BRINGING HOME THE GEOLOGY OF ILLINOIS STATE PARKS

In 2005, the Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS) will launch a new publication series on the geology of Illinois state parks. Each volume in the series will highlight the unique geology of one of Illinois' most highly visited state parks. The featured parks were chosen on the basis of attendance, ease of access, statewide representation, and the presence of a visitor center and lodging facilities.

The series is an outgrowth of responses to a market research survey initiated by the ISGS Geoscience Outreach Committee. Among survey respondents, the most frequent request was for information about the state's parks. In response, an outreach subcommittee was appointed to oversee the development of a new product to meet this information need. A plan soon emerged to create a unique series involving the widespread talents of ISGS staff: GIS experts, scientists, and publishing team. The publication plan utilized a three-phase, team approach: Phase 1 - research, concept development, field exploration, and scientific writing; Phase 2 - editorial, photography, and design; Phase 3 - review, finalization, publication, and distribution.

The series design conveys a sense of the dramatic beauty of Illinois state parks while educating the public about the local geology. Geologic content is expressed in a popular, easy-to-read style that draws the reader into the park's landscape. Construction of individual volumes follows a flexible series template. A modular approach was chosen to accommodate variations between individual volumes and to enhance differences in park geology. Two-page spreads serve as chapters and highlight special features. Each large-format volume features intensive use of color photographs and illustrations for maximum visual impact. The photographs chosen convey the peace, beauty, and adventure of the park's geological features. The goal is to convey a sense of discovery and exploration throughout each volume, as the photographs and text let the reader experience the park's geology.