The arch before it collapsed/NPS file
A well-known arch at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area along Lake Powell, nicknamed "Toilet Bowl" as well as "Hole in the Roof" and other names, has collapsed.
Rangers say the arch, located in Rock Creek Bay, collapsed on Thursday, although a park release did associate a cause. The “Double Arch” geologic feature was also referred to as “Crescent Pool.”
No injuries were reported to have resulted from the collapse.
Double Arch was formed from 190-million-year-old Navajo sandstone originating in the late Triassic to early Jurassic periods, park staff said.
Since formation, this fine-grained sand feature has been subject to spalling and erosion from weather, wind, and rain. Changing water levels and erosion from wave action is suspected of contributing to the ultimate collapse of the arch.
After the arch collapsed/NPS August 9, 2024
"This event serves as a reminder of our responsibility and need to protect the mineral resources surrounding Lake Powell. These features have a life span that can be influenced or damaged by manmade interventions," said Glen Canyon Superintendent Michelle Kerns. "While we don’t know what caused this collapse, we will continue to maintain our resource protection efforts on Lake Powell for future generations to enjoy. Please enjoy our resources but leave no trace.”
Comments
"While we don't know what caused this collapse" Let's just blame it on what "can be influenced or damaged by manmade interventions," Sure, why not....
time eventually erases all this. there is no such thing as forever just for now.
No matter the cause, it's kind of sad to see it's gone. That sandstone was 190 Million years old. It was probably the dinosaurs walking on it that weakened it.
It was sandstone . . . very susceptible to erosion. Hopefully not related to any type of vandalism, but . . . as Aron Rawlston reminded us, geologic time includes now.
Park Superintendent DID NOT say that human activity contributed to the collapse, as she clearly stated that they did not know the cause. She simply reminded the public that human activity CAN have an impact on these treasures, fulfilling her responsiblity as an advocate for the park.
Sandstone anything lasting 190 million years? Not likely.
Seasons in the Sun~ Father Time is still Undefeated
Sooo.... gravity make airplanes crash? The denilists are like having a pilot in the cockpit who accelerates the plane when he discovers that the plane s heading to the ground!