Characteristics of a Glacially Buried Cuesta in Southeast Michigan

This study assesses the effects of glaciation on a drift-buried cuesta in southeast Michigan through analysis of detailed data for the underlying bedrock surface. Four separate areas of the cuesta affected differently by glaciation are examined. These illustrate (1) proximal lowering through abrasion, (2) lateral smoothing and trimming, (3) distal plucking and (4) protection resulting from local structural-topographic relationships. It is shown that glacial effects on the cuesta vary in a meaningful way with changes in relationships between bedrock structure, lithology, surface configuration, and the direction of ice movement.