Abstract

A regional geologic map of Missourian and Desmoinesian shales and limestones was constructed for Eastern Oklahoma using sources spanning over 100 years of investigative research and data from paleontologists, stratigraphers, professors, field geologists, mappers and surveyors. The project goals were to: extend correlations across county boundaries, correlate lithic units across facies changes, apply modern stratigraphic nomenclature and models, aid future paleontologists in the identification of rock members at fossil bearing locations, and display the stratigraphic relationships within the various cyclothems. The main framework of the map was compiled from Oklahoma Geological Survey (OGS) Oklahoma geologic state map and several of the OGS county surface geology maps. The formations shown on the OGS maps were digitized, corrected to modern map coordinates, and then isolated into individual limestone, shale, and sandstone members. The unit boundaries were morphed and refitted into the new sectional grid using information from field observations, topo maps, modern satellite images, well logs, cross sections and paleo data. Once the marine units were constructed, fossil evidence and information from fossil guide books, stratigraphers’ field notes, and cross sections were used to identify units or to spot-check and verify those previously identified. Each marine shale and limestone member was assigned into a color palette corresponding to its formational identification. Many of the maps and guide books used in this study are out-of-print and are increasingly difficult to find. Much of the data for lithic identification came from paleontologists and biostratigraphers through personal communications or unpublished manuscripts and notes. Commingling the data into a usable field research map may slow down this data loss and revive an interest in Oklahoma’s interesting geology. It also can provide insight for further paleontological investigation and possibly aid in filling the missing fossil gaps.