Haslam Proclaims Oct.14-20 Earth Science Week in Tennessee

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam has proclaimed Oct. 14-20 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 Geosciences Institute, has a limited number of Earth Science Week toolkits to distribute to science teachers across the state.

“This is a special week designed to engage students in the earth sciences and why they are so important to understanding the natural world around us,” said Environment and Conservation Commissioner Bob Martineau. “Tennessee has varied and unique geological features throughout the state and we are pleased to provide these educational tools to Tennessee’s classrooms.”

The 2012 Earth Science Week theme is “Discovering Careers in the Earth Sciences,” designed to engage young people and the public in learning how geoscientists gather and interpret data about the Earth and other planets. Special items in the toolkits will include resources and materials from the National Park Service, NASA, Soil Science Society of America 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 TDEC’s regulatory role revolves around involves the earth sciences, including the state’s air quality, water resources and land management,” said Martineau. “The department’s Division of Geology has a critical role in helping us understand and appreciate the value earth sciences have in our daily lives and in the continued protection of our overall health and safety.” 

Once again, governors across the United States will join Gov. Haslam in issuing proclamations that support Earth Sciences Week, reaching more than 48 million people across the country. As in years past, individuals and groups will celebrate Earth Science Week 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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