Structural Geology
The structural geology of the East Potrillo Mountains was defined during three main periods:
- Laramide
- Middle Tertiary
- Late Tertiary
During the Laramide, the thrust faults were overturned due to compression (Late Cretaceous – Early Tertiary).
Deformation occurred during the Middle Tertiary, and it is believed it involved either northeast or north-south extension (in the Rio Grande Rift). The system of low angle normal faults that resulted were closely spaced and consequently cut the Laramide structures. The extensional tectonics continued throughout the Middle Tertiary.
Finally, during the Late Tertiary tectonic uplift took place as a result of movement on high angle normal faults.
Read more about this topic: Potrillo Volcanic Field
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