Natural fractures orientation and density in the Bakken formation, local and regional stresses
Both Induced and natural fracturing occur within the middle Bakken from where most Bakken wells are drilled. The level of thermal maturity, source rock thickness, proximity to source facies and level of hydrocarbon generation can be pointed out as the reason behind the distribution and frequency of horizontal, open fractures in the middle member of the Bakken. The Bakken formation comprises three distinct members, upper and lower Bakken, and middle Bakken member, which is the primary reservoir rock, although the other members also have reservoir potential.
Horizontal fracture development in the middle member increases towards the boundaries of ...