Successful integration of 3-D seismic and multidisciplinary approaches in exploring the Zechstein 2 carbonates in northeast Netherlands

Nederlandse Aardolie Maatschappij has been actively involved in the exploration of the Zechstein 2 carbonate play for over 40 yr. This exploration effort, concentrated mainly in the Drenthe and Schoonebeek area of northeast Netherlands, has resulted in the discovery of 20 gas fields with cumulative reserves of more than 40 x 10[sup 9] m[sup 3] of gas. The wealth of subsurface data collected in the exploration and development of these fields has lead to the establishment of detailed depositional and diagenetic models of the Zechstein 2 carbonates. More recently, extensive three-dimensional seismic coverage, the integration of lateral prediction techniques, and detailed fracture studies in cores have provided powerful predicting tools in the comprehension and exploitation of the play. Successful integration of the various disciplines now allows exploration of subtle low-relief structures in the mature Zechstein hydrocarbon province and helps target directional exploration and development wells.