Earth Modeling Approach Optimizes Development Of Midland Basin Acreage By James Courtier, Joe Wicker, Travis Jeffers and Pat Curth TULSA-Developing a continuous resource play with multiple productive zones of varying geological complexity that total in excess of 4,500 gross feet requires careful consideration to maximize value while fully addressing the inherent technical and economic challenges. Laredo Petroleum has developed a proprietary "earth model" workflow that integrates seismic, well, production, and completion data using multivariate statistical methods to denote the highest productivity potential throughout the entire prospective section in its Midland Basin acreage. Building an early appreciation of development potential allows the highestvalue zones to be prioritized, landing points and wellbore geometries to be designed for optimized production, and planning for no detrimental impact on future development. DECEMBER 2016 51