Pool names

A pool is a specific underground reservoir within a field. While a field covers a geographic area, a pool identifies the exact geological formation and zone being produced. Each pool has both a name and a numeric code assigned by the AER.

How pool names work

Pool names typically combine a formation name with a zone identifier. The format is usually FORMATION ZONE, where the zone letter or code distinguishes different reservoir units within the same formation.

Examples of pool names

• CHARLIE LAKE FFF — Charlie Lake formation, zone FFF
• LEDUC D-3A — Leduc formation, D-3A reef unit
• VIKING A — Viking formation, A pool
• MANNVILLE BHL — Mannville group, BHL zone (Basal Hoadley)
• BELLY RIVER J — Belly River formation, J sand

Pool codes

Each pool also has a numeric code for database purposes. For example, pool code 0322252 corresponds to CHARLIE LAKE FFF in the Wembley field. You'll see these codes in AER data exports and regulatory filings.

Why pools matter

Different pools within the same field can have vastly different characteristics—pressure, fluid type, permeability, and production potential. A well's pool designation determines:

• Which reservoir the well is licensed to produce from
• Production allowables and royalty calculations
• Applicable enhanced recovery schemes
• Regulatory reporting requirements

Pools vs. fields

Think of it hierarchically: Alberta → Field → Pool. A single field like Pembina can contain dozens of pools across different formations (Cardium, Viking, Mannville, etc.), each with its own production characteristics and regulatory status.