GEOLOGY AND TERRITORY

The first part of the Course (3 cfu lessons) covers the main geological features of the Northern Apennines.
The discussion is preceded by a general overview on the origin of rocks, particularlly suitable for graduates biologists.
Is described the lithostratigraphic composition of the major rock sequences of the Northern Apennines and the structural framework related to the Pleistocene modeling of landforms.
It shows the Apennine geological evolution recorded in the rocks, analysing the main sedimentary processes and tectonic deformations, characterizing the Apennine Geological History:
- Oceanic basin
- Convergence phase and accretion
- Ligurian Flysch
- Continental collision and Epi-Ligurian sequence
- Foredeep turbidites
- Neogene thrusting
- Plio-Quaternary orogeny
The rock unit and the sequences most appropriate to recognize these past processes are considered Geological Heritage of the Northern Apennines.

The second part of the Course (1cfu lessons) focuses on Geological Hazard over Northern Apennine area.
- Mass wasting and landslides.
- Earthquake-Related Hazard over Tuscan-Emilian Apennines and Po Plain.
- Relative Vulnerability to pollution of the subsurface water resources.
- Natural Subsidence and Subsidence caused by groundwater extraction over Po Plain area.

The third part of the Course (2 cfu, lessons and field exercises) examines the Geological Landscape in the different situations of the Northern Apennines, distinguished by homogeneity of geological and geomorphological characters:
- Nucleo metamorfico delle Alpi Apuane
- Valli della Lunigiana e della Garfagnana
- Crinale tosco-emiliano
- Dorsale ligure-emiliana
- Versante emiliano
- Margine appenninico padano
The landscape is analyzed with field exercises in some of these situations: the geomorphological evolution is examined and the geological characters from the point of view of Geological Heritage interest and worthy of protection are highlighted.
Are also recognized the main geological hazard situations that can have interactions with settlements and related infrastructures.