Recent work (2001-2004) by scientists at the GSC's Atlantic Division has focused on improving our understanding of the structural and stratigraphic development of this margin. New stratigraphic and geophysical data were collected and added to the substantial database acquired by researchers and exploration companies over the past 40 years. New information on the crustal composition and sediment thickness in the slope and rise area was obtained through the acquisition and interpretation of wide-angle seismic reflection and refraction data. Three new lines of data were collected in 2001 by the GSC, in partnership with Dalhousie University, each crossing the shelf and slope to water depths of 5 km. Interpretations of these lines show the transition from a volcanic style of rifted margin in the SW to a non-volcanic rifted margin near the Newfoundland Transform Fault Zone. Stratigraphic mapping, based on the interpretation of 34000 line-km of new high-quality multichannel seismic data collected by TGS-Nopec, has refined our knowledge of sediment distribution and diapirism beneath the continental slope. The collection and analysis of new biostratigraphic data using event stratigraphy has provided better age control for the Late Cretaceous and Cenozoic section. In addition, a digital Palynology Atlas has been prepared to help standardize future palynological interpretations on the Atlantic Canadian margins.

Map of Nova Scotia showing all well locations and magnetic mapping lines.