Shaping the Sonoma-Mendocino Coast: Exploring the Coastal Geology of Northern California

The Earth is a book and with the proper tools we can read it.-- Thomas E. Cochrane CA Professional GeologistFor the curious heres a compelling examination of the complex processes involved inside our planet whichbegan eons ago. With an introduction to Deep Time and the Geologic Time Clock geologist ThomasCochrane provides a detailed yet approachable overview for the layperson of how and why the Sonoma-Mendocino regions coastline appears as it does today--with all its fascinating oddities.EXPLORE: The San Andreas Fault and its dynamic--plus continuing--role in shifting both land and seaUnusual features including sink holes sag ponds submarine canyons & underground streamsThe role of glaciations in causing the development of coastal marine terracesMeet the areas geologic superstars: Bowling Ball Beach Devils Punchbowl Witches Cauldron sea stacks gargoyles blowholes sea caves the 8000 Black Point Spilite and moreFeatures nearly 50 diagrams maps and striking photosIncludes an overview of human impact and climate change on the regional land and oceanThe ideal primer for those interested in the often mysterious interplay of water wind earthquakes and other geologic events processes and stressors at work in the natural world.Then EXPERIENCE this geology firsthand...on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip!The 85-mile Road Log provides precise instructions for a self-drive geological tourfrom Bodega Bay at Sonoma Countys southern tip to the tiny hamlet of Elk in Mendocino County(utilizing highway mile markers)--includes MUST-SEE features as well as suggestionsfor best hikes picnic spots public access beaches campgrounds side trips inland and more...Sonoma Land Trust has long known the Sonoma Coast as a special place to be protected. With his expertise sense of curiosity and investigation the author came to know this place in-depth and has shared with us its story. It is a true gem to have this resource as a guide to understanding the forces that have shaped the land as we now see it. And the Road Log is an invaluable asset to our knowledge of the coast.-- Dave Koehler Executive Director Sonoma Land TrustCalifornia Professional Geologist and former teacher Thomas E. Cochrane has been a resident of The Sea Ranch (Sonoma County) for nearly 30 years. Hes consulted on geologic hazards and geology along this pristine stretch of Northern Californias coast and has doggedly documented all aspects of the Road Log firsthand.