General Field Geology

(2080 satisfies S3 requirement, 3080 satisfies S3 and W3)

Introduces basic concepts of geology and field mapping.  Emphasizes recognition and interpretation of geologic features in the field.  Teaches basic field techniques.  Credit not allowed for those who complete GEOL 4717.  Three field trips per week required.  Dual listed, GEOL 2080/3080.  Prerequisite:  GEOL 1000 or 1100.  (Normally offered the first half of the fall semester).

General Field Geology Course Syllabus

1. Introduce to and reinforce understanding of the fundamental principles of geology through observation and interpretation in the field.
2. Allow students to study classic geologic features in their natural setting.
3. Examine scientific concepts, form and test hypotheses, and apply these methods to geologic analysis.
4. Involve the student with the tools and processes of geologic investigation in the field.
5. Provide opportunity to develop data gathering and technical  writing skills through field notes, research papers, and technical reports.

Physical geology or a good introductory geology course is recommended (but not required) as prerequisite to this course.

Because the field provides the best laboratory for geologic investigation (especially in Wyoming), the course is primarily taught in the field.  The course consists of half-day field trips occupying the first 8 weeks of the semester (schedule will vary depending upon weather).  Normally, the course will be completed by mid-October.  Most areas are within 40 miles of Laramie, so one-way travel should be 1 hour or less.  Transportation is provided.

Grades are based on maps, stratigraphic columns, cross sections and reports compiled from field data.  Field work can not be made up; so, regular attendance is essential.  The course has no required textbook; but R.R. Compton's "Geology in the Field"  or Tom Freeman's "Procedures in Field Geology are recommended references.  Field equipment, maps, and photos are provided.  Subject matter will be covered as location and opportunity permit.  The following topics will be covered as appropriate:

1. Scientific Investigation:  Observing, questioning, gathering data, developing hypotheses, analysis of data, testing hypotheses, drawing conclusions, presenting results.
2. Field Methods:  Keeping field notes; describing rocks, structures, and relationships; making measurements and gathering samples; reading maps and air photos.  Techniques include the use of basic tools, such as the Brunton Compass, Jacob's staff, and GPS units.
3. Interpretation of the character and genesis of rocks and minerals formed by igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic processes.
4. Examination of landforms and processes of erosion, transport, and deposition of materials:  The action of gravity, water, wind, and ice.
5. Examination of evidence of chemical and physical processes:  Compaction, cementation, diagenesis, metamorphism, partial melting, differentiation, hydrothermal alteration, ground water transport, mineral deposition, etc.
6. Compilation of stratigraphic columns, geologic maps, and cross sections.
7. Structural and tectonic mapping and analysis:  Recognition and interpretation of anticlines, synclines, monoclines, faults, folds, fractures, joints, shear zones, intrusions, etc. Development of structural sketches and cross sections.
8. Petroleum and mineral exploration and development:  Social, economic and environmental considerations related to mineral development.
9. Geologic hazards and cultural considerations.  These include active faults, landslides, and toxic mineral occurrences.

General Field Geology List of Areas and Exercises

1. On campus:  Introduction and review of basic methods and concepts: field notes, and lithologic description, pace and compass.
2. Vedauwoo:  Igneous intrusion and crystallization, age relations, weathering and geomorphic development, scientific method
3. Medicine Bow Mountains:  Precambrian history, continental collision, orogeny, climate change and glacial erosion
4. The summit:  The Great Unconformity, rock descriptions, stratigraphic principles and constructing a stratigraphic column
5. Red Buttes::  Using a Brunton compass and GPS and map location, bearings. Contacts and bedding attitudes.
6. Arlington:  Landslides and slope stability.  Mapping with GPS. Geologic control of eolian processes and wind power.
7. Sybille Canyon:  Layered igneous bodies and mineralogic differentiation, igneous structures, history and the geologic report.
8. North Park:  Eolian transport and deposition.  Patterns in dunes and interaction with fluvial processes. Economic geology.
9. Centennial Valley:  Sedimentary deposits, history and environments.  The stratigraphic column.
10. Laramie Basin:  Fluvial, glacial, and eolian geomorphology.  Periglacial features and other surface phenomena.
11. Morton Pass:  Photointerpretation techniques, stratigraphic and structural interpretation.  Structural cross-section.
12. Fox Creek:  Rocky mountain structures, Laramide uplift and erosion.  Basin filling, re-excavation, and erosion surfaces.
13. Forbes Unit:  Constructing a geologic map and cross section from field data.
14. Mountain Cement Company:  Mineral extraction, processing, environmental concerns.
15. Laramie river:  Geohydrology, flow rates, flood hazards, ground-water movement and protection of water resources.
16. Final Examination (various areas):  Observation, interpretation, presentation

(last update October 7, 2003)