McMurray Formation, Geological formation in northeastern Alberta, Canada.
The McMurray Formation consists of multiple layers of sandstone and claystone, spanning across a vast area of the Athabasca oil sands region.
The formation dates back to the Early Cretaceous period, approximately 120 million years ago, when ancient river systems flowed through the present-day Alberta region.
Indigenous communities established connections with the lands surrounding the McMurray Formation long before the initiation of industrial resource extraction activities.
Scientists and researchers require specialized permits to conduct geological studies within the formation, particularly in areas near active extraction operations.
The formation contains three distinct members, with the middle section featuring well-sorted, fine-grained sand containing substantial bitumen deposits.
Location: Alberta
Made from material: sand
GPS coordinates: 56.77330,-111.40400
Latest update: September 19, 2025 02:10
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