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U.S. Geological Survey
Scientific Investigations Report 2004-5218

Significance of the Precambrian Basement and Late Cretaceous Thrust Nappes on the Location of Tertiary Ore Deposits in the Oquirrh Mountains, Utah

By Edwin W. Tooker

2005

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Generalized geologic map showing the distribution of the main bodies of igneous intrusive and extrusive rocks (shown in magenta) in the Pass Canyon, northern Bingham and South Mountain nappes in the Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. The trace of the Uinta trend axis is shown.

Five Sevier-age (Late Cretaceous) east-directed nappes in the Oquirrh Mountains, Utah overlie the nearly east-directed Uinta trend (Precambrian) basement lineament zone. Unique stratigraphic and structural features in two of the nappes containing Paleozoic carbonate-rich sedimentary rocks and intrusive Tertiary igneous stocks and fissures provide evidence for this favorable local geologic setting and the occurrence of base- and precious-metal ore deposits. These include the world-class Bingham gold, copper, molybdenum porphyry, the Ophir and Stockton base metal fissure and the Mercur disseminated gold mining districts.

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For questions about the content of this report, contact Ed Tooker

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Maintained by: Michael Diggles
Created: June 13, 2005
Last modified: June 14, 2005 (mfd)