The crystalline core of the North Cascades experienced Cretaceous metamorphism, plutonism and penetrative deformation followed by Paleogene orogenesis in the northern part. However, it is not known whether the dominant kinematic pattern was collision-related crustal shortening normal to the orogen or strike-slip deformation parallel to the origin, nor is it clear if the Cretaceous and Paleogene deformation record a single progressive deformation or two separate events. This project will study the kinematics of structural fabrics and fault zones within the core through mapping and study of small-scale kinematic indicators and will constrain timing of deformation by dating plutons which show varying degrees of deformation and metamorphism. Results are expected to provide significant insights into the Cretaceous and Paleogene evolution of the Pacific northwest.
