Facies Architecture and High Resolution Sequence Stratigraphy of the Cretaceous Gallup Sandstone Formation in Window Rock, Arizona

In the past, the Gallup Sandstone has been interpreted as a strand plain, prograding coastal barrier and delta front, and a regressive beach and offshore bar deposit. More recent and ongoing research suggests that the Gallup Sandstone was deposited in an asymmetrical wave influence delta and shows a higher degree of complexity than previously thought. A new along dip regional sequence stratigraphic interpretation of the Gallup sandstone using bentonites as highly accurate datums upon which to base the correlations show never before seen internal complexity throughout the Gallup.

This thesis aims to better understand the vertical and lateral facies and sequence stratigraphic relationships of the Gallup Sandstone Formation within the vicinity of Window Rock, Arizona and with sections east which are part of the regional sequence stratigraphic interpretation. This research will help develop a more accurate depositional facies model for the Gallup Sandstone as well as help in providing a proximal to land context for the regional correlation in order to better understand the regional relationships of the Gallup Formation.