Very interesting geology there. As you know, I'm fascinated by rocks and geology. Do you know anything of the origins of this formation? It doesn't look like the creek eroded through the rocks, but rather the formation was split. Very interesting....
Ed, I only know a little about local rocks and geology. The underlying Precambrian rock is Sioux Quartzite, 1.2-1.6 billion years old which was formed from iron rich silica sand most likely at the bottom of a sea. The Split Rock Creek rock formation consisting of Cretaceous course grained silicicastics, shale, and opline mixed with chert. These were laid down under organic rich sea water or along the shore of a sea. The Creek itself has cut down through this softer "mudstone" rock. For detailed information see: http://www.sdgs.usd.edu/pubs/PAPERS_PUBLICATIONS/Sedimentology,%20Stratigraphy%20and%20Depositional%20History%20of%20the%20Createous%20Split%20Rock%20Creek%20Formation,%20Minnehaha%20County,%20South%20Dakota.pdf
These two shots were taken about 50 miles apart, but this is the season of green growing plants and blue sky. Local corn is now about fence post high and growing rapidly.
Sounds like you know more than a little about geology, Jeff....Judging from the foreground limbs, it appears you were on the bank when you captured that image. Would love to raft, canoe, kayak or float in that beautiful spot...assuming there are no nearby waterfalls.
A Google search can make anyone sound like an expert. Yes, I did know about our local Sioux Quartzite as this rock was used in many historic buildings. It is a dark red, hard stone, quite pretty.
I shot from the banks of Split Rock Creek. Kayaks and canoes often go down this part of the usually fast flowing creek. There is a dam perhaps a mile down stream, but it can be portaged. Rock climbers and repellers use these cliffs in the park on a daily basis.
These are both outstanding photos. That split rock is unique and tantalizing...what happened to create such a scene? The farm scene is iconic and perfectly composed!
Thanks, Lowell. Split Rock Creek drains a large area of land, and over the ages cut down through the rock to create these formations. Local legend says Jessie James jumped this creek on his horse making a getaway from a pursuing posse. He must have been riding Pegasus.
Very interesting geology there. As you know, I'm fascinated by rocks and geology. Do you know anything of the origins of this formation? It doesn't look like the creek eroded through the rocks, but rather the formation was split. Very interesting....
ReplyDeleteEd, I only know a little about local rocks and geology. The underlying Precambrian rock is Sioux Quartzite, 1.2-1.6 billion years old which was formed from iron rich silica sand most likely at the bottom of a sea. The Split Rock Creek rock formation consisting of Cretaceous course grained silicicastics, shale, and opline mixed with chert. These were laid down under organic rich sea water or along the shore of a sea. The Creek itself has cut down through this softer "mudstone" rock. For detailed information see: http://www.sdgs.usd.edu/pubs/PAPERS_PUBLICATIONS/Sedimentology,%20Stratigraphy%20and%20Depositional%20History%20of%20the%20Createous%20Split%20Rock%20Creek%20Formation,%20Minnehaha%20County,%20South%20Dakota.pdf
DeleteDifferent landscapes - same colouring.
ReplyDeleteAgain a thoughtful diptych.
These two shots were taken about 50 miles apart, but this is the season of green growing plants and blue sky. Local corn is now about fence post high and growing rapidly.
DeleteSounds like you know more than a little about geology, Jeff....Judging from the foreground limbs, it appears you were on the bank when you captured that image. Would love to raft, canoe, kayak or float in that beautiful spot...assuming there are no nearby waterfalls.
ReplyDeleteA Google search can make anyone sound like an expert. Yes, I did know about our local Sioux Quartzite as this rock was used in many historic buildings. It is a dark red, hard stone, quite pretty.
DeleteI shot from the banks of Split Rock Creek. Kayaks and canoes often go down this part of the usually fast flowing creek. There is a dam perhaps a mile down stream, but it can be portaged. Rock climbers and repellers use these cliffs in the park on a daily basis.
These are both outstanding photos. That split rock is unique and tantalizing...what happened to create such a scene? The farm scene is iconic and perfectly composed!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Lowell. Split Rock Creek drains a large area of land, and over the ages cut down through the rock to create these formations. Local legend says Jessie James jumped this creek on his horse making a getaway from a pursuing posse. He must have been riding Pegasus.
DeleteI like both of these but the bottom is my favorite!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful places. Excellent photos!
ReplyDeleteNice to see green corn and a cool place to swim
ReplyDelete