GEL 3550 - Advanced Geology of the Great Sand Dunes National Monument

2(2 + 0)

Prerequisite: Nine hours of geography or geology or Permission of instructor

This course analyzes the processes and landforms associated with the eolian (wind) and desert environments at the Great Sand Dunes National Monument, located in the San Luis Valley between the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Analysis of the dune fields allows students to identify various type of dunes, as well as damage related to desertification. The relationships of sand source areas, cross-bedding and transport directions are analyzed.Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1550 and GEL 3550 for credit.