The Shrinking Glaciers of Western Canada

Well, first of all, this is me, an old man of 72 going on 73. But, I'm still vertical!!

A few weeks ago I had the chance to travel to the Jasper, AB area to check out the Columbia Ice Fields and associated Glaciers in the area. Over my shoulder you can see the white, remaining bits of a Glacier which used to fill the entire valley.

Going there was a mixture of happiness and sadness. As a Geologist, I was certainly happy to see a few Glaciers. However, a lot of sadness was mixed in, because I was at this very spot about 50 years ago, as a young man, and the Glacier behind me was 3 to 4 times larger.

Does anyone believe Global Warming is not happening? If so, you better wake up and smell the coffee.

Yellowstone National Park & Geology

Yellowstone National Park's supervolcano remains a subject of scientific interest, with its last major eruption occurring approximately 640,000 years ago. Recent studies have identified a volatile-rich magma cap about 3.8 kilometers beneath the surface, which may help prevent large eruptions by trapping heat and pressure .news.com.auscitechdaily.com+2people.com+2news.rice.edu+2

On May 31, 2025, a small hydrothermal eruption was recorded at Black Diamond Pool in Biscuit Basin—the first since a significant explosion in July 2024 that ejected steam and debris, leading to area closures . These hydrothermal events, while dramatic, are not indicative of impending volcanic activity. The U.S. Geological Survey reports that seismicity, ground deformation, and gas emissions remain at normal background levels .sacbee.com+3mrt.com+3volcanoes.usgs.gov+3apnews.com

Old Faithfull

Yellowstone continues to be closely monitored, ensuring both scientific understanding and visitor safety.

Unveiling the Mysteries of Earth's Ancient Stones Through Time

Earth is a gallery of ancient stones, each telling its own compelling story, sealed within layers of time. From the towering cliffs of the Grand Canyon to the sacred stones of Stonehenge, these geological formations hold clues about our planet’s past and the evolution of life itself. The journey to uncover these monumental works isn't just about rocks; it's a deep dive into history. By decoding sediment layers, mineral characteristics, and buried artifacts, we can illuminate a fascinating narrative that extends to the present day.

The Formation of Ancient Stones

The ancient stones that grace our planet formed over millions of years. This process involves various geological actions, from sedimentation in ancient seas to volcanic eruptions that created solid rock. Each stone’s origin tells a tale of the unique environmental conditions it experienced.

A prime example is the granite formations of Yosemite National Park. These striking structures originated from molten magma that cooled slowly beneath the Earth's surface over roughly 10 million years. Today, they stand as powerful reminders of geological evolution, etched with patterns that reveal the planet's dynamic history.

The Role of Erosion in Revealing History

Erosion plays a crucial role in the story held within ancient stones. Natural elements such as wind, water, and ice gradually shape rock layers. This slow, relentless process unveils secrets that are millions of years old.

Take the Grand Canyon, where the exposed rock layers are like a history book laid open. The oldest fossils, dating back over 500 million years, offer insights into ancient ecosystems. Each layer acts as a timestamp, indicating changes in climate and life forms through different geological eras.

Cultural Significance of Ancient Stones

Ancient stones have inspired human imagination for generations, evolving from mere objects of curiosity to significant cultural symbols. Many civilizations revered these stones, seeing them as bridges to the divine or honoring an ancient legacy.

Consider Stonehenge, built around 2500 BCE. This monumental structure aligns with the movements of the sun and stars, highlighting humanity’s quest to connect with the cosmos. Similarly, the Pyramids of Giza serve as powerful links between earth and sky, symbolizing the ancient Egyptians' beliefs about the afterlife. These sites demonstrate how stones became symbols of cultural identity and human aspiration.

Reflections on Earth’s Ancient Stones

The saga of the Earth’s ancient stones reflects our collective history, creativity, and resilience. From the geological formations shaped over eons to the human cultures connected to them, these stones encapsulate the pulse of time. They connect us to moments both grand and humble.

As we continue to explore and engage with these historical treasures, let's do so with curiosity and respect. Each stone serves as a chapter in the ongoing story of our world, waiting to be discovered by those willing to listen.