Three transgressive-regressive systems tracts are interpreted in the Bakken Formation in southeastern Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan based on analysis of cores and well logs. These systems tracts include a basal transgressive systems tract TST1, a regressive systems tract RST and a transgressive systems tract TST2. Three distinct systems tracts are interpreted within Bakken RST; these are high stand systems tract (HST), Falling stage systems tract (FSST) interpreted within the Bakken Formation and a lowstand systems tract within the Exshaw Formation to the west. Fluctuations in base level that resulted from changes in relative sea level and tectonics controlled the deposition of the Bakken Formation. Detrital zircon geochronology and reworked conodonts from the Bakken middle member indicate sediment transport from multiple sources. Thrust-belt sources associated with the Franklinian Orogeny to the north and northeast contributed the majority (no less than 25%) of the Bakken clastic budget. The two mechanisms for Bakken sediments delivery are continental scale fluvial systems and longshore drift of sediments.