Near Mitchell in Wheeler County, Oregon — The American West (Northwest)
Deciphering the Forest
Photographed By Duane Hall, September 9, 2010
1. Deciphering the Forest Marker
Volcanic ash can be gentle and fine enough to preserve a leaf’s structure in great detail. Nearby 34 million-year-old “Bridge Creek Flora” fossils reveal many species of an ancient, hardwood forest. This forest had a blend of trees found today only in parts of the Appalachians, Chine, and spots along the Pacific Coast.Fossils indicate that some type of trees changed little during the Age of Mammals. From that evidence and comparisons to modern trees and their settings, we have learned a great deal about past ecosystems and climates.
About thirty million years ago there was a period of significant global change. As the air cooled and the seasons became more pronounced, the earlier near-tropical plants of the area retreated southward. Many hardwoods and conifers replaced them, as did a whole new set of forest creatures.
Erected by National Park Service.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Natural Features.
Location. 44° 38.992′ N, 120° 16′ W. Marker is
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 11 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Pieces of the Puzzle (here, next to this marker); A Matter of Survival (here, next to this marker); Painted Hills Overlook (here, next to this marker); Painted by the Past (here, next to this marker); Who was John Day? (here, next to this marker); Fossils on the Frontier (approx. 0.8 miles away); Look Below the Surface (approx. 0.8 miles away); H.H. Wheeler (approx. 10.3 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Mitchell.
Photographed By Duane Hall, September 9, 2010
2. Painted Hills
Photographed By Duane Hall, September 9, 2010
3. View from Painted Hills Overlook Trail
Photographed By Duane Hall, September 9, 2010
4. View from Painted Hills Overlook Trail
Credits. This page was last revised on October 20, 2020. It was originally submitted on February 12, 2014, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas. This page has been viewed 406 times since then and 14 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on February 12, 2014, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas.
