Geology Club – For the Outdoorsy and Nature-Loving

Dr. William Parcell, Julia Schwartz and Jack Dalton druing their geology trip to Wyoming for field data collection. — Dr. William Parcell, Julia Schwartz and Jack Dalton during their geology trip to Wyoming for field data collection.

Ask any Geology Club member and they will tell you it is much more than just rocks. Since its inception, Geology Club has made it a goal to introduce students of all disciplines to one of the most nature-centric and outdoorsy organizations Wichita State offers.

"Geology Club members would probably refer to themselves as adventurers, happy campers, or all-around nature lovers," Josh Mallard, club event coordinator, said. "Ideas for a Geology Club began in the fall of 2022 with the desire to meet incoming students, mentor current students, and host field trips to geologically interesting areas (sorry Kansas)."

"The primary goal of the Geology club is to introduce students to the epic story of Earth’s history through hands-on and unique experiences. We have been able to accomplish this goal through day hikes, camping trips, lecture series, and other outings."

Wichita State Geology Logo

The most notable trip of 2023 came when the Geology Club visited three state parks in Oklahoma - Gloss Mountain State Park, Alabaster Caverns State Park and Salt Plains State Park.

"Gloss Mountain is an escarpment that rises above the plains with hiking trails and picnic areas," Mallard said. "We spent most of the day exploring the changing rock layers and observing the local wildlife.

"At Alabaster Caverns, we went on a cave tour of the only explorable gypsum cavern in the U.S. Here, we were able to see some of the world's smallest bats, amazing gypsum structures sculpted by water, and visit several small gypsum alcoves scattered throughout the park. We camped there overnight before heading to the Salt Plains in the morning.

"The Salt Plains are known for their selenite crystals and public digging area. We spent the day looking for crystals before heading home, concluding our end-of-the-semester excursion."

WSU Geology Club trip to Gloss Mountain State Park. — WSU Geology Club trip to Gloss Mountain State Park in Oklahoma.

Geology is the study of Earth and its materials, processes, products, physical nature and history. This means geologists have a wide range of studies, including many current issues.

"Geologists explore issues affecting water quality, weather, and the general availability of resources," Mallard said. "Presently, the big issue faced locally that geologists look at is nutrient exportation and the Oglala aquifer - an aquifer that stretches from South Dakota and Wyoming in the north, down south through Kansas and into Texas and New Mexico."

These uses of geology also mean it is a practical career path.

"One thing that people may not know about geology as an interest is that it offers a wide range of career opportunities outside of traditional fields such as oil and gas exploration," Mallard said. "Geology graduates can pursue careers in fields such as consulting, mining, natural hazards assessment, and planetary science.

"Geologists are also involved in solving many pressing societal issues, including climate change, resource management, and sustainability. Geology is an interest that offers not only a wealth of scientific knowledge but also many practical applications and career opportunities that are sometimes unknown."

To keep up with the latest from Wichita State Geology Club, follow them on Facebook. Students who are interested can reach out to her at jfschwartz@shockers.wichita.edu for more info.

Blog home All posts