Dottie M. Lofstrom discovered geology while a student at Missouri State. It was a field that allowed her to fulfill her two primary passions: caring for the Earth and travel. During her nearly 30-year career, Lofstrom explored roles as a geologist, including environmental consulting and teaching at the community college level. She primarily worked as a public servant in … [Read more...] about Award for Excellence in Public Affairs: Dottie M. Lofstrom
Understanding the true quality of something often requires looking below the surface. This is true of land and other natural resources. Dr. Kevin Mickus, distinguished professor of geology, and Dr. Doug Gouzie, professor of geology and departmental director of graduate studies, at Missouri State University recently worked on a local environmental project addressing diesel … [Read more...] about Digging into science below land’s surface
Global climate change remains one of the most important domestic and foreign issues facing the United States. Missourians should also be concerned about climate change. One of the sectors impacted most are Midwest farmers and their communities. Dr. Toby Dogwiler, a geologist and head of the department of geography, geology and planning at Missouri State University, explains to … [Read more...] about What’s the threat of warmer weather to farming in Missouri?
Small Missouri communities, like many in rural America, experience a lot of out-migration. This means people often leave small towns in order to settle in others with greater opportunities. Such out-migration can limit the economic and social opportunities that small towns have to offer. The community of Seymour, Missouri, is among those facing this struggle. Dr. Krista Evans, … [Read more...] about Revitalizing rural communities
Volcanoes are mysterious. Many questions remain about how and why they erupt. Dr. Gary Michelfelder, associate professor of geology, leads research at five active volcanoes in the Central Andes of Chile and Bolivia that just might provide some answers. These volcanoes have one important thing in common: a large reservoir of magma, the molten rock material of Earth’s … [Read more...] about Answering some of volcanoes’ burning questions