Can You Dig It? — the Department of Geological Sciences’ 9th annual community outreach event held at the Florida Museum of Natural History — brought hands-on earth science activities to more than 1400 children and adults from Alachua County and the surrounding area on Saturday, March 14, 2015.
At least 70 faculty members, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate and undergraduate students volunteered their time and expertise at 25 interactive exhibits showcasing a range of geological concepts. Returning exhibits included the driving forces behind volcanic eruptions, using earthquakes to understand the earth’s interior, and the evolution of beach morphology in response to tides. New this year was Dr. Amanda Waite’s ocean demonstration, where visitors of all ages jostled for a space to see how salinity, temperature, and wind drive large scale ocean circulation.
Sharing our research topics and our enthusiasm for earth sciences is a vital component of the Department’s role in the community. The Department of Geological Sciences thanks all the visitors and volunteers who made the 9th annual Can You Dig It? a resounding success.
Once again we engaged the public and our community in learning more about what we do and, in so doing, put our best foot forward leaving a favorable and memorable impression. – Dr. Matthew Smith, Can You Dig It? Director
The event was hosted by the Department of Geological Sciences in collaboration with the Gainesville Gem and Mineral Society and the Florida Museum of Natural History.