40-1 Putting the Rocks Back in the Stratigraphic Section: The Geology of the Florissant Fossil Beds in a Box

Abstract:

The National Park Service preserves significant cultural and natural resources for the enjoyment and education of future generations. The Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is one of the few national park units to be established for the express purpose of preserving and interpreting its fossil resources. When considering the National Park Service’s goal audience of fifth graders, we must consider how to communicate complex information, like a two-dimensional stratigraphic section, to increase understanding and enjoyment of these resources for the target audience. A critical component to the interpretation of these fossils is their geological context, which is best understood through the study of stratigraphy. Stratigraphic sections are invaluable tools for geoscientists to understand the geology of a given area. However, two-dimensional stratigraphic sections lack the in-person observation required for rock identification, such as texture, cleavage, and color.  As an intern in the Scientists in Parks program, I created a hands-on, interactive stratigraphic section of the Florissant Fossil Beds’ geology using interpretive geological samples representative of informal units in the Florissant Formation, Wall Mountain Tuff, and Pikes Peak Granite to present to visitors. The section, titled “Geology of the Florissant Fossil Beds in a Box,” was modeled after a stratigraphic section used in educational resources throughout the park. The section followed the same general shape and color scheme of the two-dimensional section. Samples were stabilized in foam with rock units outlined in the similar colors used in the two-dimensional section. Additionally, fossiliferous rock units were marked with drawings of common fossils noted in published literature with pictures of real examples of fossils sized to scale. Using the Geology of the Florissant Fossil Beds in a Box, visitors were able to make direct observations about different rock types including texture, color, structure, and grain size using sight and touch. This learning aid was facilitated as part of a touch table with fossil replicas and display boxes of fossils to inspire connections between the larger context of geology in the area and more specific study of fossil organisms. Through continued visitor interaction, the Geology of the Florissant Fossil Beds in a Box can engage visitors with different levels of geology knowledge and promote understanding of fossil resources at the Florissant Fossil Beds and other geologically rich areas.

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