GEOS 103 Environmental Geology and the Earth's Surface (Same as Environmental Studies 103) (Not offered 1998-99)

Limitations imposed by the physical environment have become increasingly important as population expands. Geologic materials such as soil, sediment, and bedrock and geologic processes involving earthquakes, volcanic activity, and running water often pose constraints on land use. This course examines the nature of geologic materials, the physical processes that continuously change the surface of the earth, and how these processes affect human activity. Topics include volcanic and earthquake hazards, surface-water erosion and flooding, landslides, groundwater, solid waste disposal, resource issues, global climate change, and the importance of geologic information to land-use planning. Laboratories emphasize field and classroom studies of surface processes and discussion of their application to planning. Lectures and discussions, three hours per week; one two-hour laboratory a week; local field trips. Evaluation will be based on two hour exams, weekly labs, and a final exam.

DETHIER