The use of finite strain data in constructing a retrodeformable cross-section of the Meade thrust sheet, southeastern Idaho, U.S.A.

A method for drawing a balanced cross-section is presented which uses the constraint of both the interpretation of the geometry and the analysis of the internal deformation within the Meade thrust sheet, southeastern Idaho, U.S.A. Earliest deformation associated with the Meade thrust sheet is layer-parallel shortening, which is indicated by a spaced solution cleavage and deformed fossils in the Jurassic Twin Creek Formation. This early layer-parallel shortening fabric is rotated by folding in front of the main Meade thrust sheet. These folds are then truncated by the Meade thrust. Locally, finite strain markers indicate fault-parallel shear.