SCIENCE!
The city of Spokane amended their definitions list and some of the terms are just so geeky I can’t help but share:
Latah Formation - Sedimentary layer of claystone to fine-grained sandstone in which very finely laminated siltstone is predominant. The fresh rock ranges in color from various shades of gray to almost white, tan and rust. Much of the finer grained layers contain leaf imprints and other plant debris. Because of its generally poorly consolidated state, the Latah rarely outcrops. It erodes rapidly and therefore is usually covered with later deposits or in steeper terrain hidden under the rubble of overlying basaltic rocks.
Genetic Diversity - The variety of different genes within a species. The larger the variety of genes in the gene pool of a species, or the less related the breeding individuals are, the greater the chances of that species surviving various adversities, such as disease.
Geologically Hazardous Area - An area that because of its susceptibility to erosion, sliding, or other geological events is not suited to siting commercial, residential, or industrial development consistent with public health or safety concerns.
Nicole Hensley is a journo for hire.