The Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) announced that Governor Kate Brown has proclaimed October 11-17 as Earth Science Week. The 2015 Earth Science Week theme of “Visualizing Earth Systems” is particularly fitting for Oregon, says interim State Geologist Ian Madin. “Using lidar technology in ways that are both scientific and artistic has allowed us to see our state, and earth systems, in an entirely new light,” Madin says. Oregon is a national leader in collection of lidar data, which provides accurate high-resolution images of the earth’s surface. Lidar has revolutionized mapping, allowing DOGAMI to create new-generation geologic and natural hazard maps that are more accurate and comprehensive than ever before. Be a part of Oregon’s Earth Science Week by: – Looking at what lies beneath our feet with lidar. DOGAMI’s interactive lidar viewer offers a view of lidar data relief imagery: bit.ly/lidarviewer – Reading a geologic map. DOGAMI’s geologic maps of Oregon are available for download at bit.ly/DOGAMIGMS. The map “Oregon: A Geologic History,” compiles rock units into groups reflecting major events in our state’s geologic history. The map and its companion website are available at bit.ly/IMS028 – Taking a geologic field trip. Find geologic trip guides at bit.ly/tripguides – Letting lidar images wow you. DOGAMI’s posters, maps, and calendars showcasing creative use of lidar are available for download at bit.ly/lidarlandscapes Find more Earth Science Week activities and resources by visiting www.earthsciweek.org
