playlist thumnail

Oregon!

245 videos
Updated 25 days ago
Found in Oregon! Oregon's geological profile is rich and varied, shaped by millions of years of tectonic activity, volcanic eruptions, and erosion. Here's an overview: Geological History: Accretion and Terranes: Oregon's geology begins with the accretion of terranes (pieces of crust) to the western edge of North America. These terranes include the Blue Mountains, Klamath Mountains, and Siletzia (which forms much of the Coast Range). Volcanic Activity: Cascade Range: Formed by subduction of the Juan de Fuca Plate beneath North America, leading to the creation of the Cascade Volcanic Arc. This includes active volcanoes like Mount Hood and extinct ones like Mount Mazama (which formed Crater Lake). Columbia River Basalt Group: One of the most extensive flood basalt provinces in the world, these basalts covered much of Oregon and Washington about 17-14 million years ago, creating the Columbia Plateau. Sedimentary Deposits: Various sedimentary layers reveal Oregon's past as both a marine and terrestrial environment, with notable deposits in the John Day Basin. Ice Age Floods: The Missoula Floods around 15,000 years ago significantly shaped the landscape of eastern Oregon, particularly in the Columbia River Gorge. Geological Features: Mountain Ranges: Cascade Range: Dominant features with peaks like Mount Hood and volcanoes of various activity levels. Coast Range: Comprised mainly of Siletzia, an accreted oceanic plateau. Blue Mountains: In eastern Oregon, with a complex structure from multiple terranes. Basins: The Willamette Valley, John Day Basin, and Harney Basin are significant, each with unique geological histories. Coastline: Characterized by dramatic cliffs, sea stacks (like Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach), and sandy beaches, all influenced by coastal uplift and erosion. Lakes and Craters: Crater Lake, formed by the collapse of Mount Mazama, is one of Oregon's geological marvels. Geologic Resources: Minerals: Oregon is known for agates, thundereggs, and other gemstones, with significant gold mining history in areas like the Klamath Mountains. Fossils: The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument offers insights into Oregon's paleontological history, showcasing one of the world's best records of plant evolution. Volcanic Resources: Pumice, perlite, and other volcanic materials are mined, alongside geothermal resources. Geological Hazards: Earthquakes: The Cascadia Subduction Zone poses a significant risk for major earthquakes and tsunamis. Volcanic Activity: Active volcanoes in the Cascades could erupt, with varying levels of impact. Landslides: Due to the varied topography and sometimes unstable geology, landslides are a concern, especially in areas with steep slopes or after heavy rainfall. Educational and Research: Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI): Provides extensive resources, maps, and research on Oregon's geology, including hazard assessments. Geological Tourism: Sites like the Painted Hills, Newberry Volcano, and the Oregon Caves National Monument draw tourists interested in geology. Oregon's geological diversity not only shapes its landscape but also influences its economy, from agriculture and forestry to mining and tourism. The state's geological profile is a testament to the dynamic nature of earth sciences, providing endless opportunities for study and appreciation.
  1. Room with a view!
    0:59
  2. Lake Owyhee!
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  3. Entering the Gulch!
    0:56
  4. What planet am I on?!?!
    0:59
  5. Beautiful day at the Gulch!
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  6. Cliffs at Leslie Gulch!
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  7. PEOPLE CLIMB THESE!
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  8. Jagged!
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  9. Blue Skies at the Gulch!
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  10. Cool formations!
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