Earth Science Week, October 11-17, 2009

The Illinois State Geological Survey is commemorating the Twelfth Annual Earth Science Week from October 11-17, 2009, with a proclamation from the Illinois Governor, geological science field trips, and the distribution of 50 earth science curriculum packets to secondary school science teachers and other educators. These activities are part of the larger national and international celebration organized by the American Geological Institute (AGI) "to help the public gain a better understanding and appreciation for the Earth Sciences and to encourage stewardship of the Earth." This year's theme is "Understanding Climate." More information about Earth Science Week across the United States can be found at www.earthsciweek.org or www.agiweb.org.

The 2009 Earth Week activities fit in well with the Survey's mission to provide the citizens and institutions of Illinois with accurate, objective earth science research and information relevant to the state's environmental quality, economic prosperity, and public safety.

Governor's Proclamation

The Earth Science Week proclamation by Governor Quinn recognizes the importance of earth science to Illinois with these words:
      • The earth sciences, especially geology, are integral to finding, developing, and conserving the water, mineral, and energy resources needed for modern society
      • The earth sciences provide the basis for preparing for and mitigating the effects of natural hazards such as floods, landslides, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, sinkholes, and coastal erosion.
      • Knowledge about geological factors regarding earth resources, hazards, and the environment are vital to land management and land use decisions at local, state, regional, national, international, and global levels.
      • Study of the earth sciences contributes critically important information to our understanding of the natural world.
      • Earth Science Week is an opportunity to seek a greater understanding and appreciation of the value of earth science research and its application and relevance to our daily lives, as well as for science teachers at all levels throughout the state of Illinois to undertake lessons and activities with their students directed toward the study of earth science.

AGI Toolkit Distribution

Fifty earth science toolkits, produced by the American Geological Institute, have been made available to the ISGS for distribution to science teachers for use in their classrooms. The toolkits offer a wealth of information for teachers and their students. Toolkits can be obtained from AGI at http://www.agiweb.org.

Updated 10/13/2009 SLD