Royal Alberta Museum - Thematic Classification Scheme for Geological Sites (Alberta)

Thematic Classification Text Image

The following classification scheme provides a means of sorting geological sites in Alberta. It provides general guidance for the types of geological features found in the province and a framework within which to consider and compare potential sites. The framework contains only higher level geological features but lower levels can be added at any time by individuals proposing new sites. This classification is a modification of one used by the National Natural Landmark Program in the United States America. It has been altered to better fit the geology of Alberta.

I. Landforms of the Present

1) Fluvial

2) Glacial

A. Mountain Glaciation

i. erosional features

ii. depositional features

B. Continental Glaciation

i. erosional features

ii. depositional features

3) Aeolian

4) Mass Movement

5) Lacustrine

6) Groundwater

A. Karst-terrain developed on soluble rocks

B. Springs, aquifers, subsurface water

C. Geothermal

7) Periglacial

8) Movements of the Earth's Crust

A. Folding

B. Faulting

II. Rock Types and Structures (includes rare rock types)

1) Igneous Rocks

A. Volcanic rocks

B. Plutonic rocks

2) Metamorphic Rocks

3) Sedimentary Rocks

III. Geological History of the Province

1) Life History (includes fossil localities)

A. Fossil Animals

i. vertebrates

ii. invertebrates

B. Fossil Plants

2) Earth History (stratigraphy)

A. Rock Units or Sequences Illustrating Segments of Geological Time

B. Rock Units or Sequences Illustrating Ancient Environments or Events

IV. Mineral Environments and Localities

1) Mineral environments

2) Mineral localities