Sandstone concretion

Rocks, Minerals, and Fossils

Rocks, minerals, and fossils are the foundation of Kansas landscapes and provide clues to life in the ancient past.

Rocks, Minerals, and Geologic Curiosities in Kansas

Rocks and minerals on and below the surface in Kansas create a varied landscape and provide economic opportunities.
Chert outcrop

Fossils in Kansas

Through fossil finds, geologists and paleontologists piece together evidence of earlier life and landscapes on Earth.
Brachiopods commonly found in Kansas rocks

Geoarchaeology

Geoarchaeologists combine geologic and archaeological techniques and research to learn more about when, where, and how early people lived in North America and what natural environments were like during prehistoric times.
Excavation in Rawlins County

How Rocks Are Named

In the same way that biologists use categories to identify animals and plants, geologists have created categories such as formations, groups, and members to distinguish one rock layer from another.
Geologists with rock hammer examine rocks at roadcut