Evolution of the southernmost Upper Rhine Graben

Friday, September 24 and Saturday, September 25

Excursion leaders: Kamil Ustaszewski, Sebastian Hinsken, Basel University, Geologisches Institut, kamil.ustaszewski@unibas.ch, Basel and Olivier Fabbri, Université de Franche-Comte, Department of Geosciences, Besançon.

Keywords: rifting, synrift sedimentation, palaeoecology, fault reactivation

The aim of this excursion is to provide an overview of the evolution of the southernmost Upper Rhine Graben and to discuss the interactions between exogenic and tectonic processes. The first day is devoted to the study of Palaeogene synrift sediments at the rift flanks and in the graben interior. The second day will address the reactivation of inherited faults during late Miocene to early Pliocene Jura folding, as well as the late Pliocene to Recent tectonic and geomorphologic evolution of this continental rift.

Itinerary:
Day one: Strasbourg – Kandern – Altkirch.
Day two: Altkirch – Ajoie – Ferrette – (Mulhouse, possibility to leave) - Strasbourg

Program:
Day one: Palaeogene evolution, tectonic versus climatic processes during graben formation. Palaeoecology and synrift sedimentation at rift flanks and in graben interior (Südbaden and Sundgau).
Day two: Neogene to Recent evolution: role of inherited faults during Miocene to Pliocene thin-skinned Jura folding and thrusting, neotectonics (Swiss Jura Mountains and Sundgau).

Excursion fee: appr. 140 €, : includes transportation, dinner, lodging, breakfast and guide-book, does not include lunches 

Min/max participants: 13-22

Passport/Visa: Passport/ID necessary for multiple crossing of French, Swiss and German borders.