Geology Field Camp

Students will spend the first couple of days learning basic field techniques including basic navigation, the use of the Brunton Compass, and how to measure stratigraphic sections. Emphasis will be placed on observational skills, recording field data, and basic geologic map construction. Students will learn techniques for measuring stratigraphic sections, collecting structural data in the field, cross-section construction, and simple structural analyses from field data. Students will also learn to synthesize their observations to construct an interpretation of the geologic history of the various field sites.

The students will investigate the synorogenic deposition and deformation of Eocene deltaic deposits. This project involves measuring and description of basic pro-delta depositional sequences, mapping of deltaic lobes, and syndepositional deformation of the deltas in the context of growing piggy-back basins.

Students will then map and examine larger scale structures involved in creating the piggy-back basins as the foreland fold-and-thrust belt developed.

Students will also map more complex field relationships involving the thrust emplacement of Variscan nappes involving igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.

After a basic introduction to the metamorphic rocks of the Pyrenean Axial Zone, the final mapping project will involve detailed mapping of multiply deformed, amphibolite-facies, metamorphic and intrusive rocks.

These projects are designed to build upon each other ultimately giving the students an overall understanding of the tectonic architecture of the Pyrenees.