Pitfalls in processing near-surface reflection-seismic data; beware of static corrections and migration

Near-surface seismic data are a challenge to the processing geophysicist who is familiar only with handling seismic data for target depths larger than 200 to 400 m. Residual static-correction techniques and migration procedures are used routinely for processing deeper data and can destroy data quality in the near surface. Near-surface seismic presents unique problems in processing because it usually is of suboptimal quality and often is recorded in an environment characterized by complex geologic structures. In a presentation of three case histories, one shows less severe consequences, and the other two portray disastrous consequences caused by static corrections and migration not being applied correctly. Graphical examples document the limitations of the residual statics and migration procedures. However, the method of hybrid seismic surveying is a positive and generally applicable solution when dealing with data from the shallow subsurface.