By Walter A. Barnhardt¹, Brian D. Andrews¹, Seth D. Ackerman², Wayne E. Baldwin¹ and Christopher J. Hein³

Published 2009

¹U.S. Geological Survey, Woods Hole, MA
²Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management, Boston, MA
³Department of Earth Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA

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Contact Information:
Walter Barnhardt
U.S. Geological Survey
Woods Hole Science Center
384 Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543
phone: 508-548-8700

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Abstract

The geologic framework of the Massachusetts inner continental shelf between Cape Ann and Salisbury Beach has been shaped by a complicated history of glaciation, deglaciation, and changes in relative sea level.  New geophysical data (swath bathymetry, sidescan sonar and seismic-reflection profiling), sediment samples, and seafloor photography provide insight into the geomorphic and stratigraphic record generated by these processes.  High-resolution spatial data and geologic maps in this report support coastal research and efforts to understand the type, distribution, and quality of subtidal marine habitats in the Massachusetts coastal ocean.

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