Barite

Jasper

THe desert offers plenty of colorful minerals worthy of collection, display or even jewelry making. Take an easy walk through arroyos and over hills and find Jasper, Chert, Barite, Rhyolite, Coral Fossil, Petrified Wood and many other collectibles. The area is easy to access. You will drive on a maintained gravel road so no 4-wheel vehicle is required. Carpooling with people you don’t know is not recommended. Meet at the McDonald’s on I-10 and Transmountain next to the Outlet Stores. (MAP) Take I-10 to I-25 to Hatch. Take the Hatch exit. At the top of the ramp, turn right at the stopsign. (MAP) Bring plenty of water, snacks, hats, sunscreen, hiking sticks, buckets or anything to carry your specimens home, rock hammers (or hammer and chisel). Working gloves are recommended. Bring a mask. There is no fee and this event is pet friendly. Your field trip leaders are Valerie and Louie Provencio, 915-258-1997 or valpro1952@gmail.com. After the trip, plan to eat at Sparky’s in Hatch, the home of the famous Green Chile Cheese Burger.

The event is co-sponsored by the El Paso Mineral & Gem Society, a group with an interest in minerals and other geological materials. The Society encourages mineral study, collecting, displaying and fashioning jewelry, exploring and enjoying the great outdoors. The group offers monthly field trips.