Electromagnetic studies of the Precambrian basement beneath the Wester
n Canada Sedimentary Basin in Alberta indicate a narrow linear conduct
ivity anomaly spatially correlated with a strong positive magnetic fea
ture, the Red Deer high, The conductor is located below sedimentary co
ver near the top of the crystalline basement and has limited depth ext
ent, We propose that this anomalous feature represents graphitic metas
edimentary racks in the euxinic-flysch facies of a Proterozoic foredee
p sequence, The strong magnetic anomaly results from an associated iro
n formation deposited on the outer ramp of the foredeep. This model ex
plains the geophysical anomalies, has analogues on the exposed shield,
and is consistent with the timing, deformation history, and known geo
logy of the Precambrian basement.