Casco Bay volcanic rocks at Harpswell Neck. Photo by Dave West
BATH — Maine’s First Ship and the Kennebec Estuary Land Trust invite geology novices and buffs to expand their understanding and appreciation of the 500 million-year geologic history of the Casco Bay region with Middlebury College Professor of Geology Dave West.
On Thursday, June 24, at 7 p.m., participants have the opportunity to attend the lecture either in person at the Bath Freight Shed at 27 Commercial St., or virtually by Zoom.
Although the current coast of Maine is relatively tame in terms of dramatic geologic activity, this has not always been the case, according to a news release. This presentation is to provide insight into the dramatic history preserved in the geologic features of Casco Bay, including violent volcanic eruptions, massive earthquakes, and burial beneath over a mile of glacial ice. The spatial distribution of different rock types across the region, and how they relate to the present day landscape, is also to be discussed.
Registration is free and required in order to attend the in-person event at the Bath Freight Shed (limited seating is to allow for social distancing) or to receive the Zoom link for the presentation (sent out to registrants before the event).
For more information and to sign up, visit mfship.org/events. Click on the appropriate button for preferred mode of attendance, in-person or virtual.
West specializes in unraveling the bedrock geologic history of the northern Appalachians, with a particular interest in coastal Maine geology. A North Carolina native, he obtained his Masters degree and doctorate in geological sciences from the University of Maine and has been conducting geological research in Maine for more than 30 years.
Prior to arriving at Middlebury, West taught at Bowdoin College, Lafayette College in Pennsylvania, and Earlham College in Indiana.
Maine’s First Ship’s mission is to promote an appreciation of Maine’s early shipbuilding heritage, the Popham Colony, and its relationship with the Wabanaki. Learn more by visiting mfship.org or calling 207-443-4242.
The trust is a membership-supported organization dedicated to protecting the land, water and wildlife of the Kennebec Estuary. For more information, visit kennebecestuary.org or call 207-442-8400.
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