Shoreline geometry and depositional architecture of wave-dominated deltaic successions: Upper McMurray Formation, Central-C Area, Northeast Alberta, Canada

To decipher the complex juxtaposition of laterally adjacent depositional environments that occur in the upper member of the McMurray Formation to the Wabiskaw Member, detailed sedimentological and ichnological analyses were undertaken. Thirteen facies and five facies associations are identified. The study interval consists of shallow-water deltaic to embayed shoreface successions, that increase in thickness and marine influence upwards. Allogenic and autogenic flooding surfaces were distinguished based on sedimentological, ichnological, and geophysical properties. Allogenic flooding surfaces were mapped across the study area, to identify the internal stratigraphic architecture of the upper member of the McMurray Formation. The thicknesses of individual deltaic shingles were identified by mapping their bounding autogenic flooding surfaces. Allogenic flooding surfaces were assessed to identify the viability of use as localized supplemental datums. During McMurray deposition the paleoshoreline evolved from an elongated restricted embayment to a less-confined, open embayment with more normal marine processes.