PRESIDENT’S LETTER

By Ben Burke

It’s summer and I’ve got rafting on my mind. My days as a raft guide and whitewater kayak instructor on eastern US rivers during my high school and college summers are long behind me—now I have more time to focus on the rocks. RMAG hosted an early June raft trip down the picturesque San Juan River in Utah, a trip that is turning into a late-spring OTR Committee staple. This remarkable journey took the group from Bluff to Mexican Hat, Utah, immersed in awe-inspiring geology on the canyon walls and countless point bars and other types of fluvial process deposits.

The success of this trip has left us fired up for a potential summer 2024 rafting adventure down the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, offering participants the chance to witness the spectacular geological wonders along the way. The Grand Canyon is a geological wonder, showcasing some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth. The river journey through its depths offers an unrivaled opportunity to witness the stratigraphic record unfold before our eyes. From the towering walls of the Kaibab Limestone to the vibrant hues of the Redwall Limestone, participants will have the chance to witness the geologic history of the canyon unfold, with each layer unveiling a new chapter in Earth’s story. Check out rmag.org for a participant interest survey regarding trip length and type.

Beyond these rafting expeditions, RMAG continues to get out in the community for education and outreach with a focus on diversity and inclusion about geoscience and jobs in geoscience. The Association’s booths at Juneteenth and Pridefest in Denver served as a platform to engage with the wider community, fostering conversations about jobs and geoscience. With member volunteers staffing the booths, approximately 4,500 individuals were reached, creating valuable connections and encouraging underrepresented groups to explore geology as a viable career path.

Looking ahead, RMAG has a host of exciting events this month. On July 11th, the Women’s Coffee Group meeting will provide an empowering space for female geologists to connect, share experiences, and build a supportive network. Additionally, the Denver Building Stones Tour on July 15th will allow participants to delve into the fascinating geological heritage of some of the historic buildings in downtown. Finally, the RMAG Monthly Happy Hour on July 21st will provide a casual and welcoming environment for members to relax, network, and strengthen relationships.

As we celebrate the success of our recent raft trip and look forward to future adventures, it is evident that RMAG’s commitment to geology, diversity, and inclusion remains unwavering. We continue to strive towards creating a vibrant and inclusive geology community, one that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and provides opportunities for exploration, networking, and growth. With the annual golf tournament approaching in September, we eagerly anticipate yet another occasion to come together, forging lasting connections while enjoying the camaraderie that defines RMAG.