Sequential architecture in a fluvial succession; sequence stratigraphy in the Upper Cretaceous Mesaverde Group, Prince Canyon, Utah

• DOI: 10.1306/d426822a-2b26-11d7-8648000102c1865d
• Publication Date: 2003-01-19T19:21:18Z
• Authors: T. Olsen; R. Steel; K. Hogseth; T. Skar; S. L. Roe
• Keywords: Sequence (biology); Sequence Stratigraphy

ABSTRACT Five unconformity-bounded sequences have been documented within a 1300 m thick succession of predominantly fluvial Upper Cretaceous and Lower Tertiary deposits in the Price Canyon area westernmost part Book Cliffs, east-central Utah, U.S.A. This experienced major tectonically induced changes paleogeography during deposition. The earliest study were formed relatively simple foreland basin setting front Sevier Orogenic Belt, contain more marine influence than previously recorded. Following gradual termination thrusting, sedimentation became increasingly controlled by uplift San Rafael Swell to southeast. Our studies suggest that systems upper alternated bet een being confined valley open towards north directly eastward flowing. On basis observed sequences, an idealized model alluvial whose internal architecture can be related fall-rise-fall cycle stratigraphic base level, has established. Upward or downward position this level dictate creation destruction accommodation on plain therefore exert direct control sequential sandstone body geometry successions. In our model, basal sequence boundary is overlain amalgamated sheet. sheet succeeded fining-upward, mudstone-rich with isolated bodies, may culminate lacustrine transgression. show coarsening-upward trend heralding next phase base-level fall sequence-boundary generation. Use suggested potential refine existing lithostratigraphic schemes and, given higher resolution detailed correlation, significantly improve paleogeographic reconstructions aid prediction potentially hydrocarbon-bearing reservoirs. A revised refined lithostratigraphy established analysis. lower half forms youngest eastward-prograding clastic tongue, Mesaverde Group, Campanian. We divide into Blackhawk, Castlegate, River Formations. rest Maastrichtian Paleocene referred North Horn Formation. formation was deposited intermontane setting.