Geology of the Ventura & Santa Barbara Basins

The Ventura Basin and the Santa Barbara Basin are among the most geologically complex and actively studied sedimentary basins in Southern California. Shaped by active tectonics, rapid sedimentation, and coastal and marine processes, these basins provide a natural laboratory for understanding Earth systems at multiple scales.

Coast Geological Society brings together geoscientists, students, and educators who study and work in these basins, advancing knowledge through research, education, and field-based learning.

Regional Tectonic Setting

The Ventura and Santa Barbara Basins lie within an active transpressional tectonic regime associated with the interaction of the Pacific and North American plates. This tectonic setting has resulted in:

Active folding and faulting

Rapid uplift and subsidence

Ongoing seismic deformation

Sedimentation & Basin Evolution

Both basins record a detailed history of sedimentation from the late Cenozoic to the present. Thick accumulations of marine and terrestrial sediments preserve evidence of:

Sea-level change

River input and coastal erosion

Submarine mass movement and turbidite deposition

Coastal & Marine Processes

Coastal and marine processes play a critical role in shaping both basins. Wave action, sediment transport, and slope instability interact with tectonic uplift to create dynamic coastlines and offshore environments.

Understanding these processes is essential for addressing issues such as:

Coastal erosion and hazards

Submarine landslides

Habitat preservation

Energy, Water, and Environmental Geology

Historically, the Ventura and Santa Barbara Basins have been important for energy resources, particularly oil and gas. Today, geological knowledge of these basins supports a broader range of applications, including:

Groundwater aquifer characterization

Environmental remediation

Energy transition and decommissioning

Learn More & Get Involved

The geology of the Ventura and Santa Barbara Basins continues to be an active area of research and discussion. Through its speakers, field trips, and educational programs, Coast Geological Society fosters a community dedicated to understanding the geological processes shaping Southern California.

We invite students, professionals, and geology enthusiasts to explore these basins with us and participate in our ongoing programs.

MEETING HOURS

Third Tuesday of Every Month: 6PM – 9PM

LOCATION

Poinsettia Pavilion

3451 Foothill Rd Ventura, CA 93003

CONTACT

Have Questions? Email: coastgeologicalsociety@gmail.com

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