Educational Materials

Different types of rocks — The three Vermont State rocks shown above (L to R) are marble, granite and slate.

A mission of education

Part of the Perkins Museum of Geology's mission is "to inform," so we share educational materials and information with our local school teachers, as well as all museum visitors. We hope that educators will print and use the following materials for use in their classrooms, or as companion pieces when visiting us on campus.

Redstone Quarry Visitor Information

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The University of Vermont Natural Areas Program

Redstone Quarry Natural Area is open to the general public for daytime use, however, you must ask permission from the UVM Department of Geography and Geosciences to visit.

Redstone Quarry Visitor's Guide

Redstone Quarry Information Brochure (PDF)

History

“Redstone was a popular building material in Burlington in the 1800s not only for its remarkable appearance and durability but also because it was readily available at a small quarry within the city limits. In 1958 the university purchased the three-acre Redstone Quarry to use primarily for geology classes. Redstone Quarry, however, is not just a place to observe rocks; it is a small yet diverse ecosystem. Once severely altered by people this quarry has been left untrammeled to return to a somewhat natural state. While there are no developed trails here, visitors may take short walks along the wetland area at the base of the quarry cliff face. The area is noted for its diversity of birds and amphibians, as well as its showy wildflower displays.” (UVM Natural Areas, Redstone Quarry)

Before Visiting

We ask that group users contact geography@uvm.edu with their visiting plans (date, time, and size of group). The UVM Geology Department and the UVM Environmental Program keep track of visitor-use for administrative and management purposes, and to avoid double booking. Plan ahead.

Visiting

Activities: No motorized or non-motorized vehicles, such as scooters or bicycles. Otherwise, enjoy the site’s diverse ecosystem through keen observation.
Dogs: Are still permitted, but must be leashed, stay on trails, and keep out of water. Clean up after your dog.
Liability: UVM assumes no liability at the site.
Maintenance: The site is maintained by The University of Vermont Environmental Program’s Natural Areas Center.
Ownership: Redstone Quarry has shared ownership; UVM owns the base of the quarry, while the face and top are privately owned.
Collecting: Permission is required for the collecting and removal of any natural objects including plants, animals, rocks, or soil from Redstone Quarry. Call (802) 656-4055.
Samples: As with any natural resource, please do not remove any samples.
Trespassing: Remain at the UVM-owned base of the Redstone Quarry. Do not climb the privately owned quarry face to the privately owned quarry top. Climbing the face would be a danger to you, damage the ecosystem, and constitute trespassing.

Exploring

UVM Natural Areas include Carse Wetlands, Centennial Woods, Colchester Bog, Concord Woods, East Woods, Molly Bog, Mount Mansfield, Pease Mountain, Redstone Quarry, and Shelburne Pond.

UVM Perkins Geology Museum in Delehanty Building on UVM's Trinity Campus houses the UVM Perkins Museum of Geology.