A large number of people are concerned about the hydraulic fracturing methods now being used to produce natural gas from shale. The Environmental Protection Agency announced that it is going to study the potential impact on human health.
Scientists can determine the occurrence of past events such as drought or wildfire by studying the rings of tree trunks. This has led to the compilation of a California climate record that spans thousands of years, thanks in part to the giant sequoia trees.
A landslide in Pakistan stopped the flow of the Hunza River and created a lake. This satellite image shows flooding in the Hunza Valley.
During 2009 more than 40 million people were touched by Earth Science Week through events, lessons, educator tool kits, workshops, internet coverage and many other activities. Their “Highlights & News Clippings” document gives an overview of the event and its year-long promotion.
Being able to predict the likelihood and extent of potential earthquake damage is very valuable when planning new structures.