Gorgeous sunny weather for this fieldtrip to Blanchard Hill, although a bit chilly. The location is SW of Bellingham, about 90 miles from Renton. There were 10 vehicles on this trip, led by Ed Lehman. My son and I were the only CMS folks represented in the group. The material collected is different than what I was expecting. The rock outcrop contains white quartz, green chert, and black stilpnomelane (which Ed called a rare earth mineral). In combination, the 3 minerals can produce quite an impressive display. But also quite a varied arrangement, depending on what one decides to collect. Busting chunks out of the hard rock requires a sledge, chisel, safety glasses, and muscle, but there’s also a lot of rubble around that can be pawed through and collected. I will hopefully get a slab or two for the Dec. Christmas Party auction, as well as get some tumbled for Show and Tell at the Jan. or Feb. meeting.
Trip Report submitted by Roger Danneman CMS Field Trip Leader.
