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Geochemical characterization of tephra deposits at archaeological and palaeoenvironmental sites across south-central Alberta and southwest Saskatchewan

Description

The Mazama Ash is one of the mostly widely distributed tephra units in North America, present as a visible ash in sediments of early Holocene age. It is considered one of the most important... More ≫

Description

The Mazama Ash is one of the mostly widely distributed tephra units in North America, present as a visible ash in sediments of early Holocene age. It is considered one of the most important stratigraphic markers across this region and is commonly used to ascribe age control to sites. Here we present new major-element geochemical analyses from archaeological and sedimentary sites across south-central Alberta and Saskatchewan. We confirm Mazama at most sites, but the presence of Bridge River (and potentially Mount St. Helens) indicates that major-element geochemical data is an important, if not necessary, component to identifying tephra in this region.

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Reconstructing the Highwood River’s Holocene palaeoecology : assessment of organic-rich alluvial samples collected following the 2013 flood event

Description

Periodic flood events are normal for rivers. These events sometimes deposit sediments that trap biological remains that can be used to reconstruct the local environment. Following the 2013... More ≫

Description

Periodic flood events are normal for rivers. These events sometimes deposit sediments that trap biological remains that can be used to reconstruct the local environment. Following the 2013 flooding of the Highwood River, southwestern Alberta, 24 organic-rich palaeoenvironmental samples were collected from the river’s banks at 14 localities. Data synthesis generated a detectable signal of climatic change throughout the Holocene. The general trend shows a progression from drier conditions in the early Holocene towards relatively moist conditions today. This study is the first detailed examination of near-river palaeoenvironmental conditions in southern Alberta.

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