In this episode of The Crude Truth, hosts Rey Treviño and Kristy Kerns welcome Molly Turko, a structural geologist from Devon Energy, to explore the intricate relationship between geology and oil exploration. Molly shares her journey in the oil industry and discusses how geological formations influence oil and gas production. The conversation highlights the significance of traps and seals in petroleum systems, as well as the role of geologists in identifying potential drilling sites.

The trio delves into how advancements in technology are reshaping our understanding of oil reserves, focusing on tier one, tier two, and tier three wells. They explore the complexities of geological formations, including the impact of fractures and faults on extraction. Molly explains the interconnected geological history of Texas and Oklahoma and addresses misconceptions about earthquakes related to the industry. This enlightening discussion underscores the critical role of geology in America's energy independence and the dynamic forces shaping our planet's resources.

Highlights of the Podcast

03:10 - Molly's Background

06:12 - Field Trips and Geology

08:23 - Geology of the Wichita Mountains

12:02 - Oil Reservoirs and Geological Structures

13:46 - Importance of Traps and Seals

15:50 - The Role of Geologists

16:54 - Understanding Well Logs

20:44 - Advancements in Well Performance

21:27 - Importance of Well Spacing

25:08 - Revitalizing Old Oil Fields

28:06 - Geological Factors in Oil Formation

31:41 - Earthquake Myths

36:10 - Connect with Molly