This earthcache will take you to two opposite environments in Rocky Point Park where Puddingstone can be found. The name 'Puddingstone' derives from the rock mass having rounded pebbles/cobbles that contrast with the color of the sandy / chemical cement surrounding the pebbles. The sharp contrast in color and texture makes the rock mass similiar to the look of Plum Pudding.
The rock fragments that form sedimentary rocks come from the weathering of rocks that already existed. Wind and water break off particles of rocks which are then collected by running water. When the water slows down, the sediments are deposited. Dissolved minerals in the water act like natural cements which settle into the spaces between the sediments binding them together into firm, cemented rock."1 It is possible for fossils to exist in Puddingstone, due to many pieces of rock and other matter coming together and being cemented together. If you are lucky and look closely, you may even be able to find some fossils.
You will need to answer a few simple questions in order to log your find. PLEASE do not post your answers with your log, but do message me with the answers. Starting at the posted coordinates, make some observations at this location and answer the questions below based on what you have read about Puddingstone and what you see in the field.
Q1: While standing at the coordinates, notice all of the Puddingstone rocks around you. Then look beyond out towards the water and see the other type of rock in the area. You should be able to know which rocks I am talking about based on the different texture. How does the texture of the rocks further out in the water differ from the Puddingstone? Could these rocks have been Puddingstone, and explain why or why not?
Q2: Do you think its possible these Puddingstone rocks could have been relocated from somewhere else? Why or why not?
Stage 2 Coordinates: N 41 41.553 W 071 22.178
Q3: How does this location differ from the previous location where you also saw Puddingstone?
Q4: Are you able to break any piece off from the Puddingstone you are standing on? Why or why not?
Now we will head lower from where we are standing and get a new perspective on the Puddingstone.
Stage 3 Coordinates: N 41 41.541 W 071 22.180
Q5: Using your height as a reference, how tall would you estimate the Puddingstone is?
OPTIONAL: Take a photo of you and some Puddingstone and upload it along with your log!