Kansas 4-H hosted the 4-H Geology Field Trip near Topeka recently, giving 4-H members and their families a chance to learn about geology in Kansas.
4-H project helps build knowledge, respect for Kansas geology
More than 300 participate in annual field trip
July 21, 2017
TOPEKA, Kan. — More than 300 Kansans roused their curiosity of science and in the process got a close-up look at some of what makes up their home state during the 4-H Geology Field Trip, held recently just east of Topeka.
“I think interest in science is something that my generation does not always appreciate, so seeing so many young people getting interested in the geology project is amazing,” said 17-year-old Brendan Burnett, a high school senior from Wichita.
For many, the highlight of the weekend was a chance to get into the dirt and search for hidden treasures – rocks, minerals and fossils were the items of choice. Volunteers helped kids identify their finds, many of which are destined for 4-Hers’ county and state fair exhibits.
“It was a very positive, helpful learning environment,” said Amy Sollock the Southwest Area 4-H youth development specialist, who helped organize the event. “All of the volunteers are extremely knowledgeable and friendly, which is helpful to many 4-H members and their parents who may know very little about geology.”
The state trip is important to many 4-Hers because several counties in Kansas do not have the expertise or resources to offer a local geology project. It’s a highlight for many 4-Hers, who bring along a parent – and sometimes even the whole family – to participate in the archaeological digs. Sollock said this year’s participants ranged in age from 7 to 80.
“I think many of the older kids in the project, especially if they have been in the project for several years, find it very interesting to learn about the geology of Kansas,” Burnett said. “If you go to the Kansas State Fair (in September), it is cool to see all the amazing collections geology members have put together during their years in 4-H.
David Goldak works as a geologist in the oil and gas industry in Kansas. He is also a 4-H volunteer for the geology project who says he gives his time because he enjoys seeing kids’ and adults’ excitement for earth science.
“One of my college professors once said that geology is the most intellectually interesting natural science, and I firmly believe that,” Goldak said. “I enjoy seeing 4-H members throughout the state, year after year, from an early age through their upper teens, expanding their knowledge of geology and perfecting their exhibits. My most refreshing motivation comes from those young people who have gone on to become earth science and natural science professionals and teachers.”
Sollock said the trip is an excellent STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) opportunity. “The 4-H geology project is so scientific – I really felt like we were discovering artifacts – but it’s historical, as well,” she said. “The history nerd in me was excited, learning about what took place thousands of years ago to leave such specimens behind.”
In addition to collecting artifacts for their exhibits, Sollock said 4Hers and their families attended workshops and participated in contests focused on geology.
“The overall impact on the participants varies greatly, but everyone comes away with at least a basic knowledge of earth science and a respect for the lands on which we collect and for the landowners who provide the opportunity,” Goldak said.
“Not only is it fun to collect different specimens, it is also fun to study geology,” Burnett said. “I know several 4-Hers or former 4-Hers who have turned their interest in geology into a career.”
He added: “I always look forward to hunting for a new fossil, rock, or mineral. I am not sure if I will study geology in college, but wherever I travel I will always find the geology of the area interesting and it will always be one of my hobbies.”
