Sequence Stratigraphy of the Lower Cretaceous Goodland Formation, Southeastern Oklahoma
W. B. Edwards and R. W. Scott
Department of Geosciences, The University of Tulsa
The Cretaceous Goodland Formation is a light gray limestone cropping out in South Eastern Oklahoma. The focus of this study was to determine the distribution of the Goodland and its lithologic and stratigraphic characteristics. Weyerhaueser Paper Company has provided two cores that have been logged and cut for thin sections. This unit is used as a seal for the wastewater storage pond at the Valliant Paper Mill in South Eastern Oklahoma and part of this study will address its properties as an efficient seal.
The field study conducted over the summer involved locating out crops and measuring the exposed section. The results showed a decrease in thickness from east to west. The upper contact between the Goodland and the overlying Kiamichi Formation is an unconformity that is sharp and can be recognized by its distinct rusty red appearance. The contact has 8-10 cm of relief which suggest subaerial exposure. In the eastern half of the field area the upper 2 feet can be defined by the presence of rudists which are calcite and mud replaced. In the western half of the field area there are no rudists in the upper 2 feet and the contact is less distinct. The facies of the rock can be interpreted as shallow water near shore environment. The overall sequence stratigraphy can be defined as a transgressive shoaling up systems tract. The petrographic analysis will be conducted over the next month as well as isotope analyses of the upper contact to determine subaerial exposure.
AAPG Search and Discover Article #90087 © 2008 AAPG/SEG Student Expo, Houston, Texas