Geoscience quarterly e-zine Issue 1: June, 2010 GE Spectrum · Geoscience quarterly e-zine Issue 1: June, 2010 The Geosciences Newsletter A THE AMERICAN GEOLOGICAL INSTITUTE SERVING

Geoscience quarterly e-zine Issue 1: June, 2010

The Geosciences Newsletter

ATHE AMERICAN GEOLOGICAL INSTITUTE

GISERVING THE GEOSCIENCES WORLDWIDE

GE Spectrum

Geoscience News 1

Leadership and Professional News 2

Education and Scholarships 5

Meetings 7

Policy and Currents 9

GeoCalendar and Classifieds 16

In Memoriam 20

Table of Contents

Welcome to the first issue of the new GeoSpectrum, the geosciences quarterly newsletter. You’ll find the latest in-formation on AGI and its Member Societies’ programs,

publications, news, and opportunities.GeoSpectrum is the geoscience community’s go-to source for

information that affects the profession. From academia, industry, and government, GeoSpectrum exists to improve awareness of what’s happening in the profession of geoscience. GeoSpectrum covers news about the happenings in the geoscience community, meeting and event notices, press releases, and opportunities avail-able for funding, publication, and more.

I hope you enjoy this first issue of Geospectrum relaunched and look forward to hearing from you about the ways in which we can improve this newsletter. In additon to the printable issue, AGI will continue posting abbreviated news notes on the online edition of GeoSpectrum. You can access that website and sign up for RSS feeds by visiting http://www.agiweb.org/geospectrum-blog/.

Andrea Martin AGI Member Society [email protected]

Letter from the Editor

Image © Michael Collier. Sunrise over meteor crater in Arizona. Image # ih0buy from AGI’s Earth Science World Image Bank www.earthscienceworld.org/images.

AGI Member SocietiesAASP-The Palynological Society (AASP)American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG)American Geophysical Union (AGU)American Institute of Hydrology (AIH)American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG)American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA)American Society of Limnology and Oceanography

(ASLO)Association for Women Geoscientists (AWG)Association of American State Geologists (AASG)Association of Earth Science Editors (AESE)Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists

(AEG)Clay Minerals Society (CMS)Council on Undergraduate Research, Geosciences Division

(CUR)Environmental and Engineering Geophysical Society

(EEGS)Friends of Mineralogy (FOM)The Geochemical Society (GS)Geo-Institute of the American Society of Civil Engineers

(GI)Geological Society of America (GSA)The Geological Society of London (GSL)Geoscience Information Society (GSIS)History of Earth Sciences Society (HESS)International Association of Hydrogeologists/U.S. National

Chapter (IAH)International Basement Tectonics Association (IBTA)Mineralogical Society of America (MSA)National Association of Black Geologists and Geophysicists

(NABGG)National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT)National Association of State Boards of Geology (ASBOG)National Earth Science Teachers Association (NESTA)National Ground Water Association (NGWA)National Speleological Society (NSS)North American Commission of Stratigraphic Nomencla-

ture (NACSN)Paleobotanical Section of the Botanical Society of America

(PSBSA)Paleontological Research Institution (PRI)Paleontological Society (PS)Petroleum History Institute (PHI)Seismological Society of America (SSA)SEPM (Society for Sedimentary Geology) (SEPM)Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration, Inc.

(SME)The Society for Organic Petrology (TSOP)Society of Economic Geologists (SEG)Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG)Society of Independent Professional Earth Scientists

(SIPES)Society of Mineral Museum Professionals (SMMP)Society of Vertebrate Paleontology (SVP)Soil Science Society of America (SSSA)United States Permafrost Association (USPA)

American Geological Institute

Executive Committee

PresidentRichard M. Powers, BCI Engineers and Scientists

President-ElectG.W. (skip) Hobbs IV, Ammonite Resources

TreasurerJames M. Robertson, Wisconsin Geological Survey

SecretaryWilliam N. Barkhouse, SEG Foundation

Member at LargeJessica Ali-Adeeb, Chevron Energy technology CompanyLaurie Scheuing, Environmental GeologistDonald L. Sparks, Dept. of Plant and Soil Sciences

Past PresidentPeter A. Scholle, New Mexico Bureau of Geology & Mineral Resources

Chair of AGI FoundationRoger P. Pinkerton, Marathon Oil Company

Executive DirectorP. Patrick Leahy



photo by Mike Smith

copyright© Tim McCabe, NRCS

AGI Foundation TrusteesChair Roger P. Pinkerton, Marathon Oil Company

Vice ChairWilliam A. van Wie, Devon Energy Corp.

SecretaryWilliam L. Fisher, University of Texas, Austin

TreasurerWilliam E. Gipson, Gas Investments/Gas Fund Inc.

Executive DirectorJan F. van Sant, Pennzoil Co. (Ret.)

TrusteesHisham Al Qassab Schlumberger • John J. Amoruso Amoruso Petroleum Company • Bruce S. Appelbaum Mosaic Resources • Michael J. Baranovic Metaire, LA • Stephen J. Barberio Vulcan Materials Company • William N. Barkhouse ABC-Geo, Inc. • William J. Barrett Denver, CO • Thomas D. Barrow Houston, TX • Annell Bay Marathon Oil Company • R. Michael Beathard Bechtel Corporation • Steven R. Bell Remora Energy • C. Scott Cameron Shell Energy Resources Co • Kenneth W. Ciri-acks Tucson, AZ • Peter D. Carragher BP America, Inc. • Steven Cassiani Houston, TX • William E. Crain Dan-ville, CA • Robert P. Daniels Anadarko Petroleum • Peter A. Dea Cirque Resources LP • David DeFelice Occidental Oil & Gas Corp. • James W. Farnsworth Cobalt Inter-national Energy • Michael C. Forrest Duncanville, TX • James M. Funk Sewickley, PA • Lawrence W. Funkhouser Palo Alto, CA • James A. Gibbs Five States Energy Com-pany • Howard R. Gould Lisle, IL • Arthur R. Green Gig Harbor, WA • Priscilla C. Grew University of Nebraska, Lincoln • Elwyn C. Griffiths ExxonMobil Explora-tion • Charles G. Groat University of Texas at Austin • Thomas M. Hamilton Houston, TX • James W. Hand-schy ConocoPhillips • Frank W. Harrison Jr. Optimistic Oil Company • John D. Haun Evergreen, CO • Paul R. Koeller, Halliburton • G. Warfield Hobbs Ammonite Resources • Gregory M. Larberg Burlington Resources • Ernest A. Mancini Texas A&M University • Cole R. Mc-Clure Jr. San Carlos, CA • Richard E. Migues Santa Ana, CA • James C. Patterson Houston, TX • Donald L. Paul E&T Strategies • Alan Pennington Meridian Resource Corp. • Richard M. Powers BCI Engineers & Scientists • Floyd R. Price Houston, TX • Robert N. Ryan Chevron Corp. • John N. Seitz Endeavour International Corpora-tion • Russell G. Slayback Leggette, Brashears & Graham, Inc. • Daniel L. Smith Sandalwood Energy LLC • Harvey A. Smith Sequim, WA • Donald L. Sparks University of Delaware • James V. Taranik University of Nevada, Reno • M. Ray Thomasson Thomasson Partner Associates, Inc. • Jack C. Threet Houston, TX • Scott W. Tinker Texas Bureau of Economic Geology • Kane C. Weiner Texas Crude, Inc. • Lawrence P. Wilding College Station, TX • John A. Willott Jackson, WY • David F. Work Victor, ID


F O U N D A T I O N

The AGI Foundation supports programs that assist researchers, educators, policy-makers, and young people — the geoscientists and informed citizens

of tomorrow. Invest in the geosciences by supporting the AGI Foundation’s efforts.

Some of the programs the AGI Foundation is work-ing to fund are the following:

Develop national geoscience curricula. r

Support a national teacher enhancement program. r

Establish a Congressional Geoscience Fellowship rendowment.

Produce environmental geoscience publications. r

Develop web-based training materials for geosci- rence students and professionals.

“Every person owes part of one’s time and money to the business or industry to which one is engaged. No one has a moral right to withhold support from an organization that is striving to improve conditions within their sphere.”— Theodore Roosevelt

w w w . a g i f o u n d a t i o n . o r g

Member Society Portal:

AGI has expanded our Member Society Webpage to highlight the various services we offer to our societies and their member-ships including the GeoCalendar, Online GeoSpectrum, the AGI Government Affairs monthly review and more. Visit http://www.agiweb.org/members/ to view all of our services and to keep up to date with the latest news and events in the community.

The AGI Book Center:

In association with Amazon.com, AGI has updated the Earth Science World Book Center. This site enables visitors to come to a central location to search books available through Amazon.com related to the earth sciences. Search by keyword or category to find books of interest to you! Visit the book center http://www.earthscienceworld.org/books/ often to see new books that have recently been added to the collection.

Webinar Archives:AGI is pleased to announce an archive of all previous webinars. Our webinars have covered topics such as Open Access, Careers, Education and more. If you were not able to participate in the live webinar as it was happening, listen at your leisure to the discus-sions that have taken place. Also, be sure to check back for up-coming webinars that may be of interest to you or people in your organization: http://www.agiweb.org/members/webinars/

Global Geoscience Initiative: The International Year of Planet Earth (IYPE), which has achieved considerable success in its outreach activities, has not generated a significant science program. As the triennium reached its end, there was a wish to explore to launching a Global Geoscience Initiative, to use the momentum generated by IYPE and three other international years, and to take forward the aims expressed in the Tsukuba Declaration, issued jointly by participants in these programs.

To this end, AGI, the British Geological Survey (BGS), Geologi-cal Society of America (GSA) and the Geological Society of London (GSL) have worked together to sponsor Town Hall meetings at vari-ous events in 2009 and 2010 to discuss the Global Geoscience Initia-tive. To learn more about this Initiative, read the meeting summaries and to view the presentations given at the Town Hall meetings please visit http://www.agiweb.org/members/ggi/

Geoscience Charitable Programs: Did you know that there were several charitable humanitarian geoscience programs? Geoscientists without Borders, organized by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists Foundation: http://www.seg.org/gwb.

Developing Worlds Project Fund organized by the National Ground Water Association: http://www.ngwa.org/ngwref/dev_world/index.aspx.

In addition to these programs run by AGI Member Societ-ies, several societies also participate in other projects including: GeoHazards International http://www.geohaz.org/, Scientists without Borders http://scientistswithoutborders.org/, and Engi-neers without Borders http://www.ewb-usa.org/.

AGI Member Society Services

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s State Geological Surveys to Play Key Role in Geothermal Energy Search

The hunt for renewable geothermal energy just got a much needed shot in the arm. Energy Secretary Stephen Chu announced awards totaling $338 million for geo-

thermal energy across the country, including the population of a comprehensive nationwide geothermal resource data system by the nation’s State Geological Surveys to help identify and assess new fields.

The Association of American State Geologists (AASG – http://www.stategeologists.org), organized a coalition of 40 state geological surveys to populate a new National Geother-mal Data System with relevant state-specific geothermal data. The project will receive $17.79 million from the Department of Energy (DOE) over 3 years.

Compiling state-specific geothermal data in an integrated distributed and searchable data system should drive renewed efforts to identify, assess and exploit geothermal energy re-sources across America. This national collaboration of State and Federal agencies, universities, and industry, has the po-tential to reshape America’s energy landscape, reduce green-house gas emissions, and leverage non-renewable petroleum resources well into the 21st Century.

AASG is already a partner in the Geothermal Data Coali-

tion, based at Boise State University to design and build the National Geothermal Data System under contract to (DOE). AASG member surveys will adapt the Geoscience Informa-tion Network (GIN - http://www.usgin.org) to provide data discovery, access, and exchange services as a component in the developing data system. Other components include a data repository, software applications, vocabularies, data content, network communications, and web portals.

GIN is collaboration between AASG and the U.S. Geologi-cal Survey to integrate geological survey data bases using web services and open source standards in a distributed system. The Arizona Geological Survey is the designated lead agency in building GIN for the nation’s geological surveys and will manage the DOE-funded effort to populate the NGDS. The project includes the USGS, Microsoft Research, and the pe-troleum industry consortium, Energistics, Inc, as partners. All of the dozens of other geothermal projects announced are ex-pected to integrate their data into the NGDS. For more infor-mation contact: Lee Allison (State Geologist of Arizona) and Project PI, at [email protected] (520)-209-4121; or Da-vid Wunsch (State Geologist of New Hampshire) AASG Presi-dent, at [email protected], (603) 271-6482.

In response to the 12 January 2010 earthquakes in Haiti, The Geological Society of America (GSA) has compiled a list of open-access papers on the Caribbean plate and the En-

riquillo-Plaintain fault line. These articles, from GSA Bulletin and the GSA Special Papers collection, span the years 2009 to

1954. Access the literature at: http://www.gsapubs.org/site/misc/Haiti.xhtml. Please make reference to The Geological Society of America, GSA BULLETIN, or the referenced GSA Special Pa-per in articles published. Contact Christa Stratton ([email protected]) for additional information or assistance.

GSA Provides Open Access to Haitian EarthquakeResearch

AGI Produces “This is AGI” Video A

THE AMERICAN GEOLOGICAL INSTITUTEGI

SERVING THE GEOSCIENCES WORLDWIDE

The American Geological Institute (AGI) has released a new video entitled “This is AGI” available on the AGI website. This eight minute video provides information

on AGI’s mission, its history, and details the many services AGI provides to its Member Societies and the general public. “An organization as diverse as AGI with a mission reaching out to many constituencies is hard to describe in a few words. This video provides a genuine and full view of the institute,” says Richard Powers, AGI President.

View the video to learn about AGI’s role in building a strong geoscience workforce. See our involvement in ensuring America’s student’s receive a quality earth science education in both K-12 and university levels. Learn about the services we provide to the profession such as GeoRef, image and video archives. Plus, watch to see how AGI promotes the geosci-ences to policymakers through our strong and active Govern-ment Affairs Program. To view “This is AGI” please visit http://www.agiweb.org/about.html.

William L. Fisher and Larry Woodfork

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President-Elect: Chris Fielding, University of Nebraska, Lin-coln, NebraskaSecretary-Treasurer: Diane Kamola, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas Councilor for Research Activities: Sam Bentley, Memorial Uni-versity of Newfoundland, St John’s, Newfoundland, CanadaInternational Councilor: Maria Mutti, Universitat Potsdam, Potsdam, GermanySEPM Foundation President: Tim Carr, West Virginia Univer-sity, Morgantown, West Virginia Thanks to the outgoing Council members for their service:

Steve Driese, Baylor University rJohn Snedden, ExxonMobil r

John Holbrook, University of Texas r- Arlington André Strasser, Universite de Fri- rbourg

Thanks to the other candidates who consented to run:John Snedden, ExxonMobil rBrenda Beitler Bowen, Purdue University rAdam Woods, California State University - Fullerton rTetsuji Muto, Nagasaki University rSEPM is always in need of member volunteers for standing

committee and ad hoc special assignments. If you are interest-ed in helping SEPM in its activities please contact: [email protected] (SEPM Executive Director).

SEPM New Council Members 2010 - 2011 Council

AGI Announces 2010 Edward C. Roy Award

Jason Pittman, lead science resource teacher at Hollin Meadows Science and Math Focus School in Alexandria, VA, has been named the 2010 recipient of the Edward C.

Roy, Jr. Award for Excellence in K-8 Earth Science Teaching.Mr. Pittman started his career as a top designer in an in-

ternet development company and went on to become presi-dent of his own internet design studio. He developed a desire to give back and serve. This desire eventually inspired him to earn a Master of Arts degree in education in 2003 from James Madison University. From there he began his science teaching career at Hollin Meadows, where he has focused on engaging students with inquiry-based, hands-on learning in the earth sciences.

Jon Gates, principal of Hollin Meadows, says “what makes Mr. Pittman truly outstanding… is his ability to turn students on to science. His caring attitude and superior knowledge of the subject make him effective with students from kindergar-ten to sixth grades and at all levels of ability. He is especially diligent with students who historically have had major diffi-culties in science.”

Prior to taking on the role as Hollin Measows’ lead sci-ence teacher, Mr. Pittman worked for four years as a self-con-tained classroom teacher for grades 4, 5, and 6. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Pittman served as the PTA Vice President from 2004-2006. Colleagues praise his work as an advocate for earth science education at the school board level, through sci-ence and technology conferences, and by presenting to other schools interested in employing Hollin Meadows’s science teaching model.

Given annually, the Edward C. Roy, Jr. Award recognizes one classroom teacher from kindergarten to eighth grade for his or her leadership and innovation in earth science education. This award is named in honor of Dr. Edward C. Roy, Jr., who was a strong and dedicated supporter of earth science education. Mr. Pittman will be presented with the Edward C. Roy, Jr. Award at the 2010 National Science Teachers Association National Con-ference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Other finalists for the 2010 award are Greer Lynn Harvell of Clifford C. Meigs Middle School in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, and John Schaefers of In-gomar Middle School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

2010 recipient of The Colonel Edwin L. Drake Legendary Oilman Award from PHI

W illiam L. Fisher received the Petroleum History In-stitute’s most prestigious recognition, The Colonel Edwin L. Drake Legendary Oilman Award, at PHI’s

Honors and Awards Banquet (Friday evening, May 01) during its 2010 Symposium and Field Trip in Lafayette, LA.



Christine McEntee

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SIPES Will Present Awards At 2010 Convention

Dallas, Texas — The Society of Independent Professional Earth Scientists (SIPES) is pleased to

announce that four members will be recognized on June 22, 2010 during the association’s 47th Annual Convention in Colorado Springs, Colorado. SIPES Honorary Membership, the society’s highest honor, will be presented to Dan-iel L. Smith, #1647, of Houston, Texas in recognition of his history of service to SIPES and to the earth sciences. In the forty-seven year history of SIPES, hon-orary membership has been presented on only twenty-one previous occasions. Posthumous honorary membership will be awarded to G. Frederick (Ted) Shep-herd, #27, of Dallas, Texas, founder of the Geological Information Library of

Dallas, and a pioneer in the field of earth science data preservation.

Victor L. Cooper, #2171, of Okla-homa City, Oklahoma and William T. Goff III, #2068, of Denver, Colorado will receive SIPES Outstanding Ser-vice Awards. Both men are recognized for their long histories of service to the SIPES organization.

These awards will be presented at a banquet during the SIPES 47th Annual Meeting. Also included in the convention agenda is a seminar “To the Moon and Beyond” presented by Apollo 17 Astro-naut Harrison Schmitt on Monday after-noon, June 21. A two-day technical pro-gram will follow on June 22 and 23; talks will be arranged by the topics of conven-tional oil, alternate energy, case histories

and unconventional reservoirs. Several local tours and social events will also be available. A optional tour of the Cripple Creek Gold Mine, Colorado’s largest, will conclude the event on June 24. Visitors are welcome to attend; members of the American Association of Petroleum Ge-ologists (AAPG), Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG), and the Society of Petroleum Evaluation Engineers (SPEE) may register at member rates.

The Society of Independent Pro-fessional Earth Scientists is a national organization of more than 1250 self-employed geologists, geophysicists and engineers engaged primarily in domes-tic energy exploration and development. SIPES has eleven chapters located in oil and gas centers of the United States.

Washington, D.C. -- The Ameri-can Geophysical Union an-nounced today that Christine

W. McEntee, Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of the Amer-ican Institute of Architects, will be its new Executive Director. McEntee, a sea-soned and highly accomplished associa-tion executive, will join AGU in late Au-gust 2010. She will succeed Robert Van Hook, Transition Management Consult-ing, who has served as Interim Executive Director since January 2009.

McEntee was chosen from a wide field of outstanding candidates following an extensive international search. She will be only the third Executive Direc-tor in AGU’s 90+ year history. She was selected for her record of transformative leadership, outstanding management and business skills, and public policy and outreach acumen. Another impor-tant factor was her enthusiasm for the Earth and space sciences, which grew with her leadership of AIA into the field of sustainability.

“Chris brings with her an apprecia-tion and strong commitment to AGU’s scientific excellence in the Earth and space sciences,” said AGU President Tim

Grove, Professor, Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology. “Her collaborative approach to leader-ship is perfect for AGU at this time of mobilizing members to achieve their vi-sion of AGU’s future. I can’t wait to be-gin working with her.”

For McEntee the opportunity at AGU continues a lifetime commitment to sci-entific achievement and advancement for the benefit of humanity. “I look forward to collaborating with the AGU leadership and scientific communities,” she said. “Together we’ll continue to advance ex-cellence in the Earth and space sciences and position AGU as an authoritative and credible voice with policy makers, key stakeholders, and the media.”

Before assuming her current post at the American Institute of Architects, McEntee was Chief Executive Officer of the American College of Cardiology and its affiliated Foundation. Prior to that she was Executive Vice President of the American Hospital Association.

McEntee’s background in the life sciences includes a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Georgetown University and a master’s degree in Health Administra-

tion from George Washington University. She is also a graduate of the Advanced Executive Program at Northwestern Uni-versity’s Kellogg School of Management. She is a Fellow of the American Society of Association Executives and was recently named a top honoree by the Euro-Amer-ican Women’s Council.

“I am really pleased that the hard, thoughtful work of the search commit-tee resulted in such a high caliber as-sociation executive as Chris,” said AGU General Secretary and search committee chair Carol Finn, Research Geophysicist, U.S. Geological Survey. “Her passion for the environment, extensive experience, creativity, and collaborative leadership style are critical for this time of transi-tion at AGU. We are very excited to work with Chris as AGU enters its next era as a leader in the Earth and space sciences.”

Christine W. McEntee selected as AGU Executive Director

The Association of American State Geologists (AASG) proudly pre-sented Senator Lisa Murkowski

(R), Alaska, and Representative Rush Holt (D), Twelfth District of New Jer-sey, with the 2010 Pick and Gavel Award on March 16, 2010. The Pick and Gavel Award honors those who have made sig-nificantcontributions to advancing the role of geoscience in public policy and those who have supported AASG’s goals in national policy.

Senator Lisa Murkowski has been a longtime advocate of legislation that sup-ports funding and authorization of pro-grams benefitting the geosciences. She co-sponsored the reauthorization of the National Geologic Mapping Act in 2007, which passed as part of the Omnibus Public Lands Management Act in 2009. In addition, she co-sponsored the reau-thorization and expansion of the Methane Hydrates Research Act and helped gain the approval of the Ocean and Coastal Mapping Integration Act. Not only has Senator Murkowski played a key role in the aforementioned legislation, but she has also been a champion of responsible natural resource development as Rank-ing Member of the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Her work in this arena has included proposing directional drilling in a small area of the Arctic Na-tional Wildlife Refuge, promoting geo-thermal and marine hydrokinetic energy development in the 2005 and 2007 ener-

gy bills, co-sponsoring legislation to fund carbon capture and storage projects in coal production, and leading an effort to resume the mining of rare earth elements in the United States. In accepting the Pick and Gavel Award, Senator Murkowski expressed the importance of the geosci-ences to U.S. economic well-being, saying “our nation can find and produce the ma-terialsvital to our economy.”

In addition to her work on resource development, Senator Murkowski co-chairs the CongressionalHazard Caucus and introduced S.782 which would es-tablish a National Volcano Early Warning System.This system would provide stable funding for the five U.S. volcano obser-vatories. Of high importance to the geo-sciences, Senator Murkowski sponsored an amendment to the American Clean Energy Leadership Act of 2009 that au-thorizes funding for a grant program for the construction of geologic data reposi-tories. This data is crucial for oil and gas, hydrologic studies, geothermal energy, and carbon capture and storage.

Representative Holt has been a strong supporter of the sciences as a Member of Congress. He serves on the Commit-tee on Natural Resources and on the Subcommittees for Energy and Miner-als, and Parks and Lands. Through his efforts, more than $700 million in new federal funding was secured for science and technology research. Holt was also instrumental in passing an amendment

to the Land and Water Conservation Fund which provided millions of dollars to protect open space. Most importantly, Congressman Holt sponsored the Public Lands Omnibus Bill (H.R. 146), which contained the National Cooperative Geo-logic Mapping Program Reauthorization and the Secure Water Act, both of which were strongly supported by AASG.

In accepting his award, Representa-tive Holt thanked the state geologists for their 100 years of service. He went on to say “geology is an old but very current profession of enormous impor-tance.” His efforts ensure quality geosci-ence will continue to be supported by the U.S. Congress. David Wunsch, the State Geologist of New Hampshire, and President of AASG, remarked “Senator Murkowski and Representative Holt are exemplary champions of the geosciences on Capitol Hill. Their support of pro-grams by sponsoring legislation, pro-curing funding, and serving on science, energy, and resource committees has en-sured the growth of strong earth science programs within the United States.

Their efforts make them eminently deserving of the 2010 AASG Pick and Gavel Award.”

Senator Murkowski and Representative Holt Receive AASG Pick and Gavel Award

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The National Association of Geo-science Teachers (NAGT) has established a list serv for staying

informated about the work on the Sci-ence Education Standards underway at

the NRC. This list will be used to for-ward announcements about the process, as well as updates and requests for in-put. It will also use be used to provide information about work to create an

integrated literacy document for the earth sciences. You can join the list at http://serc.carleton.edu/mailman/list-info/nagtliteracy.

Exploring Energy – The 2010 Earth Science Week Theme

A lexandria, VA – The American Geological Institute (AGI) is pleased to announce the theme of Earth Sci-ence Week 2010: “Exploring Energy.”

“Exploring Energy” will engage young people and the public in learning about Earth’s energy resources. It will em-phasize the important role earth scientists play in expanding our understanding of the complex interactions of energy re-sources with earth systems— the planet’s atmosphere, hydro-sphere, geosphere, and biosphere.

ESW 2010 materials will highlight the many important energy resource questions earth scientists explore: Where do energy resources come from? How are they found and har-nessed? How has energy use changed over time? What is the importance of renewable energy? What does science tell us about timely issues such as conservation and public safety? Where are the energy careers of the future likely to be?

“Energy is a topic that always generates electricity in edu-cation,” says Ann E. Benbow, Ph.D., AGI’s Director of Edu-cation and Outreach. “Students and teachers are used to hear-ing about energy crises in the news media. We all understand

the vital role that energy plays in our lives. That’s why we’re taking the opportunity during Earth Science Week 2010 to ex-plore energy as a subject of scientific inquiry.”

AGI leads Earth Science Week annually in cooperation with its sponsors and the geosciences community as a service to the public. Each year, community groups, educators, and interested citizens organize celebratory events. Earth Science Week offers the public opportunities to discover the earth sci-ences and engage in responsible stewardship of the Earth. Earth Science Week is supported by the U.S. Geological Sur-vey, the AAPG Foundation, the US Department of Energy, NASA, the National Park Service, Exxon Mobil, and ESRI.

ESW 2010 will be celebrated October 10-16. To learn more about this week, ways to become involved; including newslet-ters, local events, and classroom activities, please go to the Earth Science Week website at http://www.earthsciweek.org.

AWG Minority Scholarship

The Association for Women Geo-scientists announces a new pro-gram encourages young minority

women to pursue an education and later a career in the geosciences. It provides financial aid, but also matches the stu-dent with a mentor in the same field who will offer guidance and support.

This exchange will enhance the student’s experience and provide a view of the world ahead. Each summer one or more awards totally $5,000 will be given. To learn more about the criteria for applica-tion including deadlines, qualifications, and application procedures please visit http://awg.org/EAS/minority.html.



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The American Geological Institute is pleased to announce the winners of the 2009 Earth Science Week (ESW) competitions and the International Year of Planet Earth-

ESW photo competition.The ESW visual arts contest invited students in grade K-5

students to created two-dimensional artworks illustrating the theme “The Climate Where I Live.” Taylor Joe Scott of Ports-mouth, New Hampshire won first place in the visual arts con-test with a collage comparing landscapes, average sea levels, and wildlife in his area today and 100,000 years ago.

Grade 6-9 students participating in the essay contest wrote up to 300 words addressing the theme “Climate Connections.” Shreyas Havaldar of Dix Hills, New York, won first place in the essay contest by writing about climate and changing sea-sons on Long Island.

Participants in the ESW photo contest submitted photos illustrating the theme “How Climate Shapes My World.” Mi-chael Badding of East Amherst, New York, won first place with his photo of a photo of melting ice. For all ESW con-tests, each first-place winner receives $300 and a “Faces of Earth” DVD set.

This year, the separate IYPE-ESW photo contest asked participants to submit photographs illustrating the theme “Exploring Earth Science around the World.” Amy Spaziani, a graduate student in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, won first place in the contest for a photo featuring geology students examining soft sediment deformation during a field trip near the Guada-lupe Mountains in west Texas. Spaziani wins a prize of $500 and a “Faces of Earth DVD” set. The second place winner, Cassidy Williams of Westland, Michigan received $300, while the third place winner Daniel McGrath of Boulder, Colorado won $100.

To view the winning and finalist entries in all ESW 2009 con-tests, visit http://www.earthsciweek.org/contests/2009index.html.

Earth Science Week is an annual event held the second week of October to promote an understanding and apprecia-tion of the earth sciences. It is organized annually by AGI with support from a number of other geoscience organizations, in-cluding the U.S. Geological Survey, NASA, National Park Service, and the American Association of Petroleum Geolo-gists Foundation. To learn more about this event, please visit http://www.earthsciweek.org/.



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The American Geological Institute (AGI) successfully hosted the virtual component of the first Young Earth-Scientist (YES) Congress held in Beijing, China October

25-28 in an effort to expand the opportunity for participation to young scientists from around the world. Over 200 individuals from 31 countries took advantage of this unique opportunity to participate, even without attending in person in Beijing.

AGI, one of the U.S. supporters of the YES Congress, host-

ed and coordinated webinars that allowed attendees to watch roundtable presentations live both in Beijing and presented by speakers over the internet on subjects such as natural resourc-es and earth science education, ask questions of the speakers, and give feedback on the subjects being discussed. As a service to the geosciences community, AGI recorded all presentations and hosted themon the YES Congress website http://www.networkyes.org/.

River Restoration: Fluvial-Geomorphic & Ecological Tools. 7 Jun - 11 Jun 2010: Institut Beaumont. Beaumont du Ventoux, Provence, France

This course provides training in fluvial-geomorphic and ecological tools to assess the status of rivers, identify ongoing trends and their causes, and develop programs

to reverse ecological decline and restore fluvial processes to improve habitats and water quality. The course emphasizes understanding geomorphic process as a sound basis for plan-ning and designing river restoration projects. It covers general

principles and case studies from a wide range of environments, with specific applications and field visits to Mediterranean and mountain environments. The course draws heavily on instruc-tors’ diverse experiences in France, elsewhere in the European Union and North America.http://www.institutbeaumont.com

The 11th Congress of the International Association for Engineering Geology and the Environment.

The Congress aims to showcase both tested and innova-tive local New Zealand knowledge to overseas colleagues as well as bringing state of the art practice to New Zea-

land. Special emphasis will be given to engaging with younger members of the profession to encourage them to register and

contribute. The principle theme of the five day IAEG2010 is Geologically Active which includes geohazards on the leading edge, geohazard management, role of the engineering geolo-gist in the 21st Century and advances in geoengineering.http://www.iaeg2010.com

5 Sep - 10 Sep 2010: SkyCity Convention Centre. Auckland, New Zealand



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June 19-22, 2010--Weber State Unviersity, UT

The 2020 conference theme is Undergraduate Research as Transformative Practice: Developing Leaders and Solu-tions for a Better Society. Topics of discussion include:

Bringing undergraduate research together with other rhigh-impact, engaged-learning practices Examining the policy and practice implications of our rresearch Making research experiences a universal practice for rundergraduate students Using undergraduate research to help students engage with the worldDrawing underrepresented students into our fields r

Plenary SpeakersRobert J. Full rChancellor’s Professor rDirector Poly-PEDAL Laboratory & Director of the Bio- rAAPE CenterDepartment of Integrative Biology rUniversity of California at Berkeley r“The Value of Interdisciplinary Research-based Instruc- rtion”Mary Alice Morgan, Andrew Silver & Hannah Vann r S.T.O.P. (Sex Trafficking Opposition Project) rMercer University r“Research as Activism: The University and Anti-Traf- r

ficking Community Movement-Building” r P. Gabrielle Foreman Professor of English and Comparative Literary Studies rOccidental College r“Activating the Archive: Transformative Practices and rCommunity Partnerships”

The 2010 National Conference also includes:

Workshops r

Poster Sessions r

Interactive Sessions r

Council on Undergraduate Research National Conference

Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists Annual Meeting.

20 Sep - 25 Sep 2010: Francis Marion Hotel. Charleston, SC, United States.

The AEG Annual Meeting highlights will include Field Trips, Short Courses, a technical Program, Teacher Workshops, exhibits, and more. To learn more about this important event visit http://www.aegweb.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageID=4565.

Amendment to Energy Act of 2005 To Encourage Natural Gas R&D

Representative Harry Teague (D-NM) introduced the Unconventional Domestic Natural Gas Research and Development Act (H.R. 5062), which would amend the

Energy Act of 2005 to promote natural gas and oil drilling and exploration. The legislation would expand the Research Partnership to Secure Energy for America (RPSEA) program between universities and the energy industry, with about 80

percent of the funding in H.R. 5062 for university research-ers. H.R. 5062 would authorize the Department of Energy’s unconventional domestic natural gas research and develop-ment program for an additional 3 years until October 2017, triple federal funding for the program, and increase funding for commercial technology development.

Citizen Geoscientists Make Their Case on Capitol Hill

Nearly 40 geoscientists came from across the country to raise aware-ness among policymakers about

the value and the continued need for geoscience research, development, and education. Scientists and engineers from the American Geophysical Union (AGU), Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists, University Cor-poration for Atmospheric Research and the Consortium for Ocean Leadership came to town as part of the fifteenth an-nual Science-Engineering-Technology Congressional Visits Day (SET-CVD).

The event included a LaserFest Ex-

hibition and Reception in honor of the 50th anniversary of the laser. Exhibitors from industry to academia showcased the wide variety of scientific applica-tions of the laser. Included were two geoscience exhibitors—David Phillips from UNAVCO in Colorado and Chris Crosby from OpenTopography at the San Diego Supercomputer Center in California—who demonstrated the versatility and utility of LiDAR data. UNAVCO had a ground-based laser scanner on hand that took three dimen-sional images of members of Congress and the room during the reception.

OpenTopography, an online portal for user-friendly LiDAR data, displayed a variety of high resolution topographic datasets including some “fly-over” videos of major fault lines and recent earthquake surface ruptures.

This year, SET-CVD was organized by 33 groups, including AGI, AGU, UCAR and the Geological Society of America. Thanks to the many partici-pants, the geoscience community is continuing to raise awareness of the science and increase its presence on Capitol Hill. For a full summary, see the AGI events page.

The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee considered three measures on carbon capture and stor-age (CCS) in public hearings. One measure would pro-

vide $20 billion in incentives for CCS deployment, a second measure (S.1134) would authorize $3.8 billion in spending for CCS research and demonstration and a third measure (S.1856) would establish that subsurface pore space below federal lands

belongs to the U.S. government. Over in the House, the climate change bill (H.R. 2454) provides $60 billion in incentives for CCS deployment and additional spending for CCS research and demonstration. Congress like the President’s Interagency Task Force is trying to advance CCS as a major tool to mitigate climate change, especially from coal-fired power plants.

Senate Grapples with Carbon Capture and Storage

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Below are selected stories from AGI’s Goverment Affairs program monthly review. This monthly re-

view goes out to the leadership of AGI’s member societies, members of the AGI Government Affairs Advisory Commit-tee, and other interested geoscientists as

part of a continuing effort to improve communications between GAP and the geoscience community The current monthly review and archived monthly reviews are all available online. Sub-scribe to receive the Government Affairs Monthly Review by email.



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The President’s Interagency Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Task Force held its first public meeting on May 6, 2010. The task force is suppose to provide a plan for

developing 5 to 10 commercial CCS projects by 2016. Some called this goal too ambitious, while others indicated more op-timism and stated that the various technologies already exist-ed in part and just need to be put together. CCS is considered essential for coal-fired power plants. Coal accounts for about 51 percent of U.S. electricity generation and about 30 percent of U.S. carbon dioxide emissions.

There are no coal-fired power plants with fully operational CCS systems even though the federal government has spent $4 billion on the technology and the private industry has in-vested about $7 billion. Some experts at the meeting suggested

that another $3 - $4 billion needs to be invested in CCS devel-opment. Deploying the technology will also have costs with a price as high as $110 per metric ton of carbon dioxide called for at the meeting. Current legislation in Congress is consid-ering a price closer to $20 per metric ton. In addition, a re-cent research paper (see summary item #22 below) questions the feasibility of geologic sequestration for mitigating climate change on a national or global scale.

The task force has a massive task ahead of them trying to understand the research, development and deployment needs and then trying to plan a practical, economical and feasible plan for commercial scale CCS.

The task force will accept public comments until July 2, 2010.

Administration’s Task Force Begins Discussion of Carbon Capture and Storage

P lans by Senators John Kerry (D-MA), Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Joe Lieberman (I-CT) to introduce

a compromise climate change and energy bill on Earth Day (April 22) fell through. Senator Graham dropped out of the ef-fort because the Senate announced plans to consider an immigration bill before climate and energy. The Deepwater Ho-rizon oil rig disaster is also complicating efforts to compromise because likely leg-islation is thought to involve incentives for offshore oil and gas drilling.

Kerry and Lieberman recently an-

nounced that they do plan to unveil their legislation in May without the public support of Graham. Meanwhile the Senate Energy and Natural Resourc-es Committee completed work on their energy bill, the American Clean Energy Leadership Act of 2009 (S.1462). They approved nine amendments on May 5 including research and development funding for efficient lighting, wind en-ergy, and hydropower efficiency. One amendment creates an award for car-bon capture and sequestration techno-logical innovation.

The House-approved climate change bill (H.R. 2454) still awaits a comparable Senate bill for conferencing to work out compromise legislation. The Senate en-ergy bill (S.1462) and the possible Ker-ry-Liebermann bill are the most likely measures the Senate may consider. Sen-ator Jeff Bingaman (D-NM), Chair of the Senate Energy Committee has called for the Senate to consider S.1462 on its own with possible floor amendments to address climate change issues, however, several other senators indicate an ener-gy-only bill is not workable.

House Climate Change Bill and Senate Energy Bill Stifled in April

House Tackles Definition of ‘Navigable’ Waters

In an attempt to clarify the bodies of water covered by the Clean Water Act, Representative James Oberstar (D-

MN) introduced the America’s Commit-ment to Clean Water Act (H.R. 5088) to remove the word ‘navigable’ from the law passed in 1972. This is the fifth attempt to amend the definition to reflect what supporters call the original intent of the law. Supporters have said the Clean Water Act is supposed to reduce pollu-tion to all freshwater bodies, including rivers, streams, and wetlands, regard-

less of their size. However, two Supreme Court decisions have upheld the literal interpretation of the bill to apply only to waters defined as ‘navigable’.

Despite repeated defeats, Oberstar is hopeful for passage this year. Com-panion legislation pass through the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee (S. 787), though it met strong Republican opposition. Ober-star will face even more opposition as many farm and industry groups remain skeptical of the changes. They argue

that passage will give the federal gov-ernment too much control over all bod-ies of water, including imposing pollu-tion regulations on gutters, puddles, and ditches. Oberstar submitted a letter to his colleagues clarifying exemptions to his proposed rule. These exemptions would include irrigation ditches, stock ponds, and other areas associate with wastewater and croplands. Still, some worry that this bill will fail to sufficient-ly clarify the Clean Water Act, keeping it open for broad interpretation.

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The House Natural Resources Com-mittee is discussing a new bill to map the Arctic to delineate the

extent of the U.S. continental shelf and for safe navigation of the Arctic Ocean. H.R. 2864, introduced by Representative Don Young (R-AK), amends the Hydro-graphic Services Improvement Act of 1998 to fund the National Oceanic and

Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to acquire hydrographic data, provide hydrographic services, and conduct coastal change analyses as necessary to reach those goals. $10 million over the next two years would be dedicated to new hydrographic data and $5 million towards mapping the continental shelf.

With diminished sea ice extent, the

Arctic Ocean is becoming more accessi-ble to those looking for natural resources and new shipping lanes. Knowing the ex-tent of the U.S. continental shelf will help the U.S. lay claim to potentially resource-rich territory in the Arctic. The data col-lection funded by the bill will help create a baseline map for any new energy devel-opment and safe navigation routes.

Hearing Held on Arctic Mapping Bill

The Minerals Management Service (MMS) published a final rule that limits natural gas flaring and production rates from offshore gas wells. The goal of the rule is for

MMS to better monitor the amount of gas flaring or venting that occurs in offshore oil and gas production to ultimately reduce the amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) emitted.

Venting is the release of natural gas into the atmosphere and flaring is when the gas releases are ignited. These processes are most often used as a safety precaution to briefly divert the flow of gas during an equipment failure. This rule will continue to al-low flaring for safety reasons, but will require accurate measure-ment of total gas emitted to monitor volume of GHGs released.

MMS Rewrites Gas Flaring and Production Rates from Offshore Wells

The Coalition for National Science Funding (CNSF) held its sixteenth annual Exhibition and Reception on April 14, 2010 in the Rayburn House Office Building, Washing-

ton DC. The exhibition provides an opportunity for scientists to present some of their NSF-funded research to policymakers and the interested public on Capitol Hill. The scientists communi-cated about the value of their research, its impacts on society and the importance of federal funding for basic research. The 2010 Exhibition involved 30 booths and more than 70 scientists. Hundreds of people attended the exhibition and learned about many different research projects. Some of the attendees were policymakers, including nine members of Congress and many congressional staff from personal offices and committees.

The American Geological Institute (AGI), the Ameri-can Geophysical Union (AGU) and the Geological Society of America (GSA) sponsored two booths and three research

projects. The research included a study of melting perma-frost in northernmost Alaska presented by Andy Jacobson (Northwestern University); understanding earthquake haz-ards in the Seattle area presented by Tim Melbourne (Central Washington University); and direct measurements of ocean acidification in the northern Pacific Ocean presented by Bob Byrne (University of South Florida) and Sabine Mecking (University of Washington).

The researchers arrived early and spent the day visiting sixteen congressional offices for members from Florida, Illi-nois, Washington and Alaska to speak about hazards, climate change and ocean acidification related to their research.

A summary of the event is available from AGI’s Govern-ment Affairs event page.

Geoscientists Show Policymakers the Value of NSF-Funded Research

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On April 20, 2010, an explosion on the oil rig, Deepwa-ter Horizon, in the Gulf of Mexico, led to fatalities, in-juries, an emergency evacuation, a massive fire and the

eventual collapse of the oil rig. After the fire was extinguished, it was determined that oil was leaking from the damaged well at the seafloor. The oil spill is fouling the environment, affect-ing commerce and requiring a massive response from indus-try, government, other stakeholders and volunteers.

BP leased the Deepwater Horizon oil rig from Transoce-an to complete an exploratory well at the Macondo Prospect (Mississippi Canyon Block 252). BP is being held responsible for the damage and clean-up by the U.S. government at this time under the Oil Pollution Act. Other industry partners in-volved in assessment, clean-up and potential liability include Transocean, the oil rig operator, Halliburton, whose workers were finishing a cement casing near the time of the explosion and Cameron, which supplied the blowout preventer that is being implicated as failing to stop the subsequent oil leak.

There is not enough information at this time to determine the cause of the catastrophe. The Deepwater Horizon was working at a water depth of about 5,000 feet. Responding to such a major catastrophe at such a deep water depth has not been attempted before.

Efforts to mitigate the disaster so far have included burning the oil off the water surface, injecting chemical dispersants on the surface and at depth, containing and skimming the oil off of the surface, preparing to place a large containment device over the leak and preparing to drill a relief well to intercept the damaged pipeline at a deeper level to plug the pipe and remove any excess oil through the relief well.

After the initial emergency response by the U.S. Coast Guard and BP, the National Contingency Plan was initiated. Interagen-cy coordination included the Coast Guard; the Departments of Homeland Security (DHS), Commerce (DOC), Interior (DOI); and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These agen-cies provide federal assets and oversight of BP’s response. Rear Admiral Mary Landry was named the Federal On-Scene Co-ordinator and a Regional Response Team was stood up that in-cluded the U.S. Coast Guard, DHS, DOC/NOAA, DOI and the EPA, as well as state and local representatives.

Once it was determined that the spill was significant, Ja-net Napolitano, Secretary of Homeland Security, declared the disaster a Spill of National Significance and appointed U.S. Coast Guard Commandant Thad Allen as the National Inci-dent Commander. Many additional federal resources have been called in, including Department of Defense assets and the National Guard.

The Coast Guard and Minerals Management Service (MMS) were given the power to begin a joint investigation into the causes of the catastrophe. MMS set up an Emergency Operations Center in New Orleans and has been providing guidance, oversight and permitting for clean-up and spill con-tainment efforts. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Ad-ministration (NOAA) deployed a scientific support coordina-tor and is providing weather condition reports, assessments of the oceanic and atmospheric conditions, seafood inspections and tracking the extent of the spill. The Environmental Protec-tion Agency is providing assessments and helping with air and water quality sampling, control and clean-up.

The U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Parks Service are providing scientific support, assessments and helping to coordinate responses for environ-mental impacts to coastal ecosystems. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is providing airborne and satellite-based assets to monitor the extent of the spill and help-ing NOAA with forecasts of spill trajectories. The Occupational Safety and Health Agency and the Center for Disease Control are training, assessing and monitoring human health effects of all workers and volunteers in the affected areas.

Specific actions taken by the federal government include: NOAA has issued fishing restrictions in affected areas, DOI has issued a moratorium on new offshore drilling until the in-vestigation is completed, DOI has directed MMS to conduct physical inspections of all deepwater rigs and platforms, and DOI has established an Outer Continental Shelf Safety Over-sight Board.

More information about the Administration’s response to the Deepwater Horizon collapse and spill is available from the Department of the Interior’s response web page at http://www.doi.gov/deepwaterhorizon/index.cfm


No. 2829 January 2010

K-12 education provides an important formative stage in a student’s education, and the coursework to which students are exposed during this period (especially during high school) in�uences choices they make in regards to college majors. Examination of national trends in degrees of K-12 teachers between 1993 and 2006 indicates a low representation of teachers with geoscience degrees. In pre-kindergarten and elementary school, teachers most commonly have their highest degrees in the social sciences or in non-science and engineering disciplines. However, whereas in pre-kindergarten and kindergarten the percentage of teachers with their highest degree in the geosciences is between 2-3 percent, in elementary school it is only 1-2 percent.

K-12 Teachers and Geoscience Degrees

- Leila Gonzales

Note: The inclusion of “S&E related fields” as a degree category in 2006 is a primary factor in the decline in the number of degrees from other fields from 1993 to 2006. The “S&E Related fields” category includes Health, Science and Math Teacher Education, Technology and Technology Fields, and Other S&E Related fields. Note: The use of NSF data does not imply NSF endorsement of the research, research methods, or conclusions contained in this report.

1,1735,083

660

22,294

243

7,2331,2143,553

6,462586

49,619

1,072

23,445 25,147

2,0560

10,000

20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

60,000

Computer and Math Sciences

Life and Related Sciences

Physical and Related

Sciences

Social and Related

Sciences

Engineering Non-S&E Fields S&E-Related Fields

Geoscience Degrees

Num

ber

of T

each

ers

Highest Degree Fields of Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Teachers(1993-2006)

19932006

Source: AGI Geoscience Workforce Program; data derived from NSF's 1993 amd 2006 SESTAT Restricted Access Files. SESTAT is the Scientists and Engineers Statistical Data System. The use of NSF data does not imply NSF endorsement of the research, research methods, or conclusions contained in this report.

In secondary school, the most common degree �elds of computer, math, and science teachers are relatively evenly split between computer and math sciences, life sciences, and non-science and engineering degrees. Approximately 3 percent of these secondary school computer, math, and science teachers have their highest degree in the geosciences. In 2006, 12,679 secondary school computer, math, and science teachers had their highest degree in the geosciences.

4,86011,389

2,976

60,417

542

49,188

2,42110,339 11,176

4,314

94,202

2,483

131,981

41,856

2,9250

20,000

40,000

60,000

80,000

100,000

120,000

140,000

Computer and Math Sciences

Life and Related Sciences

Physical and related sciences

Social and Related

Sciences

Engineering Non-S&E degrees

S and E-Related Fields

Geoscience Degrees

Num

ber

of T

each

ers

Highest Degree Fields of Elementary School Teachers(1993-2006)

19932006

Source: AGI Geoscience Workforce Program; data derived from NSF's 1993 amd 2006 SESTAT Restricted Access Files. SESTAT is the Scientists and Engineers Statistical Data System. The use of NSF data does not imply NSF endorsement of the research, research methods, or conclusions contained in this report.

page 1

GEOSCIENCE CURRENTS

www.agiweb.org/workforce/ [email protected] AMERICAN GEOLOGICAL INSTITUTE


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No. 2919 February 2010

Recent Australian research has shown that while mineral production continues to grow strongly for almost all commodities (graph A), key ‘mega-trends’ underpinning this include declining ore grades (graph B), exponentially increasing waste rock (graph C), and variable success in expanding economic mineral resources (graph D). Collec-tively, these point to signi�cant environmental challenges for the future of mining and mineral processing, such as potentially increased unit energy, pollutant, waste and water costs, and subsequently higher production costs (especially as environmental costs become internalised).

This will impact not only the demand for minerals and metals, but also drive the search for alternative technolo-gies across exploration, mining, milling, smelting and re�ning. In the long term, it will increase the need for greater material e�ciency and recycling. There is perhaps more synergy between the concept of ‘peak oil’ and ‘peak miner-als’ than people are yet to realise – and requires very careful research to understand and transform the delivery of minerals and the services they provide.

Mega-Trends in the Australian Mining Industry

- Dr. Gavin M. Mudd, Monash [email protected]

The full report is available at: http://civil.eng.monash.edu.au/about/sta�/muddpersonal/rr5/

0

160

320

480

640

800

960

1845 1860 1875 1890 1905 1920 1935 1950 1965 1980 1995 2010

Ann

ual P

rodu

ctio

n : C

u, A

u, P

b, N

i, Fe

Ore

, Dia

mon

ds, B

auxi

te

0

840

1,680

2,520

3,360

4,200

5,040

Ann

ual P

rodu

ctio

n : M

n O

re, A

g, Z

n

Copper (kt Cu)

Gold (t Au)

Lead (kt Pb)

Nickel (kt Ni)

Iron Ore (Mt)

Diamonds (Mcarats)

Bauxite (Mt)

Manganese (kt Mn ore)

Silver (t Ag)

Zinc (kt Zn)

general trend ?

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

1840 1855 1870 1885 1900 1915 1930 1945 1960 1975 1990 2005

Ore

Gra

des

(Cu,

Pb,

Zn,

Au,

Ni,

U, D

iam

onds

)

0

325

650

975

1,300

1,625

1,950

2,275

2,600

Ore

Gra

de (A

g)

Copper (%Cu)

Gold (g/t)

Lead (%Pb)

Zinc (%Zn)

Uranium (kg/t U3O8)

Nickel (%Ni)

Diamonds (carats/t)

Silver (g/t)

(kg/t U3O8)

(Silver:1884 - 3,506 g/t)

general trend

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

1895 1905 1915 1925 1935 1945 1955 1965 1975 1985 1995 2005

Min

imum

Was

te R

ock

(Cop

per,

Dia

mon

ds, U

rani

um)

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

Min

imum

Was

te R

ock

(Gol

d)

Copper (Mt)

Uranium (Mt)

Diamonds (Mt)

Gold (Mt)

general trend

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000

Econ

omic

Res

ourc

es

0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1

1.2

1.4

Econ

omic

Res

ourc

es (U

onl

y)

Black Coal (Gt)

Brown Coal (Gt)

Iron Ore (Gt)

Bauxite (Gt)

Copper (Mt)

Gold (kt)

Nickel (Mt)

Lead (Mt)

Zinc (Mt)

Uranium (Mt (Mt U3O8)generaltrend ?

GEOSCIENCE CURRENTS



Graph A: COMMODITIES

Graph B: ORE GRADES

Graph C: WASTE ROCK

Graph D: MINERAL RESOURCES

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No. 3127 April 2010

GEOSCIENCE CURRENTS



Quick Facts on 2009-2010 U.S. Geoscience Enrollments and Degrees Enrollments: 23,983 undergraduate and 9,054 graduate students

Degrees: 3,037 Bachelor’s, 1,078 Master’s, and 668 Doctorates

The number of geoscience degrees being conferred by U.S. institutions in the 2009-2010 academic year has increased markedly. The number of Bachelor’s degrees conferred increased by 7% from the prior year, and the number of graduate degrees also increased (3% at the Master’s level and 6.2% at the Doctorate level). The increases in degree produc-tion are likely tied to prior growth in undergraduate enrollments and the poor state of the economy that is encouraging graduate students to complete their studies at a higher rate rather than seek employ-ment prior to receiving their degree.

- Christopher Keane

Geoscience Enrollments & Degrees Continue their Sharp Rise in 2009-2010

During the 2009-2010 academic year, the number of geoscience undergraduates enrolled in U.S. institutions has continued to increase sharply, hitting its highest levels in a decade at 23,983 majors. This is a 7% increase over 2008-2009 enrollments, and a 24.8% increase since the 2006-2007 academic year. For the �rst time in 5 years, graduate geoscience enrollments increased, jumping 15.7% from the prior academic year. These increases in enroll-ments are likely linked to continued high prices in commodities and oil, improved recruitment of students to the geosciences, and, for graduate enrollments, the percep-tion of a negative job market. This percep-tion drives undergraduates into graduate programs, even though geoscience employment opportunities remain robust.

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

35,000

40,000

1956

1958

1960

1962

1964

1966

1968

1970

1972

1974

1976

1978

1980

1982

1984

1986

1988

1990

1992

1994

1996

1998

2000

2002

2004

2006

2008

2010

Stud

ents

Year

US Geoscience Enrollments1955-2010

Undergraduate

Graduate

0

1,000

2,000

3,000

4,000

5,000

6,000

7,000

8,000

1973

1974

1975

1976

1977

1978

1979

1980

1981

1982

1983

1984

1985

1986

1987

1988

1989

1990

1991

1992

1993

1994

1995

1996

1997

1998

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

Degr

ees A

war

ded

Year

US Geoscience Degrees Granted1973-2010

Bachelor's

Master's

Doctorate

Source: American Geological Institute, Directory of Geoscience Departments, April 2010

Source: American Geological Institute, Directory of Geoscience Departments, April 2010

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Jun 20107 Jun - 11 Jun 2010: River Res- rtoration: Fluvial-Geomorphic & Ecological Tools. Institut Beaumont. Beaumont du Ventoux, Provence, France http://www.institutbeaumont.com

13 Jun - 18 Jun 2010: Gold- rschmidt2010. Knoxville Convention Center. Knoxville, TN, United States The Geochemical Society, Geo-chemical Society of Japan, European Association for Geochemistry, Mineralogical Society of America. http://www.goldschmidt2010.org

20 Jun - 25 Jun 2010: International rMultidisciplinary Scientific Geo-Conference and Expo. . Albena resort, Bulgaria. Surveying Geology & mining Ecology Management. http://www.sgem.org

21 Jun - 24 Jun 2010: SIPES 47th rAnnual Meeting. Cheyenne Moun-tain Resort. Colorado Springs, CO, United States Society of Indepen-dent Professional Earth Scientists. http://www.sipes.org

22 Jun - 25 Jun 2010: World Legal rSystems and Controls for Oil and Gas. London. London, London, United Kingdom http://www.thecwcgroup.com/training/trainingproduct/index.aspx?ID=66

28 Jun - 2 Jul 2010: GeoRaman 2010 r- 9th International Conference on Raman Spectroscopy Applied to the Earth Sciences. Australian Museum. Sydney, NSW, Australia http://www.georaman2010.com

Jul 201012 Jul - 16 Jul 2010: Inter/Micro r2010 Microscopy Conference. Mc-

Crone Research Institute. Chicago, IL, United States http://www.mcri.org/home/sec-tion/101-523/inter-micro-2010

24 Jul - 28 Jul 2010: 2nd Interna- rtional Sclerochronology Confer-ence. University of Mainz . Mainz, Germany http://www.scleroconferences.de

Aug 201027 Aug - 30 Aug 2010: 12th Europe- ran Powder Diffraction Conference. Darmstadtium Conference Center. Darmstadt, Hesse, Germany http://www.epdic12.org

29 Aug - 2 Sep 2010: 26th Euro- rpean Crystallographic Meeting. Darmstadtium Conference Center. Darmstadt, Hesse, Germany http://www.ecm26.org

Sep 20105 Sep - 10 Sep 2010: The 11th rCongress of the International As-sociation for Engineering Geology and the Environment. (IAEG2010). SkyCity Convention Centre. Auck-land, New Zealand IAEG. http://www.iaeg2010.com

11 Sep - 15 Sep 2010: North Ameri- rcan Geology in the 21st Century: Today and Tomorrow. Royal Plaza Hotel, 1905 Hotel Plaza Blvd. (a Downtown Disney Resort). Lake Buena Vista, FL, United States American Institute of Professional Geologists. www.aipg.org

12 Sep - 16 Sep 2010: The Society rfor Organic Petrology (TSOP) Annual Meeting. Sheraton Den-ver West Hotel. Denver, Colorado, United States http://www.tsop.org/2010Denver/

12 Sep - 16 Sep 2010: The Society r

for Organic Petrology (TSOP) Annual Meeting. Sheraton Den-ver West Hotel. Denver, Colorado, United States http://www.tsop.org/2010Denver/

19 Sep - 22 Sep 2010: National As- rsociation Of Abandoned Mine Land Programs 32nd Annual Conference. Hilton Scranton & Convention Cen-ter. Scranton, PA, United States National Association of Aban-doned Mine Land Programs. http://NAAMLP2010.com

20 Sep - 25 Sep 2010: AEG Annual rMeeting. Francis Marion Hotel. Charleston, SC, United States Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists. http://www.aegweb.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageID=4565

21 Sep - 25 Sep 2010: Paleosols Con- rference. Petrified Forest National Park (PFNP), Arizona. Holbrooke, AZ, United States http://www.sepm.org/activities/researchconferences/rconference-home.htm

Oct 20102 Oct - 5 Oct 2010: SEG 2010 Con- rference. Keystone Resort. Keystone, CO, United States Society of Economic Geologists. http://www.seg2010.org

May 2011 1 May - 3 May 2011: 19th Williston rBasin Petroleum Conference and Expo. Saskatchewan Trade and Con-vention Centre, Delta Regina Hotel. Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada. Sas-katchewan Ministry of Energy and Resources, North Dakota Depart-ment of Mineral Resources, North Dakota Petroleum Council. http://www.wbpc.ca/ (Phone: 306-787-0650 )

GeoCalendarBelow is a list of upcoming meetings and events in the geosciences. To view the complete GeoCalendar or submit your own meeting, workshop, or event notice please visit http://www.agiweb.org/calendar/.

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The Bureau of Economic Geology, a large energy and envi-ronmental research unit in the Jackson School of Geosciences at The University of Texas at Austin, is seeking an Associate Director (AD) for its Environmental Systems group to provide program development, project coordination, and group man-agement to the environmental staff. The associate director will serve as part of a small, integrated senior administrative team at the Bureau. The AD will create and pursue a vision of multidis-ciplinary environmental research, focused on Texas, but with a global reach. The AD will work with Principal Investigators to identify and develop sources of funding for existing and new multidisciplinary programs, particularly in the areas of sustain-able water resources, coastal geology, natural hazards, geother-mal energy, subsurface storage, and geologic mapping.

Required is a Ph.D. degree, with major course work in the field of Earth Science, along with a minimum of 12 years’ ex-perience, or an M.S. degree with 17 years’ experience, prefer-ably in a field related to the Bureau’s core areas of environmen-tal research— hydrogeology, coastal studies, near-surface and airborne geophysics, geological hazards, carbon sequestration and geological mapping. Additional requirements include ex-cellent management and organizational abilities and previous experience as a successful leader of major research programs. We are seeking a team player with a proven record of research and leadership, together with a demonstrated ability to attract external funding from a variety of sources (such as Federal and State agencies, industry, and foundations). We seek a candidate having both (1) a strong record of publication and the ability to communicate well in public presentations and (2) evidence of an ability to innovate and think creatively.

To apply, go to http://www.utexas.edu/hr/prospective/ for complete job description and online application. Refer to post-ing number 091120010381.

The University of Texas at Austin is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

Coastal Hazards Geologist – Alaska

The Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Sur-veys (DGGS - http://www.dggs.dnr.state.ak.us/ ) is seeking an advanced-level geologist to implement a new applied geologic hazards evaluation program involving studies of coastal pro-cesses and geomorphology and managing geologic field project teams throughout the state of Alaska. The successful applicant will use expertise in advanced principles of surficial geology, geomorphology, and coastal processes to prepare and publish maps and reports on natural hazards in Alaska, with a special emphasis on the coastal environment. Specific relevant special-ties or areas of interest will ideally include one or more of the following: subsidence, landslides, coastal retreat (erosion), ris-ing sea level, flooding from rivers and sea, beach loss, sand ac-cumulation, sand removal by waves, and similar related issues. A demonstrated ability to recognize and map salient landforms in the field is critical. The successful applicant will work inde-pendently or collaboratively in all aspects of this work, from writing proposals and compiling published data to collecting new field data and preparing maps and reports for publication. Salary: $5,537.00 monthly. For more information and applica-

tion instructions, please visit the position announcement on Workplace Alaska (http://notes5.state.ak.us/wa/postapps.nsf/1035bb3f29758c658925644300722fb3/a06103c004c4550f892576da00041d43?OpenDocument).

Franklin & Marshall College of Science: Sedimentol-ogy and Structural Geology (two positions)

Applications are invited for two one-year faculty appoint-ments as Visiting Assistant Professor or Instructor, beginning in August 2010. The successful candidates will teach under-graduate courses (1) in structural geology, introductory ge-ology or environmental geology, and a mid- or upper-level course in the applicant’s specialty, and (2) in sedimentology, introductory geology or environmental geology, and a mid- or upper-level course in the applicant’s specialty (paleoecology/paleoclimatology?). Teaching load is 3/2; it may include par-ticipation in the College’s general education “Foundations” or First Year Seminar programs. A Ph.D. in hand or near comple-tion, teaching experience, and an ongoing program of scholar-ly research are required. Please send letter of application, cur-riculum vitae, graduate transcripts, (undergraduate transcript optional), three letters of recommendation, teaching state-ment, research statement and teaching evaluations to: Roger D. K. Thomas, Chair, Department of Earth and Environment, Franklin & Marshall College, P.O. Box 3003, Lancaster, PA 17604-3003. Application materials may be sent electronically to [email protected] or by fax to (717)291-4186. Review of applications will begin on February 22, 2010 and continue until the positions are filled. Franklin & Marshall College is a highly selective liberal arts college with a demonstrated com-mitment to cultural pluralism. EOE.

Post Doctoral Research Associate Illinois State Geological Survey Institute of Natural Resource Sustainability University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

We are seeking an individual to integrate, interpret, and assist in collecting multi-disciplinary field monitoring data at geological carbon sequestration sites; deploy existing field tech-niques and develop new techniques to monitor for CO2 leakage into the shallow environment and atmosphere; and contribute and/or lead efforts to create figures, text, and tables for progress reports, symposium presentations, journal manuscripts, and proposals for future funding. Requires a Ph.D. in geochemistry, soil chemistry, geology, environmental engineering, petroleum engineering, or related discipline. Employment as a post doctor-al research associate requires the completion of a Ph.D. no more than five years prior to the beginning of the employment start date. Available funding for this position is currently two years. Qualified candidates must submit a letter of application which details qualifications noted above, résumé, list of publications, working e-mail address, and the names, addresses, phone num-bers, and e-mail addresses of three professional references to: Lori Walston, Human Resources, Illinois State Geological Sur-vey, 615 East Peabody Drive, Champaign, IL 61820.E-mail:[email protected] Website: www.isgs.illinois.edu

The University of Illinois is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer.

www.earthmagazine.orgATHE AMERICAN GEOLOGICAL INSTITUTE


EARTHgives readers definitive coverage on topics from natural resources, energy, natural disasters and the environment to space exploration and paleontology and much, much more. EARTH explores the science behind the headlines with timely, relevant editorial content, numerous photos, illustrations, and maps.• Kilauea’sexplosivepast

• Primatefossil: missinglinkormajorhype?

• TheAnasazi:noteasybeinggreen• Sandsshowsignsofancienttsunami?• Re-examiningtheworld’smostimportantfossilsite

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earthGiant Gas deposits found in Gulf | is space law failinG?

Plus:

Super-earthS

ArkAnsAs: A DiAmonD in the rough

Searchingfor new worlds



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The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) is cur-rently searching for a Director, Geo-Institute (G-I), to man-age the day to day operations of ASCE’s geotechnical spe-cialty institute.

Responsibilities include: managing overall operations of the Institute; developing staff; establishing budgets; develop-ing and implementing programs in conjunction with institute leadership – i.e. conferences, publications, and standards; managing technical, educational, professional and standards activities; developing and implementing strategic plan with Board of Governors’ approval; facilitating committee work in those areas; and networking with other similarly aligned organizations and identifying opportunities to partner with them.

Ideal candidates will have BS degree with 10+ years ex-perience in a geotechnical field (P.E. or P.G. designation a plus) or a BA degree with 10+ years experience in association management supporting a technical program or specialty in-stitute (CAE designation a plus).

Interested candidates must submit resume and cover let-ter w/salary requirements to: ASCE, Attn: JD/CE, 1801 Alex-ander Bell Dr., Reston, VA 20191, e-mail: [email protected]. EOE M/F/D/V.

Department of Earth And Atmospheric Sciences Saint Louis University Position Available, Fall 2010 Assistant or Associate Professor, Seismology

Saint Louis University, a Catholic, Jesuit institution dedi-cated to student learning, research, health care, and services, invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in the De-partment of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (EAS), to begin in the fall semester 2010.

We seek a person with a Ph.D. in geophysics or related earth science who will contribute to the growth of undergrad-uate and graduate programs in geosciences. A commitment to integrate teaching excellence with an active, externally funded research program is essential. Research interests should be in the general field of seismology and complement existing facul-ty expertise in EAS. We encourage applicants whose research is in one or more of the areas of global seismology, regional seismology (including regional seismic networks), or explora-tion geophysics. It is possible that a highly qualified person can be hired at the Associate Professor level.

The Department offers undergraduate and graduate de-grees to the Ph.D. level in Geophysics and Meteorology, un-dergraduate and MS degrees in Geology, and undergraduate degrees in Environmental Science and Environmental Studies. For more details, visit the EAS website at www.eas.slu.edu.

All applications must be made online at http://jobs.slu.edu and must include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a two-page statement of teaching, research and professional goals, and the names and complete contact information of at least



One Man’s PlanetEarth in Today’s Political Culture

Stephen M. Testa

Is “Chilly” the Beanie Baby endangered? Can Mad Max save ANWR? What would Shakespeare say about offshore drilling? Is water a serial killer? Is

seismic design of tall buildings based on the pelvic movements of Elvis? One Man’s Planet is one slight-ly off-centered geologist’s introduction to the earth sciences and the vital role that such issues as climate change, energy, mineral resources and geological hazards play in our everyday lives. Author Stephen M. Testa weaves science, personalities, pop culture and politics into a very informative and entertaining tapestry on the planet today and the planet’s tomor-row. Come tour the Earth in this full color collection with Testa as your guide!

ISBN: 978-0-922152-85-8$24.95Softcover, Color224 pages

www.agiweb.org/pubs

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four references. Review of applications will begin immedi-ately and continue until the position is filled. Further inqui-ries may be sent to [email protected].

Saint Louis University is an Affirmative Action, Equal Op-portunity Employer (AA/EOE), and encourages nomination and application of women and minorities.

Assistant Professor Physical Geography (Water-shed Or Aquatic Science) Department Of Water-shed Sciences Utah State University

The Department of Watershed Sciences (www.cnr.usu.edu/departments/wats) at Utah State University seeks applica-tions for a 9-month, tenure-track position. We are interested in applicants whose primary expertise is in an area of water-shed or aquatic science and who can contribute to the curri-cula in both Watershed Sciences and Physical Geography. The division of activities will be approximately 50% research, 40% teaching, and 10% service. See https://jobs.usu.edu (requisi-tion ID 052010) for a complete position description and ap-plication instructions.

Center For Sustainable Tourism Vacancy # 000390The Center for Sustainable Tourism (CST) at East Caro-

lina University is seeking candidates for a full-time faculty appointment beginning August 19, 2010. The position will be filled either as tenure-track or with consideration for tenure, dependent upon qualifications. This research and teaching position will be a joint appointment between the

Center for Sustainable Tourism and an appropriate academic department. The position is broadly defined to consider all candidates with strong evidence of sustainability-related re-search and teaching pertaining to aspects of tourism. Rel-evant fields or areas of expertise include travel and tourism studies, recreation and leisure, hospitality management, business, economics, sociology, geography, political science, public administration, anthropology, ecology, conservation, biology, geology, or other fields related to sustainability and tourism. The CST seeks a leader or someone with a strong potential to be a leader in the emerging field of sustainable tourism. The successful candidate will hold an appointment in an academic department (51%) and the CST (49%), and will conduct research and teach appropriate courses for both units. Appropriate service to the university, community and profession will be expected. Requires a doctoral degree from an appropriately accredited institution, established publica-tion and external funding record, and evidence of a strong teaching record. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the Center and the campus’s focus on sustainable tourism, evi-dence of collaborative initiative is important.

Salary will be competitive and commensurate with quali-fications. Screening will begin February 28, 2010, and con-tinue until the position is filled. View complete job descrip-tion, requirements, and application instructions at www.jobs.ecu.edu. Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer View this posting at https://ecu.peopleadmin.com/applicants/Central?quickFind=61549.

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M . Gordan Wolman, known as “Reds” to everyone for his bright red hair, passed away at age 85 on February 24th,

2010. Reds was heralded as the eminent geomorphologist of this time. He, with Luna Leopold and John Miller wrote the textbook “Fluvial Processes in Geomorphology,” in 1964. Re-published in 1995, the book is still used today.

Wolman attended Johns Hopkins University and gradu-ated in 1949. He worked at the U.S. Geological Survey with Leopold while he finished his Ph.D. During this time Wolman published the Wolman pebble count method for grain-size distribution in riverbeds. After his time at the USGS, Wol-man returned to Johns Hopkins as a professor. He became full professor in 1962 and was named the B. Howell Griswold Jr. Professor of Geography and International Affairs in 1975. Wolman chaired the Department of Geography and Environ-mental Engineering for three decades.

The important work that Wolman completed had a large impact on our understanding of geomorphology and river res-

toration. He received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Council for Science and the Environment, the Geological Society of America (GSA) Penrose Medal and the American Geophysical Union Horton Medal. Wolman served as GSA president and was one of the few geomorphologists in the National Academy of Sciences.

Wolman was not only known as a great scientist but a great and humble man. In the e-mail to the Johns Hopkins community announcing Reds’ death, President Ronald J. Daniels and Dean of Engineering Nicholas P. Jones wrote, “But, most of all, he was Reds: genial, gentle, eloquent, kind, and always worth talking to. When you saw that carrot top and bow tie headed your way, you couldn't help but smile. You couldn't help but know your day was about to take a turn for the better.”

To read more about Reds Wolman’s life and career, read the Geotimes Profile published in May of 2004 found at http://www.geotimes.org/may04/profiles.html.

M. Gordon “Reds” Wolman

The 2010 AGI Geoscience Catalog is now available exclusively online.

Geologic Necktie

Data Sheet 1.4: Geochronologic Methods

James K.W. Lee, Queen�s University Canada

Geochronology ("geo" = earth, "chronos" = time) involves the use of some nat-

ural, time-dependent process or phenomenon as a "clock" to measure absolute

time. Geochronological techniques can generally be subdivided into two types:

(1) isotopic (also called "radiometric"), which are directly based on the radioac-

tive decay of naturally occurring isotopes, and (2) radiation-effect, which are

dependent on the effects of physical interactions of radiation with atoms in a

crystal. Isotopically-based methods can be used to date events or processes

that occur from recent times onwards whereas most radiation-effect methods

are generally restricted to the Quaternary or younger.

Unitsa �annum� (= 1 year); the de facto standard geochronological unit.

Commonly used with SI prefixes, e.g. 1 ka = 1000 years, 1 Ma = 1 million

(106) years, 1 Ga = 1 billion (109) years. In terms of absolute age, gener-

ally used in the context of �years ago�, e.g. the K-T boundary has been

dated at 65.5 Ma or the age of the earth is approximately 4.55 Ga. Can

also be used to denote the duration of an event, but see �yr� below.

yr �year�; occasionally used by some scientific journals to distinguish a dura-

tion or period of time, rather than an absolute age. Can also be used with

SI prefixes. For example, if a Mississippian metamorphic event occurred

from 349 Ma to 340 Ma, one could state that the event lasted for 9 Myr.

Isotope GeochronologyTheoryAll radiometric methods are based on the radioactive decay of a parent

("radioactive") isotope (P) to a daughter ("radiogenic") isotope (D) as described

by the following fundamental differential equation:

where t is time and λ is the decay constant, which describes the rate of radioac-tive decay. Solving this equation with the appropriate boundary conditions leads

to the well-known "age equation" which expresses the age of a sample (t) as a

function of λ, D and P:The radiogenic daughter product directly resulting from the radioactive decay of

the parent is often denoted with an asterisk, e.g 40Ar* or 87Sr*. The half-life (t1/2)

of a radioactive isotope is the time required for 50% of the parent atoms to

decay to the respective daughter atoms. From the age equation above, it can

be shown that t1/2 is related to λ by1.4

12


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�

− dPdt = λP

�

t= 1λ ln D

P +1

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Geologic Tim

e

1.4Data Sheets

�

t12 = ln2λMethod

[parentisotope-daughter isotope]

DecayConstant(a-1) [Half-Life]

UsefulAgeRange b

Commonly DatedMaterialsGeneral Use

K/Ar c, d

[40K-40Ar][40K-40Ca]

λ = 0.581 x10-10

λ = 4.962 x10-10

λ = 5.543 x10-10

[1.25 Ga]λ = 0.581 x10-10

λ = 4.962 x10-10

λ = 5.543 x10-10

[1.25 Ga]

> 100 ka feldspars, biotite,sericite, clays,muscovite, phlogopite, glauconite, alunite, amphibole, wholerocks e.g. basalts),volcanic glass

�to obtain metamorphic or crystallizationages� however, dates may be partially or completely reset dueto gaseous 40Ar loss during thermal heating ("cooling ages")

40Ar/39Ar e

[40K-40Ar] same as K-Ar > 10 ka same as K-Ar � an improved variation of the K-Ar method requiring neutron irradiation of materials in anuclear reactor� overcomes limitations of the K-Ar method by using laser ablation and stepheating techniques

� the best method for elucidatingthermal historiesRb/Sr c

[87Rb-87Sr] 1.42 x 10-11

[48.81 Ga]> 50 Ma K-feldspar,

plagioclase, biotite,sericite, phlogopite,muscovite, hornblende, wholerocks

� to obtain metamorphic or crystallization ages� must use an isochron methodto derive a Rb-Sr age due to thepresence of non-radiogenic (initial) 87Sr in almost all rocks

Sm/Nd f

[147Sm-143Nd] 6.54 x 10-12

[105.99 Ga]> 100 Ma garnet, pyroxene,mafic and

ultramafic rocks(e.g. basalts)

� to obtain crystallization ormodel formation ages� must use an isochron methodto derive a Sm-Nd age due tothe presence of non-radiogenic(initial) 143Nd in almost all rocks

Re/Os g

[187Re-187Os] 1.666 x 10-11

[41.61 Ga]> 60 Ma sulphide minerals,black shales, maficand ultramafic rocks

� useful for studying ore formation and magma genesis

DS_sct_1.qxp 2/8/2005 8:34 AM Page 13

International Time Scale

This time scale is an international one, and uses the USGS color scheme.

* Ma = million years ago.

Note: The Ediacaran was newly adopted in 2004.

Timescale available online at: http://www.stratigraphy.org

1.1

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AM Page 4Geoscience Handbook

GeoRef Information Serviceswww.GeoRef.oRGProviding fast, easy access to the geoscience literature of the world

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Geoscience quarterly e-zine Issue 1: June, 2010 GE Spectrum · Geoscience quarterly e-zine Issue 1: June, 2010 The Geosciences Newsletter A THE AMERICAN GEOLOGICAL INSTITUTE SERVING