Great Plains Geology

Great Plains Geology concisely guides readers through the geological development of the Great Plains region. It describes the distinct features of fifty-seven geologic sites, including fascinating places such as Raton Pass in Colorado and New Mexico, the Missouri Breaks of Montana, and the Ashfall Fossil Beds in Nebraska. This guide addresses the tricky question of what constitutes the Great Plains, showing that the region is defined in part through its unique geologic features.  

"Diffendal's ability to write from first-hand experience, and his talent for summarizing very complex geology and huge amounts of detailed scientific information in a candid, appealing, and understandable way, make this the best handbook of its type currently available for the Great Plains region."—Priscilla C. Grew, Nebraska History, "Great Plains Geology is not just a book, it’s a gift, offered by a scientist from his life’s experience. The book is a work of great and selfless generosity for which we should be grateful as we sally forth to explore this vast and varied region."—Joe Alan Artz, Journal of the Iowa Archeological Society, “This book should be in the travel bag of anyone interested in exploring this remarkable stage in the heart of North America.”—Michael Forsberg, photographer and author of Great Plains: America’s Lingering Wild  , “Great Plains Geology is a book I wish I’d had fifty years ago when we moved to Nebraska and started commuting to Oklahoma to visit relatives. [Diffendal’s] narrative enriches the Great Plains experience immeasurably, especially for those who’ve made their homes here.”—John Janovy Jr., Varner Professor Emeritus at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and author of Keith County Journal  , “This is an indispensable travel guide for anyone wishing to explore and appreciate the mysteries of this beautiful landscape.”—Dale A. Winkler, research professor of paleontology at Southern Methodist University

R. F. Diffendal Jr. is professor emeritus in the School of Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. He is the author of Lewis and Clark and the Geology of the Great Plains.