Sunday, March 1st, 2026 10:30 AM: Historic Rocks, The Stories They Have to Tell with Jim Urbaniak
In this engaging presentation, Jim Urbaniak explores how rocks, minerals, and fossils serve as records of Earth’s history. Drawing from decades of collecting, fieldwork, and education, Jim highlights how specimens tell stories about ancient environments, geological processes, and the people who discovered them.
Through examples from his personal collection and broader historical context, this session connects petrology, paleontology, and stewardship, offering attendees a deeper appreciation for what rocks can teach us beyond their surface beauty.
Session details
Date: Sunday, March 1, 2026
Time: 10:30 to 11:30 AM
Format: Presentation
Length: 60 minutes
About Jim Urbaniak
A lifelong rockhound since the age of six, Jim Urbaniak is a passionate petrologist and the current President of the Oregon Agate and Mineral Society. He is a prominent Earth science educator in the Pacific Northwest, publishing the award-winning Rockhound Jr. newsletter and leading geology programs through OAMS, Camp Hancock, and the Clackamette Mineral and Gem Club.
Jim co-sponsored Oregon legislation that designated Oregonite and Josephinite as the state’s official twin minerals. His personal collection includes petrological specimens, meteorites, and a significant number of self-collected Ice Age fossils.
As a speaker and advocate, Jim focuses on responsible access to public lands, youth engagement through junior rockhounding programs, and keeping the hobby affordable and accessible through strong club networks. A multi-award recipient from both the NFMS and AFMS, he brings deep field experience and long-standing community leadership to every presentation.
