Oregon Field Guide — Mars Rover, Pond Turtles Head Starting, Tram Story, Iron Workers

Episode 1810

Mars Rover: Planetary geologists comb Oregon for geological information that might be shared by Mars. By looking at the microscopic records found in rocks, scientists can learn the story of how it was formed. Evidence that a martian volcano may have erupted underwater on mars has scientists seeing similarities between Oregon and Mars. See how Oregon's unique geology is playing a huge role in gaining a better understanding of land formations on Mars.; Read More and Watch this story

Pond Turtles Head Starting: Populations of Western Pond Turtles have been in decline for years as their habitat was converted to farms and development and they were devoured by non-native bullfrogs. A captive breeding program at the Oregon Zoo called head starting is making a last-ditch effort to save the species in Washington.; Read More and Watch this story

Tram Story: Portland's aerial tram which connects the two campuses for Oregon's Health and Science University was controversial. Spanning over 3000 feet and almost 500 feet high the tram crosses both I-5 and city streets. Watch how this technological challenge was met by tram builders who resemble old world craftsmen in this highly specialized field.; Read More and Watch this story

Iron Workers: During construction in downtown Portland, most people don't notice the careful acrobatics required by the brave iron workers who risk life and limb to do their jobs. Balancing on two foot beams at three hundred feet in the air, with heavy pieces of metal flying through the air towards them, iron working is most definitely not for the faint hearted.; Read More and Watch this story