What are the benefits of using field mapping to understand geology, hydrology, and climate interactions?

2 How field mapping informs hydrologic processes

Another benefit of field mapping is that it informs hydrologic processes, such as the movement, storage, and quality of water in the subsurface and on the surface. By mapping the permeability, porosity, and fractures of rocks, geologists can determine how water flows through aquifers, springs, and wells. By mapping the topography, drainage patterns, and soil types of an area, geologists can assess how water flows over land, forming rivers, lakes, and wetlands. Field mapping also helps geologists to monitor and protect water resources from contamination, erosion, and depletion.

3 How field mapping reflects climate variations

A third benefit of field mapping is that it reflects climate variations, such as the changes in temperature, precipitation, and wind over time and space. By mapping the geomorphic features, such as glacial deposits, dunes, and terraces, geologists can infer how climate influenced the erosion and deposition of sediments. By mapping the biotic features, such as vegetation, soil organic matter, and carbonates, geologists can estimate how climate affected the growth and decay of organisms. Field mapping also helps geologists to predict and adapt to future climate scenarios, such as sea level rise, droughts, and floods.

4 How field mapping improves geologic skills

A fourth benefit of field mapping is that it improves geologic skills, such as observation, measurement, interpretation, and communication. By doing field mapping, geologists can sharpen their senses, use various instruments and methods, and apply different theories and models to explain their findings. By doing field mapping, geologists can also enhance their communication skills, as they have to write field notes, draw maps and cross-sections, and present their results to others.

5 How field mapping supports geologic research

A fifth benefit of field mapping is that it supports geologic research, such as the development of new hypotheses, questions, and experiments. By doing field mapping, geologists can discover new phenomena, test existing ideas, and generate new data and insights. By doing field mapping, geologists can also collaborate with other disciplines, such as hydrology, climatology, ecology, and archaeology, to address multidisciplinary problems and challenges.

6 How field mapping enriches geologic experience

A sixth benefit of field mapping is that it enriches geologic experience, such as the appreciation, enjoyment, and curiosity of the natural world. By doing field mapping, geologists can explore diverse and beautiful landscapes, encounter diverse and fascinating rocks, and experience diverse and dynamic weather. By doing field mapping, geologists can also develop a sense of wonder, awe, and respect for the Earth and its history, processes, and resources.