Abstract: Geophysical and Geological Evidence for the Timing of Structural Movement in Southeastern Michigan

K. R. Johnson, S. A. Colquhoun

The Lucas-Monroe and Howell-Northville structural trends are large regional flexures, which are part of the Washtenaw anticlinorium located in the southeastern Michigan basin. Timing of recurrent periods of structural movement along these prominent features can be documented with greater detail when geophysical data are integrated with available geologic control. Aeromagnetics and state of the industry seismic profiles document timing of movement to a degree of vertical and lateral resolution unobtainable from geologic study alone.

Structural and stratigraphic relationships from integrated geologic and geophysical control indicate that this area of southeastern Michigan was the site of recurrent tectonic activity throughout the Paleozoic. Structural features defined on seismic profiles correlate with basement control and fault zones inferred from interpretation of high-resolution aeromagnetic data. In addition, seismic expressions of solution, collapse brecciation, and dolomitization of Trenton aged rocks demonstrate early movement within the Tippecanoe I sequence. Geophysical data correlates timing of structural movement with orogenic pulses of the Taconic and Acadian orogenic events with possible influence and reactivation of the Grenville front.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90984©1994 AAPG Annual Convention, East Lansing, Michigan, September 18-20, 1994