Based on a lot of well and core data

McMurray Formation sequences and sedimentary environments were identified and correlated in Northern Lights oil sand block.With integrated logging data

this study analyzed the sedimentary facies and rock assemblages of the McMurray Formation.In this block

the McMurray Formation

the most important oil sand layer

consists of continuous fluvial

delta plain and tidal estuary bay deposits.The McMurray Formation was divided into three members.The lower member is longshore and shallow water deposits

the middle member is estuary bay and intertidal zone deposits and the upper member is continental fluvial deposits.The geologic characteristics

geologic time

sequence framework and depositional patterns of each sequence were confirmed.These sedimentary facies were subdivided into 9 subfacies

some of which were further subdivided into microfacies according to the logging data.Their depositional patterns were also established.The channel sands in the lower member and the estuarine and tidal channel deposits in the middle member are the main oil reservoirs of the McMurrary Formation.The study not only can provide the basis for the feasibility research of the Northern Lights Project

but also can guide exploration and development of oil sands in Alberta Basin.