STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK AT ALBANY

Department of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences

GEO 400 - Field Mapping (4 credits) - 2006

This course is intended to provide experience of extensive, detailed geological field mapping of one map area including, in particular, the making of systematic field observations and a detailed outcrop map, and the writing of a substantial field report. The course does not cover reconnaissance mapping, nor does it involve systematic instruction in different field methods. It does not include field trips to other areas.

Prerequisites are a familiarity with basic field methods (use of compass, topographic maps, making field notes), rock and mineral identification from hand specimens, and courses covering the basics of stratigraphy, structure and sedimentation.

The course consists of three weeks mapping in the field (for 2006, August 14 to August 30  inclusive) followed, in the first quarter of the Fall Semester, by a 2 hour laboratory period each week, mainly devoted to drafting the final map and writing the report. Students from other institutions should find it possible to complete their maps and reports either in the week following the mapping, in Albany, or independently, mailing them in when complete.

We will be using the Vermont State Park campground at Lake Bomoseen. You will need a tent and sleeping bag here, for part of the time we have booked a lean-to in which some of the smaller tents can be placed. The camping fee: each student will pay $90. 

More detailed information (including information on registration, payment of accommodation fee, required equipment, etc.).

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