Course leaders: Dr Chris Thomas

Chris Thomas has many years experience mapping and interpreting the geology of Dalradian metasedimentary rocks in the Highlands for BGS.

Introduction

The course is aimed at geologists who are expected to work, or anticipate working in regions where polyphase deformation and metamorphism have affected mainly metasedmentary sequences. It includes mapping of bedrock and superficial deposits, based on BGS mapping practise.

The course aims to provide a grounding in mapping skills necessary for work in such terrains, including basic vocabularies that can be used to describe the rocks and superficial deposits, and the development of objective observational skills. The key objective is to be able to make a map of bedrock and superficial deposits in deformed terrains. Thus it considers all aspects of the geology, including lithology, structure and metamorphism in the bedrock, and lithology and landforms in the superficial deposits. The mapping area also includes made and worked ground.

The venue

The course is based in a large house in Kingussie at present, where the course team self-caters. The mapping area is in the Spey valley in the central Scottish Highlands, lying to the west of the A9 and the village of Kincraig. It includes relatively low-lying land and some open upland. The bedrock comprises metamorphosed and variably deformed metasedimentary rocks, with some metaigneous and igneous lithologies. The superficial deposits include glacial deposits of various sorts and their associated landforms.

Duration and number of participants

10 days course, with a maximum of 6 participants. The course is normally run in spring, usually late April and early May.

Course objectives

Practical fieldwork mapping forms the core of the 10-day course. Evening presentations consider lithologies, metamorphism, the development of structure during ductile deformation, superficial deposit lithologies and landforms and their interpretation. The emphasis is on the development of good practical skills in observation, recording and interpretation at the outcrop, together with the production of good field maps. Students will be introduced to field mapping techniques consistent with BGS methods.

Participants will develop skills in the techniques required to

• make systematic observations and descriptions
• apply appropriate lithological names
• assess the nature and degree of metamorphism
• build a local lithostratigraphy
• elucidate the relationships between rocks units
• delineate the major folds and other structures
• delineate and classify geomorphological landforms and associated superficial deposits
• determine the broad deformation history of a region of polyphase folding, based on field evidence

Contact Training for course fees, scheduling and availability