Events

Date: Thursday, April 17th, 2025
Time: Wine served at 11:00 am  |  Lunch & Lecture starts @ 11:30 am to 1:30 pm
Venue: Petroleum Club of Houston, 1201 Louisiana St, Houston, TX 77002

Presenter:

Steve Hartzell: Southern Star Exploration

This presentation highlights the exploration efforts of Southern Star Exploration LLC, a small independent company focused on oil and gas development along the Gulf Coast. It details the discovery and development of the Big Al Field in Jasper County, Texas, including the successful identification and drilling of the Knot Kahuna Prospect— a three-way structural trap at the top of the Wilcox formation. Utilizing over 1,000 square miles of 3-D seismic data, regional mapping, and integrated subsurface analysis, Southern Star achieved a drilling success rate exceeding 50%, with reprocessed data resulting in over 75% success. To date, the Big Al Field has produced more than 1.3 million barrels of oil and continues to yield over 200 barrels per day.

Steve Hartzell is a seasoned petroleum geologist with 47 years of experience in exploration and production across the Gulf Coast. He began his career at Amoco Production Company and has held senior positions at Tesoro, Moore McCormick, and American Hunter. In 1999, he co-founded Southern Star Exploration LLC, where he continues to serve as Co-Owner and Geologist. Steve specializes in integrating 3-D seismic with geological data to generate high-potential drilling prospects throughout Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas.

Date: Thursday, April 17th, 2025

Time: Wine served at 11:00 am  |  Lunch & Lecture starts @ 11:30 am to 1:30 pm
Venue: Petroleum Club of Houston, 1201 Louisiana St, Houston, TX 77002

*** 2025 Season Luncheon Pass Holders PLEASE RSVP at bottom of event page along with registration. Cost will be $0 but it lets us know you're coming. ***

**Early-bird registration ends Monday April 14th at NOON.
Late / walk-in registration tickets will be available for $65 for both members and general admission**