LESSONS LEARNED FROM CREATING GEOLOGIC ANIMATIONS FOR NATIONAL PARKS

The Interactive Geology Project, at CU – Boulder, aims to improve informal geologic education at National Parks and museums by producing high quality 3D animated movies and interactive displays. Our first animation was created for the visitor center at Colorado National Monument, and details the Park's geologic history. We have begun to work on informal education projects for Grand Canyon NP, Carlsbad Caverns NP, Canyonlands NP, the Houston Natural History Museum, and the Colorado School of Mines Museum. These projects vary from detailed animations to web-based interactive displays and exhibit design.

Our relationship with the NPS started during the winter of 2002 when we met members of the Geologic Resources Division based in Denver. The GRD matched our research interests with identified needs at Colorado National Monument. We worked closely with the Park staff and Bill Hood, a retired geologist who volunteers at the Park. This collaboration resulted in a 10 minute movie that contains animations of the geologic evolution, photography of the park, and narration. The movie will be presented in the visitor center auditorium. Important contacts made during the production of this movie led to opportunities at other parks including Grand Canyon, Carlsbad, and Canyonlands National Parks.

Our experience at Colorado National Monument shows the importance of matching your research interests to specific needs within the Parks. Parks are constantly assessing their needs for interpretive products and having a contact at the regional level of the Park Service can help you identify where your research interests can be best utilized. Larger parks can often be overwhelmed with requests and ideas; consider targeting smaller parks where you may have a better chance of getting an audience.