Geologist and professor Robert J. Carson has just written a new guidebook for northwest Wyoming titled East of Yellowstone. Recently published, the book covers geology of the Clarks Fork Valley, the nearby Beartooth Mountains and Absaroka Mountains, and the Bighorn Basin of Wyoming and Montana-all areas outside the eastern border of Yellowstone National Park.On May 26, 11 a.m., Carson shares his work in a slide show and talk at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center's Coe Auditorium. The presentation is free to the public, and afterward, Carson autographs copies of his book at the Center's Museum Store where his book is for sale.
Covering some 166 miles in the region, Carson's book has five separate road logs to guide area visitors through the Beartooth Mountains and along the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway and adjoining roads to vistas of rugged mountains and scenic valleys. Of particular interest are the enigmatic Heart Mountain detachment, the Absaroka volcanic activity, and area Pleistocene glaciation. The book has seven geologic maps and ten topographic maps with trails outlined as well as an extraordinary collection of photographs.
Carson is the Grace Farnsworth Phillips Professor of Geology and Environmental Studies at Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington. He earned a BA in geology from Cornell University at Ithaca, New York; an MS from Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana, and a doctorate from the University of Washington.
His interests lie in the earth and environmental sciences, and he teaches courses that deal with resources and pollution, human interaction with the biosphere, glaciers, volcanoes, water, landforms, and natural hazards. A whitewater guide and a member of the American Alpine Club, he has led field trips in Africa, Eurasia, South America, and throughout North America. His other books include Where the Great River Bends and Hiking Guide to Washington Geology.
The Historical Center's Draper Museum of Natural History Curator Dr. Charles R. Preston calls the Carson book, "A robust and highly engaging portrait of the geological history and features of one of the most fascinating natural theaters in the world. This book will absolutely enhance your understanding and appreciation of the Greater Yellowstone region."
For additional information, contact Jennifer McDonald at jenniferm@bbhc.org or 307-578-4121
For general information, visit http://www.bbhc.org/ or call 307-587-4771.
