This project is a two-day introduction to geologic mapping. During this project you will begin to learn how to locate yourself on a topographic map, recognize, define and map rock units, collect structural data, locate formation contacts, take quality field notes and make field cross sections.
The field area is located within state-owned land of the Amsden Creek Big Game Winter Range, northwest of Dayton, Wyoming. Because this project is an introduction to geologic mapping, we will begin mapping as a single large group. The faculty will remain with the group for a least one half of the first day, and you will be free to map the area with your partner thereafter. The geology of the area consists of homoclinally dipping Mesozoic and Paleozoic strata: the same rocks that the class described and measured in the Regional Stratigraphy Project. No mappable faults or stratigraphic pinch-outs are present in this area.
Follow the Guidelines for Map and Cross Section construction when preparing your project. The map, explanation and both cross sections should be constructed on The paper provided to you. You are free to design the layout of these items any way you like, but they all must fit on the same sheet of paper.
When mapping in the field or drawing your cross section, observe the following guidelines: