Haslam Proclaims Oct. 9-15 Earth Science Week in Tennessee

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam has proclaimed Oct. 9-15 Earth Science Week in Tennessee, promoting the important role that geology and other earth sciences play in Tennessee’s safety, health, welfare and economy.

  

As part of Earth Science Week, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation’s Division of Geology, in partnership with the American Geological Institute, has a limited number of Earth Science Week toolkits to distribute to science teachers across the state. 

 

“Celebrating this special week is a great way to engage students in the earth sciences and why they are so important to understanding the natural world around us,” Haslam said.  “From east to west, Tennessee has varied and unique geological features, such as the formation of Reelfoot Lake 200 years ago, which will be featured in this year’s Earth Science Week toolkit.  I encourage science teachers across the state to take advantage of this wonderful educational opportunity.”  

 

The 2011 Earth Science Week theme is “Our Ever Changing Earth” and toolkits will focus on educating students about the natural processes that shape our planet over time. Special items include resources and materials from the National Park Service, NASA, U.S. Geological Society and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This year’s toolkits also will include posters, activity calendars, experiment materials, resources and reading materials, field notebooks, brochures, bookmarks and factsheets. 

 

“So much of what the Department of Environment and Conservation does on a daily basis revolves around the earth sciences – from air quality to water resources to land management,” said Environment and Conservation Commissioner Bob Martineau. “The department’s Division of Geology has a critical role in helping us understand and appreciate the value earth sciences have on our overall health and safety. We are pleased to provide these educational tools to Tennessee’s classrooms.”  

 

This year, approximately 25 governors across the United States will join Gov. Haslam in issuing proclamations that support Earth Science Week, reaching more than 46 million people across the country. As in years past, individuals and groups will celebrate Earth Science Week 2011 by participating in events in all 50 states and five countries around the world.  

 

Educators interested in receiving an Earth Science Week toolkit may contact Ron Zurawski at Ronald.Zurawski@tn.gov or (615) 532-1502. The toolkits are free of charge while supplies last. 

 

For more information about Earth Science Week, please visit www.earthsciweek.org. 

 

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