Geology of the Blue Ridge - Asynchronous Version

Explore the geologic history of the Southern Appalachian Mountains in this blended class that includes lecture presentations, discussions, guided and self-guided explorations in the field. The course begins with a discussion of the earth’s interior and plate tectonics, progresses to a model for the formation of the southern Appalachians and then describes the surficial processes that generate the current mountain topography. Discussion will also include an overview of geologic processes that affect these mountains today: earthquakes, mass movements and floods.

This class will have multiple pre-recorded zoom lectures and other online class material that the students will have access to until September 30th. A scheduled field experience will be held August 30th from 9 am - 2 pm and has a separate registration link.

Anton DuMars, a resident of Black Mountain, NC, is an adjunct professor at the College of Charleston. His geological interests include fluvial, deltaic, and coastal processes. Ideally, he’s spending time on a hiking trail or aboard his sailboat.

Host or Publisher The NC Arboretum Adult Education Programs