Did you know that Earth’s seafloor can record the presence of glaciers that existed over 20,000 years ago? Or that North Carolina bald cypress trees can tell us about past environmental conditions? Join us for Geology Research Day! This event will highlight active research projects happening across North Carolina. Geologists from the Museum and beyond are excited to share their gems of wisdom about the fascinating world of geology.
Activities
Geologic Mapping
North Carolina Geological Survey
It takes a team to produce geologic maps – field geologists, GIS experts, and cartographers. Learn from North Carolina Geological Survey team members how geologic maps are produced, what they look like, and how we use them.
Groundwater Monitoring in North Carolina
NC Department of Environmental Quality
NC Department of Environmental Quality’s Groundwater Resources Branch (GWRB) maintains and monitors a statewide network of approximately 700 monitoring wells. Data from this network is shared with researchers and policy makers to protect and preserve North Carolina’s groundwater. This booth will highlight aspects of groundwater data collection and demonstrate a common groundwater sample collection method.
Museum Geology Collections
NC Museum of Natural Sciences
The Museum’s Geology Collection includes over 10,000 rock, mineral, and gem specimens. This booth will highlight some of our off-exhibit specimens and will include native NC minerals and faceted gem stones.
Student Research Highlights
UNC-Wilmington
This booth will highlight a variety of Geology graduate student research projects including topics such as sediment transport, glacial geology, and groundwater salinization. This booth will also include hands on activities.
Presentations: SECU Daily Planet Theater, Floors 1-3

