THE GEOLOGY AND HEALTH DIVISION: AN IMGA HONORARY CHAPTER

The Geology and Health Division was recognized in 2005 as the Geological Society of America’s (GSA) 16^th specialty division. The Division’s mission is concerned with the intersection of geology with health, disease, pathology and death in modern and fossil humans, animals and plants. The interests of the Geology and Health Division focus on geology and its interdisciplinary relationship to medicine, biology, chemistry, and other sciences. The Geology and Health Division works to: bring together an interdisciplinary range of scientists and practitioners interested in these issues; facilitate the presentation and discussion of relevant problems and ideas; promote research and the publication of results of relevant studies; cooperate with other divisions and the sections of the Society and with other scientific organizations in fostering, aiding, furthering, and promoting research in relevant areas; foster recognition of significant contributions and achievements; encourage and mentor students interested in related issues; and advise and assist the officers and committees of the Society in matters pertaining to the interests of the members of the Geology and Health Division. The Division currently has almost 200 members about 90% from the U.S, and Canada, and the remainder from more than10 other countries. The Geology and Health Division was proud to be recognized as the first Honorary Chapter of the International Medical Geology Association (IMGA) in 2011. Shortly thereafter, the new Honorary Chapter submitted a bid to host the 5th International Conference on Medical Geology – MEDGEO 2013 – that was accepted by IMGA.