Sand Recycling through Waves in a mountain creek EarthCache
Sand Recycling through Waves in a mountain creek
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The Great Sand Dunes contain the tallest sand dunes in North America, rising from the floor of the San Luis Valley in the Sangre de Cristo Range. The dunes cover about 19,000 acres of the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.
The dunes were formed from sand and soil deposits of the Rio Grande and its tributaries, flowing through the San Luis Valley. Over time, consistant westerly winds picked up sand particles from the river flood plain. As the wind loses power when crossing the Sangre de Cristo Range, the sand is deposited on the eastern edge of the valley. This process continues, and the dunes grow. The wind changes the shape of the dunes daily.
The sand is naturally recycled through a system of water and wind. Sand Creek to the north and Medano Creek to the east flow on the perimeter of the dunes. The streams erode the edge of the dune field, and vast amounts of sand are carried downstream. The water disappears into the sand sheet, depositing sand on the surface. Winds pick up the deposits of sand, and blow them up onto the dune field once again.
Take a stroll from the main dunes parking lot into Medano Creek. You will find running water from spring until July in wetter years. While enjoying this mountain stream you will notice a rare phemonemon of waves coming out of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
To log this Earth cache please email the following:
1. What is the scientific name for the waves?
2. What causes the waves to form and what is the name of the dunes associated with this phenomenon?
3. Feel free to upload a picture of you and your party in the creek to share in the fun! (GPS not required in picture, can’t chance getting it wet.)
We hope you are able to experience the waves during your stay, for the pure fun of playing in the creek. However, this Earthcache may be logged during all seasons. Please enjoy the movie at the Visitors Center for an explanation of the waves.
Remember to tread lightly! Please take only established paths to preserve the creek and dunes for future generations.
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