Oregon features many beautiful and varied landscapes, shaped over millions of years. Volcanic eruptions, huge floods during the Pleistocene era, landslides, and earthquakes have all played a role in creating what we see today. The state's plate tectonics have given rise to unique features such as accreted terranes, the folded Coast Range, and the Cascade volcanoes. These tectonic processes are still shaping Oregon's land.
Exploring Oregon's geologic history
If you want to learn more about Oregon's geology, you can use a web-based map from the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI).
“Oregon: A Geologic History" (Interpretive Map 28, 2009) offers map layers that show rock units and the major events in Oregon's geological past.
Keep in mind that the Board office does not have geologists on staff. Besides the DOGAMI resource, you might find the websites of other geologic organizations useful for learning more about Oregon geology or geologic sciences in general. The links to these sites are provided for your convenience.
Evaluating geologic specimens
The Board does not employ professional geologists and cannot answer questions about specific geologic specimens or related topics. Board members are volunteers and not available in the office. If you need a specimen evaluated, try contacting your local community college or university to see if their science programs offer services to the public. You might also be able to get an evaluation done at a rock or gem show; the Board does not track such events and recommends you search online. You may also need to hire a qualified geologist for an expert review.
Hiring a geologist
If you are looking for information on hiring a geologist, the Board suggests the following resources:
These links are provided for your convenience.