New Information on the Arundel Formation

by Dr. Peter M. Kranz

For some time, I have been trying to find the answer to the question does the "Arundel Formation" represent a single zone or multiple zones which are difficult to distinguish because of poor stratagraphic control and limited exposures. While the following information which has come to light recently maybe regarded to essentially anecdotal, it is the first documented line of site stratagraphic control of which I am absolutely certain.

Two distinct exposures of typical "Arundel" lithologies, (i.e. dark grey clay containing lignite and siderite) one at approximately 230 feet above sea level and another at approximately 270 feet above sea level have been detected on the Longwood development site at Muirkirk Maryland. Less certain but seemingly apparent, the old iron mines which follow these deposit are trending East-West at the 270 foot level while those at the 230 foot level are trending more North-South.

As the "Arundel" deposits are believed to have formed in abandoned stream channels, the above observations suggest that the direction of drainage may have shifted at least locally in the intervening interval. Samples have been sent for pollen analysis to determine if any significant time interval separates the two deposits.

Please send comments to the dinosaurfund@juno.com