High-resolution seismic reflection profiles across Goshute Valley, Nevada, record a continuum of protracted Cenozoic basin extension. A basinwide sequence boundary separates two different groups of syntectonic Tertiary seismic sequences. Seismic sequences below this seismic boundary are interpreted to record a sag stage of the basin (sequences 1-5). In contrast, the younger group of sequences is characterized by expansion of stratigraphic section across the intrabasin graben (sequences 6-8). Thickness trends of sequences suggest that extension migrated toward the eastern basin margin but culminated in the intrabasin graben. Analysis of seismic facies relative to the timing of structural basin evolution emphasizes the role of tectonism on spatial and temporal seismic facies occurrence. The sag stage is characterized by sediment transport parallel to the long axis of the basin (axial subsidence increased to the basin center) with minor sediment contributions from the eastern footwall of the basin. Transverse, east-west subsidence in the form of listric growth-faulting along the eastern intrabasin margin resulted in asymmetric sequence formation and changes in sediment dispersal patterns, probably because of decrease in axial (northsouth) and increase in transverse (east-west) sediment transport slopes. This second phase of sedimentation resulted in more subdued reflectivity of Cenozoic basin fill.
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