Figure 10. Seismic reflection profile across the Damariscotta River estuary (modified from Hannum, 1997). Bedrock frames the geological section with glacial-marine mud exposed and eroding at the seabed. Following deposition of the marine sediment, a lake occupied the basin and lacustrine mud rests unconformably over the glacial-marine material. Upon drowning by the sea, an oyster bed covered the former lake and is presently eroding at the surface. Natural gas (methane) may have formed from microbial decomposition of a lake or bog deposit. It is notable that no "modern" sediment is accumulating in this area of general seafloor erosion.

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Last updated on October 6, 2005

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