Kansas Geology: An Introduction to Landscapes, Rocks, Minerals, and Fossils

This is an interesting, readable introductory survey of Kansas geology. Illustrated with both full-color and black-and-white photographs, line drawings, maps, and figures, it is designed specifically to provide non-technical information for the general reader.

The introduction sketches Kansas geologic history; discusses how Kansas fits into the geology of the North American continent; explores the concepts of geologic time, labeling, and periods; and describes the natural forces of deposition and erosion. The section on landscapes introduces the geological and natural features of Kansas--those features that can be seen on the surface--by describing the characteristics of its eleven physiographic regions. The chapters on rocks and minerals describe what they are composed of, how they were formed, and where they are found. This section includes discussions of sedimentary rocks--limestones, sandstones, shales, chalk--as well as mineral fuels, minerals, and sedimentary structures. Another chapter reviews Kansas fossil history, describes common fossils and their locations, and explains why Kansas is world-famous among fossil collectors.

A special feature of this book is a guide to noteworthy geologic formations along I-70, which describes and explains selected landform features, outcrops, and historic areas. This section pinpoints exact spots along the Interstate, identified by mileposts, where the features described in the previous chapters can be observed. The book also includes a list of useful references and a glossary.

Rex Buchanan is assistant director for publications and public affairs at the Kansas Geological Survey and editor of Roadside Kansas: A Traveler's Guide to Its Geology and Landmarks.