Manning Canyon Shale

     The Manning Canyon Shale is between the Mississippian period and the Pennsylvanian period. It is mostly made of shale with some Sandstone and mudstone dispersed throughout it.  The formation is 1500 feet thick between the Wasatch mountain range and Provo canyon. The formation contains a large amount organic matter. Within the Pennsylvanian portion of rocks there are some coal deposits, as well as plentiful marine fossils. Under that, inside the Mississippian period; brachiopods and corals are common. Clay is mined to the east of Utah lake from the Mississippian era stone.

        When exposed the Manning Canyon Shale slumps and creates landslides. This is a problem for structures built upon the rocks. Many homes have been destroyed by this instability. Highway problems have occurred by the shifting of its foundation.