A clear overview of the Des Plaines Valley’s geography and history, showing how its physical features shaped a region and its future.
With maps, diagrams, and field-trip ideas, you’ll see why this valley matters to both students and planners.
This nonfiction study explains the Des Plaines Basin, its glacial origins, moraines, and outwash plains. It describes how ancient lakes, river movement, and floods shaped the landscape and its development. Rich with illustrations, maps, and cross‑sections, the book makes complex ideas accessible to readers new to physical geography.
Designed for educational use, the book presents a clear sequence of topics—from geography and history to practical field observations—so readers can connect science with real places around Chicago.
- Accessible explanations of glacial processes, moraines, and outwash terraces
- Detailed maps and plates illustrating the valley’s development and major stages
- Discussion of floods, watersheds, and the Des Plaines river system
- Ideas for field trips and hands-on exploration of the landscape
Ideal for readers interested in regional geography, teachers planning field studies, and anyone curious about how a valley evolves over time.