Abstract: Neogene-Quaternary Evolution of the Santa Barbara basin, California

FISCHER, PETER J., California State University, Northridge, Northridge, CA and MESA Cubed, Inc., Whittier, CA andVICTOR B. CHERVEN, Upgradient, Valley Springs, CA

The Cretaceous-Eocene stratigraphic framework of the Sacramento basin was defined by detailed correlations, facies recognition, and sequence analysis primarily based upon electricpaleobathymetric determinations, facies identification, limited seismic reflection (CDP) data, and detailed outcrop mapping.

Late Cretaceous age submarine fans of the Winters and other fommations were primarily controlled by the position of the shelf/slope break and depositional topography, e.g. the horizontal offset stacking of the fan lobes. Later faulting, especially in the central part of the basin, created many structural traps that are currently being successfully exploited using 3D seismic data. So far, this tool appears to be less successful in finding stratigraphic traps near fan margins. During this time broad areas of uplift were controlled by compression behind the subducting Farallon plate.

Paleocene-Eocene uplift and extensional faulting along the Kirby Hill, Oil Creek, and Midland fault zones controlled the position of shelf-break, the deep basin axis, and at least partially the location and times of incision of the early Tertiary submarine canyons and the deep basin sands of Martinez and Meganos age.

Our sections, maps, and concepts define several play-trends and prospective areas that remain to be tested.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90935©1998 AAPG Pacific Section Meeting, Ventura, California