On Oct. 19, amateur, expert and hobbyist geologists will venture to the Sierra Valley and the Lost Sierra as part of the Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology’s (NBMG) annual
This year’s field trip is called “Lost in Transition – The Exciting History of the Sierra Valley and Lost Sierra” and will bring field trip participants northwest of Reno to explore the geology and ecosystems in the Sierra Valley and Lost Sierra, as well as historical mining and railroad activities, landscape evolution, ancient lakes, natural hazards, wildlife and glaciation.
Rachel Micander, Geologic Information Specialist at the Great Basin Science Sample and Records Library and current graduate student with NBMG, will be leading the field trip alongside NBMG geologists Jim Faulds, Rich Koehler and Griffin Burke-Ruhl.
“Through our public earth science week field trips, we aim to make geology more accessible for people in and around the Reno area,” Micander said. “These free field trips allow us to share the geologic history of the western Great Basin, discuss the geological processes that formed the landscapes around us, and explore the rich history and natural resources our region has to offer. These field trips provide a unique venue in which we can converse about geology and answer questions in an amazing outdoor classroom.”
Participants should pack a lunch and snacks, plenty of water, sunscreen and anything else they might need for a day spent outside. Micander recommends participants dress appropriately and wear sturdy shoes. She also recommends keeping an eye on the weather in the days leading up to the field trip.
Those interested in participating can , where they will also find an itinerary for the day. Spots are limited. Participants should arrive at the Great Basin Science Sample and Records Library at 2175 Raggio Parkway at 8 a.m. where geology books and other publications will be available for purchase. A waiver is required prior to starting the trip and printed waivers will be available to sign 30 minutes prior to the field trip start at 8:30 a.m. for those who are unable to print their own waivers prior to the trip. The trip is estimated to be about eight hours.
Earth Science Week is organized by the American Geosciences Institute and is celebrated from Oct. 13 – 19, 2024. Earth Science Week has been celebrated for over 25 years and celebrates the theme “Earth Science Everywhere” this year.
