Earth Science Week: October 12-18

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) encourages Ohioans to explore the state’s geologic features during Earth Science Week, Oct. 12-18.  Earth Science Week encourages people to learn more about the geosciences and promotes an awareness of the natural world. The ODNR Division of Geological Survey encourages teachers and all Ohioans to take advantage of the opportunities available during Earth Science Week to explore and learn more about the geology beneath their feet.  ODNR experts will be at events throughout the state to share insights about how Earth systems interact and change the Earth’s landscape over time.

 Several venues will offer Ohioans an opportunity to talk to geologists. Survey geoscientists will also take part in other events and will visit several schools.  Geologists will lead guided tours on:  The Fall Geology Hike at Mohican State Park (Ashland County); the annual Fall Hike at Lake Hope State Park (Vinton County); and, the Hike with Nature along the Miami and Erie Canal in St. Marys (Auglaize County).  The ODNR Geological Survey will have some free Earth Science Week Teacher Toolkits available at some of its events. Ohio teachers may also request these toolkits, which include experiment materials, a calendar, posters, activity sheets and more that teachers can use in the classroom. The toolkits are free (except shipping) for any Ohio teacher while supplies last, by visiting the Geologic Records Center, located at 2045 Morse Road, Building C-1, Columbus, Ohio 43229. Teachers may also call 614-265-6596 or email geo.survey@dnr.state.oh.us to order a toolkit.

Survey geoscientists continually explore Ohio’s geology and use their understanding of Earth’s connected systems to research and report on critical issues that affect the public and industry, including energy and environmental challenges, natural resources, habitats and geologic hazards.  A complete list of events is available at OhioGeology.com. The website also offers details about various free resources, such as walking tour guides, leaflets and maps that Ohioans can use to explore the state’s geology.