Earth Under Construction

Kathleen Springer, senior curator of geological sciences at the San Bernardino County Museum, will give a special lecture, “Earth Under Construction,” at the museum on Sunday, January 8 at 2 p.m. The presentation is free with museum general admission.

In her lecture, Springer will discuss the all-encompassing theory in geological sciences—global plate tectonics. “It is a fascinating and elegant theory that explains how and why the continents drifted all over the globe in the geologic past and continue to do so—breaking apart, colliding, and grinding against each other,” said Springer. “I will explore why there is a ‘Ring of Fire’ circling the Pacific Rim and how mountain chains rise up, how the sea floor spreads apart and closes again, why the earth is a place of earthquakes and violent volcanoes. I will show the development of the plate tectonics paradigm starting with the early seafaring explorers, who noticed the fit of the continents over six hundred years ago and work through the science as it stands today. The evidence as well as the mechanisms will be revealed.”

Kathleen Springer is the Senior Curator of Geological Sciences for the San Bernardino County Museum. She has an extensive background in both geology and paleontology with over nineteen years’ experience in leading geologic and paleontologic investigations throughout southern California, Arizona and Nevada. She has been recognized by the Association of Environmental Professionals for environmental education. Kathleen is a resident of Claremont, California. Her lecture will complement exhibits that are being planning for the upcoming Hall of Geological Wonders at the San Bernardino County Museum.

The San Bernardino County Museum is at the California Street exit from Interstate 10 in Redlands. The museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays and holiday Mondays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $6 (adult), $5 (student or senior), and $4 (child aged 5 to 12). Children under five and Museum Association members are admitted free. Parking is free. For more information, visit www.sbcountymuseum.org or call (909) 307-2669.

The San Bernardino County Museum is accessible to persons with disabilities. If assistive listening devices or other auxiliary aids are needed in order to participate in museum exhibits or programs, requests should be made through Museum Visitor Services at least three business days prior to your visit. Visitor Services’ telephone number is (909) 307-2669 ext. 229 / TDD/TTY: (909) 792-1462.