APPLICATION OF THE ASYMMETRIC DELTA MODEL TO ALONG-STRIKE FACIES VARIATIONS

IN A MIXED WAVE- AND RIVER-INFLUENCED DELTA LOBE, UPPER CRETACEOUS BASAL BELLY
RIVER FORMATION, CENTRAL ALBERTA

CINDY D. HANSEN AND JAMES A. MACEACHERN

Department of Earth Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada, V5A 1S6
email: [email protected]

The early to mid-Campanian Basal Belly River Formation in the Ferrybank, Keystone, and eastern Pembina fields of central Alberta, reflects a
mixed wave- and river-influenced deltaic succession with strong storm overprinting. Prodelta deposits consist of mud-dominated heterolithic
successions, characterized by a low abundance yet moderately diverse trace fossil assemblage attributable to a “stressed” expression of the
Cruziana Ichnofacies. Proximal prodelta to distal delta front intervals comprise interbedded sandy siltstones and very fine- to fine-grained
sandstones exhibiting convolute bedding and sporadic bioturbation. Trace fossil assemblages range from very low to moderate abundance, and
low to moderate diversity; the suites are attributable to a “stressed” expression of the Cruziana Ichnofacies. Distal delta front deposits coarsen
upwards into fine– to medium-grained sandstones of the proximal delta front. High-energy conditions, coupled with strong storm influences,
resulted in erosional amalgamation of tempestites, and led to sporadic distribution of ichnogenera. Proximal delta front intervals are weakly
bioturbated, and trace fossil assemblages are characterized by low abundances and low to moderate diversity. Most forms within the sandstone
facies represent the structures of deposit-feeding organisms. Suites reflect a “stressed” infaunal community and contain a mixture of elements
characteristic of both the Skolithos and Cruziana ichnofacies. Analysis of more than fifty cored wells has revealed prodelta and delta front
deposits that vary markedly along depositional strike. The along-strike variations fit well with the recently proposed asymmetric delta model.
The model is based on observations of modern wave-influenced deltas such as the Danube. This study provides an ancient analogue.
Continued research will seek to further delineate delta lobe asymmetry and concomitant along-strike facies variations, both attributable to
longshore drift and deflection of river-induced stresses downdrift of distributary channel mouths. Organisms are exceedingly sensitive to
fluvial influence and this “stress” is reflected in the relatively low diversity and low abundance assemblages that characterize many deltaic
successions. Ethological preferences and burrow sizes further reflect the level of “stress” imparted on infaunal organisms within the
subaqueous delta environment. Trace fossil suites of river influenced deltaic successions signify a departure from the archetypal ichnofacies
characteristic to shoreface successions, and their mapped distributions may serve as a predictive tool for determining distributary channel
proximity.

INTRODUCTION from phytodetrital pulses, sediment gravity flows, and fluid mud
Identification of deltaic successions is conventionally made on the deposition (MacEachern et al. in press). The “stressed” character of
basis of regional correlations and mapping. Nevertheless, there are the resultant ichnological suites records the dynamic relationship
facies criteria that facilitate identification and differentiation of between fluvial influx, tidal flux, storm events, and wave energy.
various deltaic subenvironments, using the integration of Deltaic successions show marked reductions in bioturbation
sedimentology and ichnology (Coates and MacEachern 1999; intensity, sporadic distribution of burrowed intervals, and
MacEachern et al. in press). The ichnology of deltaic deposits is impoverished assemblage diversities as compared to non-deltaic
comparatively less well understood than are the ichnological shorelines (Moslow and Pemberton 1988; Bhattacharya and Walker
signatures of units deposited in depth-equivalent open shoreface 1992; Raychaudhuri and Pemberton 1992; Gingras et al. 1998;
settings. However, a number of previous studies have recognized that Coates and MacEachern 1999, this volume; Bann and Fielding 2004;
deltaic deposits contain “stressed” ichnological assemblages. MacEachern et al. in press, this volume). Deposit-feeding behaviors
Examples have been described from the Cadotte Member (Moslow tend to dominate in delta front and proximal prodelta settings.
and Pemberton 1988) and the Dunvegan Formation (Gingras et al. Suspension-feeding behaviors, common to shoreface settings, are
1998), which have been further refined by Coates and MacEachern generally suppressed, and depending on the degree of fluvial
(1999, this volume). More recently, Bann and Fielding (2004) and influence, may be completely absent.
(Fielding et al. this volume) documented similar occurrences of Physico-chemical stresses associated with fluvial discharge become
stressed ichnological signatures from Permian deltaic successions in increasingly apparent in proximity to distributary mouths; thus it
the Denison Trough of Queensland, eastern Australia. MacEachern stands to reason that ichnological criteria can be developed for
et al. (in press) provides a summary of the ichnological predicting distributary channel proximity within individual
characteristics of deltas. successions. Furthermore, strong alongshore drift in wave-dominated
It has long been recognized that organisms are exceedingly sensitive and wave-influenced settings acts to extend river-induced stresses
to their environment. At the mouths of deltas, fluvial input into the considerable distances downdrift from distributary mouths (cf.
marine realm results in a variety of environmental stresses on Bhattacharya and Giosan 2003; MacEachern et al. in press).
infaunal organisms. Physico-chemical stresses are largely the result Consequently, for asymmetric wave-influenced deltas, the
of river-induced processes and increased sedimentation rates. ichnological signatures on either side of the distributary mouths will
Conditions at the bed are highly variable during and immediately likely display marked differences that reflect the partitioning of the
following distributary flood discharges. Fluctuating conditions near associated environmental stresses.
the bed may involve hypopycnal-induced water turbidity and/or The objectives of this paper are to: 1) describe the along-strike
hyperpycnal-induced salinity and oxygenation changes resulting variation of facies in a mixed wave and river influenced deltaic

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setting; 2) discuss the application of this data to the recently Belly River Formation as a series of stacked, primarily regressive,
proposed asymmetric delta model (Bhattacharya and Giosan 2003); composite cycles, composed of a central belt of shoreline-related
and 3) discuss the possibility of developing integrated ichnological sandstones that pinch out to the east, and flanked by time-equivalent
and sedimentological criteria for prediction of distributary mouth continental deposits to the west. Power (1993; cf. Power and Walker
proximity within wave influenced deltaic successions. As 1996) described the subsurface allostratigraphy and sedimentology
distributary channels commonly constitute the principal deltaic of cycles (allomembers) C – H, interpreting each of these as a
reservoirs, proximity indicators for locating the channels may have prograding deltaic shoreline deposit. More recently, Coates (2001)
profound implications for hydrocarbon exploration and field employed detailed sedimentological and ichnological facies analysis
development. of cycles D – G; and interpreted them to represent deposition in
mixed wave- / river-influenced delta lobes.
DESCRIPTION OF STUDY AREA AND PREVIOUS WORK
In central Alberta, the basal deposits of the Belly River Formation
The Belly River Formation is an eastward-thinning clastic wedge, occur in subsurface and comprise numerous major hydrocarbon
thickest along the Alberta Foothills and decreasing to its depositional fields (Fig. 2). The interval chosen for this study is Allomember G of
edge in southwest Saskatchewan (Al-Rawahi 1993). The wedge of the basal Belly River Formation. Allomember G forms the main
marine, marginal marine and continental deposits, was laid down hydrocarbon pool in the Ferrybank, Keystone and eastern Pembina
during the mid-Campanian, when the Belly River deltas prograded fields of central Alberta. A substantial core and log database exists
into the Lea Park seaway. The base of the Belly River Formation for this allomember, making it an ideal candidate for a detailed study
thus comprises a series of overlapping and offlapping deltaic lobes concerning the facies characteristics and architecture of a wave-
(Power 1993; Power and Walker 1996). The basal Belly River influenced delta lobe.
Formation is an informal term used by workers in the oil and gas
industry, and refers to the lower sand-rich, marine to marginal
marine units. Above this lies the mud-rich continental deposits that
comprise the remainder of the Belly River Formation. In central
Alberta, the sandstones, siltstones, and mudstones of the basal Belly
River Formation intertongue northeastward with open marine shelf
sediments of the Lea Park Formation (Fig. 1). The base of the Belly
River Formation is defined as a lithostratigraphic contact, marked by
the first major sandstone above the marine shales of the Lea Park.

Fig. 2. Location map of the major Belly River hydrocarbon fields

in central Alberta. The inset depicts the study area within the
Ferrybank and eastern Pembina/Keystone fields (modified after
Power and Walker 1996).
THE ASYMMETRIC DELTA MODEL
It has long been recognized that many modern wave-influenced
deltas (e.g., São Francisco delta, Brazos delta, and the southern lobe
of the Danube delta) show a marked asymmetry in their geometries
(plan view shape) and facies associations (Bhattacharya 1999). The
“classic” model represents wave-influenced deltas as broad, sandy,
arcuate to cuspate (strike-extensive) lobes, and assumes that all sand
is derived directly from the associated river (see Elliot 1978; and
Bhattacharya and Walker 1992 for a comprehensive review of deltaic
facies models). Bhattacharya and Giosan (2003) explained that this
classic model is fairly accurate, but only where net longshore
sediment transport is negligible at the river mouth. In such cases,
wave-influenced deltas resemble, in plan view, the classical
symmetric wave-dominated delta with beach ridges more or less
Fig. 1. Lithostratigraphy of the Belly River and Lea Park equally distributed on either side of the distributary mouth. Thicker,
formations, and stratigraphic equivalents in western Canada more homogeneous sands are interpreted to have been transported by
(modified after Power and Walker 1996). weak, net sediment drift across the mouth, with deposition occurring
on the downdrift portion of the delta lobe. In cases where net
Previous work on the basal Belly River Formation mainly focused on longshore transport is high, however, greater sand deposition occurs
regional-scale geometries, depositional architecture and stratigraphic on the updrift side of the river mouth (Bhattacharya and Giosan
analysis. Wasser (1988) studied the Belly River Formation in the 2003). More complex, heterolithic environments are generated
Pembina region and concluded that the deposits were laid down in downdrift of the mouth due to longshore displacement of fluvial
high-energy (most likely wave-dominated) deltaic and nearshore discharge characteristics, resulting in a pronounced asymmetry of the
environments. Hamblin and Abrahamson (1996) interpreted the basal delta lobe (Fig. 3).

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 Fig. 3. Block diagram illustrating the inferred three-dimensional
facies architecture of an asymmetric delta lobe. A sandy beach ridge
plain characterizes the updrift side of the distributary channel,
whereas more complex heterolithic environments form downdrift
(modified after Bhattacharya and Giosan 2003).
Asymmetric wave-influenced deltas can be divided into an updrift
portion, consisting of massive, sandy-beach ridge plains, and a more
complex downdrift portion, consisting of muddier environments
separated by sandy “shoestring” ridges or bars (Bhattacharya and
Giosan 2003). At the distributary mouth of an asymmetric delta, the
fluvial effluent (plume) exerts a strong groyne effect, causing updrift
retention of the sediment moving along the coast by longshore
processes. Amalgamation of longshore-derived sandy beach ridges
results in a beach ridge plain on the updrift side of the distributary
mouth. At the mouth, sediment is supplied directly by the
distributary and deposited subaqueously. These sediments are later
reworked by waves into shore-parallel, sandy barrier bars. The
formation of a barrier bar creates a protected lagoonal environment,
and a river-dominated bayhead delta may prograde subparallel to the Fig. 4. Schematic representation of Bioturbation Intensity (BI)
coast. The resulting facies formed downdrift are characterized by a values. Values are a function of relative degree of burrowing vs.
succession of elongate sandy ridges separated by heterolithic-prone identifiable primary physical sedimentary structures. Modified after
muddy troughs. The asymmetric delta model thus predicts great Bann et al. 2004, from the original concepts of Reineck (1963) and
proportions of: 1) river-borne muds downdrift, and 2) longshore- Taylor and Goldring (1993).
derived sands updrift, than has been suggested by the “classic” Ichnology: The facies displays an overall scarcity of bioturbation
models for wave-influenced deltas (Coleman and Wright 1975; (BI 0 to 2, typically 1), and with the exception of very rare
Galloway 1975). Cylindrichnus, the assemblage contains only deposit-feeding and
FACIES DESCRIPTION AND INTERPRETATION grazing structures (Fig. 5B). Ichnogenera include relatively common
Phycosiphon, Planolites, and Chondrites, rare Helminthopsis and
Allomember G of the basal Belly River Formation in central Alberta Teichichnus, and isolated Palaeophycus tubularis. Escape structures
can be divided into two distinct facies associations (Hansen (fugichnia) are locally common within thin sandstone beds. Overall,
2005a,b). Facies Association 1 comprises three distinct facies, the facies contains a low abundance, yet moderately diverse trace
whereas Facies Association 2 shows greater variability with four fossil suite, attributable to a “stressed” expression of the Cruziana
facies. Facies designations are made on the basis of sedimentological Ichnofacies (Figs. 7, 8).
and ichnological characteristics. The degree of bioturbation is given
as a Bioturbation Intensity (BI) measurement, with 0 defining absent Facies 1b: Sporadically bioturbated interbedded sandstone and
bioturbation, and 6 reflecting complete bioturbation (Fig. 4). sandy siltstone facies
FACIES ASSOCIATION 1 (FA1) Sedimentology: This facies comprises very fine- to fine-grained
Facies Association 1 consists of three discrete facies (Figs. 5, 6, 7, sandstone interbedded with sandy siltstone. Sandstone beds range in
8). Each facies is described in terms of the preserved sedimentology thickness from centimeter-scale to 25cm. Most stratification within
and ichnology, followed by an interpretation of the facies these beds consists either of oscillation ripple lamination or wavy
association. parallel lamination (Fig. 5C). Wavy parallel (to subparallel)
laminated beds typically display concave-up laminations, though
Facies 1a: Sparsely bioturbated interbedded siltstone and local convex-up laminations are present. Internal laminae, marked by
sandstone facies carbonaceous detritus, typically intersect and truncate underlying
Sedimentology: Facies 1a comprises siltstone and clayey siltstone laminae at low angles (Fig. 5D, E). These are interpreted to be storm
interbedded with very fine-grained sandstone (Fig. 5A). Interbedded deposits consisting mainly of swaley and hummocky cross-stratified
sandstones range from millimeter thick laminations to 5 cm thick sands (SCS and HCS, respectively). Tempestites commonly include
beds. Bed bases are sharp and generally erosive, and commonly small rip-up clasts at the base. Many of these rip-ups are identified as
contain mudstone or siltstone rip-up clasts. Sandstone beds consist of allochthonous Rosselia fragments, and reflect the erosional
oscillation ripple-lamination or wavy parallel lamination. Siltstone truncation and redeposition of Rosselia mudballs and stalks during
and clayey siltstone beds display horizontal laminations. Overall, the storm events (Fig. 5D). As with Facies 1a, the succession shows only
facies exhibits minor convolute bedding, rare synaeresis cracks, and minor convolute bedding, typically 1-5 cm in thickness. Synaeresis
very rare current ripples. cracks are exceedingly rare.

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 Fig. 5. (Previous Page) Representative photographs of Facies 1a (A, B) and 1b (C-I) of Facies Association 1 (FA1). A) Clayey siltstone
interbedded with wavy parallel-laminated, very fine-grained sandstone (BI 1). Planolites (Pl), Phycosiphon (Ph), well 10-3-43-27W4, 950.0
m. B) BI 2. Chondrites (Ch), Rosselia (Ro), well 7-20-43-27W4, 940.1 m. C) Facies 1b. Bioturbated sandy siltstone interbedded with
oscillation ripple and wavy parallel-laminated, very fine- to fine-grained sandstone. Planolites (Pl), Chondrites (Ch), Palaeophycus tubularis
(Pa), well 6-13-43-28W4, 1032.9 m. D) Amalgamated storm deposits with internal laminae truncating underlying laminae at low angles. Note
the allochthonous Rosselia rip-up clasts (Rc) at the base of the tempestite. Planolites (Pl), Thalassinoides (Th), well 7-20-43-27W4, 936.3 m.
E) BI 0-3. Cylindrichnus (Cy), Planolites (Pl), Chondrites (Ch) and Palaeophycus tubularis (Pa), fugichnia (fug), well 10-3-43-27W4, 946.9
m. F) Rosselia (Ro) and Phycosiphon (Ph). Well 10-3-43-27W4, 947.3 m. G) BI 3. Branched large diameter Chondrites (Ch). Phycosiphon
(Ph) with halos, well 10-3-43-27W4, 948.0 m. H) Planolites (Pl), Phycosiphon (Ph), Rosselia (Ro), and possible Rhizocorallium (Rh). Well 7-
20-43-27W4, 936.4 m. I) Interbedded fine-grained sandstone and clayey siltstone, BI 1. Planolites (Pl) and Diplocraterion (Di) with retrusive
spreiten that extends over 10 cm before exiting the face of the core. Well 6-13-43-28W4, 1033.1 m.

Ichnology: The bioturbation intensity is highly variable within this event (storm) and post-event (fair-weather) conditions. Rare
facies, ranging from absent to locally common (BI 0-3), but typically synaeresis cracks and convolute bedding indicate the environment
rare to moderate. The trace fossil assemblage consists of locally was periodically subjected to salinity variations and rapid
abundant numbers of Planolites, Chondrites, and Phycosiphon. sedimentation rates. The significant upward shifting of various
Teichichnus, Thalassinoides, Helminthopsis, Rosselia, and fugichnia infaunal organisms also reflects rapid sedimentation as the
are relatively common, with lesser numbers of Rhizocorallium and tracemaker was required to shift (or re-establish) its burrow in order
Palaeophycus (Fig. 5F-I). Domichnia of inferred suspension-feeding to stay in proximity to the sediment-water interface: including
organisms are subordinate in the assemblage, and are only Diplocraterion with extensive retrusive spreiten, and stacked
represented by isolated Diplocraterion, commonly with extensive Rosselia (formed as the tracemaker re-established its burrow
retrusive spreiten (Fig. 5I). The moderately diverse yet low to following an erosional event and deposition of sediment). The
moderate abundance trace fossil assemblage is attributable to a paucity of significant numbers of suspension-feeding traces reflects
“stressed” proximal to archetypal expression of the Cruziana possible heightened turbidity levels in the water column near the bed.
Ichnofacies (Figs. 7, 8). Such conditions serve to clog the filter-feeding apparatus of infaunal
organisms, in addition to lowering the overall concentration of food
Facies 1c: Sporadically bioturbated coarsening-upward sandstone
resources. The dominance of deposit-feeding structures, and
facies
impoverishment (or exclusion) of Skolithos Ichnofacies elements,
Sedimentology: Facies 1c comprises a coarsening-upward despite the availability of sandy substrates, is indicative of high
succession of upper fine- to lower medium-grained sandstone. The water turbidity and is considered to be a diagnostic indicator of
sandstone contains minor muddy or silty laminations locally. The deltaic conditions (Moslow and Pemberton 1988; Gingras et al.
base of the unit is commonly sharp, though rarely erosive. Wavy 1998; Coates and MacEachern 1999; Bann and Fielding 2004;
parallel and oscillation ripple laminations are common in the lower MacEachern et al. in press).
portion of the unit (Fig. 6A), whereas low-angle and trough cross-
stratification are the dominant sedimentary structures in the upper The trace fossil assemblages of facies 1a and 1b depart from the
part of the unit (Fig. 6B). Apparently structureless (massive) bedding “norm” attributed to offshore environments. Bioturbation within
is also present throughout the facies, but is typically most abundant lower to upper offshore deposits is typically intense and fairly
at or near the base of the succession (Fig. 6C). Some intervals of uniform, though becoming more sporadic with greater storm
structureless sandstones appear to have a “fuzzy” appearance, influence (Pemberton and Frey 1984; Vossler and Pemberton 1988,
possibly reflecting cryptic bioturbation resulting from the meiofaunal 1989; Frey 1990; MacEachern and Pemberton, 1992; Pemberton and
disruption of grain arrangements. MacEachern 1997; Bann et al. 2004). Trace fossil diversity is
generally high and characterized by deposit feeding and grazing
Ichnology: Sporadic distributions of ichnogenera are characteristic structures (Howard and Frey 1984; Pemberton and Frey 1984;
of the sandstone facies. The bioturbation intensity ranges from Vossler and Pemberton 1989). Where thicker tempestites are
absent to moderate (BI 0 to 2) and only a few ichnogenera are preserved, suspension feeding / dwelling and escape structures may
present. Macaronichnus isp., M. segregatis, Rosselia and fugichnia be associated. These structures are preserved within the top-down
are locally common in lower to middle portions of the unit (Fig. 6D,
bioturbation of tempestites, and reflect the gregarious, opportunistic
E). Typically, Rosselia stalks are in situ, without preservation of colonization of sand beds by storm-transported suspension-feeders,
mudball tops. Retrusive and protrusive spreiten are commonly from shoreface to offshore locales (Frey 1990; Pemberton et al.
associated with the shaft and represent shifting of the burrow up or 1992; Pemberton and MacEachern 1997). The term “lam-scram” is
down (respectively), in addition to spreiten formed as a result of commonly applied to such laminated-to-burrowed deposits. Offshore
lateral shifting (Fig. 6F). Muddy rip-up clasts, interpreted to be assemblages thus reflect distal expressions of the Cruziana
eroded Rosselia shafts and mudballs, are common throughout lower Ichnofacies to the archetypal. In marked contrast, Facies 1a and 1b
portions of the unit. Rare to moderate numbers of Ophiomorpha are are typified by relatively low abundance, and low to moderate
locally present, typically in association with the other traces (Fig.
diversity trace fossil assemblages attributable to “stressed”
6G). Where mudstone or siltstone laminations are present, trace expressions of the Cruziana Ichnofacies. Despite the abundance of
fossils may include isolated Planolites, Thalassinoides, sandstone beds, particularly in Facies 1b, the deposits reflect a
Palaeophycus tubularis, and Skolithos. The facies is characterized by paucity of suspension-feeding and dwelling structures.
a low abundance of burrows, and a low to moderately diverse range
of structures that predominantly reflect deposit-feeding behaviors. It is important to note that “stressed” trace fossil suites may also be
The assemblage reflects a “stressed” infaunal community comprising identified from embayment deposits, however the nature of the
a mixture of elements characteristic of both the Skolithos and preserved ichnogenera differ significantly under brackish and fully
Cruziana ichnofacies (Figs. 7, 8). marine settings. Brackish water and fully marine (offshore) suites
generally display high bioturbation intensity, however, bay deposits
FA1 Interpretation typically show diminutive trace fossil size and an impoverished
The interbedded nature and predominance of wave generated diversity (Pemberton et al. 1982; Wightman et al. 1987; Beynon et
bedforms in Facies 1a and 1b reflects the frequent changes between al. 1988; Pemberton and Wightman 1992). Typical intervals contain

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 Fig. 6. (Previous Page) Representative photos of Facies 1c of FA 1. A) Wavy parallel and oscillation ripple laminations. Thick beds of
wavy parallel laminated sandstone (HCS and SCS) with Macaronichnus isp. (Ma). Well 16-1-43-28W4, 952.1 m. B) Trough cross-
stratification marked by carbonaceous detritus. Well 16-28-43-28W4, 1002.9 m. C) Apparently structureless (massive) bedding, possibly due
to cryptobioturbation. Well 10-19-43-27W4, 942.2 m. D) Rosselia (Ro) and Macaronichnus (Ma). M. isp. (uppermost arrow) and M.
segregatis (lower arrow pointing to small diameter, gregarious forms). Stacked Rosselia socialis, well 10-19-43-27W4, 941.2 m. E) Pervasive
Macaronichnus segregatis (Ma) and isolated Palaeophycus tubularis (Pa). Well 02/16-34-43-28W4, 998.6 m. F) In situ Rosselia stalks (Ro)
with lateral and retrusive spreiten. Well 14-24-43-28W4, 982.4 m. G) Ophiomorpha irregulaire (Op). Well 16-28-43-28W4, 1006.2 m.

Fig. 7. Litholog of a representative well (08-08-43-27W4)

showing the facies of FA1 (column opposite) and legend to lithologs
(above).
only 3 or 4 ichnogenera representing opportunistic, simple feeding
strategies of trophic generalists. Such ichnogenera are typically
pronounced facies-crossers. Comparatively, Facies 1a and 1b
comprise relatively low abundance trace fossil assemblages that
contain, in addition to simple facies-crossing forms, complex and
specialized forms such as Phycosiphon and Rhizocorallium,
reflecting stressed but fully marine (non-brackish) conditions (cf.
MacEachern and Pemberton 1994; MacEachern et al. 1999; Bann et
al. 2004; Gingras et al. this volume).
Based on the integration of sedimentological and ichnological
characteristics, Facies 1a and 1b are interpreted to represent
deposition within prodelta and proximal prodelta to distal delta front
environments, respectively, of a prograding wave- and storm-
influenced delta.
The apparently structureless (massive) sandstone beds at the base of
Facies 1c may indicate periods of high sedimentation rates and
concomitant slumping. Such processes are commonplace in distal

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 Fig. 8. (Litholog Opposite) Facies 1c of FA1 showing a
coarsening-upwards succession. Lower to upper fine-grained
sandstones at the base of the succession pass upwards into lower
medium-grained sandstone (14-24-43-28W4). Note the variation in
diversity and intensity of bioturbation, as well as preserved bedding
between Facies 1c of this well as compared to the lower portion of
the facies in Fig. 7A.

portions of the delta front (Elliott 1978). Thick units of

unbioturbated, wavy parallel laminated sandstones, in lower portions
of the facies, are interpreted as erosionally amalgamated SCS
associated with storms. The sandstone facies persistently exhibits a
paucity of vertical burrows of suspension-feeders, interpreted to
reflect heightened water turbidity near the bed. The generally
unbioturbated uppermost coarse-grained portion of the unit, which
contains trough cross-stratified layers and current ripples, reflects
breaking wave conditions, and is consistent with deposition within
the proximal part of the delta front (surf zone equivalent of
nondeltaic upper shoreface settings).
The physical characteristics alone do not permit a detailed
interpretation of Facies 1c. However, the ichnological aspects of the
facies help to preclude the interpretation of a storm-influenced open
marine shoreface (nondeltaic strandplain) setting. A number of
previous studies have identified criteria for differentiating between
wave-influenced shoreface successions from wave- and storm-
influenced delta front successions (Coates and MacEachern 2000;
Coates 2001; Bann and Fielding 2004; also summarized in
MacEachern et al. in press). Distal lower shoreface deposits of
nondeltaic strandplain settings are generally characterized by fair-
weather beds with trace suites that reflect the high diversity
archetypal Cruziana Ichnofacies, commonly juxtaposed with event
beds containing suites reflecting distal expressions of the Skolithos
Ichnofacies (e.g. Howard and Frey 1984; Vossler and Pemberton
1989; Pemberton and MacEachern 1997; Bann et al. 2004). Fair-
weather and event beds of proximal lower shoreface to middle
shoreface deposits contain appreciable numbers of dwelling
structures of inferred suspension-feeding organisms, and passive
carnivore structures, attributable to the archetypal Skolithos
Ichnofacies. In contrast, the fair-weather beds of wave-influenced
delta front successions host significant numbers of markedly facies-
crossing structures of deposit-feeders and passive carnivores. Both
the fair-weather and event beds show relatively few structures of
inferred suspension-feeding organisms. The heightened water
turbidity of deltaic settings excludes most suspension-feeding
behavior and instead, delta front successions are dominated by
facies-crossing structures made by opportunistic organisms, that
employ omnivorous and trophic generalist behaviors (Gingras et al.
1998; Coates and MacEachern 1999, 2000; Bann and Fielding 2004,
MacEachern et al. in press). Shoreface and wave-influenced delta
front deposits both display sporadic distributions of ichnofossils, but
it is only the wave-influenced delta front setting that persistently
displays “stressed” trace fossil suites. It is important to note that this
difference becomes ever more difficult (or impossible) to recognize
with increasing degrees of storm influence (intensity of storm
activity and storm frequency), due to the lack of preserved fair-
weather suites and reduction of the colonization window (e.g.
MacEachern and Pemberton 1992; Saunders et al. 1994; Pemberton
and MacEachern 1997).
The Facies 1c succession displays a profound lack of suspension-
feeding structures (indicating high water turbidity) and is dominated
by the preservation of resilient deposit-feeding structures (in situ
Rosselia stalks and Macaronichnus segregatis) and passive carnivore
structures (Macaronichnus isp). Very rare thin mudstone beds are
locally preserved, are typically burrowed with isolated Planolites and
Macaronichnus isp; and also lack suspension-feeding structures.

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Fair-weather suites are only locally preserved and thus, the isolated Palaeophycus tubularis (Fig. 9H, I). The facies consists of a
sedimentary record of the facies is predominantly one of erosionally very low abundance, and low diversity assemblage attributable to a
amalgamated storm deposits. Deep-penetrating structures such as highly “stressed” marine expression of the Cruziana Ichnofacies
Rosselia, Ophiomorpha, and Macaronichnus have higher (Figs. 11, 12).
preservation potential than shallow tier structures in such storm-
Facies 2c: Cross-bedded and current ripple laminated sandstone
dominated settings, and comprise the vast majority of the preserved
facies
ichnogenera. Facies 1c is characterized by low abundance and low to
moderate diversity suites reflecting a “stressed” infaunal community, Sedimentology: Facies 2c consists of mainly upper fine- to lower
and is interpreted to represent the progradation of a delta front with medium-grained sandstone, which locally coarsens upward to upper
moderate to high storm- and wave-influence. medium-grained sand. Mudstone laminae and beds (up to 2 cm in
thickness) are locally present. Many of the mudstones are dense,
The coarsening-upwards facies succession of Facies Association 1 is
dark in colour, and commonly contain synaeresis cracks (Fig. 10A).
interpreted to represent the progradation of a wave- and storm-
Sedimentary structures include trough cross-stratification and current
influenced delta. Facies 1a and 1b represent deposition within
ripple lamination (Fig. 10B, C). Climbing ripples are locally
prodelta and proximal prodelta to distal delta front environments,
common near the top of the facies (Fig. 10D). Lesser amounts of
respectively. Facies 1c represents deposition within more strongly
low-angle stratification, wavy parallel lamination, oscillation ripples,
storm-influenced, distal to proximal portions of the delta front.
combined flow ripples, and wave-reworked current ripples are
FACIES ASSOCIATION 2 (FA2) locally present throughout the facies. Rip-up clasts, coal fragments
and dispersed carbonaceous detritus are common (Fig. 10E).
Facies Association 2 consists of four facies (Figs. 9, 10, 11, 12).
Spherulitic siderite is commonly pervasive in medium-grained,
Each facies is described in terms of the preserved sedimentology and
ichnology, followed by an interpretation of the facies association. trough-cross stratified sandstone beds (Fig. 10B), and mainly limited
to units that are overlain by Facies 2d. Facies 2c units that overlie
Facies 2a: Sporadically bioturbated interbedded clayey siltstone Facies 2d tend to comprise finer-grained sandstone (for the most part
and sandstone facies lacking beds of medium-grained sandstone) and typically contain no
Sedimentology: Facies 2a comprises interbedded siltstone and spherulitic siderite. Facies 2c sandstones commonly fine-upwards
sandstone, lithologically similar to Facies 1a of FA1. However, the into soft-sediment deformed, interbedded sandstone and siltstone
Facies 2a siltstones contain greater mud content. The facies also (Fig. 10F-H). The fining-upward trend is most evident, though not
display less oscillatory-generated structures and contains a greater restricted to units overlain by Facies 2d. In addition, pedogenic
abundance of current ripples, convolute bedding, and synaeresis slickensides are locally associated with the convolute-bedded,
cracks than Facies 1a. In addition, sandstone beds mantled by dark, heterolithic units.
thin mudstones are a common characteristic of Facies 2a (Fig. 9A). Ichnology: The facies is largely unbioturbated (BI averages 0-1 but
These mudstones contain abundant organic carbonaceous material, locally 2-3). Bioturbation is mainly limited to thin mudstone and
visible on bedding planes as small flakes. siltstone beds, and consists of diminutive traces dominated by
Ichnology: Bioturbation within Facies 2a is highly variable (Fig. 9B, Planolites, with lesser Chondrites and Thalassinoides, and isolated
C). Units range from absent to moderate (BI 0-3). The trace fossil Cylindrichnus (Fig. 10A, C, F, I). Ichnofossils found within the
assemblage consists of locally abundant Phycosiphon, and locally sandy portion of this facies include moderate numbers of escape
common to moderate Planolites, Chondrites and Teichichnus. The traces, in addition to rare Palaeophycus and Macaronichnus. Rooting
assemblage also comprises rare to isolated Cylindrichnus, and adhesive meniscate burrows (AMB) are locally abundant, and
Rhizocorallium, Helminthopsis, Diplocraterion, Rosselia, are typically found in the interbedded siltstone and sandstone
Thalassinoides, Cosmorhaphe and Palaeophycus tubularis (Fig. 9D). intervals near the top of the facies (Fig. 10G, H). AMB are typically
The low abundance, yet moderately diverse trace fossil suite is unlined, horizontal to vertical burrows characterized by back-filled
attributable to a “stressed” expression of the Cruziana Ichnofacies menisci (Hasiotis 2002). Isolated Diplocraterion may be associated.
(Figs. 11, 12). The trace fossil suites of Facies 1a and 2a are The unit is characterized by a very low abundance and diversity suite
comparable in regards to BI and assemblage diversity, and both of predominantly deposit-feeding structures, and represents a highly
record a paucity of suspension-feeding structures. “stressed” assemblage comprising a mixture of elements
characteristic of the Skolithos and Cruziana ichnofacies (Figs. 11,
Facies 2b: Laminated to soft-sediment deformed, clayey to sandy 12).
siltstone facies
Sedimentology: Facies 2b consists of clayey to sandy siltstone with Facies 2d: Variable heterolithic facies
fewer sandstone interbeds than Facies 1b. This facies commonly Sedimentology: Facies 2d is the most variable of the facies in that it
contains thick intervals of convolute bedding, interbedded with thin ranges from heterolithic intervals of shale and sandstone, through
laminated mudstone units (Fig. 9E). The facies also contains shale with minor sandstone lenses or laminae, to a mixture of both,
significantly more dark mud beds, synaeresis cracks, and current with or without convolute-bedded siltstone units. Sedimentary
ripples than Facies 1b (Fig. 9F). Deformed layers commonly overlie, structures include both current and oscillation ripple lamination.
underlie or are intercalated with laminated beds consisting of Oyster shells are common and are typically found at the base of the
repetitive normal grading. Undisturbed composite graded bedsets shale intervals, where sandstone tends to comprise a minor
have a pinstriped appearance (Fig. 9G) and may reach thicknesses in component (Fig. 10J). In addition, a number of plant fossils were
excess of 15cm. Individual graded beds and lamina occur on the identified on the bedding planes of oyster-bearing units.
scale of millimeters to 2cm in thickness. Ichnology: The ichnology of Facies 2d is also highly variable.
Ichnology: Facies 2b displays bioturbation intensities that range Bioturbation intensities range from BI 0-3. Planolites, Chondrites,
from absent to rare (0 to 1). Bioturbation is less variable than that of Thalassinoides, and Rosselia are locally common in the sandier
Facies 1b. Planolites dominates the ichnological assemblage, and upper portions of shale-dominated intervals (Fig. 10K, L). Where
Chondrites and fugichnia are locally common. The remainder of the heterolithic intervals of clayey siltstone and sandstone are found, a
assemblage comprises locally moderate numbers of Phycosiphon, relatively more abundant and diverse trace fossil assemblage is
Rhizocorallium, Cylindrichnus and Teichichnus, and very rare, preserved. Ichnofossils in these units include Palaeophycus,

9
10
 Fig. 9. (Previous Page) Representative photographs of Facies 2a (A-D) and 2b (E-I) of Facies Association 2 (FA2). A) Thin event beds
(tempestites) mantled by dark mudstone beds. Note how the mudstone bed truncates the underlying laminae of the tempestites, indicating a
probable hyperpycnal origin to the muds (sediment-gravity flow transported along the bed). Chondrites (Ch) and rip-up clasts (ruc). BI of 3 in
the lower beds. Rhizocorallium (Rh) and Planolites (Pl). Well 3-35-46-2W5, 1024.9 m. B) BI 1, Phycosiphon (Ph), Planolites (Ph), and
Chondrites (Ch). Synaeresis cracks (syn). Well 3-35-46-2W5, 1023.4 m. C) BI 3. Phycosiphon (Ph), Cosmorhaphe (Co), Planolites (Pl),
Chondrites (Ch) and Rhizocorallium (Rh). Well 6-31-46-1W5, 983.8 m. D) Facies 2a. Phycosiphon (Ph) and Chondrites (Ch). Well 3-35-46-
2W5, 1025.5 m. E) Facies 2b. Thick intervals of convolute bedding. Note the flame structures near the top of the photo, well 7-20-46-1W5,
1002.7 m. F) Synaeresis cracks (syn) and Chondrites (Ch). Well 16-15-47-2W5, 959.6 m. G) Repetitive graded bedding. BI 0-1 with rare
fugichnia (fug). Well 3-35-46-2W5, 1021.4 m. H) Interbedded sandstone and muddy siltstone with oscillation ripples, wavy parallel
laminations, and synaeresis cracks (syn). Isolated and diminutive Palaeophycus tubularis (Pa) and fugichnia (fug). Well 6-31-46-1W5, 977.2
m. I) Possible hyperpycnal mud drapes with Planolites (Pl) and Chondrites (Ch). Note the faint current ripple laminations in the lower
sandstone bed, well 10-9-47-2W5, 1019.7 m.

Helminthopsis, Phycosiphon, Cylindrichnus, Teichichnus, character. Trough cross-stratified and large-scale ripple-laminated
Rhizocorallium and Asterosoma (Fig. 10M, N). Rooting and beds commonly display abundant spherulitic siderite marking the
adhesive meniscate burrows are locally common in the siltstone internal stratification, suggesting that the sediments were derived
horizons. The facies is characterized by low to moderate abundances from soils on the delta plain (cf. Leckie et al. 1989). During floods,
of traces and a low to moderate diversity assemblage. The trace and during autocyclic migration of channels, the low-lying areas of
fossil assemblage in this facies consists predominantly of deposit- the delta plain are inundated and the spherulitic siderite contained
feeding structures, and reflects a “stressed” community of infaunal within the soils is liberated, making them available for transportation
organisms that are characteristic of both the Skolithos and Cruziana to the delta front. Dark (organic-rich) mudstone laminae and thin
ichnofacies (Figs. 11, 12). beds are locally common, and quite possibly represent hyperpycnal
muds that flowed across the bed during periods of high fluvial
FA2 Interpretation discharge, but they may also represent mud drapes from hypopycnal
Current-generated structures and synaeresis cracks are common to flows (deposition of flocculated clay from a buoyant mud plume).
Facies 2a and 2b, and reflect a strong fluvial character with recurrent The sandstones and mudstone interbeds display an exceedingly low
salinity fluctuations. These are probably associated with heightened abundance of burrowing and a low diversity trace fossil assemblage,
river discharge, related to flooding or high precipitation events reflecting stressed environmental conditions. Pedogenic slickensides,
(freshets). Increased fluvial influx may result in muddy to sandy abundant rooting, and the presence of adhesive meniscate burrows
sediment-gravity (hyperpycnal) flows that move along the bed as (AMB) in the upper portion of the facies provide evidence of
dense freshwater plumes. Where mud-laden flows reach the prodelta, subaerial exposure and incipient soil formation. Beetle larvae and
a freshwater lens would lie above the bed for a short period of time, adult soil bugs are the suspected tracemaker of AMB (Hasiotis
and the resultant salinity contrast may facilitate the formation of 2002). The backfill menisci formed as the insect shifted within the
synaeresis cracks (MacEachern et al. in press). Composite graded substrate, perhaps feeding on plant roots and organic matter within
bedsets reflect rapid sedimentation and abundant convolute bedded the upperparts of soils, and thus the trace represents both locomotion
intervals indicate numerous episodes of slumping and dewatering, and feeding behaviors.
possibly also as a result of freshet-induced hyperpycnal flows. The Facies 2d overlies or is intercalated between units of Facies 2c. The
close association of soft-sediment deformed beds, composite graded oyster-bearing succession (Facies 2d) likely reflects brackish water
bedsets, and dark, organic-rich mudstone beds with synaeresis conditions and is interpreted as representing deposition within a quiet
cracks, suggests that salinity reductions may have been concomitant bay or lagoon setting, along the lower delta plain. The
with phytodetrital pulses and hyperpycnal-emplaced turbidites (cf. sedimentology and ichnology of this facies varies drastically from
Rice et al. 1986). The organic mudstones show very little biogenic place to place, the main controlling factor likely being the proximity
reworking and indicate that their emplacement, at least temporarily, to bayhead deltas. The depositional environment attributed to Facies
may have resulted in dysaerobic conditions that hindered 2c depends on the stratigraphic context of the units. Where Facies 2c
opportunistic colonization of both the fluid mud and the underlying underlies Facies 2d, the units are interpreted as delta front deposits
sand (Leithold 1989; Raychaudhuri and Pemberton 1992; Leithold that were subsequently overlain by the deformed sandy siltstones and
and Dean 1998; Coates and MacEachern 1999; Bann et al. 2004; immature soils (of the upper portion of Facies 2c), during continued
MacEachern et al. in press). progradation of the delta lobe and subsequent subaerial exposure on
Facies 2a and 2b comprise, respectively, a moderate to highly the delta plain. Where Facies 2c overlies Facies 2d, it is interpreted
“stressed” marine expression of the Cruziana Ichnofacies, reflecting to likely represent a number of variable depositional environments
the fluctuating environmental conditions associated with fluvial typical of the lower delta plain, including bayhead deltas (that shed
input. Facies 2a contains a relatively more diverse and abundant into the bays / lagoons of Facies 2d) and tidal channels.
trace fossil assemblage than Facies 2b, and is interpreted to represent Facies Association 2 is interpreted to represent the progradation of a
deposition in a prodelta setting, more distant and less directly river-dominated delta. Facies 2a and 2b represent deposition within
impacted by fluvial stresses than Facies 2b. Facies 2b contains a prodelta and proximal prodelta to distal delta front environments,
more highly impoverished trace fossil suite and more sporadic respectively. Facies 2c (underlying Facies 2d) represents deposition
distribution of traces than Facies 2a, reflecting the influence of within distal to proximal portions of the delta front. Facies 2d and
markedly stronger fluvial stresses. Based on the integration of Facies 2c (that overlies Facies 2d) represent lower delta plain
sedimentological and ichnological characteristics, Facies 2a and 2b deposits.
are interpreted to represent deposition within prodelta and proximal
prodelta to distal delta front environments, respectively, of a DISCUSSION
prograding river-dominated delta. The progradation of both deltaic and non-deltaic shorelines produces
Facies 2c comprises sandstone that is characterized by abundant coarsening-upwards successions. Strandplain deposits are identified
current-generated structures, reflecting an exceedingly strong fluvial using an integrated ichnological and sedimentological model,

11
12
 Fig. 10. (Previous Page) Representative photographs of Facies 2c (A-I) and 2d (J-M) of Facies Association 2 (FA2). A) Dark mudstones
and current ripple-laminated sandstone beds, locally displaying synaeresis cracks (syn). BI 0-1, Chondrites (Ch). Well 6-1-47-2W5, 964.3 m.
B) Trough cross-stratification marked by carbonaceous detritus and dispersed spherulitic siderite, well 2-15-47-2W5, 971.2 m. C) Current
ripple-laminated sandstone. BI 0-1, Planolites (Pl) Well 14-35-46-2W5, 1000.0 m. D) Aggradational current ripples (climbing ripples). Well
10-9-47-2W5, 1015.1 m. E) Sandstone beds containing coal fragments, carbonaceous detritus and siltstone / mudstone rip-up clasts. Also note
the dispersed spherulitic siderite. Well 8-27-46-2W5, 1016.7 m. F) Interbedded fine-grained sandstone and siltstone. Soft-sediment
deformation. Planolites (Pl). Well 4-11-47-2W5, 970.9 m. G) Adhesive meniscate burrows (amb). Well 12-22-46-2W5, 946.5 m. H) Root
traces (rt) and adhesive meniscate burrows (amb). Well 8-22-46-2W5, 988.0 m. I) Planolites (Pl) and Chondrites (Ch). Well 2-6-46-1W5,
981.2 m. J) Facies 2d, mudstone or sandy mudstone with abundant fossilized oysters. BI 0. Well 8-22-46-2W5, 987.4 m. K) Bioturbated
sandier portion of the facies. Thalassinoides (Th) and Planolites (Pl). Well 4-11-47-2W5, 968.0 m. L) Rosselia (Ro) and Chondrites (Ch),
well 7-20-46-1W5, 995.6 m. M) Heterolithic clayey siltstone and fine-grained sandstone with a BI 1-3. Teichichnus (Te), Planolites (Pl),
Phycosiphon (Ph) and Chondrites (Ch). Well 6-16-46-1W5, 995.4 m. N) BI 2, Chondrites (Ch), Phycosiphon (Ph) and Planolites (Pl). Well 6-
16-46-1W5, 995.2 m.

whereas deltaic successions are conventionally identified on the Along depositional strike of the Allomember G delta, FA1 is limited
basis of detailed mapping of sand body geometries. More recently, to more northerly locations and FA2 is located only to the south. The
studies have recurrently identified deltaic deposits as containing along-strike facies variations have major implications for
“stressed” ichnological assemblages. The integration of interpretation and architecture prediction of the delta lobe.
sedimentological and ichnological characteristics of deltaic deposits Bhattacharya and Giosan (2003) developed a model to explain the
has led to more reliable determinations of the relative degree of three-dimensional geometry and facies architecture of a number of
influence imposed by river, tidal, wave, and storm influences. modern asymmetric, wave-influenced deltas characterized by strong
A number of recurrent sedimentological characteristics have been longshore drift. Their model indicates that a strong groyne effect
identified in deltaic successions. Convolute bedding is a common generated at the distributary mouth tends to impede sediment drift.
feature to deltaic prodelta and distal delta front deposits, and is most As a result, amalgamated beach ridges accumulate on the updrift side
abundant within river-dominated successions, where thick soft- of the distributaries, whereas more heterolithic units develop
sediment deformed units are commonly interstratified with downdrift where the succession is more river-dominated. The
undeformed units consisting of repetitive graded bedsets. Synaeresis formation of barrier bars downdrift creates protected lagoonal
cracks, formed as a result of salinity fluctuations, and current- environments that act as sediment traps for fine-grained sediment.
generated structures tend also to be most abundant within river- Lagoonal sediments may show a strong riverine component,
dominated settings. Finally, dark organic mudstone drapes probably particularly if linked to secondary bayhead deltas that accumulate
indicate hyperpycnal emplacement, and comprise significant subparallel to the coast behind barrier bars.
numbers in river-dominated deposits. FA1 contains only minor
amounts of convolute bedding, synaeresis cracks, current-generated CONCLUSIONS
structures and dark, organic mudstones, and no appreciable Allomember G of the basal Belly River Formation is characterized
thicknesses of repetitive graded beds, indicating a lesser degree of by facies that contain “stressed” ichnological assemblages that depart
river influence than the subaqueous deltaic deposits of FA2. from the ichnological signals characteristic of strandplain
The determination of the relative degree of river, tide, wave, and successions. Such assemblages are consistent with a deltaic signal.
storm influence can be further refined with the integration of The facies can be easily subdivided into two facies associations,
ichnological characteristics of prodelta and distal delta front based on ichnological and sedimentological variations. FA1 and FA2
environments. The interaction of various delta front processes results are interpreted to represent deposition in an overall wave- and storm-
in a variety of physico-chemical stresses being imposed upon influenced delta; however, deposits of FA2 contain characteristics
infaunal organisms, and this is reflected in the “stressed” trace fossil more consistent with deposition in a river-dominated deltaic setting.
assemblages of most deltaic successions. “Stressed” ichnological The facies associations that comprise Allomember G fit well into the
suites are characterized by impoverished trace fossil assemblage asymmetric delta model of Bhattacharya and Giosan (2003). The
diversities, low (though variable) degrees of bioturbation (BI facies architecture of FA1 matches the high sand content and strong
generally averaging 0-3), and sporadic distribution of ichnogenera wave-influence expected along updrift portions of the delta. Reduced
throughout the deposits. Ethologies are overwhelmingly dominated river influence in the updrift facies is reflected by more pervasive
by grazing and deposit-feeding behaviors, with an abundance of bioturbation, higher trace fossil diversities and greater ethological
facies-crossing forms. The deltaic signal is especially strong in sandy range. Vertical dwelling structures of inferred suspension/filter
substrates, where very low numbers of suspension-feeding structures feeding infauna are more common within FA1. In contrast, the facies
are found, despite the availability of sandy substrates. architecture of FA2 is consistent with the heterolithic nature and
Although both river-dominated and wave- and storm-influenced river-dominated influences that would be expected downdrift of
deltaic successions show “stressed” ichnological suites, the wave- distributary channel mouths. The increase in environmental
influenced deltaic setting is characterized by relatively more diverse fluctuations and thus physico-chemical stresses on infaunal
and abundant trace fossil assemblages. Waves act to buffer fluvial communities in downdrift portions of the delta front, is reflected by
effects in wave-influenced deltas and the resultant deposits typically the dominance of current-generated structures, normally graded
contain more of the “classic shoreface” character, in terms of the bedding, soft-sediment deformation, synaeresis cracks, and inferred
sedimentology and ichnological signals. Trace fossil assemblages in hyperpycnal mudflow deposits. In addition, bioturbation is less
river-dominated settings reflect a much greater degree of physico- pervasive than in the updrift facies and trace fossil assemblage
chemical stress. The deltaic ichnological signals are most prevalent diversities show greater impoverishment. The structures of inferred
in the proximal prodelta to distal delta front deposits of both river- suspension-feeding organisms are conspicuously less evident in the
dominated and wave-influenced deltaic successions. FA2 consists of downdrift facies. Furthermore, the occurrence of bay/lagoonal and
less diverse, less abundant (overall), and more sporadically bayhead delta deposits completes the expected stratigraphic
distributed trace fossil suites than FA1, reflecting the significantly architecture of a downdrift portion of an asymmetric wave-
higher stress levels imposed upon the FA2 infaunal communities. influenced delta.

13
 Fig. 11. Litholog of well 06-01-47-02W5 showing facies of FA2.

14
 Fig. 12. (Previous Page) The facies of FA2 show a greater degree BHATTACHARYA, J.P., AND GIOSAN, L., 2003, Wave-influenced deltas:
geomorphological implications for facies reconstruction: Sedimentology, v. 50, p.
of variability from well to well than the facies of FA1. This 187-210.
variability is highlighted when comparing the Figure 11 facies BHATTACHARYA, J.P., AND WALKER, R.G., 1992, Deltas in Walker, R.G., and James,
succession with that of another representative well (02-06-46- N.P., eds., Facies Models, Response to Sea Level Change: St. John’s, Geological
01W5). The prodelta to distal delta front successions (Facies 2a and Association of Canada, p. 157-178.
COATES, L., 2001, The Ichnological – Sedimentological Signature of Wave- and River-
2b) are rather comparable, both comprised of numerous intervals of Dominated Deltas: Dunvegan and Basal Belly River Formations, West-Central
convolute-bedded strata. However, the 06-01 well shows a higher Alberta [Master of Science Thesis]: Simon Fraser University, 259p.
degree of river influence suggested by the higher quantity of current COATES, L., AND MACE ACHERN, J.A., 1999, The ichnological signature of wave- and
river-dominated deltas: Dunvegan and Basal Belly River Formations, West-Central
ripple laminated beds and synaeresis cracks. The successions are Alberta, in Wrathall, B., Johnston, G., Arts, A., Rozsw, L., Zonneveld, J-P., Arcuri,
characterized by highly ‘stressed’ trace fossil assemblages, though D., and McLellan, S., eds., Digging Deeper, Finding a Better Bottom Line:
locally variable with respect to BI and diversity. Facies 2c that lies Canadian Society of Petroleum Geologists & Petroleum Society Core Conference,
above Facies 2d is interpreted as bayhead delta deposits. The unit Calgary, Alberta, paper 99-114C.
COATES, L., AND M ACEACHERN, J.A., 2000, Integrating ichnology and sedimentology to
consists of abundant thin, dark-colored mud drapes. These are differentiate between river-dominated deltas, wave-dominated deltas, and
probable hyperpycnal-induced deposits that were transported along shorefaces, examples from the Cretaceous of western Canada: Geological Society of
the bed during high discharge events (freshets). America, Cordilleran Section, 96th Annual Meeting, Vancouver, British Columbia,
v. 32, p. A7.
COLEMAN, J.M., AND WRIGHT, L.D., 1975, Modern river deltas: variability of processes
FUTURE WORK and sand bodies, in Broussard, M.L., ed., Deltas, Models for Exploration: Houston
Geological Society, Houston, Texas, p. 99-149.
The asymmetric delta model is based on observations of modern ELLIOTT, T., 1978, Deltas in Reading, H.G., ed., Sedimentary Environments and Facies,
wave-influenced deltas. This is the first study to apply the model 2nd edition: Blackwell Scientific Publications, Oxford, p. 113-154.
directly to an ancient system. Continued research seeks to further FREY, R.W., 1990, Trace fossils and hummocky cross-stratification, Upper Cretaceous of
Utah: Palaios, v. 5, p. 203-218.
delineate delta lobe asymmetry and concomitant along-strike facies GALLOWAY, W.E., 1975, Process framework for describing the morphologic and
variations, both attributable to longshore drift and deflection of river- stratigraphic evolution of deltaic depositional systems, in Broussard, M.L., ed.,
induced stresses downdrift of distributary channel mouths. Infaunal Deltas, Models for Exploration: Houston Geological Society, Houston, Texas, p.
organisms are exceedingly sensitive to fluvial influences, and thus, 99-149.
GINGRAS, M.K., M ACE ACHERN, J.A., AND P EMBERTON, S.G., 1998, A comparative
the ethological preferences, trace fossil abundances and assemblage analysis of the ichnology of wave- and river-dominated allomembers of the upper
diversities are a direct reflection of imposed environmental stresses. Cretaceous Dunvegan Formation: Bulletin of Canadian Petroleum Geology, v. 46,
It thus follows that mapping distributions of bioturbation intensity p. 51-73.
HAMBLIN, A.P., AND ABRAHAMSON, B.W., 1996, Stratigraphic architecture of “Basal
and assemblage diversity, may serve as a predictive tool for Belly River” cycles, Foremost Formation, Belly River Group, subsurface of
determining distributary channel proximity. Understanding the facies southern Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan: Bulletin of Canadian Petroleum
architecture and spatial distributions of wave-influenced deltas may Geology, v. 44, p. 654-673.
have important implications for predicting and mapping reservoir HANSEN, C.D., 2005a, Along-strike facies variations in a mixed wave- and river-
influenced delta lobe, Upper Cretaceous basal Belly River Formation, Ferrybank
quality. Recognition of ancient asymmetric delta lobes may and E. Pembina fields, central Alberta, in American Association of Petroleum
therefore, potentially lead to more efficient and predictable reservoir Geologists 2005 Annual Convention, Programme and Abstracts, Calgary, Alberta:
exploitation. June 2005.
HANSEN, C.D., 2005b, Facies variations in a mixed wave- and river-influenced delta
lobe, Upper Cretaceous basal Belly River Formation, Ferrybank and E. Pembina
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS fields, central Alberta, in Campbell, K.A., and Gregory, M.R., eds., 8th International
This paper arises from the preliminary M.Sc. research of C. D. Ichnofabric Workshop, Programme and Abstracts, Auckland, New Zealand, p. 42.
Hansen. This project was made possible with the generous funding HASIOTIS, S. T., 2002, Continental Trace Fossils: SEPM, Short Course Notes 51, 132p.
HOWARD, J.D., AND FREY, R.W., 1984, Characteristic trace fossils in nearshore to
provided through the Industrial Postgraduate Scholarship program of offshore sequences, Upper Cretaceous of east-central Utah: Canadian Journal of
the National Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada Earth Sciences, v. 21, p. 200-219.
(NSERC). Support for this scholarship came through both NSERC LECKIE, D.A., FOX, C.A., AND TARNOCAL, C., 1989, Multiple paleosols of the late
Albian Boulder Creek Formation, British Columbia, Canada: Sedimentology, v. 36,
and an industry partner, EnCana Corporation. EnCana is gratefully p. 307-323.
acknowledged for its logistical and financial support of this project. LEITHOLD, E.L., 1989, Depositional processes on an ancient and modern muddy shelf,
J.A. MacEachern has been funded by NSERC Operating Grants northern California: Sedimentology, v. 36, p. 179-202.
#184293. Special thanks to Kerrie Bann, for her critical review of the LEITHOLD, E.L., AND D EAN, W.E., 1998, Depositional processes and carbon burial on a
Turonian prodelta at the margin of the Western Interior Seaway, in Dean, W.E., and
manuscript and the insightful suggestions that followed. Arthur, M.A., eds., Stratigraphy and Paleoenvironments of the Cretaceous Western
Interior Seaway, USA: SEPM, Concepts in Sedimentology and Paleontology, v. 6,
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