Earth Science Wee, celebrated each October and organized by the American Geosciences Institute aims to help the public gain a better understanding and appreciation for the Earth Sciences and to encourage stewardship of the Earth.
This year’s theme is “Water Today and for the Future”. The resources and activities will engage young people and others in exploring the importance of water — and water science — for living things, Earth systems, and the many activities that people undertake. Individuals of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities can engage in building understanding of water’s role in timely topics including energy, climate change, the environment, natural hazards, technology, industry, agriculture, recreation, and the economy. (Find more on earthscienceweek.org)
As a local earth and environmental consulting firm with a passionate earth science team, Mundell & Associates recognizes the importance of public participation and neighborhood collaboration in learning about and caring for the earth. Here are some ideas for celebrating and participating – fun for all ages!
Sunday October 10 – EarthCache Day
Did you know? An EarthCache is a special type of geocache you can visit to learn a geology lesson developed by the community.
Today: Final a local EarthCache on Geocaching.com. After creating an account, use the filter to show only EarthCache locations.
Resources:
EarthCaching
Geocaching.com
Ground Penetrating Radar
Monday, October 11 – Minerals Day
Did you know? Every year 147 lbs of clay must be provided for every person in the United States to make things we use daily such as tiles, dinnerware, kitty litter, bricks, cement, and paper.
Today: Watch how minerals are used in electronics.
Resources: ESW Mineral Resources
Tuesday, October 12 – Earth Observation Day & No Child Left Inside Day
Did you know? The Landsat program has provided a continuous space-based record of the surface of the Earth since 1972, allowing us to see how the Earth’s land surface has changed.
Today: Take a drinking straw, paper towel roll and rolled up posterboard outside to learn about viewing the world through different perspectives. (Full activity)
Resources:
Hoosier Outdoor Child activities
No Child Left Inside Day
Wednesday, October 13 – National Fossil Day
Did you know? When glaciers arrived in Indiana, they eroded entire layers of bedrock including those that would have contained dinosaur fossils.
Today: Pick up a Whitewater Valley Fossil Train Passport and go fossil hunting in Richmond, Indiana.
Resources:
Common Fossils of Indiana
National Fossil Day website
Thursday, October 14 – Geoscience for Everyone Day
Did you know? Geoscience is a career that can change the world: sustainably develop natural resources, protect citizens from earthly hazards, understand element mineral effects on the environment and our physical health.
Today: Watch a video clip from Mundell & Associates team member Luke Johnstone telling how he became interested in Earth Science.
Resources:
Association for Women Geoscientists
National Association of Black Geoscientists
Friday, October 15 – Geologic Map Day
Did you know? Geologic maps can help regional and National policy makers make wise decisions regarding urban and agricultural land use, the protection of aquifers, and the environmental well-being of the citizens.
Today: Learn how to read a topographic map to help you visualize unfamiliar terrain.
Resources:
National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program
How to use the IndianaMAP
Saturday, October 16 – International Archaeology Day
Did you know? ZERO wheels are believed to have been used to move stones around the ancient mountaintop city of Machu Picchu.
Today: Explore interactive digs around the world.
Resources:
Archaeological Institute of America
Indiana Archaeological Society Events