2 Chapter 2. Digging deeper
Learning Objectives
Before embarking in afield trip a little bit of background research should be done. Consequently, at the end of this chapter the student will
- learn the importance of the physical location of the study area.
- understand the relevance of the collecting as much data as possible before the field trip related to the climate and the geology of the area.
- comprehend the need to look at the geological history of an area.
- be aware of the relevance of picking the right tools for the job.
2.1. Introduction
In the previous chapter we introduced a general overview of all the things you should be doing before embarking in a field trip. Now, let’s dig deeper into the specifics of the field trip to the Avonlea Badlands in Southern Saskatchewan. We’re going to travel virtually in space and in time, as a geological field trip is not only a lateral movement across the surface, but also a travel in time following the clues provided by rocks and fossils. But in order to embark in this adventure, we should get ourselves a little prepared. First we’re going to look at maps to see where exactly are located the Avonlea Badlands. We’re going to collect data about relief, climate, vegetation and rock types so that we know what expect, what tools and personal items we should pack. After that, we’re going to travel further in time so we can understand the processes that gave the area the present aspect.
So, buckle your virtual seat belt as we’re starting in this adventure!
2.2. Space travel
2.2.1. Saskatchewan? Where is that?
If you are already in Saskatchewan or if you ever went through this place, than you already know the answer to this question. Saskatchewan is the Canadian province located east of Alberta, west of Manitoba, south of the Northwestern Territories and north of US states Montana and North Dakota. We’ve mentioned before that the Avonlea Badlands are located in Southern Saskatchewan. And for a lot of people born and raised in this wonderful province that will be enough to have an idea about localization and maybe even about the landscape. But if you’re a newcomer to this province, Saskatchewan sounds initially like a made-up name so that the Hollywood directors can use it in their movies because it sounds exotic and funny at the same time.
But the name of the Province of Saskatchewan is not a made up name. It is the name given in 1882 to one of the districts of what was then the Northwest Territories. And the name itself has a story with deep roots in the aboriginal history of the province. At that time, the Cree name for the Saskatchewan River was “Kisiskatchewanisipi,” meaning “swift-flowing river.” Remember that we’re talking about a time when the fur trade was flourishing and the rivers were the main traveling ways. It was also a time when agricultural land did not have much relevance. Consequently, the name of the waterways stayed, and through common use, this eight-syllable name was shortened to Sask