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Badlands Geology Text Transcript |
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| Four stages of geologic evolution of the Badlands over time. | Four Stages of Geologic Evolution1 Million Years AgoThe series starts with a southeast to northwest view showing the ancestral White River flowing through a landscape flatter and moister than today. The braided White River flowed in a direct path from the Rockies through the area that became the Badlands into the Missouri River. 500,000 Years AgoThe climate and vegetation was much like that of today. The White River has begun eroding through the soft sedimentary rock layers, exposing bluffs that will eventually become the familiar Badlands of today. TodayThe Badlands landscape of today: the White River is bordered by cottonwood groves. In the distance is the eroded escarpment called "The Wall" and tablelands with prairie grasses. 1 Million Years From NowIt's erosion work nearly complete, the velocity of the White River has slowed and looping meanders have formed. The tablelands no longer exist; only remnant hoodoos of "The Wall" now remain. For more about NPS DEM manipulation techniques, see: |
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