U. S. House Recognition

CONGRESSIONAL RECORD

[Page: E2108]

Mrs. CUBIN. Mr. Speaker, very soon an extraordinary individual, earth scientist, and mentor of many who followed in his field, Dr. J. David Love, born and raised in my home state of Wyoming, will receive the `Legendary Geologist Award' from the American Geological Institute, a federation of 34 earth-science societies with a collective membership exceeding more than 100,000 persons.

Some of Dr. Love's accomplishments include creating the modern geologic map of my home state of Wyoming, and the geologic map of Grand Teton National Park. My home state of Wyoming is rich in geologic wonders, and the people of Wyoming have a great appreciation the importance these maps and their value with regard to identifying geologic treasures, providing for the prudent use of our natural resources, hazard mitigation, and the expansion of our economy.

With this in mind, I introduced legislation earlier this year that will re-authorize the National Geological Mapping Act (NGMA), which established a highly successful cooperative program between the U. S. Geological Survey and Geological Surveys of the 50 states and U. S. Territories. The maps produced under NGMA auspices provide society with information useful for the abatement of natural hazards such as floods, earthquakes, landslides and volcanic eruptions; the broad delineation of mineral potential, including groundwater resources, and candidate areas for waste burial sites for land-use planning purposes, as well as a better understanding of `how the Earth works.'

As such, I rise today to recognize the American Geological Institute's adoption of October 10th through October 16th, 1999, as `Earth Science Week.' Earth Science Week was initiated last year by the American Geological Institute as a way to educate society about the Earth, the earth sciences, and the importance of earth scientists' work in solving the challenges we face with providing for the prudent management of our resources.

This week, an Earth Science Week activity is taking place in schools in every state, and to date, 25 states have made official Earth Science Week proclamations, including my home state of Wyoming.

Therefore, let it be known that:

Geology and the other earth sciences are fundamental to the safety, health, and welfare of the United States economy and its citizens.

The earth sciences are integral to finding, developing, and on serving mineral, energy and water resources needed for the Nation's continuing prosperity.

The earth sciences provide the basis for preparing for and mitigating natural hazards such as earthquakes, floods, and landslides.

The earth sciences are crucial to environmental and ecological issues ranging from water and air quality to waste disposal.

The earth sciences contribute directly to our understanding and appreciation of Nature.

Geological factors of resources, hazards, and environment are vital to land management and land use decisions.

Mr. Speaker, our ever-changing world challenges us to wisely manage the earth and its resources. During this week, let us pay tribute to the important role that earth science plays in the economic success, safety, and welfare of this Nation.