The detrital record of syn-orogenic basins provides critical insight into the evolution of orogenic belts. This study evaluates the tectonic significance of the Omarolluk Formation (Nunavut, Canada), a ~3 km thick package of turbiditic wacke deposited on the Superior craton margin during the closing stage of the Manikewan Ocean and the onset of the Trans-Hudson orogen. We utilize field-based techniques, facies analysis, architectural element analysis and stratigraphic correlation to enhance the stratigraphic understanding of the formation. Our results identify nine sedimentary facies consistent with high-density turbidite flows. These form four facies associations representing the major architectural elements of a submarine fan complex: lobe-axis, off-axis, and distal fringe environments. Stratigraphic correlation reveals the progressive development of two major lobe complexes within a primarily regressive system. Our findings suggest the Omarolluk represents axially derived sedimentation with minor transverse input within an early-underfilled pro-foreland basin. This model aligns previous multi-directional detrital zircon provenance with the stratigraphic record and establishes a baseline for future studies of the Superior craton margin and the collisional history of the Trans-Hudson orogen.
McDonald et al. (Tue,) studied this question.