FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 14, 2003
CONTACT: Kathalyn Gaither, (850) 245-2118
Eyes On Planet Earth
-Earth Science Week inspires
stewardship, promotes protection-
TALLAHASSEE – Governor Jeb Bush proclaimed October
12-18 Earth Science Week to raise awareness about the earth
sciences and their role in our daily lives. “Eyes on Planet
Earth: Monitoring our Changing World” is this year’s theme,
with statewide events highlighting the relationship between
earth science and our natural, cultural and historical
resources.
“Studying the Earth allows us to keep a vigilant eye on
Florida’s natural resources,” said Florida Department of
Environmental Protection Secretary David B. Struhs. “Monitoring
changes in our world allows us to predict and prepare for
natural hazards like floods and droughts.”
Using observations and measurements from space, underwater
and underground, geoscientists constantly evaluate the Earth’s
present state, foresee future changes and assess these effects
on life and society. The Department of Environmental Protection’s
Florida Geological Survey investigates and monitors the state’s
important aquifer systems and geology to ensure effective
resource and public health protection as well as sound
environmental management.
“The foundation for all environmental protection begins
with sound science,” said Secretary Struhs. “Florida’s
waters and lands are better protected and our cultural and
historical resources are better managed because of the earth
sciences.”
On Wednesday, October 15, the Florida Geological Survey is
hosting activities and tours for the public, highlighting daily
connections with earth sciences. Located at the Gunter Building
on the campus of Florida State University in Tallahassee, the
Florida Geological Survey annual open house is from 10:00 am to
4:00 pm.
To learn about Florida Earth Science Week, visit www.fiu.edu/orgs/geology
or http://coastal.er.usgs.gov/openhouse2003.html.
Sponsored by the American Geological Institute, this is the
sixth year for the national week of events. The Institute is a
nonprofit federation of 40 scientific and professional
associations, representing over 100,000 earth scientists.
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