Subject—Publicity Release for Wetumpka Impact Crater Events

From-- The Wetumpka Impact Crater Commission

             Marilee Tankersley, Publicity Chairman (334)567-4637

Wetumpka Impact Crater Public Tours Set for February 24^th

Eighty five million years ago, near the end of the “Age of Dinosaurs”, the greatest natural disaster in Alabama history happened near the city of Wetumpka.   A very large meteor hit and created an almost five mile wide crater.

First discovered in 1969, an astrobleme, meaning “star wound” was confirmed and registered in 1998 by Dr. David King Jr., Professor of Geology, Auburn University, as the Wetumpka Impact Crater.  Because the location was covered by a shallow sea at the time of impact, scientists have declared it to be one of the “best preserved marine impact craters in the world”.

Each year the Wetumpka Impact Crater Commission and the City of Wetumpka sponsor several Crater events, a Thursday evening public lecture by Dr David King Jr., Friday school tours and Saturday public tours of the Crater.

Dr. King will conduct the free public lecture on the updated science of the Crater on Thursday, February 22^nd at 7:00pm upstairs at the Wetumpka Administration Building, next to the Wetumpka Civic Center, Main Street. This is an excellent opportunity to hear how scientists have proven the size and scope of the impact and get an update on Dr King’s most recent research related to the crater.

The Friday, February 23^rd tours will be open to a limited number of school students on a first reserved basis.  Teachers can call Marilee Tankersley, (334)567-4637 for reservations and additional information.

On Saturday, February 24^th, the Crater Tours will be over one hour and a half each, starting at 9:00 am, with van transportation provided.  The tour is divided into two parts, first, a video and orientation, followed by the van tour.  Total cost of both parts of the tour is $20 for adults, $10 for children up to 12, accompanied by an adult.  (Not recommended for very small children.)  You can attend only the orientation and the charge is $5, with children up to age 12, admitted free. 

Lectures begin at 9:00 am, 10:15 am, 11:30 am & 1 pm.  The van tours will load immediately following the orientation.  Van tour space is limited and must be reserved by February 16^th.  Participants need to meet at the Wetumpka Administration Building, 15 minutes prior to their tour time.

There is some walking on the tours.  Wear walking shoes.   Reservations are only confirmed by payment of the fee. 

For additional information and to make reservations, contact Valencia at 567-5147 or e-mail vsmith@cityofwetumpka.com

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