HARTMAN MULTIMEDIA
Nature Based Multimedia Information Systems
|
HARTMAN MULTIMEDIA
Nature Based Multimedia Information Systems |
|
|
The most spectacular section of the San Andreas Fault is found along the Elkhorn Scarp located on the northeast edge of the level Carrizo Plain. Here the fault forms an unusually prominent alignment of various physiographic fault features such as ridges, trenches and offset stream channels, as well as the scarp. All of these features have been formed in either Quaternary alluvium or in Plio-Pleistocene non-marine sediments. Just north of Camp Dix are a number of small scarps and sag ponds; one of the latter is usually dry and forming a small soda lake. Further north are the escarpments of the Elkhorn Hills, which range to 100 meters plus. Aside from the scarp, the most prominent feature is the series of offset streams, the largest concentration in the world. As the movement is right lateral, most of the intermittent stream channels bend sharply to the right when they cross the fault. Many of the offsets of about 10 meters (30 feet) which occur here were probably formed by the 1857 Fort Tejon earthquake. Other features include several double scarp formations caused by activity on two branch faults, which dropped the central section downward. Vegetation is arid grassland. The rare Eriogonum gossypinum is found in several places along this 40-kilometer (25-mile) section of the fault. Due to the aridity of the region, which gives it a near badlands topography, the geological features are well displayed and preserved from erosion. Integrity: There are dirt roads in the area, a few farm houses and some fencing. The area has been severely overgrazed, having once supported substantial herds of deer and other animals. Use: Private. Public portions for research, education and observation. Ref: Unknown. 1962. Guidebook to the Geology of the Carrizo Plains and San Andreas Fault. San Joaquin Geological Society. April 1976 San Luis ObispoInventory of California Natural Areas Revision © 2005 Steven Louis Hartman
|
|
Send mail to naturebase@aol.com with
questions or comments about this web site.
|