Abstract:
Cajuns in Christmas Valley: An Update on the 2016 Oregon Camel Expedition
Kristin Ball, Abigail Breaux, Jean Pierre Dupuy, Jr., Byron Ebner, Gage Seaux
Geoscience Students, University of Louisiana, Lafayette
The University of Louisiana Geology Museum completed summer fieldwork under the direction of Dr. James Martin and Dr. Jennifer Hargrave from June 20 – July 31, 2016 with financial assistance from a Bureau of Land Management grant and generous donations from individuals, many from the Lafayette Geological Society. The investigations essentially revolved around the excavation of two giant camel skeletons from late Miocene gravels in Lake County, Oregon. Partial skeletons of the giant camel, Megatylopus, were discovered in 2014 and 2015. This year’s project focused on the excavation and preservation of these exceptional fossil creatures and data collection to understand the anatomy of this giant camel, as no complete skeletons had previously been discovered. Stratigraphic and sedimentological data were collected to conclude how these giant camels died and became buried with other creatures existing at the times. Both geological and fossil evidence will allow determination of the local environment and provide insight into climatic evaluation. Additionally, the collection and archiving of the unique specimens allows the fossils to be protected for generations and technologies of the future. The collection and accession to ULGM ensures the preservation and protection of the fossils. Furthermore, the field season afforded once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for students, as well as for future students interested in studying the collected data.
Bio:
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette Geology Museum employs students during the semester and sponsors summer field expeditions, both of which are invaluable experiences for the students. Five students participated in this year’s fieldwork.
Kristin Ball is from New Iberia, LA, and she is currently working toward a Masters in Geology. The purpose of her thesis research is to better constrain the Fort Rock Formation, including the camel site.
Abigail Breaux is a geology undergraduate planning to graduate December 2017. She is completing a senior research project on the description of the camel skull.
Jean Pierre Dupuy, Jr. is from Breaux Bridge, LA, and is graduating this December with a Bachelor of Science degree in geology. He is hoping to find employment in the local environmental field.
Byron Ebner is also from Breaux Bridge, LA. He is a recent graduate from UL with bachelor’s degree in geology.
Gage Seaux is a graduate student a graduate student at UL.
