12/22/2010
ANSTED, W.Va. – Rock and Roll at Hawks Nest has nothing to do with music and dance. “It has everything to do with the geology of West Virginia,” said Megan Flinn, events coordinator at the state park located near Ansted in Fayette County. “Geology! Rocks” is scheduled for Saturday evening, Jan. 15, and a walk on Sunday morning. The public may attend at no charge and enjoy complimentary coffee and refreshments.
Ken Ashton, a geologist with the West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey, will present a “Geology! Rocks” program that covers the geological phenomena found across the state. “We have some very, very old rock formations in the state and the New River area is a perfect setting to discuss our mountains and valleys,” Flinn explained.
“It’s a great venue for home-schooled youth, families, and anyone interested in learning more about the geologic makeup of the state,” Ashton said.
Carol Sieburth, a local rock enthusiast and owner of Stone Goddess Rock Shop of Fayetteville, W.Va., will display of gems and geodes in the park lobby from 3 – 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 15. Some exhibited items will be for sale.
The evening “Geology! Rocks” program will be held at the lodge conference room, Saturday, Jan. 15, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 16, is a “Geology Stroll” with geologist Ken Ashton and Park Naturalist Megan Flinn. The Hawks Nest Rail Trail will be the activity area and will include discussion about the bridge, falls, rock formations and perhaps goliath icicles along Mill Creek depending on weather conditions. The morning walk starts at 10 a.m. and is open to the public at no charge. Attendees should dress for winter weather and wear proper footwear. Contact Megan Flinn by phone or e-mail at
megan.l.flinn@wv.gov for the starting location and answers to questions.
The West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey website is
www.wvgs.wvnet.edu/. Geology! Rocks is also a summer program offered at many of West Virginia’s state parks and forests.
“Wintry days in West Virginia are the perfect time to learn about the geologic makeup of our state,” Flinn advised. “Deciduous trees have dropped their leaves, evergreens dot the landscape, and rock outcroppings are easily seen.” The view shed from the Hawks Nest restaurant, which will be open during the weekend, is of the New River area. "It's a great time and place to learn about West Virginia's geology."
For more information about Hawks Nest State Park, restaurant, the Geology! Rocks program, and winter dinner theaters planned at the park, visit,
www.hawksnestsp.com or call 304-658-5212.
Contact Information
Megan Flinn, Hawks Nest State Park
304-658-5212
megan.l.flinn@wv.gov