Eastern flank of the Sierra Nevada, California

Tectonic Field Investigations Geological Sciences 463/563 and 463LAB/563LAB - Winter and Spring Quarters 2009

Lecture: TBA
LAB: Spring Break (March 19-29)

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Course Description:

The purpose of the lecture part of the course is to develop geological observational skills to critically examine the active tectonics of the southwestern US. All students will develop knowledge and proficiency in some of the observational geomorphic tools used in active tectonic research. All students will apply their newly developed geomorphology knowledge to interpret aerial photos of active structures and graduate students will orally present a Geological Society of America meeting style talk on the tectonic activity along faults within the tectonically active Eastern California Shear Zone north of the Garlock fault.

The purpose of the fieldtrip part of the course is to practice, in a real setting, the geological and geomorphic observational skills of active structures you developed in the lecture portion of the course. In the field, you will complete geologic mapping of alluvial fan surfaces and active faults upon aerial photographs, document the kinematics of faulting, and measure the magnitude of fault offset. Three field areas within the Owens Valley region of the Eastern California Shear Zone will be the focus of your investigations.

Links to supporting materials:
Tectonic Geomorphology

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2009 Field Trip Photos

Click on each photograph for a larger view.

2009 mapping crew.	Howling wind across the Sierra Nevada.	Excellent compass work.
Snow!	Lunch in the field.	SpeedRacer.
Yee...haa.	Good hair day.	The point is...
Hmmm....	Looking across the Deep Springs fault.	Dinner in Deep Springs Valley.

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Field Photos from Past Trips

2007 Field Trip

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