Gr8 Smoky Mountain NP Landslide Scars EarthCache

Purpose:

The purpose of this earthcache is to teach the geocacher about wedge failures. The massive scars of which you are looking are located on the Anakeesta Ridge near Newfound Gap.

Lesson:

"Because the Smokies are located in the temperate climate of southeastern North America, the Park is subject to very heavy rainfall in short periods of time (usually during the spring and summer).  As much as 8 to 12 inches of rain may fall in a 23- to 36-hour period, swelling creeks and rivers well beyond their carrying capacity." (Moore, 2004, p. 49)

"Another type of catastrophic event that happens in the Smokies are landslides, usually a specific sort known as wedge failures.  Wedge failures occur as a result of the intersection of the two planes of weakness in the bedrock that have developed as a result of the folding and faulting and crushing of the bedrock during its geologic past. The movement occurs along the intersection of the two planes of weakness.  As a result of the slide, a wedge-shaped scar is left on the landscape and usually takes many years to heal."  (Moore, 2004, pp. 49-51)

In order to obtain credit for this earth cache, please submit your answers to us via the geocaching.com profile within one week of logging. Failure to do so will result in your log being deleted. Each cacher must submit his or her own answers. NO group answers please. Pictures are encouraged, but NO spoilers please.

1. From your observations, describe the landslide area (color, width, length, vegetation, anything you feel pertinent to your description of the wedge-failure landslide).

2. What is the primary color of the landslide scars?

3. In your own words, describe why the landslide scar is referred to as a wedge?

4. From your observation, how many landslide scars do you see?

Permission from the park to share this learning adventure has been submitted via reviewer note.

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