Wallace R. Hansen

When I think of “environmental geology” I usually think of hazardous waste sites, mine tailings, and so forth. At the time this book was published (1982), “environmental” had a little bit different meaning; this the emphasis is on what would now probably be called “geological hazards”: expansive soils, expansive bedrock, mine subsidence, hydrology, landslides, and seismicity. Nevertheless, interesting. There’s a good introduction on the surface geology of the area (for those of show more you unfamiliar with Colorado geography, the “Front Range Urban Corridor” is the strip of development at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs and including Boulder, Denver, and their suburbs; sometimes Pueblo is included, but not in this book), followed by specifics of the various situations discussed. In contrast to more recent concepts of “environmental”, a lot of the discussion is about geological resources – sand, gravel, coal, and structural stone – and whether there will be enough of them to meet future demand. Maps and photographs, extensive references, and a good index. Although perhaps a little out of date still a good introduction to the geology of the area for Colorado residents or visitors. For more information see Collapsible Soils in Colorado and Geology Underfoot Along Colorado’s Front Range. show less

Originally a USGS bulletin, this small, inexpensive book gives a great overview of the geology of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to learn how and when the Black Canyon was formed and why it looks the way it does today.