Join us Oct. 13-19, 2024, in celebrating Earth Science Week! Gain a better understanding and appreciation for the Earth Sciences and engage in responsible stewardship of the Earth. Events scheduled nationwide will celebrate the theme "Earth Science for a Sustainable World." The coming year's event will emphasize the essential role of Earth science in helping people make decisions that maintain and strengthen the planet's ability to support thriving life.
Earth Science Week learning resources and activities engage young people and others in exploring the importance of water — and water science — for living things, Earth systems and the many activities that people undertake. Individuals of all backgrounds, ages and abilities can engage in building understanding of water's role in topics including energy, climate change, the environment, natural hazards, technology, industry, agriculture, recreation and the economy. Individuals of all backgrounds, ages and abilities are encouraged to engage with the geosciences, whether as a geoscience professional, a hobbyist or through civic engagement. Earth science is all around us. Check out the focus days and learn more at American Geosciences Institute's Earth Science Week website.
Focus Days
Oct. 13 - International Earthcache Day
Oct. 14 - Minerals Day – Learn about minerals in Missouri
Oct. 15 - Earth Observation Day and No Child Left Inside Day
Oct. 16 - National Fossil Day – Learn about fossils in Missouri
Oct. 17 - Geoscience for Everyone Day
Oct. 18 - Geologic Map Day – Learn about Missouri geologic maps
Oct. 19 - International Archaeology Day
Contests
Earth Science Week contests are underway. Categories include photography, video, visual arts and essay. For contest details or winners from past years, visit Earth Science Week Contests.
Visit our Museums
Please note: Our museum and offices will be closed Oct. 14, in observance of Columbus Day.
- Ed Clark Museum of Missouri Geology - Enjoy a self-guided tour of our Ed Clark Museum of Missouri Geology, in Rolla. The museum illustrates the geologic history of Missouri through an ongoing collection of rock, mineral and fossil displays.
- Missouri State Museum - Located in the State Capitol, in Jefferson City, you will find fossils embedded in the limestone walls, floors and stairs of the building, along with and numerous exhibits about Missouri. Capitol Fossils - PUB2488
Do you Have Questions about Missouri Geology? We have answers!
Do you have a question about Missouri geology, or do you have a rock you would like to have identified? If so, send a photo of the rock and information about where you found the rock and one of our geologists will reply. Contact us at askageologist@dnr.mo.gov.
Videos and Publications
- Missouri Rocks! - Mo' Curious podcast episode by MissouriLife where MoDNR's Amber Steele and Larry "Boot" Pierce explain Missouri and tell why they chose careers in geology.
- Geology Careers - short video about the various aspects of geology.
- Show-Me Earthquake Safety videos - created by Missouri students.
- Industrial and Metallic Minerals Mine Reclamation in Missouri - short video provides insight about successful reclamation in Missouri.
- Minerals Education in Missouri - The Missouri Geological Survey has a long history partnering with the Missouri Minerals Education Foundation to provide educational experiences for teachers during the foundation's workshop.
- Earthquake Exhibit at the New Madrid Historical Museum - video tour of the earthquake exhibit at the New Madrid Historical Museum.
- The Great New Madrid Earthquakes of 1811-12 A Survivor's Story – Eliza Bryan - "Eliza" told her story of surviving this terrible ordeal and life at that time in southeast Missouri. The Dixie Theater in New Madrid, Missouri was the location on Dec. 9 and 10, 2011, when Eliza related her experiences to Dr. Seismo, played by David Stewart, Ph.D., through the help of Marian McDonald, who was reared in southeast Missouri more than 150 years after the great earthquakes. Eliza is one of the most important eyewitnesses to the events. Recorded and produced by the department's Missouri Geological Survey.
- Protecting our Drinking Water - safe drinking water is important to everyone.
- The Magic of Minerals - magazine article about a career in minerals .
- Dyeing to Follow the Water - magazine article about a career in water tracing.
- Locate other publications - about Missouri geology, water resources and more using the document search.