Dino Trail Week: Climate Cycles & Volcanic Singularities During the Dawn of the Age of Dinosaurs

Join us for a dynamic presentation on climate, volcanos, and dinosaurs by Dr. Paul Olsen. The ancient Connecticut Valley rift basin is filled with spectacular, fossil-bearing alternations of deep and shallow water lake sediments that provide a timeline for the beginning of dinosaur dominance 200 million years ago. A huge volcanic event then set off a cold-hot climate whiplash, killing off some dinosaurs while others survived and spread globally. The record of the ecological consequences is now exposed along the Connecticut River, especially at the Great Falls.
Dr. Olsen is a professor of Earth & Environmental Sciences at Columbia University. He has studied the geology and paleontology of our region in depth. Don't let his credentials scare you! He’s an engaging speaker, informative and entertaining in equal measure for audiences young and old. Meet in the Great Hall.
 
Dino Trail Week: Art Naturally — Gel Printing Trace Fossils *
Saturday, July 12, 2—3:30 p.m.
Discover nature and pre-history through story, poetry and art in our series of free art programs. Create an art piece inspired by the valley’s fossilized dinosaur footprints using paint, paper and gel, with instruction and techniques. For adults, teens and children ages 6 and up. All art materials provided. Arrive at 2 p.m. for complete instructions. Meet in the Great Hall.
 
Gel Printing for Teens and Tweens
Thursday, July 17, 3—5 p.m.
Try your hand at gel printing, a fun way to explore color, texture, and layers. The process is fairly easy. No experience needed! For Ages 11-19. Dress for a mess. Sponsored by the Montague Public Libraries. No registration needed. This program is supported by grant funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services as administered by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. Meet in the Great Hall.

Dino Trail Week is a celebratory week of performances, films, talks, exhibits, and activities inspired by dinosaur footprints in the Connecticut River Valley. Look for events from all of our partners during Dino Trail Week: Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center, the Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association, Piti Theatre, the Beneski Museum, the Trustees of Reservations, Springfield Science Museum, Wistariahurst, and the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce. Learn more at: dinotrail.org.