--> Abstract: Timing and Paleoclimate Indicators in Columbia Group of New Jersey Coastal Plain, by James F. Bowman, II, Robert Holzer, William Lodding; #90972 (1976).
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Abstract: Timing and Paleoclimate Indicators in Columbia Group of New Jersey Coastal Plain

James F. Bowman, II, Robert Holzer, Previous HitWilliamTop Lodding

The nonglacial Quaternary formations of the coastal plain in Staten Island, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania comprise the Columbia Group. On geomorphologic evidence, the fluvial Pensauken Formation has been regarded as the middle formation of this group. Although the Pensauken clearly underlies the Wisconsin till, its relations to the presumed older Bridgeton Formation and presumed younger Cape May Formation never have been demonstrated directly. Lack of stratigraphic continuity precludes superposition. Despite evidence of fluvial origin for most of the Pensauken, some authors suggest a glacial origin. The Pensauken has not proved susceptible to direct radiometric-dating methods.

X-ray-diffraction analyses of a clayey zone have revealed a gibbsite-rich paleosol that appears to be intraformational in the Pensauken. Because aluminous laterites are associated with warm, humid climates, an interglacial origin is inferred. Fossil flora supports this hypothesis.

The writers have found micrometeorites in the Pensauken and Cape May(?) Formations. As meteorite showers are episodic, micrometeorite zones may prove to be usable as marker horizons.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90972©1976 AAPG-SEPM Annual Convention and Exhibition, New Orleans, LA