By: Georgia Looney

Larger imageDr. Bob de Groot giving an overview of the day’s activities at Harbor Park

The first day of the SCEC intern field trip was met with anticipation and excitement. The interns had been looking forward to this day for weeks and when it finally arrived, the interns couldn’t wait to embark on this adventure. After diligently working on their summer projects, the interns welcomed the field trip as a well deserved break and a perfect time to get to know the other interns.

Larger imageInterns exploring the rocky beach nearby Point Fermin

The first stop of the day was at Harbor Park. After an introduction of the SURE interns to the UseIT interns, Dr. Bob de Groot explained the history of the LA River and how it used to flow through the area. Bob also commented on the history of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and the fault that runs through it. He stated that it is a scaled down version of the San Andreas Fault, in terms of its tectonic behavior.

Larger imageUseIT/SURE interns on their way to explore and gather fossilized fish scales at Ladera Linda Park

After a short bus ride to Point Fermin and a nearby beach, Bob explained that landslides in the area destroyed a near-by road and the remains of it could be seen through the fencing that separates the damaged area from the general public. It’s a solemn reminder that the earth is always in a state of flux. Just a little west of Point Fermin, Bob let the interns explore the shore of a rocky beach which included some interesting rocks such as asphalt-infused sandstone and excellent views of the beach strata off in the distance.

The last stop of the day was at the Ladera Linda Park. Bob started to explain the brief geological history of this particular area and that since it was marine layer, fish fossils could be found there. Bob lead the interns down a slightly rocky path to get to the quarry where the fossils were to be found. The interns were then left to their own devices on ways to find the fossils in the rocks.

For many of the interns, this was their first time in California. This field trip provided an excellent opportunity to learn about the surrounding LA area and the tectonic processes that make the unique California topography.

View field notes from other UseIT Interns:   Select an intern... Caltech Field Trip Rediscovering Urban LA The Lowdown: VDOs and Beyond Archiving the Past for the Future