Maryland's Geology

by Martin Schmidt, Martin F. Schmidt

Did you ever wonder why there are rolling hills and valleys in the area around Baltimore, but the land on the Eastern Shore is mostly very flat? What about those tilted and bent layers of rock along the sides of roads in the mountains of Western Maryland -- how did they get that way?The answers to such questions can be found in this enlightening book. No advanced degree is required -- the author has explained all the basic principles of geology, and especially those that apply in Maryland, so that the layman will be able to grasp the information without special knowledge. Maryland's Geology includes a multitude of diagrams, and its maps will prove useful for those interested in a particular area.

Genres: Geology

175 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1993

Reviews

[DW Rowlands · Rating 5 out of 5]

While this book is a bit old, it's really well done as an introduction to Maryland's geology for people who aren't necessarily very aware of the basics of geology. The author is a high school teacher, and does a good job of providing very basic introductions to geological concepts combined with the details of how they apply to Maryland geology, complete with many maps and diagrams.

[Katherine Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not quite as useful as the Roadside Geology books on OR and WA. But it is still very interesting to learn how our surroundings came together. Time to go exploring, book in hand ...

[Dale Lehman · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're at all interested in geology, you'll probably enjoy and learn from this book, even if you've never been near Maryland. Schmidt gives clear explanations of geological processes and history, and makes the subject come alive. The focus is necessarily narrow, but as Maryland's geologic history is simply part of a larger story, Schmidt necessarily treats some larger themes in the course of his account. One interesting aspect of the book is that it teaches you to read the land the way a geologist does, at least at a basic level. The final chapter also looks at how geology impacts natural resource management and conservation efforts. Overall, an interesting and engaging read.

[Aidan Moreland · Rating 4 out of 5]

7/10