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TALLAHASSEE – Recognizing the important role of earth sciences, Governor
Charlie Crist and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection joined states
across the nation to recognize October 14-20, 2007, as Earth Science Week.
Organized by the American Geological Institute, Earth Science Week promotes
public awareness of the earth sciences and stewardship of the Earth.
“Making scientifically-informed decisions is the key to a healthy and
sustainable environment,” said DEP Secretary Michael W. Sole. “Geologists and
other scientists provide critical information to preserve, restore and protect
our natural resources. Science is at the heart of the state’s exploration of
groundbreaking technologies and strategies that place our state at the forefront
of the growing worldwide movement to reduce greenhouse gases.”
Using observations and measurements from the environment that surrounds us,
as well as from space, underwater and underground, geoscientists evaluate
Earth’s present state, foresee future changes and assess effects on life and
society. DEP’s Florida Geological Survey investigates and monitors the state’s
aquifer systems and geology to protect public health and natural resources and
ensure sound environmental management.
In celebration of Earth Science Week, the Florida Geological Survey will host
its annual open house on Wednesday, October 17, featuring activities and tours
to educate the public on how earth sciences affect our daily lives. DEP is
partnering this year with Florida State University’s Department of Geological
Sciences to offer tours of the Antarctic Research Facility in recognition of
International Polar Year (IPY) in 2007-2008. The open house will take place from
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Gunter Building on the Florida State University
campus in Tallahassee, Florida.
A nonprofit organization representing more than 120,000 earth scientists, the
American Geological Institute established Earth Science Week in 1998 to promote
understanding of the earth sciences. Last year, the Earth Science Week
celebration included people in all 50 states and more than four countries. This
year’s theme, “The Pulse of Earth Science” promotes public and professional
awareness of the status of earth science in education and society.
For descriptions of Earth Science Week activities visit
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/geology/events/index.htm.
To see the Governor’s proclamation, visit
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/secretary/news/2007/proc/science.pdf [PDF - 205 KB].
For additional information on IPY, visit
http://classic.ipy.org/index.php
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