Have you ever driven across the state and wondered why some rock layers appear flat (like along I-49 south of Fayetteville) while others are tilted at steep angles (around Hot Springs)? How did diamonds end up in Arkansas? What factors shaped our state’s landscape? Join Mac McGilvery, Adjunct Professor of Geosciences and the U of A, as he provides an overview of the geology of Arkansas.

Through his presentation, explore the fascinating geological history of Arkansas in this engaging course that takes you through the state’s five distinct physiographic provinces: the Ozark Plateaus, Arkansas River Valley, Ouachita Mountains, Mississippi River Alluvial Plain, and West Gulf Coastal Plain. Discover how tectonic forces—from the separation of ancient continents to the formation of the supercontinent Pangea—shaped the landscape you see today. Learn about the diverse bedrock types, from rocks dating back to the early Paleozoic era (over 470 million years ago) to more recent formations, and how these geological features have influenced Arkansas’ cultural and economic development.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply curious, this course will deepen your appreciation for the geology all around us.