Ice-Push Deformation in Northeastern Kansas

Abstract

Evidence of superficial deformation of both lithified and nonlithified sediments ascribed to ice push is found in northeastern Kansas. Folds, fractures, and faults at right angles to the direction of ice movement are features common in this area and are dependent on the competency of the units involved in the deformation, which in some cases was controlled by freezing rather than lithologic composition.

These structures indicate two distinct advances of ice, one from the northeast and one from the northwest. The advance to the southeast is of Kansan age. This would imply a Nebraskan age for the southwesterly advance and consequently for the Kansas Till reference section located southwest of Atchison.