During the Late Ordovician(~450 Ma) warm, broad, shallow seas covered Kentucky as well as most of the continent, depositing carbonate sediments similar to those seen in the Bahamas today. Water depth in this epicontinental sea ranged from 20-40 m (65-130 ft). The Late Ordovician fossil record shows that marine communities were abundant, well-established and highly diverse. Although dominated by bryozoans, brachiopods, and crinoids, other fossils included gastropods, trilobites, bivalves, cephalopods (nautiloids), corals, red and green algae, sponges, and stromatoporoids (sclerosponges). The exposure at “Slate Valley” in Bath County provides an opportunity to collect brachiopods (Kentucky’s state fossil!) and other examples of this diverse fauna. Join us as we explore the ancient seas and collect fossils along the way. Rock hammers are welcome and a limited number will be provided. Please wear sturdy shoes and eye protection. Hard Hats and high-visibility vests will be provided.
Logistics:- Ticket purchase is required during conference registration at kaee.org/conference.
- Cost: $25
- Meet at the parking area on the north side of the intersection of KY-111/Wyoming Road and Waterdell Rd. in Bath Co., KY; 38°10'53.96"N, 83°43'15.33"W
