Scoured Terrace Along the Potomac River
June 02, 2005
Provided by: Roy DeJarnette
Summary authors & editors: Roy DeJarnette
The photo above showing a scoured bedrock terrace in the Potomac River Gorge was taken on April 26, 2005, just thirteen miles ( km) northwest of Washington, D.C. (in Maryland). This inviting trail meanders across the terrace on Bear Island, part of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. The Park preserves many unique natural features of the Potomac River Valley. Flooding has been a part of the Potomac River for millions of years and is largely responsible for the extraordinary biological diversity of the Park. During a severe flood, the Potomac water flow can exceed 300 billion gallons a day, much to the delight of many an adventurous kayaker. The Park attracts millions of visitors a year. Many enjoy the Billy Goat Trail on Bear Island. When the area on this scene is submerged, floodwaters flow from right to left.
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