Full Title: Lithofacies and Reservoir-Quality Analysis of Upper Jurassic Smackover Strata in Northeast Texas; Basic Data for Lithium Exploration (Off-site).
Endorsed by: GSA's Environmental and Engineering Geology, Environmental and Engineering Geology Divisions, American Association of State Geologists (AASG)
Industry tracks: Economic Geology
Led by: Robert Loucks
Date: Fri. 17 Oct. 2025
Time: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Format: In-Person
Location: Off-site
CEUs: 0.4
Join us for a unique offsite short course exploring the Smackover Formation in northeast Texas, a promising target for lithium exploration. This course will delve into the Upper Jurassic Smackover's reservoir characteristics, which are crucial for evaluating the economic potential of lithium-rich brines. The Smackover's production potential, much like that seen in Arkansas, depends on the reservoir quality influenced by lithofacies and dolomitization processes. The most promising reservoirs are found in Upper Smackover dolograinstones, with a lithofacies sequence that transitions from anoxic laminated microbial mats to peloidal mudstones, wackestones, oncolitic peloidal packstones, and is capped by ooid grainstones. Led by Dr. Robert Loucks, a Research Professor at the Bureau of Economic Geology, University of Texas, this course provides invaluable insights into carbonate lithofacies, diagenesis, and reservoir quality. With over 50 years of experience in geosciences and extensive research on the Smackover Formation, Dr. Loucks will guide participants through the key geological processes shaping lithium brine reservoirs. The course will take place offsite, with a bus departing the convention center at 10 a.m. to the facility. Lunch will be provided. This is an excellent opportunity for geoscientists and industry professionals to gain hands-on experience and deepen their understanding of this important geological formation. Don't miss out--reserve your spot today!
By purchasing this item, you are buying a seat for an in-person course.
Short courses offer continuing education units (CEUs). One CEU equals 10 hours of participation in an organized continuing education experience under responsible sponsorship, capable direction, and qualified instruction.
Learn more about this and other GSA Connects 2025 events.
For additional information, please contact Rebecca Taormina, rtaormina@geosociety.org, GSA Field Trip and Short Program Coordinator.
Product Code: SC25CN513
Product Category: SHORTC