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Interpreting Oligocene Paleogeography in Southern California Using a Provenance Analysis of the Sespe Formation

Carl Swindle, & Parker Clarke

Published August 15, 2016, SCEC Contribution #6958, 2016 SCEC Annual Meeting Poster #132

The Sespe Formation is a lithified fluvial system that was deposited during the Oligocene. Previous geological investigations aimed at identifying the origins of the Sespe Formation have arrived at conflicting conclusions. This project assists in resolving these conflicts by identifying, mapping, and writing lithologic descriptions of the Sespe that includes the clastic variability and paleocurrent indicators. Data displayed graphically from east to west, and cartographically using GIS software is interpreted in order to suggest potential paleogeography of the Oligocene. Analysis of data suggests the locations of highlands present during the Oligocene, in particular, two independent quartzose highlands along with other, subtler findings. Understanding the dynamics of formations like the Sespe is key to understanding the paleogeography of Southern California.

Citation
Swindle, C., & Clarke, P. (2016, 08). Interpreting Oligocene Paleogeography in Southern California Using a Provenance Analysis of the Sespe Formation. Poster Presentation at 2016 SCEC Annual Meeting.


Related Projects & Working Groups
Tectonic Geodesy