The colorful layers of strata in these painted hills tell of ancient climate changes. The red-maroon soils represent a wet climate that caused the iron minerals in the soil to oxidize, while the yellow-green soils represent a much drier climate with little-to-no iron oxidation. These differences in climate also created different ecosystems millions of years ago in what is now the state of Oregon.
A late-afternoon view of the Painted Hills Unit, John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
Rebecca Latson
Monday, April 6, 2020
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