Oregon Field Geology: Blue to Wallowa Mountains

Field study in north central and northeastern Oregon of Cenozic paleostratiegraphy and accretionary plate tectonics. The class explores the geology of the formations exposed in the John Day River Basin, then continues on a transect of the state to observe fragments of ancient terrains. Students learn to recognize signals of climate change in the fossil record as well as evidence of past subduction and accretionary events on the western margin of North America. Present day geomophological processes, such as lang sliding, receive careful attention as well. Instruction emphasizes introductory level field problem-solving skills and the constuction by novices of statigraphic columns, geoligic maps, and geologic cross-sections, with an emphasis on the ability to communicate geoligic concepts and processes to general audiences. The class invites teachers from all subjects and grade levels to participate.

Instructor: Ellen Morris Bishop, Ph.D.
Dates: July 5-11, 2008 (meeting in residence at field sites and a pre-trip meeting, TBA)
Degree-applicable credit: SCI 676, 2 semester hours, $1154
Continuing Education Credit: CESI 866, 2 semester hours, $900
Course Fee: additional $375

Registration Form (pdf)