Mapping Nevada...Getting your Horst-Graben on!!!

This weeks blog explores the state of Nevada and how the state is defined from a geographical perspective. There are numerous ways to define Nevada, many people know of Nevada's legendary silver mines or is cold desert environment. But how many people understand Nevada from a geographical perspective? Does Horst and Graben mean anything to you? Maybe Basin and Range? Perhaps the terms have surfaced in a converstaion and you were too embarrised to ask what horst and graben means (I understand, it does have a special tone). Fear not, in a moment you are going to learn what both these terms mean and likely a bit more too. For a college defination of Horst and Graben go to http://www.nbmg.unr.edu/comstockscience/regionalgeology4.shtml and recieve a mindful. If you are not that motivated then listen up! Nevada has a rather unique geoglogical characteristic, called Basin and Range (Horst and Graben) which refers to mountains and valley's, (this in itself is not so unique). The interesting part is that if you travel in an East or West direction you cannot help but notice that the entire drive consists of going up a mountain and across a valley, only to begin the process over when you cross the valley. Figure 2.5 clearly indicates an example of Nevada'a basin and range topography

Figure 2.5

Nevada's horst and graben topography is perhaps even better defined when you look at Google Earth's virtual world image (see figure 2.6)

figure 2.6

Google has a nice image that clearly defines a basin and range region. Figure 2.7 is an example of a horst in Nevada's East Humboldt Range.

figure 2.7

This type of geography does not occur everywhere, it is unique to a specific type of region associated with faults and earthquakes. Go to http://www.uwgb.edu/dutchs/EarthSC202Slides/eqkslide.htm for more information concerning faults and earthquakes.

The Nevada's Basin and Range are unique to the area and is the only state (correct me if I am wrong) that is almost entirely a Basin and Range environment. So take a moment and consider your next vacation, perhaps a trip to Nevada is just what the doctor ordered to get your horst graben on.