Western Nevada College geology students recently participated in a field trip to Lake Tahoe, led by Dr. Winnie Kortemeier, Professor of Geosciences. The outing aimed to provide hands-on experience with the region's volcanic history and offer insight into the geologic forces that shaped the area.
Students from several geology courses met at Commons Beach in Tahoe City for a four-hour exploration of three different sites. At Burton Creek State Park, they examined pillow basalt formations and columnar basalt outcrops. At Skylandia Beach, the group studied a large underwater-formed volcanic tuff cone composed of lapilli and ash layers. The trip also included a stop at the historic Tahoe dam, built in 1909 for irrigation purposes.
“They are so amazed that they can see the story in the rocks,” Dr. Kortemeier said. “It’s mind-opening when they realize that 2.3 million years ago, where they are standing today was underwater.”
Dr. Kortemeier’s research has played an important role in establishing Lake Tahoe’s geological age. In 2024, her radiometric dating work determined that Lake Tahoe is at least 2.3 million years old—a finding that positions it as the oldest permanent freshwater lake in North America and among the oldest globally.
Student reactions were positive throughout the excursion, with one referring to Dr. Kortemeier as a “geology angel.” Dr. Kortemeier added: “When there are new classes that come together, it opens them to learning about geology. These field trips really get students interested in geology and make them want to pursue this field of study in college.”
Those interested in Western Nevada College’s Geology program can contact Dr. Kortemeier at winnie.kortemeier@wnc.edu.