Formation, Colony Member, Grand Rapids Formation, Clearwater Formation, Wabiskaw Member and McMurray Formation. Samples were also collected from wells completed in the Upper Devonian Nisku and Grosmont formations. The results will be used to establish a baseline hydrogeochemical data set for these formations within the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board (EUB)-designated Athabasca Oil Sands (in situ) Area.

The sampling protocols documented in this Geo-Note are the result of a subsequent literature review and of personal communication with a number of research scientists involved in formation-water sampling in the oil and gas industry. The protocols and methods include sections on: 1) site preparation and setup; 2) sampling for major, minor and trace elements, isotopes of O, H, C, B, S and Sr, organic acids, radionuclides, silica, C1, Br and I; 3) quality control; and 4) site cleanup and equipment decontamination.