Geology Field Course:
Northern New Mexico

Taos, New Mexico

May 23 to June 30, 2008

Department of Geological Sciences
University of Alabama

Essentials of Field Geology:

Outcrop description; Introduction to geologic mapping; Interpretation of Sedimentary, Metamorphic, & Igneous rocks; and Structural Analysis.
The first exercises teach the use of a compass, writing geological notes, use of topographic maps, map making, traversing, and an introduction to the geology of the Rio Grande Rift and Sangre de Cristo Mountains. A series of increasingly complex exercises follow: 1) mapping undeformed sedimentary strata, 2) measuring sections of Mesozoic sedimentary rocks, 3) mapping simply deformed Mesozoic sedimentary rocks, 4)mapping complexly folded and faulted Paleozoic sedimentary strata, and 5) mapping complexly deformed Precambrian metamorphic rocks. There will be excursions to examine Tertiary volcanic rocks in the Valles Caldera, Front Range faults of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, sand dunes in the San Luis Valley, radial dikes at Spanish Peaks, and altered volcanic rocks at Red Mountain, CO.
Mapping exercises incorporate global positioning system (GPS) for locations and digital mapping skills with geographic information system (GIS) software.

Course Information

GEO 495, six semester credits. Prerequisites: Igneous and metamorphic petrology; structural geology; and stratigraphy, sedimentology, or sedimentary petrology

Fees

Approximately $3,450 (Alabama resident) or $6,249 (nonresident). Includes all transportation, round-trip from Tuscaloosa AL to Taos NM, accommodations and food in Taos, and tuition. This amount does not include medical insurance (required) and food when away from Taos (14 days), field gear, and personal items. Students who successfully complete the course will qualify for a scholarship of $1,000). A $100 nonrefundable deposit (checks to University of Alabama) must be paid to Debbie Frank, Department of Geological Sciences by April 2. Remaining course fees and tuition must be paid to University of Alabama Student Receivables in May.

Lodging

Class is based at the Austing Haus -- 9,000' elevation in the spectacular Taos Ski Valley. About 14 days will be spent camping in beautiful northern New Mexico and southern Colorado.

Contact Information

Ms. Debbie Frank
Dept. of Geol. Sciences
Box 870338, 202 Bevill
University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487

Dr. Harold Stowell
Field Course Director
205 348 5095

Student Receivables
University of Alabama
105 Student Services Building
Box 870120
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
205 348 5350

 

2008 Field Camp Application

Department Info