This Earthcache is an educational experience of the Cedar River landslide. I want you to learn and think of the effects on the environment good and bad!
A landslide is defined as the movement of rocks, debris, or earth moving down a slope. These are divided by the types of geological materials (bedrock, debris, or soil). Debris flows (mudflows or mudslides) and rock falls are examples of landslides. This Cedar River landslide effected, salmon, roads, and recreational activities. Most importantly people’s homes and lives.
Every landslide has multiple causes. This landslide was caused by rainfall, changes in river current and human activities. There is a large open gravel pit above the slide area.
The landslide you are viewing started in the winter of 2002. The mud, rocks and trees blocked the flow of the river and destroyed fish habitat. The landslide changed the course of the river creating “elbow lakes” for wildlife. You can see deer, birds and sometimes bears using the newly formed lakes for a cool drink or a bath. The “elbow lakes” are recreational activities for fishing, sunbathers, and picnicking for people. (You should be able to see the results of the landslide by walking, cycling, or driving west to Renton)
QUESTIONS TO ANSWER:
1)How tall is the landslide?
2)What movement do you think was the cause of the landslide? (Rainfall, river current, the open gravel pit, or an earthquake)
3)What were the positive and negative effects on the Cedar River? Please post a photo of the large boulder and the landslide. Proof you visited the cache location.