Metamorphic rock Metamorphic rocks are rocks that have undergone changes due to heat, pressure or chemicals. However, it is not found at Stunt Ranch. All rocks break down on the Earth s surface. They may be broken down by mechanical processes involving rain, alternate freezing and thawing, and the abrasive action of sediment in water, wind and ice. The Santa Monicas are constantly being eroded.
Streams carry rocks which erode the canyons.
After a heavy rain, mudslides are possible almost anywhere. Since Stunt Ranch is located on the site of an ancient landslide, the soil here is loose - not cemented or packed together. The fire of 1993 completely denuded Stunt Ranch of most of the vegetation. Consequently, when the spring storms drenched the area during the spring of 1995, heavy erosion followed. The trails at Stunt Ranch were were washed out and blocked by debris.