Whereas, geology and the other earth sciences are fundamental to the safety, health, and welfare of Oklahomans and to the economy of Oklahoma; and

Whereas, the earth sciences are integral to finding, developing, and conserving petroleum, coal, industrial minerals, and water resources needed for Oklahoma’s continuing prosperity; and

Whereas, the earth sciences provide the basis for preparing for and mitigating natural hazards such as floods, droughts, earthquakes, landslides, expansive soils, and ground failures experienced from time to time in Oklahoma; and

Whereas, the earth sciences are crucial to the environmental and ecological issues ranging from water and air quality to waste disposal; and

Whereas, geological factors are vital to making land-management and land-use decisions in Oklahoma; and

Whereas, the earth sciences contribute information critical to our understanding, appreciation, and respect for Nature:

Now, therefore, I, Frank Keating, Governor of the State of Oklahoma, do hereby proclaim the second week in October henceforth, as

EARTH SCIENCES WEEK
in the State of Oklahoma.


Frank Keating
(signed)
Governor