GMS Field Trip

GMS Field Trip
Jasper in Georgia
Sunday, February 9, 2020

From mid to upper 70-degree weather a few days before, to snow falling on the day this trip was originally planned, the weather seemed to be our nemesis. After a member sounded the snow alarm, Charles worked with our resident meteorologist and at the eleventh hour decided to reschedule the trip from Saturday to Sunday. We moved the start time to later in the day too. Then the weather was no longer our nemesis, but our friend. By the time everyone assembled at the meeting place, the sky was blue and we were already peeling off layers.

A small creek and some giant mud puddles prevented us from driving further into the site, but some firm ground plus some creative car parking directed by Charles saved the day. A short hike in and all eyes were on the ground. There was no snow or ice there, but there were lots of rocks! Everyone found plenty of material to take home within the first hour or so. I saw several pieces of jasper with good color as well as some unusual pieces including a pretty little druzy piece that Ivy found. The distinctive sound of sandhill cranes had us looking to the sky and we saw several flocks in “v” formation flying above. Then, Cristina saw a tiny “rainbow” in the clouds that capped off a great day of collecting. Everyone left with as many rocks as they wanted. It will be fun to see some of the rocks cut and polished. One member is even going to knap some of it!

Anvar found a rock with swirls that may be stromatolite, a sedimentary structure formed by cyanobacteria binding and cementing layers of sediment. We found a lot of oolitic material, which indicates a shallow marine environment, so stromatolite is possible. The next day, Anvar brought the specimen to the Fossil Section meeting. After considering that the age of the formation is Cambrian and the fact the stromatolites have been confirmed in nearby counties, the consensus was leaning towards stromatolite, but everyone agreed more study is needed.

Many thanks to the property owner who so graciously invited us to his property. Thanks to everyone on the trip who collected safely and respectfully. And of course, thanks to Charles Carter for putting together another fun collecting adventure!

Lori Carter
On behalf of Charles Carter, GMS Field Trip Chair
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