MODERN SEISMIC EXPLORATION OF THE GULF COAST SMACKOVER TREND
Modern seismic methods, which attenuate multiple reflections, demonstrate the existence of consistent diagnostic primary reflections from the deep Lower Cretaceous formations, from key Jurassic formation boundaries and from the base of the salt along the Smackover trend across Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. These data make feasible, for the first time, realistic delineation of deep subsurface structure. Typical seismic data along the trend are shown and related to subsurface geology. Certain new concepts in salt tectonics along this trend are indicated. The end of Smackover time was the beginning of the first major period of salt flow with related folding and faulting. The Buckner formation, up to possibly 5000 ft thick, represents backfill and base‐leveling material deposited around Smackover mantles over the pre‐Cotton Valley salt swells. Evidence exists of a mother salt bed up to 6000 ft thick. The possibility exists of Buckner reef growth on top of some Smackover lime highs over salt swells. Salt flow tectonics created rim synclines which tend to preclude migration of hydrocarbons into salt‐generated Smackover closures. Optimum evaluation of Smackover prospects requires determination of age, cause, and magnitude of Smackover closures (including rim synclines if present) plus, if possible, detection of reef buildups.