Dr. Kidwell, the William Rainey Harper Professor in Geophysical Sciences at the University of Chicago, has written and lectured widely on the nature of sedimentary rock records as archives of environmental and ecological information. The formation of dense concentrations of shells and bones has been a particular interest. As a result, she started her research career with a detailed analysis of the Calvert Cliffs.
Famous for the abundance and diversity of their fossils, the Calvert Cliffs appear to be somewhat monotonous geologically –gray muds and sands that oxidize to yellows and browns in response to percolating modern rainwater. On closer examination however, this relatively thin stack of Miocene-age strata captures an extraordinary array of ancient coastal environments. Using well-known localities in the Cliffs as examples, this talk will stress how paleo-environments are inferred from outcrop evidence, providing a vivid picture of the conditions that fostered diverse life along this ancient coast.
“The Calvert Cliffs Conundrum” series is funded by Bob and Betty Currie, with additional support from Solomons Holiday Inn. Upcoming dates in the series include Thursday, October 21; Saturday, November 13; Thursday, January 20, 2011; Saturday, February 5, 2011; and Thursday, March 10, 2011. Visit the website at www.calvertmarinemuseum.com for more information.
Join the Calvert Marine Museum in celebrating 40 years of excellence in 2010. The museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission is $7.00 for adults, $6.00 for seniors and military with valid I.D., and $2.00 for children ages 5 – 12; children under 5 are free. For a complete listing of museum activities and programs, visit the website at www.calvertmarinemuseum.com or call 410-326-2042 for more information. Become a fan on Facebook.