The last million years of the Earth's geological history, part of the Quaternary Period, has encompassed dramatic worldwide climatic and environmental change, as well as the evolution and spread of humans and their associated cultures. These changes are better preserved in the geologic and biologic fossil record than for any previous time period of equal duration, affording unmatched opportunities for paleoenvironmental studies and their application in archaeology, ecology, geology and applied environmental sciences. The study of Quaternary geology and processes is also vital because it affords a baseline from which to assess the impacts of man's activities on the environment. We must all live with the consequences of natural and anthropogenic processes that have left their imprint on the recent geological record. Quaternary research has progressed significantly over the past two decades, involving many new and exciting techniques in the numerical dating of deposits and landforms, increased understanding of the rapidity and magnitude of changes in the ocean-atmosphere system, and greater appreciation of how terrestrial geomorphic and biotic systems respond to these changes.

DEES contains one of the most diverse Quaternary research programs worldwide. Faculty are actively involved in biological and physical responses to climate changes; evaluating the types, rates, and chronology of geomorphic processes modifying the Earth's surface; using Quaternary geology to understand and evaluate natural hazards related to earth surface processes; and elucidating the archaeological record of cultural evolution and human adaptation to new environments and resources. We offer innovative applications of these types of Quaternary research to minimize the adverse effects of environmental change and to promote the stewardship of diverse natural and cultural landscapes.

Image above provided by Mary Cablk.