EPEX 2024 Review

by Matt

Summer of GIS and Geology

by Julian

My Year at the OGSR Library

by Oluwatimileyin

Updating Ontario's Chip Sample Catalogue

by Melissa 

Gaining Experience at the OGSR Library

by Brian

Summer Lab and GIS Assistant

by Nolan

Previously Unreleased EPEX talk now available!

Our latest video is a resurrected presentation from last year's EPEX conference. Click the image above to watch David Olmstead from Stream-Flo Industries with his presentation: Stream-Flo Crown Surface Safety Systems Advancements & Options, the Advancement Continues.

This video was previously unreleased due to poor audio quality (note the lack of microphone), however we were able to make use of some new tools to clean up what we did manage to get. The result isn't quite at our usual technical standards but will nevertheless allow for this presentation from an expert salesman to live on. 

With the flexibility afforded to us by the new printers we have been able to provide the same model using a lighter, more affordable, and durable material while still maintaining considerable quality and accuracy. If detail and larger views of the geology is what you desire, the library designed an oversized version of the model that included the Cambrian (separated from the Ordovician) and the Quaternary on top! This model is also printed in quadrants allowing users to pull it apart along the Algonquin Arch, and East-West across Toronto. If that wasn’t enough, the layers can also be removed similar to our original model, this one using both pegs and magnets to ensure a satisfying connection. 

We have received some great interactions and feedback with people exploring our models during in person events and library tours. One common note is related to the sizes that the models are available in. Model users have inquired about if there may be an option in-between the two. We at the library have also considered a ‘medium’ sized model that fills the gap and think it is a great idea. Those interested in an intermediate model size should keep an eye on our socials this summer as we plan to release it in the coming months. 

The library has also been working on creating a virtual model that will allow users to visually explore the formations and geological ages of Ontario from their own computer browser. This model will additionally feature a mode which challenges players to collect age appropriate fossils as they race the clock to delve deeper into Ontario’s geological history.

A Summer of GIS and Geology

by Julian

Hello, my name is Julian, and I am one of the summer students working at the library this year as a GIS and Database Assistant. I have just finished my third year at Western University where I am studying GIS and Computer Science. 

Since joining the library, I have already worked on many things, such as creating signs for the EPEX Conference, georeferencing, and attributing dates to maps, among other things.

The responsibilities I am currently tasked with are creating super overlays and photogrammetry work. Super overlays are physical maps that have been digitized and then had geographical data given to them in some way (in this case by georeferencing) and are then superimposed, or overlayed, onto Google Earth. This allows you to see a map overlayed onto satellite imagery taken by Google. Photogrammetry involves taking pictures specific cores here at the library from different angles, and then using software to turn them into digital 3D models that can be used for different applications.

I must admit that I never realized the library existed and was blown away by the wealth of knowledge that is handled and stored here. Beginning work here has been an exciting and humbling experience. I have realized that there is a lot learned and that I do not know nearly as much as I thought I did about GIS or Ontario. While my experience in this field is limited, I am excited to be challenged and to learn anything I can about GIS and the oil, gas, and salt industries.

My Year at the OGSR Library

by Oluwatimilayin

Over the past year at the OGSR library since I joined in May, 2023, I’ve had the opportunity to explore a range of interesting and impactful projects. My main tasks have included GIS mapping, which involves creating, editing and updating detailed maps that are crucial to oil and natural gas research. Searching historic records for wells not previously in our database has also been a big part of my role, ensuring that all  information is as up-to-date as can be.

A highlight of my time here has been contributing to two EPEX conferences and trade shows, as they bring people together in the Ontario oil and gas Industry. Last year at EPEX 2023, it was a fantastic experience to see so many professionals come together to share their knowledge. This year, we built on that success for EPEX 2024, which saw even more attendees and offered a platform for some truly inspiring speakers and sessions. My role this year was photographer, and I hope you enjoyed some of the photos from the conference.

Overall, working at the OGSR Library has been both challenging and rewarding. I’ve developed my skills in GIS and database management, had opportunities to meet and interact with people in the oil and gas industry while also playing a part in significant industry events. It’s been a great year, and I’m excited to see what comes next!

Updating Ontario's Chip Sample Catalogue

by Melissa

Hello, my name is Melissa and I’m a GIS and Database Assistant for the OGSR Library who graduated from the University of Guelph with a Bachelor’s in Environmental Governance and from Fanshawe College’s GIS Graduate Certificate program.

Throughout the year I have worked at the OGSR Library one of my primary duties is chip sample photography, which takes place after the library takes the chip samples sent to us after drilling, washes them, puts them into vials and processes them into our system. Once entered into our system chip sample photography begins by using a microscope camera to take photos of the chip samples at 10x and 30x magnification, with multiple photos being taken so we can ensure that a thorough understanding of what makes up the sample can be gleamed from our chip sample photos. The chip samples were also taken at set intervals as it was being drilled so our chip sample photos allow our clients to look at multiple depths of a well, allowing for understanding of a well’s geology from top to bottom. 

Since I started working at the OGSR Library I have added over 5,000 photos to our catalogue. Our chip sample photos can be viewed in our free Google Earth plugin. Be sure to check the box for Microchip Chip Photos as shown in the photo below. Photos have been uploaded recently for T012159, T004933, and T001905. 

Lastly, I recently took part in the EPEX 2024 conference where industry experts, researchers, entrepreneurs and organizations gathered together to watch hosted talks about geology and the energy industry of Ontario. At the conference my duties included being the mic runner for the question periods and watching our booth, introducing the OGSR Library to people and the services we offer. I had a great time at the conference this year and hope I have the opportunity to go to future EPEX conferences.

Hello! My name is Nolan Calderwood and I am currently a summer student at the OGSR Library. I am jointly acting as a Geological Laboratory Assistant and a GIS & Database Assistant. I will be entering my fourth year at Western University receiving a bachelors degree in Physical Geography and GIS. I applied to these roles as I enjoy learning about the natural resource and energy sector.

As a GIS & Database Assistant, I have had the opportunity to work on a project to digitize historic maps from the ‘Brittain’ files. Using common features between archival and modern maps, we are able to pair their locations and associated features. This will provide insight into the development of the Oil and Gas industry over the past century, as well as aid in recovery of any lost data. I have enjoyed the opportunity to strengthen my GIS and analytical skills while applying them to this real-world scenario.

In addition, while working as a Geological Laboratory Assistant I have been able to interact with geological samples from wells drilled across Ontario. I am able to produce samples for clients from our core archive, which can be used by geologists in industry, government, and academia. In the following weeks, I will begin to wash well cuttings we have received, which will be made available for research purposes at the library.    

In my first month at the library, I have worked with technology and physical samples related to the Oil and Gas industry that has furthered my knowledge. I recently attended the 2024 EPEX conference, allowing me to engage with industry professionals and attend presentations advancing my understanding of the operations within the province. I have enjoyed my time at the library thus far, and look forward to the coming months!

Gaining Experience at the OGSR Library

by Brian

Hi! I’m Brian. It has been a year since I joined the OGSR Library as a GIS & Database Assistant and I think it’s a good time to share my experience of working at the library.

For the past year, my main task has been working on a historical well card digitizing project, which is a project that aims to uncover old wells in southern Ontario that did not exist in our database before. My duty is to review the old donated well cards by matching them with the existing OPDS well records. And for those unmatched, my fellow GIS technicians and I then categorize and digitize them.

I was also involved in events that the Library participated in, such as the EPEX 2023 and 2024 conferences, and the GIS Day that was held at Western University. From those events, I got the chance to interact and make connections by networking with experts from different industries, while also learning about the future applications of hydrogen as a source of energy and the oil and gas industry in Ontario, and how the Library can contribute to it.

Besides these events and projects, my usual day in the library is to assist the clients who come to the library to inspect core in the laboratory. I pull core for them, take core photos and make sure everything in the warehouse is well organized.

It’s been a busy but fulfilling year in the Library overall, I believe this position helped me to start my career in the GIS field and I’m looking forward to what is coming next!

New Licences Issued

New Licences Issued for Existing Wells

New Wells TD'd

Plugged Wells

Download the MDR (.xlsx)