When the first edition of Roadside Geology of Oregon was published in 1978, it was revolutionary�the first book in a series designed to educate, inspire, and wow nongeologists. Back then, the implications of plate tectonic theory were only beginning to shape geologic research and discussion. Geologists hadn�t yet learned that Oregon�s Klamath and Blue Mountains were pieces of far-traveled island arcs and ocean basins that had been piled against the growing North American continent. Steaming volcanoes, ghost forests, recent landslides, and towns heated with geothermal energy attest to Oregon�s still-prominent position at the edge of an active tectonic plate. Author, photographer, and geologist Marli Miller has written a completely new second edition based on the most up-to-date understanding of Oregon�s geology. Spectacular photographs showcase the state�s splendor while also helping readers understand geologic processes at work. Roadside Geology of Oregon, Second Edition, is a must-have for every Oregon resident, student, and rockhound.

Easy-to-read, rhyming text depicts different animals dancing.

Combine hiking and geology interests to have more fun in on the trail

Since the first edition of Roadside Geology of Washington appeared on the book shelves in 1984, several generations of geologists have studied the wild assortment of rocks in the Evergreen State, from 45-million-year-old sandstone exposed in sea cliffs at Cape Flattery to 1.4-billion-year-old sandstone near Spokane. In between are the rugged granitic and metamorphic peaks of the North Cascades, the volcanic flows of Mt. Rainier and the other active volcanoes of the Cascade magmatic arc, and the 2-mile-thick flood basalts of the Columbia Basin.

The year 1997 marked the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Roadside Geology Series. With nearly one million Roadside Geology books sold, Mountain Press strives to preserve the original intent of the series -- to provide scientific information in an engaging and accessible way for everyone interested in how the earth works.

The geologic history of the Pacific Northwest is as unique as the region itself. Created via tectonic plate movements and accretionary events, the original terranes were subsequently covered by sedimentary layers, ash, lavas, and glacial debris. These processes, begun millions of years ago, continue to affect the area, as seen in the eruption of Mount St. Helens and catastrophic Japanese tsunamis created by earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest. Understanding of the regions geology has led to new insight in volcanic eruption prediction, disaster preparedness, the environmental effects of mining, and urban development as it relates to geologic hazards. The Orrs detailed and informative writing style appeals to those with geologic training as well as beginners with an interest in the region. Each chapter covers a specific subregion, allowing for maximum flexibility both in the classroom and for the casual reader. The authors central theme that continental plate tectonics are the fundamental processes of Northwest geologic history permeates throughout the book.