Denver Formation

Denver Formation
Stratigraphic range: Late Cretaceous-Paleocene
TypeGeological formation
Unit ofD1 Sequence[1]
UnderliesDawson Arkose
OverliesArapahoe Formation
Thicknessup to 1,580 ft (480 m)
Lithology
PrimaryClaystone, siltstone, sandstone
OtherConglomerate, tuff, coal, lava
Location
RegionColorado
CountryUnited States
Type section
Named forDenver, Colorado
Named byEmmons, Cross and Eldridge (1896)[2]

The Denver Formation is a geological formation that is present within the central part of the Denver Basin that underlies the Denver, Colorado, area. It ranges in age from latest Cretaceous (Maastrichtian) to early Paleocene, and includes sediments that were deposited before, during and after the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary event.[3][4]

The formation is known for its paleontological resources, including dinosaur remains that are found in the Late Cretaceous part of the formation,[5] and it includes aquifers that are important sources of water for the area.[6][7]

  1. ^ Cite error: The named reference Raynolds1 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ Emmons, S.F., Cross, W. and Eldridge, G.H. 1896. Geology of the Denver Basin in Colorado. U.S. Geological Survey, Monograph 27, p. 160.
  3. ^ U.S. Geological Survey. "Geologic Unit: Denver Formation". Retrieved 2014-12-27.
  4. ^ Tweto, O. 1979. Geologic map of Colorado. U.S. Geological Survey, Map G77115.
  5. ^ Cite error: The named reference cretaceousdistribution was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  6. ^ Cite error: The named reference Raynolds2 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  7. ^ USGS Aquifer Basics[1]