PROGRAMS AND PRESENCE: IF WE DON'T, WHO WILL?

Activities beyond the classroom carry the interest and importance of the geosciences to the public in many forms. Consider these examples: The National BSA Jamboree this summer attracted 33,000, scouts from across the country. Over 600 of those attending the event earned Geology Merit Badge. This fall, the University of Northern Iowa, Black Hawk Gem and Mineral Club, and Basic Materials Corp., teamed up to conduct an Earth Science Week Program of Geology Field Trips. The personal involvement of the the author has ranged from a Soil and Water District Commissioner to local watershed programs and other issues including the establishment of a Drainage District with the County Engineer to address storm water issues. Geoscientists have the capability to encourage public interest in geology and the expertise to address geology related issues in their communities.