Roadside Geology of Oklahoma

Dinosaur tracks preserved in sandstone, knobs of granite rising from the plains, and springs cascading down limestone cliffs are just a few of the fascinating geologic features discussed in Roadside Geology of Oklahoma, a guide to more than 35 roads that crisscross the state. Longtime Oklahoma Geological Survey geologist Neil Suneson tells you what to look for along the roads, points you to nearby parks with interesting rocks and crystals, and recounts the history of radium mineral baths, coal mines, fossil excavations, and petroleum drilling, not to mention the rush for nonexistent gold in the Wichita Mountains. And lest you think nothing has happened recently, geologically speaking, in the southern midcontinent, you'll learn about a fault that broke the land surface a mere 1,250 years ago and is capable of generating a 7.0 magnitude earthquake. Suneson also gets you up to speed on more modern considerations such as groundwater depletion, petroleum fracking, and strip mine reclamation. Take this book along for a ride as you roll across the red plains east to the Ozark Plateau, west to the Panhandle, or south to the Ouachita, Arbuckle and Wichita Mountains. Read more