Visiting an Active Volcano? What to Know Before You Go.
Conde Nast Traveler
From the article: "We asked experts for their top volcano safety tips for travelers."
Conde Nast Traveler
From the article: "We asked experts for their top volcano safety tips for travelers."
Trump Says FEMA to Be Wound Down After Hurricane Season
Reuters

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has an annual budget of about $30 billion. Trump wants disaster funds to be distributed directly from the White House. The photo above shows extensive flooding in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Public domain image by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Reuters

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has an annual budget of about $30 billion. Trump wants disaster funds to be distributed directly from the White House. The photo above shows extensive flooding in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Public domain image by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
FEMA Publication: Guidance for Flood Risk Analysis and Mapping
FEMA

Publications like the one above are extremely valuable for urban planning. The only way to understand flood risk and guide the development of a community is by having access to proper flood maps. Without the mapping of flood-prone areas, there can be a lack of information to effectively communicate flood risk to community officials, citizens, and businesses. Flood maps are not made once and used forever. The maps must be redone or upgraded periodically as land is developed and patterns of infiltration and run-off are altered.
FEMA

Publications like the one above are extremely valuable for urban planning. The only way to understand flood risk and guide the development of a community is by having access to proper flood maps. Without the mapping of flood-prone areas, there can be a lack of information to effectively communicate flood risk to community officials, citizens, and businesses. Flood maps are not made once and used forever. The maps must be redone or upgraded periodically as land is developed and patterns of infiltration and run-off are altered.
Coins Stuffed Into the Cracks of Giant's Causeway Are Damaging the Iconic Site
Smithsonian Magazine

"Authorities in Northern Ireland are urging visitors to stop wedging pocket change between the basalt columns, which are cracking and crumbling as the coins expand." Image by code poet, used here under a Creative Commons license.
Smithsonian Magazine

"Authorities in Northern Ireland are urging visitors to stop wedging pocket change between the basalt columns, which are cracking and crumbling as the coins expand." Image by code poet, used here under a Creative Commons license.
7,000-Year-Old Skeletons From the 'Green Sahara' Reveal a Mysterious Human Lineage
Smithsonian Magazine
Archaeologists found 15 skeletons in a rock shelter in southwest Libya, including two naturally mummified women who died roughly 7,000 years ago.
Smithsonian Magazine
Archaeologists found 15 skeletons in a rock shelter in southwest Libya, including two naturally mummified women who died roughly 7,000 years ago.
Interagency Flood Risk Management
United States Geological Survey

From the article: "The Interagency Flood Risk Management (InFRM) team brings together Federal Partners with mission areas of hazard mitigation, emergency management, floodplain management, natural resources management or conservation to leverage the skillsets, resources and programs to determine the needs of communities and define solutions and implement measures to reduce long term flood risk throughout the States of Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas."
United States Geological Survey

From the article: "The Interagency Flood Risk Management (InFRM) team brings together Federal Partners with mission areas of hazard mitigation, emergency management, floodplain management, natural resources management or conservation to leverage the skillsets, resources and programs to determine the needs of communities and define solutions and implement measures to reduce long term flood risk throughout the States of Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas."
Ukraine Energy Report
Energy Information Administration

Since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has accelerated integration of its energy trade and infrastructure with Europe, moving away from its historical ties with Russia. This integration includes trade and infrastructure related to oil, natural gas, coal, electricity, and other energy sources. Ukraine halted natural gas trade with Russia and natural gas transit from Russia as of January 1, 2025.
Energy Information Administration

Since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has accelerated integration of its energy trade and infrastructure with Europe, moving away from its historical ties with Russia. This integration includes trade and infrastructure related to oil, natural gas, coal, electricity, and other energy sources. Ukraine halted natural gas trade with Russia and natural gas transit from Russia as of January 1, 2025.
Climate.gov Is Likely to Be Shut Down After Most of the Staff Is Fired
The Guardian

We went to the site at noon on June 11th and it presented as unsecure.
The Guardian

We went to the site at noon on June 11th and it presented as unsecure.
Newborn Jupiter Was Twice as Big As It Is Today
Sky & Telescope

From the article: "A new study has revealed that Jupiter was once twice as large and 50 times more magnetically potent than it is today." The image shows Jupiter's south temperate belt and Great Red Spot. Image data: NASA / JPL-Caltech / SwRI / MSSS; Image processing: Navaneeth Krishnan S CC BY.
Sky & Telescope

From the article: "A new study has revealed that Jupiter was once twice as large and 50 times more magnetically potent than it is today." The image shows Jupiter's south temperate belt and Great Red Spot. Image data: NASA / JPL-Caltech / SwRI / MSSS; Image processing: Navaneeth Krishnan S CC BY.
Powerful New US-Indian Satellite Will Track Earth's Changing Surface
NASA-ISRO SAR Mission

NISAR is the first satellite mission to collect radar data in two microwave bandwidth regions, called the L-band and the S-band, to measure changes of our planet's surface, including movements as small as a centimeter. This allows the mission to observe a wide range of Earth processes, from the flow rates of glaciers and ice sheets to the dynamics of earthquakes and volcanoes.
NASA-ISRO SAR Mission

NISAR is the first satellite mission to collect radar data in two microwave bandwidth regions, called the L-band and the S-band, to measure changes of our planet's surface, including movements as small as a centimeter. This allows the mission to observe a wide range of Earth processes, from the flow rates of glaciers and ice sheets to the dynamics of earthquakes and volcanoes.
Arsia Mons, a Martian Volcano, Peeks Through Cloud Tops
NASA

Arsia Mons, an ancient Martian volcano, was captured before dawn on May 2, 2025, by NASA's 2001 Mars Odyssey orbiter while the spacecraft was studying the Red Planet's atmosphere, which appears here as a greenish haze. Image by NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU.
NASA

Arsia Mons, an ancient Martian volcano, was captured before dawn on May 2, 2025, by NASA's 2001 Mars Odyssey orbiter while the spacecraft was studying the Red Planet's atmosphere, which appears here as a greenish haze. Image by NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU.
The Highest and Lowest Points on Mars
Geology.com

The image above is a colorized topographic map of Mars. It shows low elevations as a deep blue color and high elevations as a white color. The highest point on Mars is the Olympus Mons Volcano. The lowest point is within the Hellas Impact Crater.
Geology.com

The image above is a colorized topographic map of Mars. It shows low elevations as a deep blue color and high elevations as a white color. The highest point on Mars is the Olympus Mons Volcano. The lowest point is within the Hellas Impact Crater.
De Beers CEO "Confident" U.S. Tariffs Will Exempt Diamonds
JCKOnline
Diamond mining does not occur at a commercial scale in the United States, so tariffs on diamonds will not protect jobs. That is why the CEO does not believe the United States will place tariffs on imported diamonds.
JCKOnline
Diamond mining does not occur at a commercial scale in the United States, so tariffs on diamonds will not protect jobs. That is why the CEO does not believe the United States will place tariffs on imported diamonds.
Diamond Mines in the United States
Geology.com

A photograph of several diamonds found at the Crater of Diamonds State Park, near Murfreesboro, Arkansas. These diamonds were probably nicely formed crystals when they were in the Earth's mantle. Their shapes were modified by corrosive fluids during their rapid ascent to Earth's surface. Photo used with permission of Crater of Diamonds State Park.
NOTE: Crater of Diamonds is a fee mining site where you can pay a fee and look for diamonds. It is the only diamond mine in the world where YOU can be the miner.
Geology.com

A photograph of several diamonds found at the Crater of Diamonds State Park, near Murfreesboro, Arkansas. These diamonds were probably nicely formed crystals when they were in the Earth's mantle. Their shapes were modified by corrosive fluids during their rapid ascent to Earth's surface. Photo used with permission of Crater of Diamonds State Park.
NOTE: Crater of Diamonds is a fee mining site where you can pay a fee and look for diamonds. It is the only diamond mine in the world where YOU can be the miner.
Algeria Energy Report
U.S. Energy Information Administration

From the article: "Algeria is the second-largest total liquid fuels producer and the largest natural gas producer in Africa, based on EIA's estimated 2024 production levels. Algeria has been a member of OPEC since 1969, about 10 years after the country first began producing crude oil. Algeria is also a participant in the OPEC+ agreement."
U.S. Energy Information Administration

From the article: "Algeria is the second-largest total liquid fuels producer and the largest natural gas producer in Africa, based on EIA's estimated 2024 production levels. Algeria has been a member of OPEC since 1969, about 10 years after the country first began producing crude oil. Algeria is also a participant in the OPEC+ agreement."
Rare Earth Elements and their Uses
Geology.com

The Rare Earth Elements are the 15 lanthanide series elements, plus yttrium. Scandium is found in most rare earth element deposits and is sometimes classified as a rare earth element. Image by Geology.com.
Geology.com

The Rare Earth Elements are the 15 lanthanide series elements, plus yttrium. Scandium is found in most rare earth element deposits and is sometimes classified as a rare earth element. Image by Geology.com.
Map of Greenland
Geology.com

A map showing the location of Greenland relative to the North Pole, Arctic Ocean, Arctic Circle and northern lands such as the Canadian Archipelago, Iceland, Svalbard, and Scandinavia.
Geology.com

A map showing the location of Greenland relative to the North Pole, Arctic Ocean, Arctic Circle and northern lands such as the Canadian Archipelago, Iceland, Svalbard, and Scandinavia.
Mount Etna: Plate Tectonics, Geologic Hazards, Eruption History
Geology.com

A night photo of Mount Etna producing an eruption of glowing ejecta in 2008. These spectacular eruptions can be seen from many parts of Sicily. Image copyright iStockphoto / Frizi.
Geology.com

A night photo of Mount Etna producing an eruption of glowing ejecta in 2008. These spectacular eruptions can be seen from many parts of Sicily. Image copyright iStockphoto / Frizi.
June Birthstones: Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone
Geology.com

Pearls are the traditional birthstone for the month of June. Image copyright iStockphoto / barbaraaaa.

Alexandrite is an alternative birthstone for the month of June. Alexandrite is a color-changing variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Photo by David Weinberg for Alexandrite.net and published here under a GNU Free Document License.

Moonstone is another alternative birthstone for June. It is a feldspar mineral that displays an adularescent glow beneath the surface of the stone.
Geology.com

Pearls are the traditional birthstone for the month of June. Image copyright iStockphoto / barbaraaaa.

Alexandrite is an alternative birthstone for the month of June. Alexandrite is a color-changing variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Photo by David Weinberg for Alexandrite.net and published here under a GNU Free Document License.

Moonstone is another alternative birthstone for June. It is a feldspar mineral that displays an adularescent glow beneath the surface of the stone.
Geologists Might Have Stumbled Upon the Largest Gold Mine in the World
Popular Mechanics

The news is full of stories about gold discovery in China that might be of major significance. However, the excitement often fizzles as more information is learned about the deposit. We will see what happens with this "discovery". The photo shows a quartz vein with a small amount of gold attached to basalt. This specimen is approximately 1 inch (2.4 centimeters) across.
Popular Mechanics

The news is full of stories about gold discovery in China that might be of major significance. However, the excitement often fizzles as more information is learned about the deposit. We will see what happens with this "discovery". The photo shows a quartz vein with a small amount of gold attached to basalt. This specimen is approximately 1 inch (2.4 centimeters) across.
The Many Uses of Gold
Geology.com

The most important consumptive use of gold in the world and in the United States is jewelry manufacturing. Approximately half of all gold mined is used in jewelry. Image copyright iStockphoto / Angelo Marcantonio.
Geology.com

The most important consumptive use of gold in the world and in the United States is jewelry manufacturing. Approximately half of all gold mined is used in jewelry. Image copyright iStockphoto / Angelo Marcantonio.
What Are Geodes?
Geology.com

Geodes are spherical to subspherical rock structures with an internal cavity lined with mineral materials. They have a durable outer wall that is more resistant to weathering than the surrounding bedrock. This allows the geode to survive intact when the surrounding bedrock weathers away.
Geology.com

Geodes are spherical to subspherical rock structures with an internal cavity lined with mineral materials. They have a durable outer wall that is more resistant to weathering than the surrounding bedrock. This allows the geode to survive intact when the surrounding bedrock weathers away.
Where Might You See the Aurora Tonight?
Space Weather Prediction Center

When and where can you see the northern and southern lights also known as the aurora? This page provides a prediction of the aurora’s visibility tonight and tomorrow night on a world map. Animations show what the aurora's been up to over the last 24 hours and estimates what the next 30 minutes will be like. The aurora’s colorful green, red, and purple light shifts gently and often changes shape like softly blowing curtains.
Space Weather Prediction Center

When and where can you see the northern and southern lights also known as the aurora? This page provides a prediction of the aurora’s visibility tonight and tomorrow night on a world map. Animations show what the aurora's been up to over the last 24 hours and estimates what the next 30 minutes will be like. The aurora’s colorful green, red, and purple light shifts gently and often changes shape like softly blowing curtains.
Aurora Australis from Space
Geology.com

Aurora Australis: A composite satellite image of the Aurora Australis (southern lights) over Antarctica from space. The image was compiled by superimposing data of the Aurora Australis collected by NASA's IMAGE satellite atop of an image of Earth from a south polar perspective from the Blue Marble project. The result simulates what the Aurora Australis would look like from a satellite orbiting above. Image by NASA.
Geology.com

Aurora Australis: A composite satellite image of the Aurora Australis (southern lights) over Antarctica from space. The image was compiled by superimposing data of the Aurora Australis collected by NASA's IMAGE satellite atop of an image of Earth from a south polar perspective from the Blue Marble project. The result simulates what the Aurora Australis would look like from a satellite orbiting above. Image by NASA.
USGS Stands Ready for a Potentially Active Hurricane Season
United States Geological Survey

To track active floodwaters in areas lacking year-round streamgage monitoring, the USGS can utilize rapid deployment gauges. As the name suggests, these temporary gauges can be quickly installed in critical locations to fill data gaps, providing near-real-time data that ensures emergency managers and the public have a comprehensive view of evolving flood conditions. They provide information on water levels with some also providing data on precipitation, wind speed, temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure. This information is available on the USGS Flood Event Viewer, which shows rapid deployment gauge locations and data for current and past events.
United States Geological Survey

To track active floodwaters in areas lacking year-round streamgage monitoring, the USGS can utilize rapid deployment gauges. As the name suggests, these temporary gauges can be quickly installed in critical locations to fill data gaps, providing near-real-time data that ensures emergency managers and the public have a comprehensive view of evolving flood conditions. They provide information on water levels with some also providing data on precipitation, wind speed, temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure. This information is available on the USGS Flood Event Viewer, which shows rapid deployment gauge locations and data for current and past events.
Homeowners Insurance Does Not Cover Many Types of Hurricane Damage
Geology.com

Flood, earthquake, expansive soil, hurricane, landslide and subsidence damage is often not covered!
Geology.com

Flood, earthquake, expansive soil, hurricane, landslide and subsidence damage is often not covered!
Penguin Poop Helps Drive Cloud Formation Over Antarctica?
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "Ammonia from Adelie penguin guano reacts with sulfur-containing gases in the atmosphere to aid in forming clouds, which scientists say may be significant to regulating the climate of Antarctica."
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "Ammonia from Adelie penguin guano reacts with sulfur-containing gases in the atmosphere to aid in forming clouds, which scientists say may be significant to regulating the climate of Antarctica."
Map of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean
Geology.com

The Southern Ocean occupies the area between the 60 degrees south latitude line and the coastline of Antarctica. The map of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean above was produced by the LIMA Project (Landsat Image Mosaic of Antarctica).
Geology.com

The Southern Ocean occupies the area between the 60 degrees south latitude line and the coastline of Antarctica. The map of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean above was produced by the LIMA Project (Landsat Image Mosaic of Antarctica).
U.S. Energy-Related Carbon Dioxide Emissions in 2024
Energy Information Administration

Carbon dioxide emissions from the commercial, transportation, and electric power sectors remained relatively unchanged (year over year) in the United States during 2024. The graph above shows how much of the generation from coal has been replaced by generation from natural gas, solar and wind.
Energy Information Administration

Carbon dioxide emissions from the commercial, transportation, and electric power sectors remained relatively unchanged (year over year) in the United States during 2024. The graph above shows how much of the generation from coal has been replaced by generation from natural gas, solar and wind.
Glacier Collapse Buries an Evacuated Village in a Swiss Mountain Valley
CNN
Scientists found evidence that a glacier on a mountain high above the village of Blatten, Switzerland might collapse and issued an evacuation order for the residents. The collapse occurred, buried most of the village and thankfully only one resident is unaccounted for.
CNN
Scientists found evidence that a glacier on a mountain high above the village of Blatten, Switzerland might collapse and issued an evacuation order for the residents. The collapse occurred, buried most of the village and thankfully only one resident is unaccounted for.
Months in the Midnight Sun
NASA Earth Observatory

Far above the Arctic Circle, the landscape around Utqiagvik, Alaska, transforms from a frozen tundra to a mosaic of ponds during its 84 days without a sunset.
NASA Earth Observatory

Far above the Arctic Circle, the landscape around Utqiagvik, Alaska, transforms from a frozen tundra to a mosaic of ponds during its 84 days without a sunset.
What Marks the Southern Boundary of the Arctic?
Geology.com

Boundaries of the Arctic: This map shows the three boundaries commonly used to define the southern geographic extent of the Arctic: 1) the Arctic Circle (shown as a dashed blue line); 2) the area where the average temperature of the warmest month is less than ten degrees Celsius (shown as a solid red line); and, 3) the arctic treeline (shown as a solid green line). Public domain image from the CIA Factbook, treeline added by the National Snow and Ice Data Center.
Geology.com

Boundaries of the Arctic: This map shows the three boundaries commonly used to define the southern geographic extent of the Arctic: 1) the Arctic Circle (shown as a dashed blue line); 2) the area where the average temperature of the warmest month is less than ten degrees Celsius (shown as a solid red line); and, 3) the arctic treeline (shown as a solid green line). Public domain image from the CIA Factbook, treeline added by the National Snow and Ice Data Center.
An Impact Crater Hiding in Plain Sight
NASA Earth Observatory

Much of the Goyder impact structure has eroded away, but there are remnants in Australia's Northern Territory.
NASA Earth Observatory

Much of the Goyder impact structure has eroded away, but there are remnants in Australia's Northern Territory.
Impactites: Ghostly Footprints of Ancient Meteorites
Geology.com

A large 457.7-gram specimen of breccia from the massive Popigai crater in northern Siberia. Note the variety of colors, sizes, shapes and textures within a single mass -- the result of a major meteorite impact which threw millions of tons of rock into the air. As fragments fell back to earth, rocks from different strata were mixed together. Millions of years of heat and pressure compressed those assorted pieces into a solid mass known as an impact breccia. Photograph by Geoffrey Notkin, copyright Aerolite Meteorites.
Geology.com

A large 457.7-gram specimen of breccia from the massive Popigai crater in northern Siberia. Note the variety of colors, sizes, shapes and textures within a single mass -- the result of a major meteorite impact which threw millions of tons of rock into the air. As fragments fell back to earth, rocks from different strata were mixed together. Millions of years of heat and pressure compressed those assorted pieces into a solid mass known as an impact breccia. Photograph by Geoffrey Notkin, copyright Aerolite Meteorites.
Crater Lake at Poas Volcano, Costa Rica Has pH Near Zero
NASA Earth Observatory

This volcano in Costa Rica might have the world's record for the lowest pH. The hot, ultra-acidic lake has a pH near zero.
NASA Earth Observatory

This volcano in Costa Rica might have the world's record for the lowest pH. The hot, ultra-acidic lake has a pH near zero.
Lava Fountaining in Kilauea Crater
CBS News
Video from the U.S. Geological Survey showed Kilauea volcano spewing lava more than 800 feet into the air and producing deposits of cinders and volcanic ash downwind in its latest eruption on Hawaii's Big Island. USGS said the eruption began around 4:15 p.m. local time.
CBS News
Video from the U.S. Geological Survey showed Kilauea volcano spewing lava more than 800 feet into the air and producing deposits of cinders and volcanic ash downwind in its latest eruption on Hawaii's Big Island. USGS said the eruption began around 4:15 p.m. local time.
What Are Cinder Cones?
Geology.com

Cumbre Vieja Volcano erupting cinders on the Canary Island of La Palma, in September, 2021.
Geology.com

Cumbre Vieja Volcano erupting cinders on the Canary Island of La Palma, in September, 2021.
Rising Seas Could Displace Millions, Triggering Global Migration Crisis
Gizmodo
Scientists issue a dire warning that even the 1.5 degrees Celsius warming target is too high and will have catastrophic consequences for coastal populations.
Gizmodo
Scientists issue a dire warning that even the 1.5 degrees Celsius warming target is too high and will have catastrophic consequences for coastal populations.
Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum May Have Lasted Longer Than We Thought
EOS

From the article: "New research on the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum used probabilistic analysis to learn more about its duration and how long modern warming could affect the carbon cycle. The satellite image shows Paleocene-Eocene age rocks from Wyoming's Bighorn Basin. Public domain image produced by astronauts on the International Space Station."
EOS

From the article: "New research on the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum used probabilistic analysis to learn more about its duration and how long modern warming could affect the carbon cycle. The satellite image shows Paleocene-Eocene age rocks from Wyoming's Bighorn Basin. Public domain image produced by astronauts on the International Space Station."
Storm Prediction Gets 10 Times Faster Thanks to AI
EOS
From the article: "Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms can produce weather predictions more quickly than traditional algorithms for a fraction of the computational cost."
EOS
From the article: "Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms can produce weather predictions more quickly than traditional algorithms for a fraction of the computational cost."
Geothermal Potential of the Great Basin of Nevada
United States Geological Survey

Map of the Great Basin of Nevada and surrounding states, colored from green to red to show potential for enhanced geothermal system potential. Public Domain image by USGS
United States Geological Survey

Map of the Great Basin of Nevada and surrounding states, colored from green to red to show potential for enhanced geothermal system potential. Public Domain image by USGS
Methane Clouds in Motion on Saturn's Moon Titan
Sky and Telescope

These images of Titan were taken by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope on July 11, 2023 (top row) and the ground-based W.M. Keck Observatories on July 14, 2023 (bottom row). They show methane clouds (denoted by the white arrows) appearing at different altitudes in Titan's northern hemisphere. Image by NASA / ESA / CSA / STScI / Keck Observatories
Sky and Telescope

These images of Titan were taken by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope on July 11, 2023 (top row) and the ground-based W.M. Keck Observatories on July 14, 2023 (bottom row). They show methane clouds (denoted by the white arrows) appearing at different altitudes in Titan's northern hemisphere. Image by NASA / ESA / CSA / STScI / Keck Observatories
Justin Cuts a Great Piece of Seam Opal from White Cliffs
Black Opal Direct on YouTube
Jaymin Sullivan of the Young Guns Opal Hunters (from the Outback Opal Hunters) dropped by Black Opal Direct to Ask Justin if he would cut one of the best rough opal pieces they have ever found while mining in White Cliffs.
Black Opal Direct on YouTube
Jaymin Sullivan of the Young Guns Opal Hunters (from the Outback Opal Hunters) dropped by Black Opal Direct to Ask Justin if he would cut one of the best rough opal pieces they have ever found while mining in White Cliffs.
All About Opals of All Kinds
Geology.com

Opal is one of the world's most popular gemstones and the birthstone for the month of October. A nice precious opal can flash every color of the spectrum with an intensity and quality of color that surpasses the fire of diamond. Visit the Geology.com Gemstones page.
Geology.com

Opal is one of the world's most popular gemstones and the birthstone for the month of October. A nice precious opal can flash every color of the spectrum with an intensity and quality of color that surpasses the fire of diamond. Visit the Geology.com Gemstones page.
USGS Assmeement of Undiscovered Oil and Gas in SW Wyoming, NW Colorado
United States Geological Survey

The assessment includes the Mowry Composite Total Petroleum System, a geologic grouping in southwestern Wyoming and parts of Colorado and Utah containing deposits of a shallow, prehistoric ocean which covered most of the Rocky Mountain region. Map by NPS, annotated by USGS.
United States Geological Survey

The assessment includes the Mowry Composite Total Petroleum System, a geologic grouping in southwestern Wyoming and parts of Colorado and Utah containing deposits of a shallow, prehistoric ocean which covered most of the Rocky Mountain region. Map by NPS, annotated by USGS.
Amazing Fossil Preserves Teenage Tyrannosaur’s Last Meal
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "An incredible fossilized first was discovered in the Dinosaur Park Formation in Alberta, Canada: a young Gorgosaurus skeleton, fortunately preserved with its two last meals still in its stomach cavity."
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "An incredible fossilized first was discovered in the Dinosaur Park Formation in Alberta, Canada: a young Gorgosaurus skeleton, fortunately preserved with its two last meals still in its stomach cavity."
Articles About Fossils
Geology.com

Visit our Fossils page to learn about different kinds of fossils and fossilized materials! Shown above are examples of a fossilized leaf, insect, fish, and turtle from the Green River Formation. Photos by the National Park Service.
Geology.com

Visit our Fossils page to learn about different kinds of fossils and fossilized materials! Shown above are examples of a fossilized leaf, insect, fish, and turtle from the Green River Formation. Photos by the National Park Service.
Scientists Use DNA to Trace Early Humans' Footsteps From Asia to South America
Smithsonian Magazine / NTU Singapore
The study found that early humans migrated over 20,000 kilometres from North Asia to the end of South America about 13,500 years ago.
Smithsonian Magazine / NTU Singapore
The study found that early humans migrated over 20,000 kilometres from North Asia to the end of South America about 13,500 years ago.
Geological Complexity As a Way to Understand the Distribution of Landslides
The Landslide Blog

This article explores the many factors that can contribute to the occurrence and geographic distribution of landslides. The graphic above is a simplified depiction of a debris flow by USGS.
The Landslide Blog

This article explores the many factors that can contribute to the occurrence and geographic distribution of landslides. The graphic above is a simplified depiction of a debris flow by USGS.
The 21 May 2025 quick clay landslide at Sainte Monique in Quebec, Canada
The Landslide Blog
From the article: "On 21 May 2025, a family lost their home to a quick clay landslide in Sainte Monique, to the northeast of Montreal in Quebec, Canada." Direct link to video.
The Landslide Blog
From the article: "On 21 May 2025, a family lost their home to a quick clay landslide in Sainte Monique, to the northeast of Montreal in Quebec, Canada." Direct link to video.
Exploring Subduction Zone Geohazards on Land and at Sea
EOS

A new initiative is bringing together scientists to address fundamental questions about subduction zone geohazards, using the latest advances in observation technology and computational resources.
EOS

A new initiative is bringing together scientists to address fundamental questions about subduction zone geohazards, using the latest advances in observation technology and computational resources.
Insurance Costs Are Soaring In Tornado Alley. Hail Is the Problem.
National Public Radio
From the article: "But it's hail -- not tornadoes -- that are the biggest concern for insurers in the middle of the country."
National Public Radio
From the article: "But it's hail -- not tornadoes -- that are the biggest concern for insurers in the middle of the country."
The World Diamond Council Hopes to Exempt Diamonds From U.S. Tariffs
JCK Online
From the article: "The World Diamond Council is asking the industry worldwide to join together to get natural diamonds exempted from U.S. tariffs."
JCK Online
From the article: "The World Diamond Council is asking the industry worldwide to join together to get natural diamonds exempted from U.S. tariffs."
Which Countries Mine the Most Gem-Quality Diamonds?
Geology.com

Once centered in Africa, diamond mining now occurs in many countries throughout the world. In recent years, Russia, Canada and Botswana have been leading producers of mined diamonds.
Geology.com

Once centered in Africa, diamond mining now occurs in many countries throughout the world. In recent years, Russia, Canada and Botswana have been leading producers of mined diamonds.
In 1925: A High School Teacher in Tennessee Ignites National Debate Over Human Evolution
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: The Scopes "monkey trial" garnered international attention, and the battle that was fought continues in some form in other states today.
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: The Scopes "monkey trial" garnered international attention, and the battle that was fought continues in some form in other states today.
At least 27 dead after tornadoes hit Kentucky and Missouri
National Public Radio
Many of the deaths occurred when tornadoes hit homes in the middle of the night - an especially deadly time for a tornado strike.
National Public Radio
Many of the deaths occurred when tornadoes hit homes in the middle of the night - an especially deadly time for a tornado strike.
Natural Diamond Industry Hopes to Exempt Its Product From U.S. Tariffs
JCK Online

The World Diamond Council is asking the industry worldwide to join together to get natural diamonds exempted from U.S. tariffs.
Artistic photo of a diamond ring atop of a CanadaMarkTM certificate of origin. For this diamond the certificate indicates the mine of origin, the rough weight, the polished weight and the serial number of the diamond. The serial number is inscribed on the girdle of the diamond along with the CanadaMarkTM hallmark. This is an assurance of the integrity of the supply chain of Canadian certified diamonds from mine to retail. Image Copyright 2016 Dominion Diamond Corporation.
JCK Online

The World Diamond Council is asking the industry worldwide to join together to get natural diamonds exempted from U.S. tariffs.
Artistic photo of a diamond ring atop of a CanadaMarkTM certificate of origin. For this diamond the certificate indicates the mine of origin, the rough weight, the polished weight and the serial number of the diamond. The serial number is inscribed on the girdle of the diamond along with the CanadaMarkTM hallmark. This is an assurance of the integrity of the supply chain of Canadian certified diamonds from mine to retail. Image Copyright 2016 Dominion Diamond Corporation.
How Lightbox Became a Bust
JCK Online
Lightbox was the brand of lab-grown diamonds owned by De Beers, who started selling them at the outrageously low price of $800/carat.
JCK Online
Lightbox was the brand of lab-grown diamonds owned by De Beers, who started selling them at the outrageously low price of $800/carat.
META Spending Billions on the World's Longest Subsea Cable
Popular Science
The cable is expected to be about 31,000 miles in length and be completed by about 2030. The purpose of the cable is to support global AI connectivity and data demands.
Popular Science
The cable is expected to be about 31,000 miles in length and be completed by about 2030. The purpose of the cable is to support global AI connectivity and data demands.
The Strongest Solar Flare of 2025 Is Causing Radio Blackouts Around the World.
Smithsonian Magazine

NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of a solar flare — seen as the bright flash on the left – on May 14. NASA/SDO
Smithsonian Magazine

NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of a solar flare — seen as the bright flash on the left – on May 14. NASA/SDO
Ice Age Fossils from a Wyoming Cave Rewrite Our Understanding of Prehistoric Animals
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "At a site known as Natural Trap Cave, a team of scientists are rappelling down to uncover the secrets of what the Earth was like during the Pleistocene."
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "At a site known as Natural Trap Cave, a team of scientists are rappelling down to uncover the secrets of what the Earth was like during the Pleistocene."
Articles About Fossils
Geology.com

Visit our Fossils page to learn about different kinds of fossils and fossilized materials! Shown above are examples of a fossilized leaf, insect, fish, and turtle from the Green River Formation. Photos by the National Park Service.
Geology.com

Visit our Fossils page to learn about different kinds of fossils and fossilized materials! Shown above are examples of a fossilized leaf, insect, fish, and turtle from the Green River Formation. Photos by the National Park Service.
What Are Brown Diamonds?
Geology.com

Decades ago, brown diamonds were seen as having little value, and they were often crushed for use as industrial abrasive granules. Fortunately, times have changed. Today, brown diamonds are a popular choice for men's jewelry, engagement rings, and everything in between. Diamonds in beautiful shades of brown can offer a lot of sparkle for an affordable price.
Geology.com

Decades ago, brown diamonds were seen as having little value, and they were often crushed for use as industrial abrasive granules. Fortunately, times have changed. Today, brown diamonds are a popular choice for men's jewelry, engagement rings, and everything in between. Diamonds in beautiful shades of brown can offer a lot of sparkle for an affordable price.
Five Places Where You Can Still Find Gold in the United States
Smithsonian Magazine

Small nuggets of gold obtained by panning. Prospectors use a gold pan to separate tiny pieces of gold like these from stream sediments. A person skilled at panning can place a small shovel of stream sediment in the bottom of a pan, fill the pan with water, and swirl to wash the sediment grains out of the pan, leaving the gold behind. It takes a bit of practice.
Smithsonian Magazine

Small nuggets of gold obtained by panning. Prospectors use a gold pan to separate tiny pieces of gold like these from stream sediments. A person skilled at panning can place a small shovel of stream sediment in the bottom of a pan, fill the pan with water, and swirl to wash the sediment grains out of the pan, leaving the gold behind. It takes a bit of practice.
The Many Uses of Gold
Geology.com

The United States government currently mints coins from gold and other precious metals; however, they are intended for investment and collecting. They are not intended for use as legal tender.
Geology.com

The United States government currently mints coins from gold and other precious metals; however, they are intended for investment and collecting. They are not intended for use as legal tender.