#110 Spokane Glaciation?

In this episode, Nick Setner dives into the concept of the Spokane Glaciation, questioning whether the Ice Sheet ever reached Spokane, Washington. He shares his experiences from a recent collaboration with ice-age flood geologists staying at his home, emphasizing the intensive discussions and discovery processes that took place. Setner highlights Jay Harlan Brettz's work from the 1920s, specifically a map showing an ice sheet over Spokane, provoking new thoughts on the geologic history of the area and the possibility of subglacial water flow contributing to flood patterns.

Setner reflects on his teaching philosophy, stating that the goal of his Geology 351 class is collaborative learning. Rather than delivering lectures on established knowledge, he encourages his students to explore new research papers and contribute their insights. The excitement in the classroom stems from the students' active participation in discussions, ultimately leading to innovative geological inquiries and explorations in the field.

A significant theme in this episode is the importance of revisiting historical geological maps. Setner shares an accidental revelation he had when comparing a modern map with Brettz's 1928 map. He notes the distinction between Brettz's assertions about the ice sheet in Spokane and the contemporary view that attributes flooding primarily to glacial Lake Columbia. This exploration raises questions about what has been overlooked in geological narratives and the potential reconsideration of previously accepted theories.

Throughout the episode, two central themes emerge regarding the origins of the ice age flooding in Eastern Washington. The first is whether the flooding water came predominantly from Montana or from subglacial flows beneath the ice sheet. Setner's discussion leads to a debate about the timing of geological events—suggesting that the significant erosion seen in the region may have occurred much earlier than conventionally believed—potentially challenging the established timeline of the Ice Age flood narrative.