TGS has expanded its 2018 onshore seismic survey Dawson Phase II in Canada, the company said July 20.

Following additional client commitments, TGS is expanding its Dawson Phase II 3-D by approximately 150 sq km (57 sq miles). The expansion is to the east of the previously announced program and extends from the province of British Columbia into Alberta. Dawson Phase II will now cover approximately 428 sq km (165 sq miles) in the prolific Montney shale formation.

Permitting on the survey has already commenced and data acquisition is expected to begin in third-quarter 2018. Fast track data will be available in first-quarter 2019, with final data available third-quarter 2019. This dataset will be processed by TGS utilizing its modern land imaging technology which includes delivery of shear wave data in order to enhance reservoir characterization.

“Our customers recognize the value of high quality, contiguous data sets as evidenced by TGS’ success in expanding the scope of our Dawson survey in the Montney Formation of Alberta and British Columbia. Modern seismic data is critical to help [exploration and production] companies delineate zones for horizontal drilling and multi-stage hydraulic fracturing in the Montney, which is experiencing increased drilling and pipeline infrastructure activity,” Kristian Johansen, CEO for TGS, said.

The project is supported by industry funding.