The
unique geologic and geomorphic features of Canada span four billion years,
from ancient Precambrian crystalline rocks of the Canadian Shield,through
fossil-bearing Phanerozoic sedimentary strata, to unconsolidated sedimentary
cover deposited during the last Ice Age, and exposed less than 10,000 years
ago as the Continental Ice Sheet melted. Acted upon by the driving forces
of plate tectonics, these elements are responsible for an impressive array
of mountains, intrusions, lava flows, stacked sedimentary layers, metamorphic
rocks, folds, and faults. The surface morphology of these elements controls
the distribution of lakes, wetlands and river systems that in turn exert
a major influence on Canada's groundwater resources, agriculture, mineral
wealth, biodiversity, building foundations and transportation networks.
Geomorphology and geological processes collectively influence the occurrence
of landslides, avalanches, earthquakes, and even the potential for volcanic
eruptions throughout certain areas of Canada.
Members of the Canadian Geoheritage Committee are working with governmental
agencies, primary and secondary schools, museums, universities, societies
and public interest groups to help preserve, protect and promote Canadian
geoheritage.
Recently retired from the Department of Earth Sciences, Professor Donaldson
teaches a course about the geoheritage of the Ottawa area as part of the
Learning in Retirement Seminars at Carleton.
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