Select Page

Celebration of Scholarship and Creative Activity 2023

Glacial Transport Pathways in Northeast Wisconsin

Jeffery R Krause, Jr

Senior, Geology

Abstract

During the ice age, glaciers carried sediments that shaped Wisconsin’s landscape. These sediments provide clues to the source and specific ice flow patterns. The purpose of this project is to determine the glacial flow paths using mineral assemblages. I collected samples containing sandy to gravelly sediment from glacial meltwater deposits (outwash). From these samples, I separated the grains into size fractions and used the smallest fraction, silt to sand. From these, I had microscope grain mount slides made for study using a petrographic microscope to identify minerals. The same size fractions were also used in X-Ray diffraction analyses for mineral identification. I compared the resulting mineral data to maps of the Upper Midwest and Canada where the glaciers originated. These results show original rock sources.

Many previous studies have shown that a large amount of glacial sediments in Wisconsin were sourced from the Upper Midwest and Canada. It was surprising to find that much of the sediment came from areas closer to home, including Door County and northern Wisconsin. The remaining material was transported greater distances (Upper Midwest and Canada). Knowing specific pathways of glacial ice flow and associated sediment transport is useful in considering the economic impact of these sand- and gravel-rich sediments; many are used for construction, road building, and in agriculture.

What Do You Think? 

We encourage you to leave a respectful note, thought or comment with the presenter(s) below as a means of engaging with them. Your responses are appreciated and the presenter(s) will be participating in the conversation. 

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Thank you for visiting Celebration of Scholarship and Creative Activity!
We hope you are inspired by the excellence and hard work of UW Oshkosh Titans.
Office of Student Research and Creative Activity

Dempsey Hall 317
osrca@uwosh.edu
(920) 424-1195