Re-evaluating the tectonic model for the Arbuckle Mountains, Oklahoma by spatial and geometric analysis of stratigraphic and structural trends

Understanding the spatial distribution and geometric relations between stratigraphy and structural features can allow for a more accurate tectonic timeline to be considered for not only the Arbuckle Mountains but for the assembly of modern North America. The Arbuckle Mountains in south central Oklahoma exhibit structurally complex stratigraphy associated with regional features like the Southern Oklahoma Aulacogen, the Arbuckle Anticline and the Washita Valley fault. Camp Classen YMCA and Turner Falls city park in Davis, OK, hosts observed, but largely unmapped, small scale structural features that best represent the magnitude of deformation. The goal of this study was to determine if the complicated small scale structural features at Camp Classen and Turner Falls can be explained by the larger tectonic timeline already attributed to the area. Mapping these features produced a tectonic model that was compared to the regional model. A highly detailed geologic map was produced to reveal the spatial continuity and characteristics of geologic units expressed on the surface. Contacts between geologic units are difficult to discern so a petrographic microscope to study the sedimentary petrology was vital. Additionally, there is a lack of detailed geologic maps for the area, which demonstrates the need for further research. Stereonet 9 was used to create stereonets, which will aid in classifying and determining the locations and types of folds, faults, and joints. These data and the trends they represent were compared to the existing regional tectonic model constructed by Ham et al. (1975). If the models denote different tectonic histories then a new interpretation must be considered. The fault kinematics and geometry controlled the spatial distribution of stratigraphy throughout the mapped area. These mapped features indicate a large left lateral strike-slip system associated with the Washita Valley Fault. New interpretations indicate that this system hosts the Collings Ranch basin and that it’s bounding faults are not the same as previous interpretations.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S. in Engineering Science

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Geology and Geological Engineering

Year dc:date.available

2017

Author dc:creator

• Kolb, Dakota James

Contributors dc:contributor

• Jennifer Gifford
• Louis G. Zachos
• Brian Platt

• Oklahoma Aulacogen
• Petrology
• Stratigraphy
• Structural Geology
• Tectonics
• Washita Valley Fault
• Geology

Repository record dc:identifier

https://egrove.olemiss.edu/etd/1319

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:egrove.olemiss.edu:etd-2318