Earth’s rock formations provide the very foundation of our existence on the surface of the planet, and the rocks contain a record of how our planet has changed over time. We will explore the rock cycle as a tool to help us understand how and why rocks change, as we focus on the rocks that comprise the geological substrate of western California. You will learn how different kinds of rocks form and change in a unique way, creating the region’s distinctive characteristics. Attendees will be given a chance to explore their own backyard bedrock through an innovative app, Rockd.org, and learn how the rocks beneath them formed and continue to evolve.
Leaders: Nicole Myers, Lecturer, Department of Geology, Sonoma State University. Nicole developed a passion for understanding the Earth from a childhood fascination with rocks and volcanoes, and now teaches others to appreciate our planet. She has been teaching at Sonoma State University since 2007, and brings her enthusiasm for Earth appreciation, www.appreciatingearth.com, to the community through academic classes such as Age of the Dinosaurs & Natural Disasters, earth science field explorations, stone jewelry creation, and earth science stories. No previous experience or knowledge is required. This event is recommended for ages 16 and up. During the event, we will take time to go out into our own "local nature" areas such as your back or front yard, or just down the street, to look for rocks. Zoom meeting details will be sent to you upon registration. If you have not used Zoom before, please allow time to download and install the application before the event. Please log-in a few minutes early, as it may take more than one attempt if servers are busy.
Contact Email: rawlinsm@sonoma.edu
For more information about this event, go to http://cei.sonoma.edu/rocks