During an excavation operation on May 21, 2008, a petrified log (Cretaceous Fossil) was unearthed and recognized as significant by Jeff Martin. Upon subsequent inspection of the fossil by geologists it was determined that the fossil was formerly a palm tree, approximately 72 million years old. The fossil's size, age and good condition is what makes it so unique.
A petrified tree forms when a fallen tree is rapidly buried by mineral-rich sediment, like volcanic ash or mud, which prevents oxygen from reaching the wood, thus slowing decay by fungi and bacteria. Over time, mineral-laden groundwater seeps through the sediment, dissolving the wood's original organic components and replacing them with minerals, most commonly silica. This process, called permineralization or replacement, creates a stone duplicate of the tree, preserving its cellular structure and details as a fossil. These fossils are evidence of past tropical climates and ancient marine environments. The climatic conditions were very different 80 million years ago compared to today.
To log this Earthcache: Unlike traditional geocaches, there is no physical container or logbook. Read the description, visit the site, and then send the answers to the owner. Please do not include the answers in your log. Logs without the required information will be removed.
1. Describe the fossil: What colour is it, estimate its length, and note any other interesting features
2. What type of stone/rock surrounds the palm tree fossil? (Not the decorative stones)
3. Do you see other fossils in the surrounding rock? (Not the decorative stones)
4. Take a picture and include it in your log
References
VIU Earth Sciences
The Geology of Vancouver Island by Chris Yorath
West Coast Fossils by Rolf Ludvigsen & Graham Beard