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The Menan Buttes are extinct volcanoes formed by violent eruptions 10,000 years ago. These are unusual formations because they erupted through the cold waters of the Snake River which flowed where the Buttes stand today. When molten magma met the cold river water it cooled so quickly crystals were unable to form, and the lava solidified into glass called tachylite. The heat of the magma flashed the river water to steam, shattering the glass into tiny fragments that welded together as the hot ash settled to the ground. The Menan Buttes are unique because these are the only volcanic eruptions that have occurred in freshwater in the United States, which is why North Menan Butte is designated a National Natural Landmark.
North Menan Butte is an Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) and is designated as a National Natural Landmark and a Research Natural Area. These designations help preserve the Butte so people can enjoy and study this unique geologic area in its healthy, natural condition.
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