California Celebrates Earth Science Week, October 8-14; Department Of Conservation Provides Earth Science ``One-Stop Shopping''.

News & Assignment Editors/Education Writers

SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 10, 2000

California rocks! It also floods and has landslides and erosion.

Understanding how the environment behaves is crucial to the health, safety and welfare of Californians. The environment also has a big impact on the state's economy.

Earth science, the study of the origin, structure and physical phenomena of the Earth, is dedicated to making the whims of Mother Nature understandable. In recognition of the important role Earth science plays in the lives of every Californian, Governor Gray Davis has proclaimed the week of October 8-14 Earth Science Week.

"Our understanding of earth science helps us to prepare for natural events, such as earthquakes, erosion, floods and landslides and lessen some of their disastrous effects," the Governor stated in his proclamation. "Expanding educational efforts to improve knowledge and increase awareness of Earth science creates and prepares a brighter future for the next generation of Californians."

Department of Conservation Director Darryl Young emphasized that it's important for Californians to be mindful of natural hazards so they can take precautions.

"It's a fact earthquakes and other natural phenomena will occur in California," Young said. "By knowing all we can about them, we hope to be better prepared, to minimize damage and speed recovery."

The Department of Conservation's Division of Mines and Geology is helping in that educational effort by providing a "one-stop shopping" source of information through its Web site. A special page about Earth Science Week can be found at DOC's Web site, www.consrv.ca.gov/dmg/esweek with valuable information, exciting ways to celebrate Earth Science Week and links to related Web sites around the nation.

DMG also maintains an extensive library in Sacramento dedicated to providing Earth science information and teaching materials to educators statewide. Through its bimonthly magazine, "California Geology," DMG provides the latest geological findings, maps and data from around the state.

"California's geologic environment is and has been the basis for many of its opportunities," said Jim Davis, California State Geologist. "Gold, of course, was the initial stimulant to development and mineral resources remain a cornerstone of our economy. In addition, climate, soil and water assure the state's preeminence in agriculture, and have attracted a host of industries and a vibrant population."

Davis added that California's geologic characteristics also contribute to many of the challenges that confront the state.

"The challenges related to water availability, pollution control, toxic mineral occurrence, earthquake and volcanic hazards, and landslide risk exposure are arguably greater in California than in any other part of our nation," he said. "They also make California an exhilarating place to practice the Earth sciences."

The first "Earth Science Week" was celebrated nationally in 1998, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the American Geological Institute. The branches of Earth science are astronomy, geology, meteorology, oceanography and physical geography.

The Department of Conservation works to preserve California's natural resources through its programs to safeguard farmland and open space resources, regulate oil, gas and geothermal wells, study and map earthquakes, landslides and mineral resources, ensure reclamation of land used for mining, and promote beverage container recycling.