Recalling a 'Remarkable' Work

Perhaps a review of the past may make us better geologists in the future.

In 1954, Ed McKee finished the classic GSA monograph #61 on the "Stratigraphy and History of the Moenkopi Formation." The Moenkopi formation extends over significant portions of Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona and Nevada, where this Triassic formation adds some of the stunning red colors to the famous landscapes of the Colorado Plateau.

A remarkable work, it detailed the areal distribution, thickness, lithologic variations (laterally and vertically), sedimentary structures and fossils (plant, invertebrate and vertebrate), as well as cataloging tracks and trails.

An exceptionally broad and complete study, boldly executed. We rarely see this scope of work nowadays.

Fortunately for our profession, we still have some bold geologists. Bert Bally is well along on his multi-volume work, The Geology of the World.

In addition to being a bold geologist, Bert, of course, is an emeritus faculty member in the department of geology and geophysics at Rice University.

Send him your encouragement.