Evaporite tectonics and the late Paleozoic stratigraphic development of the Cumberland basin, Appalachians of Atlantic Canada

A study of the Joggins Fossil Cliffs reveals that evaporite tectonics played a crucial role in shaping the late Paleozoic stratigraphic development of the Cumberland basin in Atlantic Canada. The research demonstrates that salt expulsion led to the formation of broad synclines and narrow anticlines, influencing sediment accumulation patterns. In the western Athol syncline, evaporites remained largely undisturbed until the Pennsylvanian period, accommodating thick Joggins succession deposits, including fossil forests with upright trees. Eastern regions like the Tatamagouche syncline experienced earlier salt withdrawal, resulting in thinner Cumberland Group strata. The study's analysis of seismic profiles highlights unique halokinetic structures, suggesting vertical salt movement characteristic of strike-slip basins, which may impact resource distribution, including hydrocarbons.

Waldron, J. W. F., Rygel, M. C., Gibling, M. R., & Calder, J. H. (2013). Evaporite tectonics and the late Paleozoic stratigraphic development of the Cumberland basin, Appalachians of Atlantic Canada. Geological Society of America Bulletin, 125(5-6), 945–960. https://doi.org/10.1130/b30718.1