Raccoon Creek State parks 101 acre main lake has a wave cut that is visible at many places around the lake. One place where this is very noticable is at the posted coordinates.
A wave cut platform is when the waves from the water constantly hitting the shore line erode the material at the waters edge and it works away at the earth at water level but the material above is left in place. Creating a ledge that reaches over the water. Eventually the water will pick away at the earth until the rock above can no longer suport its own weight and will colapse into the water.
The rocks here at Raccoon Creek make up part of the Glenshaw formation. Which is comprised of cyclic sequences of shale, sandstone, redbeds, thinly bedded limestone, and thin non-persistant beds of coal.
Below is an image of a large wave cut. You can see where the water has worn away the rock.
The best spot to view the wave cut is from the water but you could also view it from near the boat rental area see way points for parking.
To prove that you have been to this Earthcache please answer the following questions.
1 How much space is there between the water and the top of the wave cut?
2. About how thick is the rock formation above the wave cut at the thickest part?
3. Post the required picture of yourself (face not required) or a personal item at the while visiting the lake. Be sure not to put a photograph of the wave cut in your log.
4. Explain in your own words what is happening here.
5. Paddle or walk over to the rock at the waters edge and feel it's texture. If it is shale it will have fine grains which will feel smooth. If it is sandstone it will likely be coarse and feel a bit like sand paper. Based on these charteristics do you think it is shale or sandstone?