Rocky Road, Smooth Success: Pine Swamp Geological Tour a Big Hit!
Story and photos by Elanah Sherman, walk organizer and Avalonia Board member
On May 10, 2025, Mary DiGiacomo-Cohen, a geologist with the U.S. Geologic Survey, led a fascinating stroll in a corner of Connecticut rich in geological history — the Pine Swamp Wildlife Corridor. The well-attended tour, appropriate for both geological novices and those more familiar with the subject, garnered excellent responses, leading to hope for a ‘part two’ at another location sometime later this year.
Many thanks to Mary for an illuminating event that blended scientific expertise with a friendly, approachable demeanor. (And much gratitude to Elizabeth Sorensen for bringing and setting up the refreshments and literature table. Elizabeth, known as E, ensures that all Avalonia events run like clockwork.)
Rocky Road Stroll at Pine Swamp Wildlife Corridor: Mary explains rock formations with the aid of a map. The map, along with a glossary of terms, was emailed to all participants in advance of the event.
Look for more about this stroll in the June installment of “Opening Spaces.”
“It was a great walk…What once were rocks strewn across our landscape are now understood as relics that are millions of years old deposited by melting glaciers 20,000 years ago. The geology lessons were familiar [to me], but all the more memorable when taught standing in the midst of a moraine* and touching earth created in numerous ways. I’m looking forward to Part Two!”
Joe Lewerk, walk participant and member of Avalonia’s Advisory Council
* A moraine is a collection of debris (generally rocks, sediment, and soil) left by melting glaciers.