Detailed site survey examining the postglacial sediment succession and depositional processes within a Norwegian fjord system, Bjørnafjorden (West Norway)

Abstract

Based on a recently acquired dense grid of sub-bottom profiles and ultra-high resolution bathymetry, we have studied the postglacial depositional history of a West Norwegian fjord system. This dataset reveals a history of frequent mass failures taking place from all slopes surrounding the main studied sediment basin. The study also shows that present-day conditions may be subject to future mass wasting, as significant sediment volumes are retained on the basin margins. The overall sediment distribution seems to be largely governed by the underlying bedrock morphologies. Earthquakes are considered to represent the most dominant trigger mechanism in the area.