Saginaw Bay is a southwest extension of Lake Huron on the east shore of the Southern Peninsula of Michigan. It is a shallow-water derivative of the Pleistocene Lake Saginaw. Sixty-one bottom samples were collected on a semigrid pattern and analyzed physically. Findings were treated statistically. Sediments range in size from large pebbles to clay. Medium- to fine-grained clear quartz sand is common to all parts of the bay. Currents and wave action are primarily responsible for both median diameter and sorting distribution patterns. Only a very general correlation can be established between depth and median diameter. Heavy minerals occur in abundance locally and show an affinity to shallow-water areas subject to prevailing currents. Shape also locally determines heavy mineral concentrations. Only general conclusions can be established from roundness and sphericity and acid-soluble content. Increased organic content is correlative with quiet water environments. The shallow-water, heterogeneous nature of Saginaw Bay is not conducive to the recognition of sedimentary criteria suitable for correlations in other than a local environment.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 1964 |
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Title | Bottom sediments of Saginaw Bay, Michigan |
DOI | 10.1306/74D71000-2B21-11D7-8648000102C1865D |
Authors | Leonard E. Wood |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Journal of Sedimentary Petrology |
Index ID | 1000486 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Great Lakes Science Center |