Exploration for Pleistocene aggregate resources using process-depositional models in the Fort Mcmurray region, Ne Alberta, Canada

Abstract

At present, the Fort McMurray region of Alberta, Canada, is experiencing an aggregate supply shortage. Both Syncrude and Suncor oil sand mines have exploited most of their local reserves, and haul costs are rapidly increasing from distant new sources. Previous aggregate studies in this region have focused on mapping known deposits rather than explaining the distribution of gravel by using process-depositional models as exploration tools and exploring for sources closer to the aggregate users. Aggregate deposits in the McMurray region are associated with two major Pleistocene geomorphic events: (1) glacial Lake McMurray; and (2) a catastrophic flood from glacial Lake Agassiz. Aggregate resources associated with Late Pleistocene glacial Lake McMurray are subaqueous fan deposits, beaches and deltas. Several large aggregate deposits are found along the benchlands of the lower Clearwater and Athabasca valleys. These valleys are a former spillway system eroded by a catastrophic flood from glacial Lake Agassiz 9900 years before present (BP). Discovery of other aggregate resources in the McMurray region will be best accomplished by understanding the flood soillway depositional patterns and regional deglacial history.