A group of geologists from around the world recently gathered in the Bay of Islands area to study a unique feature to help foster a better understanding of Earth’s earliest tectonic and geological activity.

Led by Dr. Jean Bédard of the University of Laval, the group was focused on the study of unique rocks in the area known as ophiolites.

The area is among the only places in the world where part of the Earth’s crust has risen above sea level. The rock provides insight into earthquakes, mineral deposits and how the continents were formed.

Bédard says it tells geologists about how the oceanic crust formed and marked the “scars of lost oceans.” He notes ophiolite belts are the only trace remaining of oceanic tracks that may have been thousands of kilometres wide.

He also admits having an ulterior motive for inviting noted geologists from the U.K., U.S., the Netherlands, South Africa and France to the Bay of Islands.

Bédard wryly admits it was part of his “cunning plan” to show off Newfoundland as a tourism and geologic destination.

The academics have formed research teams which he expects will continue to visit the area for years to come.