PRECAMBRIAN FIELD CAMP AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA DULUTH

Since 2007, the Precambrian Research Center (PRC) at UMD has sponsored a unique field camp that teaches mapping techniques best suited to field studies of Precambrian Canadian Shield geology. The 6 week/ 6 credit field camp accepts up to 20 students and involves as many as 9 instructors who specialize in field studies of Precambrian terranes. This year’s camp was attended by 19 students from 17 different US schools. Total cost to students for the 2009 camp was $2900.

UMD’s Precambrian field camp is particularly suited for students interested in pursuing field-based graduate research of Precambrian geology or in seeking entry-level jobs in the minerals exploration industry. The curriculum during the first 4 weeks introduces students to basic mapping methods learned at most Rocky Mtn-based field camps, but also exposes them to the logistical challenges and mapping techniques particularly suited to glaciated Precambrian terranes in NE Minnesota. These techniques include collecting and interpreting geophysical data, logging drill core, relating surficial (glacial) material to bedrock geology, recognizing metamorphic grade, mineralization, and alteration, and mapping in open pit and underground mines. During the 5th week, students are dispersed into small field parties to conduct detailed mapping in previously unmapped wilderness areas under the supervision of field-experienced instructors. In the final week, students digitally compile field data from their capstone mapping projects and generate professional quality geologic maps. To view geologic maps and photos from past field camps, visit www.d.umn.edu/prc/fieldcamp/.

Being the only open field camp in the US that focuses on the unique attributes of Precambrian shield geology, UMD’s Precambrian field camp fills a very important niche in geological field education. Moreover, this camp helps to reverse the alarming degradation of field geology as a primary component of geological education in many US schools. The art and science of observing and interpreting rocks in the field is still at the core of all geological endeavors and deserves a preeminent place in all geology curricula. It is the PRC’s mission to provide students with the tools and techniques that will start them on a life-long path of looking at rocks in the field, especially those of the Precambrian.