Shelf Valley (Geoform)

Component: Geoform

Unique Identifier: 163

Geoform Origin	Geologic
Geoform	Shelf Valley

Description

Definition

A valley crossing the continental shelf, often forming an extension of an existing terrestrial river and terminating in a canyon as the valley reaches the shelf break. Shelf valleys were formed during periods of lower sea level, and continental, glacial melt water contributed to their genesis.