Help Identify Rock in Western Upper Michigan

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on identifying a rock found in Western Upper Michigan, emphasizing the geological processes that may have transported it. Participants highlight the significance of glacial activity in the region, particularly the movement of rocks by glaciers and the potential for human dumping. Key considerations include the rock's location relative to roads and steep rock faces, as well as its physical characteristics, which may indicate whether it is a conglomerate or construction waste. The absence of lichens suggests the rock has not been in place for a long time.

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  • Understanding of glacial geology and processes
  • Familiarity with rock identification techniques
  • Knowledge of terminal moraines and their formation
  • Awareness of environmental factors affecting rock surfaces, such as lichen growth
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  • Study techniques for identifying rock types, focusing on conglomerates
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Geologists, environmental scientists, rock enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the geological history of the Great Lakes region.

sas3
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I came across this rock and it just seemed out of place and was wondering if anyone could help identify it.
I am in the Western Upper michigan area.
GEDC0125.JPG
 
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Two points:
How far is it from a road or an old dirt path i.e. can someone drive to it in a truck?
Upper Michigan was under a huge layer of ice not long ago - glaciers can pick up and move large rocks hundreds of miles.. Is this on a terminal moraine? Or is there a steep rock face uphill and above it?

You have to eliminate human dumping first. The out of place thing is easily handled by: glacial processes or humans. Sometimes rocks go for a ride down a steep rock face, too. And keep rolling for a bit.

I cannot tell if it is a conglomerate or construction waste. You decide. Long range rock identification is nearly impossible, sometimes up close is still tough to do, as well. Note: it has not been there terribly long - no lichens. So you can guess what I think. Compare it with the rock in the background.
 
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