Journal of Undergraduate Research
Keywords
paleoslope channels, Jurassic Morrison Formation
College
Physical and Mathematical Sciences
Department
Geological Sciences
Abstract
The purpose of my ORCA project is to determine the nature of the stream systems represented by the Morrison Formation, a unit of sediments deposited 150-million-years-ago (Jurassic-age) that is famed for its dinosaurs, such as Stegosaurus and Allosaurus. Despite the unit’s importance to paleontology, oil and gas exploration, and ancient stream channels on other planets, few studies of this type have been conducted (Clark and Stoker 2004). The study area covers 15 km2 near Castle Dale, Utah, where extensive exposures of the uppermost part of the Morrison Formation occur. There, ancient floodplain deposits consisting of soft clays/mudstones are easily eroded away, exposing the paleochannels (ancient stream beds) as resistant sandstone ridges (Fig. 1 & 2).
Recommended Citation
Chambers, Mariah and Britt, Dr. Brooks
(2013)
"Paleostream channels of the Upper Jurassic Morrison Formation,"
Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013:
Iss.
1, Article 2690.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/2690