The Maryland Geological Society, a non-profit, volunteer organization dedicated to the collection, study, and display of all aspects of the geological sciences, is composed of amateur and professional fossil and mineral collectors. Membership is open to all and visitors to our meetings are always welcome!

The MGS met jointly with the American Fossil Federation on Sunday, May 18th. Brief business meetings were followed by a riveting talk by Calvert Marine Museum paleontologist Stephen J. Godfrey. In his talk, titled Maryland During the Ice Age, Godfrey explained the origins of the bands of rock debris, including quartzite cobbles, that lie atop the Miocene strata of the Calvert Cliffs. These bands are, he posited, the products of river channels that flowed down from the Blue Ridge Mountains during the last Ice Age. Many of these quartzite cobbles contain trace fossils known as skolithos thought to be the fossilized remains of burrows created by worm-like creatures, dating as far back as the Cambrian. Quartzite containing skolithos are found up in the Blue Ridge. The talk featured a wonderful blend of geology and paleontology, putting into context features of the Cliffs which many local collectors may find familiar but not appreciate. Aspects of the talk are captured in the montage below.

When the MGS met on March 16th, it was decided to reinstate annual dues and set them at $20 for the year. Dues should be submitted to MGS Treasurer Rob King, either in person at an upcoming meeting or by check following directions here.