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AWG E-MAIL NEWS 2004-15
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CONTENTS
1) AGI GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS MONTHLY REVIEW - JULY 2004
2) INTERVIEWEES WANTED
3) POSITION OPENINGS
SUNY Buffalo - Faculty Position: Remote Sensing or Volcanological
Geohazards Geoscientist
Center for Advanced Radiation Source, University of Chicago -
Postdoctoral Research Associate
San Diego State University - Tenure-Track Professorship in
Sedimentological and Stratigraphic Approaches to Earth System
History and Dynamics
University of Washington - Faculty Position: Glaciology
4) CONTACT INFORMATION
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Thanks to everyone who contributed to this issue of E-mail News
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1) AGI GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS MONTHLY REVIEW - JULY 2004
* Budget Roundup
* NEHRP Moves, Sort of
* National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Act Advances in House and
Senate
* House Hearing Focuses on Everglades Restoration
* Pipeline Safety Gets Hearing
* Capitol Abuzz About Refineries
* Energy Technology and Domestic Production Hearing
* House Holds Hearing on Natural Gas Price Modeling
* Study: Natural Gas Prices to Keep Rising
* Coalbed Methane Hydraulic Fracturing Poses Little Threat to
Groundwater
* Integrated Ocean Observing System Evaluated by House Committee
* Oceans Legislation Introduced in House and Senate
* NOAA Organic Acts Introduced in the House and Senate
* Court Upholds Constitutionality of Yucca but Rejects 10,000-Year
Standard
* NRC Panel Decision Could Delay Yucca Mountain
* Congressional Science and Math Education Caucus Formed
* Homeland Security Education Act
* Department of Energy Announces New Science Education Initiative
* National Academies Addresses Role of Politics in Scientific
Appointments
* SECURE Earth Initiative to Unite Geoscientists
* White House Releases Science Report
* Status of Engineering and Science in the Workforce
* CCSP Proposes First Research Project
* Job Opportunities in Washington, D.C.
* Key Federal Register Notices
* New Updates to Website
*** Budget Roundup ***
On July 22, the House Committee on Appropriations approved the FY05
Veterans Affairs/Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill.
Although it has now been cleared to be debated on the House floor, the
accompanying report has not yet been made available to the public. As a
result, the figures reported below for the National Science Foundation,
Environmental Protection Agency, and NASA in FY05 have been obtained from
sources that have seen parts of the report.
National Science Foundation (NSF)
A total of $5.47 billion was recommended by the appropriations
committee for NSF, a cut of $90 million from FY04 levels and $278 million short
of the President's request. The reasons for these cuts were not
explained.
Earthscope and the Office of Polar Programs both received increased
funding over FY04 enacted levels, and the new Integrated Ocean Drilling
Program also received funding. The Math and Science Partnerships program
funding was cut compared to FY04 levels, but had an increase over the
amount requested by the administration. Additionally, the committee
requested that NSF submit a proposed spending plan for individual
directorates, being careful to fund a balance of interdisciplinary and core
subject research. The American Institute of Physics Bulletin of Science
Policy News and the American Mathematical Society provided this
information.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
The committee recommended a total of $15.15 billion for NASA, a 1.1%
cut from the $15.4 billion enacted in FY04 and $1.1 billion below the
president's request. The committee explained the cuts by saying that,
although they are supportive of the exploration aspect of NASA's vision
and President Bush's proposal, they do not believe it should take
priority over NASA's science and aeronautics programs. The elimination of
funding for many new initiatives accounts for most of the cuts to the
agency. Space Shuttle operations and Mars programs were fully funded by
the bill, and the committee asked NASA to take the advice of the National
Academy of Sciences and look into ways to extend the life of the Hubble
Space Telescope.
Funding was cut for the International Space Station due to delays in
the shuttle's operations. The American Institute of Physics Bulletin of
Science Policy News also publicized this information.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The amount appropriated for the EPA in FY05 was reduced by 7.3% to $7.8
billion. The Safe Drinking Water State Revolving Fund and the Clean
Water State Revolving Fund were both funded at the president's requested
amount, and funding for State and Tribal Assistance Grants was
increased from FY04 levels. Hazardous Substances Superfund funding remained
the same as in FY04. The committee also decided to restore full funding
for EPA's Science to Achieve Results (STAR) graduate fellowship and
research grants programs that were targeted for cuts in the
administration's FY05 budget request.
The Geological Society of America's Government Public Policy Committee
and National Council for Science and the Environment's Science Policy
director circulated this information about EPA funding.
In other budget news, the House appropriations committee marked up the
Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education bill on July 22, but
again has not yet made the report public. The Department of Education as
a whole received a $2 billion increase in funding for a total of $57.7
billion in FY05. This amount is $400 million more than the president
requested. This bill allocates $269 million for Math and Science
Partnerships, which is a $120 million increase over FY04 and identical to the
president's request. These additional funds will go toward increasing
the number of teachers trained in the fields of math and science. The
Math and Science Partnership Working Group sent us information
concerning this bill.
*** NEHRP Moves Forward, Sort of ***
The Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee held a
markup on July 22. Included on the docket was the National Earthquake
Hazards Reductions Program (NEHRP) Reauthorization Act (H.R. 2608). NEHRP
was unanimously approved at the beginning of the markup, although the
committee reserved the right to make changes later that same morning. The
changes proposed for this bill were bundled together as a manager's
amendment and included: tacking the National Impact Windstorm Reduction
Program, H.R. 3980, onto the bill; extending NEHRP authorization to 2009;
changing the $3 million authorization obligation for performance-based
standards to 10% of the "actually appropriated" funds; and slightly
lowering authorization levels for the U.S. Geological Survey and the
National Science Foundation.
These amendments, however, were not adopted because Sen. Wyden (D-OR)
invoked a little-used rule that prohibits committees from meeting after
the Senate has been in session for two hours. Wyden used the rule to
block an unrelated appointment to the Federal Trade Commission. After a
heated exchange, Chairman McCain (R-AZ) had no choice but to adjourn
the hearing without completing the morning's business.
H.R. 2608 will go to the Senate floor for a vote in September without
the manager's amendment. McCain said that the Windstorm bill would be
brought up with the other amendments either as an amendment on the Senate
floor in September or introduced as a stand alone bill. To see a full
hearing summary, visit http://www.agiweb.org/gap/legis108/nehrp.html.
*** National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Act Advances in House and
Senate ***
On the morning of July 14, the House version of the Geologic Mapping
Act, H.R. 4010, was discharged from the House Resources Subcommittee on
Energy and Mineral Resources. It can now be debated on the floor of the
House after Congress returns from its traditional August recess.
The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Public Lands
and Forests held a hearing on July 14 to discuss the companion bill, S.
2353. All witnesses testified in support of the reauthorization under
the Geologic Mapping Act. Patrick Leahy, associate director for geology
at the U.S. Geological Survey, did point out the proposed funding level
is not consistent with the president's budget request. His testimony
focused on the successes of the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping
Program and the benefits of geologic maps to states and local
communities. Robert Marvinney, president of the Association of American State
Geologists, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing the cooperative
STATEMAP program and digitization technology. James Cobb, state
geologist of Kentucky and Director of the Kentucky Geological Survey at the
University of Kentucky, said that geologic maps have saved Kentucky
taxpayers at least $2.16 billion by cutting project costs of map users
such as scientists, businesses, and local planning agencies. Kentucky
is the only state that has been geologically mapped in detail and the
only state with completely digitized maps.
Subcommittee Chairman Larry Craig (R-ID) said that he had been "sold"
on the reauthorization of the act before the hearing and became
increasingly convinced after listening to the testimony.
For more information on the Geologic Mapping Act, visit
http://www.agiweb.org/gap/legis108/geologicmapping.html.
*** House Hearing Focuses on Everglades Restoration ***
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment met on July 22 to assess the progress of
Everglades restoration and discuss the authorization of two large-scale
projects. The $8 billion Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, under the
Water Resources Development Act of 2000, provides a framework for the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to restore the South Florida ecosystem.
Nine smaller Everglades restoration projects are already in process or
completed, although larger projects such as Indian River Lagoon and
Southern Golden Gates must be authorized individually. Witnesses at the
hearing urged the subcommittee swift authorization of project funds, even
though actual appropriations may not be available until FY06.
The Indian River Lagoon project, which costs $1.2 billion, aims to
redirect and store water directed into wetlands by a previous U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers flood control program. The Golden Gates project, which
costs $360 million, will restore wetlands and improve salinity
conditions. Hearing witnesses testified that the two projects were carefully
chosen and will provide a significant boost to restoration efforts and
to local communities.
John Burns, chairman of the independent scientific review panel that
reviewed the Indian River Lagoon project, said that the panel saw nothing
from a scientific perspective that should prevent authorization of the
project. The panel has made several recommendations for the for the
Indian River site, including modeling and evaluation of climate, sea
level, hydrologic cycle, ecology, and muck and sediment transport.
To see a full hearing summary, visit
http://www.agiweb.org/gap/legis108/everglades_hearings.html.
*** Pipeline Safety Gets Hearing ***
On July 20, the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy and Air
Quality discussed the issue of pipeline safety with Department of
Transportation and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) officials, energy
industry representatives, and pipeline safety advocacy groups. In
2002, Congress passed the Pipeline Safety Improvement Act (PSIA), H.R.3609,
which calls for a risk-based approach to pipeline safety management,
called the Integrity Management Program. In this program, pipeline
operators identify "high consequence" areas and prioritize these in their
safety inspections. PSIA also calls for increased public education and
access to information about pipeline safety and strengthens federal and
state pipeline safety programs.
The GAO released a preliminary report on the Department of
Transportation Office of Pipeline Safety's (OPS) actions toward implementation of
the PSIA. The GAO found that the number of severe accidents has not
decreased and that OPS should clarify program goals and strategies, to
enforce pipeline operator compliance with regulations. Officials from the
Department of Transportation (DOT) defended OPS, saying that it is
"aggressively responding" to PSIA mandates. Kenneth Mead, Inspector
General of the DOT, said that too many interests at varying levels have the
ability to block progress on pipeline relocation and repair, causing
the failure of OPS compliance with mandates in some cases. Several
officials suggested that the roles of the DOT, Department of Energy, and
Department of Homeland Security should be specifically outlined. Industry
representatives outlined the actions their companies are taking to
comply with PSIA and testified in support of streamlined permitting a
nd increased coordination among stakeholders and federal agencies. For
a full summary of the hearing, visit
http://www.agiweb.org/gap/legis108/energy_hearings.html.
*** Capitol Abuzz About Refineries ***
The House Energy and Air Quality Subcommittee met on July 15 to address
the state of the oil refining industry in the United States, which has
been a popular topic due to elevated gas prices and speculation that
those prices will continue to rise. Some committee members expressed
their disapproval of the United States Refinery Revitalization Act of 2004
(H.R. 4517), saying it would compromise the health of the environment
and provide an inadequate solution to increasing gas prices and
dependence on fossil fuels. The bill will promote the refining industry in
areas of high unemployment. Eric Schaeffer, director of the Environmental
Integrity Project, argued against H.R. 4517 because it would give the
Department of Energy too much regulatory authority over the states. He
also said that at least 14 petroleum refineries have outstanding
notices of regulation violations and current enforcement strategies are
inadequate. H.R. 4517 proponents said that it does not make sense to
refine oil overseas, which is the inevitable consequence of rising
demand and diminishing refinery capacity in the United States.
Witnesses from the Energy Information Administration, Government
Accountability Office, the Consumer Federation of America and the
Environmental Protection Agency cited several causes of elevated gas prices in
their hearing testimony. For a full hearing summary, visit
http://www.agiweb.org/gap/legis108/energy_hearings.html.
*** Energy Technology and Domestic Production Hearing ***
The House Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources held an
oversight hearing on July 15 to discuss technological advances that will help
domestic energy production. Vello Kuuskraa, president of Advanced
Resources International, Inc., reported that traditional oil recovery
methods only extract one-third of the oil in a field; recent technology has
helped to increase this figure. William Whitsitt, president of the
Domestic Petroleum Council, said that well-pad size has been significantly
reduced from an average of 6 acres to 1.5 acres in some areas as a
result of new technology.
Bernard Padovani of the Compagnie Generale de Geophysique explained to
the committee that advances in deep seismic imaging has greatly reduced
the number of wells drilled unnecessarily. Technology will also enable
renewable energy sources to contribute to energy production in the
United States.
Several witnesses detailed the progress wind, geothermal, and gas
hydrate research has made toward developing these sources into a major
component of the U.S. energy portfolio. A full hearing summary is available
online at
http://www.agiweb.org/gap/legis108/energy_hearings.html.
*** House Holds Hearing on Natural Gas Price Modeling ***
The House Energy Subcommittee met on July 8 to discuss economic models
and their accountability when applied to predicting natural gas prices.
The discussion was spurred by concern over natural gas prices, which
have nearly tripled since 2000 from $2 to $6 per million BTU. Economic
models have been increasingly used as tools for policy-making, but the
fact that none of the models were able to accurately predict the current
spike in natural gas prices raised questions about their effectiveness.
The discussion revealed that natural gas prices have been difficult to
predict due to the complex nature of models and the variations in the
underlying assumptions of the various models, which are often biased and
unclear. Weather is the most unpredictable of these assumptions, but
factors such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) production and imports,
crude oil prices, and production capacity, can all drastically change the
output of the models.
Natural gas supplies are facing increasing pressure as power plants are
turning to this resource for energy because of rising oil costs. The
models were also unable to factor in the developing LNG industry as well
as safety issues accompanying this global industry. The models do,
however, include calculations for greenhouse gas emissions and other
pollutants. Mary Hutzler of the Department of Energy reported at the
hearing that the models have been recently used to asses the economic effects
of the Clear Skies Initiative and the McCain-Lieberman climate change
proposal.
For a full summary, visit
http://www.agiweb.org/gap/legis108/energy_hearings.html.
*** Study: Natural Gas Prices to Keep Rising ***
A study released July 9 by the Cambridge Energy Research Associates
concluded that natural gas prices will continue to rise in North America
unless the oil and gas industry can resolve its shortage. The study
predicted natural gas prices would rise to $6.62 per million BTU by 2007.
New liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals could help alleviate this
problem by 2008 or 2009, but would require streamlining permits for LNG
expansion and relaxing some regulations. Many LNG terminals are currently
being planned and built, but the report emphasized that it would be
necessary for Congress to take quick action to balance natural gas supply
and demand.
More information about the Cambridge Energy Research Associates and
this study are available at
http://www.eco-web.com/cgi-local/sfc?a=/index/index.html&b=/register/04418.html.
*** Coalbed Methane Hydraulic Fracturing Poses Little Threat to
Groundwater***
In late June, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a
report stating that there is little threat of pollution to underground
drinking water sources from the injection of hydraulic fracturing fluids in
coalbed methane (CBM) wells. The report was issued partly in response
to a court decision that declared the EPA was responsible for CBM
issues under the Safe Drinking Water Act. CBM producers inject a mixture of
water and other fluids at high pressure into a well to crack the rocks,
which increases the flow of oil and gas and makes it possible to
extract hydrocarbons that were previously inaccessible. Often diesel fuel is
used as a fracturing fluid, which introduces benzene, toluene,
ethylbenzene, and xylenes into the ground and potentially into underground
drinking water supplies. The largest CBM producers have agreed to
voluntarily stop using diesel as a fracturing fluid, but say that most of the
fluids they inject either biodegrade or remain stationary.
The report is available online at
http://www.epa.gov/safewater/uic/cbmstudy/docs.html.
*** Integrated Ocean Observing System Evaluated by House Committee ***
The House Resources Subcommittee on Fisheries Conservation, Wildlife,
and Oceans held a hearing on July 13 to examine the status of ocean
observing systems including the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS).
This program, which was designed with a similar purpose as the World
Weather Watch and the National Weather System, will seek to network ocean
research and monitoring to obtain a better understanding of the oceans.
The U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy, in their April 2004 report, stated
that 95% of the ocean floor is unexplored and improved knowledge of
ocean processes is critical to better management of ocean resources. The
report also stated that IOOS will cost a total of $1.7 billion over
five years with an additional $138 million in startup costs in FY06.
Hearing witnesses agreed that the funds for the program will need to come
from the Commerce, Justice, and State appropriations bill, and will not
likely be easily acquired.
A full hearing summary is available on the Government Affairs website
at
http://www.agiweb.org/gap/legis108/ocean_hearings.html.
*** Ocean Legislation Introduced in House and Senate ***
On July 22, the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation unanimously
adopted on a voice vote a block of bills, including the National Ocean
Exploration Program Act (S. 2280) and the Marine Debris Research and
Reduction Act (S. 2488). Introduced by Senator Stevens (R-AK), S. 2488
seeks to establish an ocean exploration program within the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The bill would authorize
$45 million annually FY05 through FY10 and $55 million annually FY11
through FY16. Sen. Inouye (D-HI) introduced S. 2488, which would help
reduce and prevent marine debris through a program jointly operated by NOAA
and the Coast Guard. The bill would authorize $10 million for the
Department of Commerce (where NOAA is located) in FY05 and $5 million for
the Coast Guard in FY05.
Rep. Greenwood (R-PA) introduced H.R. 4897, a deep-sea coral protection
bill that is a companion to S. 1953, which is by Sen. Lautenberg
(D-NJ). This bill would establish Coral Management Areas to protect deep-sea
coral concentrations, prohibit destructive fishing gear use, and
increase funding for the research and mapping of coral. Rep. Rahall (D-WV)
authored H.R. 4706, which would seek to reform the regional fishery
management councils that set fishing quotas. The bill would increase
representation of conservation and scientific advisory groups on these
councils, and is currently pending before the Resources Committee.
We will be tracking these bills as they make their way through the
legislative process. Keep up to date at
http://www.agiweb.org/gap/legis108/ocean.html.
*** NOAA Organic Acts Introduced in the House and Senate ***
Both the House and Senate have recently been working on oceans
legislation in response to April's U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy report that
called for the creation of an organic act for the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which has been operating under 200
separate Congressional authorities since it was created in 1970. On the
House side, Rep. Vernon Ehlers (R-MI) held a hearing on July 15 to
discuss two bills creating organic acts for NOAA, H.R. 4546 and H.R. 4507.
Ehlers authored H.R. 4546 and, along with Rep. Gilchrest (R-MD),
introduced H.R. 4507 on behalf of the Bush Administration. The proposed
bills offer a new structural organization for NOAA. An ecosystem-based
management approach would manage activities affecting an ecosystem instead
of the ecosystem itself. Although both are organic acts, H.R. 4546
includes specific functions for NOAA, while H.R. 4507 only defines four
broad missions for NOAA.
Sen. Hollings (D-SC) introduced S. 2647 and S. 2648 on July 13. S.
2647 specifically addresses structural reforms to NOAA's management, which
would include an assistant administrator for ocean management
operations and one for climate and atmosphere. It establishes a NOAA office of
intergovernmental affairs to promote interagency coordination. The
organic act proposed in this bill would also establish a five-member
"council on ocean stewardship" within the Executive Office of the President
to coordinate federal ocean and atmospheric budgets and create a panel
of outside experts to advise the president on ocean and climate issues.
This idea deviates from the creation of a national ocean council
recommended by the ocean commission. This council would consist of Cabinet
secretaries that would set national goals for governing the oceans. S.
2647 also proposes moving NOAA out of the Department of Commerce after a
two-year transition period, when it would become an independent
agency or department. The U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy did not
include such a move in its recommendation because of the difficulty
involved. S. 2647 was scheduled for a vote at the Senate Commerce Committee
markup on July 22, but it was pulled from the agenda two days before
the markup to allow more time for comment.
The House Oceans Caucus also introduced their comprehensive oceans
legislation, H.R. 4900, titled "Oceans-21." It was originally sponsored by
Rep. Farr (D-CA), but is now sponsored by the co-chair of the Oceans
Caucus, Rep. Greenwood (R-PA). The Oceans-21 bill, similar to Holling's
bill S.2647, contains an organic act for NOAA with an ecosystem-based
management approach. Oceans-21 would keep NOAA in the Department of
Commerce, but would request an executive-branch report that would
investigate creating a new department of natural resources.
For more information on Ocean Policy, visit
http://www.agiweb.org/gap/legis108/ocean.html.
*** Court Upholds Constitutionality of Yucca but Rejects 10,000 Year
Standard ***
On July 9, the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of
Columbia released a ruling that upheld the constitutionality of the Yucca
Mountain site selection process but rejected the 10,000-year compliance
period for limiting the release of radiation set by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA). The court found that the EPA did not properly
follow the guidance of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS). NAS
advised the EPA that because radioactivity of the waste will peak in 300,000
years, Yucca Mountain should be designed to contain waste for at least
that amount of time. The court ordered the EPA to revise the standards
to be consistent with NAS recommendations or obtain approval from
Congress that would allow them to implement the current standards.
The court case stemmed from the consolidation of several lawsuits filed
by the state of Nevada and several environmental and public interest
groups claiming that the Department of Energy (DOE), the Nuclear
Regulatory Commission (NRC), and Congress unlawfully chose the site for Yucca
Mountain.
Opponents of the Yucca Mountain project viewed the decision as a
near-fatal blow to the project, claiming the process to change the standards
would substantially delay the opening of the site. Proponents touted
the ruling as a victory and believed changing the standards posed only a
minor hurdle to opening the repository.
The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee held an oversight
hearing focused on the recent court decision upholding the
constitutionality of Yucca Mountain, funding for the project, and other nuclear
research and development endeavors. Deputy Energy Secretary Kyle McSlarrow
reported that the recent court decision will not prevent DOE from
preparing a license application by the end of this year, and he says that he
is confident the standards questioned by the court can be worked out
without rewriting any laws. Chairman Domenici stressed the need for the
committee to find funds for not only the Yucca Mountain project, but
also nuclear research and development. Proposed nuclear research and
development funding was cut to $96 million in FY05 from FY04, although
there was no funding for the projects in FY98.
For more information on Yucca Mountain and nuclear waste, visit
http://www.agiweb.org/gap/legis108/yucca.html.
*** NRC Panel Decision Could Delay Yucca Mountain ***
A three-judge panel from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)
questioned the Department of Energy (DOE) July 27th as to why it has received
fewer than half of the 1.2 million documents that DOE is required to
submit before the end of the year. Nevada officials filed a legal
challenge against DOE two weeks ago when the NRC announced that the Internet
database is missing some of the scientific documents pertaining to
Yucca Mountain; DOE is legally obligated to make the papers available to
the public. DOE said it submitted the documents June 30 to the Licensing
Support Network, but members of the panel said they were struggling to
understand why DOE waited so long to release the documents, considering
it has been aware of this obligation for 15 years. DOE officials said
they wanted to avoid wasting time collecting and validating the
documents until Congress ratified the Yucca site, which happened in 2002.
They added that many of the missing documents are insignificant e-m
ails. The panel's decision, which is expected within the next few
weeks, could delay DOE's licensing application of the site, which is due in
December.
*** Congressional Science and Math Education Caucus Formed *** Reps.
Vernon Ehlers (R-MI) and Mark Udall (D-CO) have launched the
Congressional Science and Math Education Caucus. The caucus will focus on K-12
education, undergraduate and graduate education, and industry-related
science and math education. The caucus has been formed in the context of
the declining number of U.S. students choosing to pursue advanced study
in science, technology, engineering, and math fields. Reps. Ehlers and
Udall note the important contribution of these fields to the economy
and national security. Urge your representative to contact Ehlers or
Udall for more information about the Congressional Science and Math
Education Caucus. The following representatives are members of the caucus:
Reps. Baker (R-LA), Baldwin (D-WI), Biggert (R-IL), Boucher (D-VA),
Castle (R-DE), Crowley (D-NY), Doggett (D-TX), Ehlers (R-MI),
Frelinghuysen (R-NJ), Gilchrest (R-MD), Hayworth (R-AZ), Holt (D-NJ), Honda (D-CA),
Johnson (Nancy, R-CT), Lee (D-CA), Lewis (D-GA), Lofgren (D-CA),
McIntyre (D-NC), McCarthy (Karen, D-MO), McGovern (D-MA), Miller (Brad,
D-NC), Schiff (D-CA), Simmons (R-CT), Smith (Adam, D-WA), Smith (Nick,
R-MI), Udall (Mark, D-CO), Upton (R-MI), and Waxman (D-CA).
*** Homeland Security Education Act ***
Sen. Durbin (D-IL) and Sen. Akaka (D-HI) introduced the Homeland
Security Education Act (S.2299) in July. The bill authorizes $75 million to
establish a grant program to partner K-12 school districts and private
entities, and $15 million in grants to higher-education institutions to
develop programs for dual language and science proficiency. It also
creates a $100 million program to forgive loan interests of students who
earn a degree in math, science, engineering, or in certain languages
such as Arabic. The bill can be found at
http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?
dbname=108_cong_bills&docid=f:s2299is.txt.pdf
*** Department of Energy Announces New Science Education Initiative ***
The Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham announced the Department of
Energy's STARS (Scientists Teaching and Reaching Students) initiative on July
8.
STARS consists of seven programs, such as Science Appreciation Day, a
new Office of Science Education at the DOE, an "Ask a Scientist" website
at the Argonne National Lab (http://www.newton.dep.anl.gov/), and other
programs to expose children to research and science professionals.
The secretary's speech can be found at
http://www.energy.gov/engine/content.do?PUBLIC_ID=16144&_CODE=PR_
SPEECHES&TT_CODE=PRESSSPEECH/, and for a summary of the initiative, see
http://www.energy.gov/engine/content.do?PUBLIC_ID=16145&_CODE=PR_
PRESSRELEASES&TT_CODE=PRESSRELEASE/
*** Academies Addresses Role of Politics in Scientific Appointments ***
The Committee on Science, Engineering, and Public Policy (COSEPUP),
part of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), met on July 21 to address
barriers and criteria to appointing presidential and federal advisory
committee scientists. Chaired by former Rep. John Porter (R-IL),
COSEPUP consisted of 10 members who have previously worked in federal
agencies. Testimony at the hearing came from by John Marburger, director of
the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), Kathie Olsen OSTP,
Reps. Vernon Ehlers (R-MI) and Henry Waxman (D-CA), as well as 10
special interest groups.
The committee, which has published reports on this issue in 1992 and
2000, sought insight from witnesses on how to ensure the most qualified
scientists are appointed to the almost 1,000 federal and 50 presidential
advisory committees, at a time when finding scientists to serve on
these committees has become increasingly difficult. The witnesses cited
several reasons for the difficulty: the application and disclosure
process are time consuming and excessive, often taking six months to
process; salary cuts and extra costs; career limitations; and conflicts of
interest. COSEPUP also inquired about the role politics should play in
the appointment process. Many scientists, along with Waxman, object to
the consideration of political affiliation during the appointment
process, citing several incidents in which scientific data was suppressed or
ignored for political reasons. Ehlers said, however, that scientists
are not above politics and should be in tune with the political phi
losophies of the administration to be effective.
The two previous COSEPUP reports and other meeting information are
available at: http://www7.nationalacademies.org/presidentialappointments/
*** SECURE Earth Initiative to Unite Geoscientists ***
The National Research Council's (NRC) Board on Earth Sciences and
Research and the Board on Radioactive Waste Management met with a coalition
of scientists, government agencies, and industry on July 14 to discuss
SECURE Earth, Scientific Environmental/Energy Cross-Cutting Underground
Research.
The purpose of the initiative is to accelerate research and unite the
subsurface geosciences community, to help Congress gain a clear picture
of important energy and environmental problems. A panel of
representatives from 13 different organizations, both federal and private,
presented key geoscience problems affecting their programs in an effort to
identify common research goals and what benefits a national research
program would bring to groups involved in SECURE Earth. The presentations
revealed that research needs to include better modeling with increased
predictive capabilities at a range of scales and improved understanding
and imaging of subsurface fluid flow, especially in highly
heterogeneous areas. The NRC plans to use the information from this workshop to
define possible studies and progress toward implementation sometime next
year.
*** White House Releases Science Report *** On July 20, the National
Science and Technology Council released a report entitled "Science for
the 21st Century", which addressed the challenges and responsibilities
for the federal government in science and research development. The
report outlines the importance of science to the current administration and
the need to promote, respond, invest, and achieve in all areas of
science for the security, economic growth, welfare, and health of the
nation. John Marburger, director of the Office of Science and Technology
Policy (OSTP), emphasized federal responsibility to fund fundamental
research. He also commented that science funding was a priority but must be
flexible to allow the government to respond to changing needs and
opportunities. Marburger said that the physical sciences, as opposed to the
life sciences, have traditionally been harder to fund because they are
spread across many agencies. Additionally, the report highlights
how science will differ in the 21st century with the convergence
between different fields and disciplines that traditionally have been
separated.
The report mentions projects, such as the Shuttle Radar Topography
Mission, to illustrate how agencies are working together to provide data
that will benefit the nation. It also cites the Math and Science
Partnership program as an important component in achieving OSTP's vision for
science in the next century.
To view a copy of the report, visit
http://www.ostp.gov/nstc/21stcentury/index.html
*** Status of Engineering and Science in the Workforce ***
On July 15, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
sponsored a luncheon briefing on the status of engineering and science in the
workforce. Reps. Judy Biggert (R-IL) and Rush Holt (D-NJ), both
members of the House Research and Development Caucus, expressed their
concerns over the future of science in the United States, explaining that an
aging science workforce and a decrease in foreign talent are threatening
the country's economy, security, and health. Three panelists presented
their views on the issue. Dr. Michael Crosby from the National Science
Board presented facts that showed that while there is no immediate
crisis, the long-term trends are disturbing. An increasing number of jobs
pay well and do not require higher education, making research and
doctorate degrees less appealing to young students, who are opting for other
careers. This trend, Crosby said, needs federal attention to make the
science workforce more appealing. Additionally, he explained t
hat heightened security and delayed visa processing are hurting the
flow of foreigners into the science workforce. Conversely, Dr. Michael
Teitelbaum, a demographer, said that there was no shortage of scientists
and natural variability in technology and funding was the cause of
fluctuating demand. If a crisis was pending, he said, the workforce would
show signs of adjustment, such as rising wages or shortened
time-to-degree. While the topic needs attention to improve the quality of the
science workforce, Teitelbaum argued that claims of "shortages" are not
valid.
Presentations from the briefing are available at
http://www.researchcaucus.org/schedule/04July15/default.asp, and a June
2004 report on "The U.S. Scientific and Technical Workforce: Improving
Data for Decisionmaking" is available at
http://www.rand.org/publications/CF/CF194/.
*** CCSP Proposes First Research Project ***
On July 7, the Bush Administration's Climate Change Science Program
(CCSP) issued a draft prospectus of its first of 21 major climate science
assessments, titled "Temperature trends in the lower atmosphere --
steps for understanding and reconciling differences." This research, which
is expected to be completed within the next two years, will be open for
public review and comment through Aug. 12. NOAA will act as the lead
agency, while NASA, the Department of Energy, and the National Science
Foundation will be supporting agencies. This first assessment will
focus on discrepancies between warming rates at Earth's surface and the
middle troposphere. Climate computer models have predicted warming in the
middle troposphere, but observations have contradicted this by showing
the surface has warmed twice as fast as the atmosphere since 1980.
Many studies have been done on this topic, including a 2000 National
Academy of Sciences study, a 2001 report by the Intergovernmental Pan
el on Climate Change, and a more recent study profiled in the July
issue of Geotimes (available online at
http://www.geotimes.org/july04/NN_atmosmeasrmt.html). As a result, many
people are questioning the benefits of the new CCSP study, especially
its ability to generate policy-relevant information. Others argue that
the research is necessary to incorporate peer-reviewed studies done in
the past few years. Flat funding between FY04 and FY05 of $2 billion
annually will likely cause problems for the implementation of the 21
synthesis and assessment projects. It is not clear how the CCSP chose
these topics, and many people have questioned the program's priorities.
According to the most recent CCSP strategic plan, the 21 projects are
part of a zero- to two-year or two- to four-year timeframe, with nine
defined as state-of-the-science reports, five intended to inform policy
decisions, and seven focused on informing operational management
decisions.
For a list of the 21 syntheses and assessment projects, visit
http://www.climatescience.gov/Library/sap/sap-summary.htm. To comment
on and review the draft prospectus through August 12, visit
http://www.climatescience.gov/Library/sap/sap1-1/sap1-1prospectus-draft.htm.
*** Job Opportunities in Washington, DC ***
American Geological Institute
The American Geological Institute, a nonprofit federation of 43
geoscience societies, is seeking a director of Government Affairs. This
position is responsible for all phases of AGI's Government Affairs Program,
working actively with member societies, Congress, and federal agencies
to bring accurate science into the decision-making process of public
policy; serve as a focused voice for the shared policy interests of the
geoscience profession; monitor and analyze legislation and policy
developments affecting the geosciences; and develop AGI congressional
testimony and policy positions on national geoscience issues.
Candidates should have an advanced degree in the geosciences, with a
Ph.D. preferred, as well as a demonstrated experience in science and
public policy. Demonstrated outstanding written, verbal, and management
skills are required. A strong familiarity with the geoscience community
through active society participation is desired.
Candidates should submit a resume, including salary requirements and
the names of three references, with cover letter to: Government Affairs
Director Search, AGI, 4220 King Street, Alexandria VA 22302-1502 or
jobs@agiweb.org.
For more information on the program, see http://www.agiweb.org/gap.
Applications will be considered on a continuous basis until the
position is filled. EOE.
American Geophysical Union
AGU, an international scientific association with over 41,000 members,
that stands as a leader in educating the public in regards to the Earth
and Space sciences is seeking a Public Affairs coordinator to help
foster careers in the geosciences and keep AGU's community informed of new
developments in public policy. The Public Affairs coordinator will
plan and assist in the Committee on Education and Human Resources (CEHR)
meetings, coordinate career planning workshops and student affairs in an
effort to promote and develop interest in the geosciences. The
incumbent will also coordinate briefings, attend congressional hearings,
markups, and other functions on the Hill in order to bridge AGU members and
policy makers, as well as gather information for the Outreach website.
We are looking for a candidate with an interest in public policy and
the sciences; excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal skills; strong
college level education, some course work in science highly desi
rable; and a demonstrated ability to communicate effectively at all
levels. Experience working on the Hill is preferred. AGU, located near
Dupont Circle, offers a competitive salary and benefits package. All
interested candidates should mail, fax or email a cover letter, resume
and a one page writing sample to: American Geophysical Union, 04-009,
2000 Florida Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009. Fax: 202-777-7390. E-mail:
resumes@agu.org.
U.S. Representative Vernon J. Ehlers
Congressman Ehlers is seeking candidates for a Legislative Assistant to
handle Science Committee issues in his personal office. The candidate
would be responsible for advising the congressman and developing policy
on all scientific issues that are before Congress. In addition, the
candidate would be responsible for staying abreast of developments in the
different fields of science and briefing the congressman on new issues
or discoveries relevant to federal policy, working with the various
scientific organizations on policy and scientific issues, and representing
the congressman's views to the scientific community.
Qualifications for this position include: A Ph.D. is required;
background in science policy; strong writing, communication, and networking
skills; ability to keep abreast of research in different fields of
science; knowledge of PowerPoint; and experience in the federal legislative
process.
Please e-mail resume and CV (as appropriate) to
Cameron.wilson@mail.house.gov, with the subject "Ehlers Science
Position."
No phone calls or faxes please.
*** Key Federal Register Notices ***
EPA: Proposing to grant a petition submitted by the United States
Department of Energy, Richland Operations Office (DOE-RL) to exclude (or
`delist') from regulation as listed hazardous waste certain mixed waste
that are treated at the 200 Area Effluent Treatment Site (200 Area ETF)
on the Hanford Facility, Richland, WA. We will accept public comments
on this proposed decision until August 30, 2004. Send two copies of your
comments to Dave Bartus, EPA Region 10, 1200 6th Avenue, MS WCM-127,
Seattle, WA 98101. Electronic comments can be e-mailed to
bartus.dave@epa.gov. Volume 69, Number 135 (15 July, 2004): pp.
42395-42412.
DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Federal Energy
Management Advisory Committee will meet and seek written input on working
group recommendations to meet mandated Federal energy management goals.
Oral statements only by early request. Meeting Monday, August 9, 2004,
6:00 p.m. at Rochester Riverside Convention Center, 123 East Main
Street, Room Highland A, Rochester, NY. Volume 69, Number 138 (20 July,
2004): p 43410.
*** New Updates to Website ***
The following updates and reports were added to the Government Affairs
portion of AGI's web site http://www.agiweb.org/gap since the last
monthly update:
* Climate Change Science Program (7-29-04)
* High-Level Nuclear Waste Legislation (7-28-04)
* Ocean Policy (7-23-04)
* National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (7-23-04)
* Everglades Restoration Hearings (7-23-04)
* Energy Hearings (7-23-04)
* Ocean Policy Hearings (7-20-04)
* National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Act (7-16-04)
* Energy Policy Overview (7-19-04)
* Wind Hazards (7-9-04)
Monthly review prepared by Emily Lehr Wallace, AGI Government Affairs
Program; Ashlee Dere, AGI/AIPG 2004 Summer Intern; and Bridget Martin,
AGI/AIPG 2004 Summer Intern.
Sources: American Institute of Biological Sciences, American Institute
of Physicists, Environment and Energy Daily, Greenwire, House of
Representatives hearing testimony, House of Representatives Science Committee
press releases, NASULGC Washington Update, National Academy of
Sciences, National Council for Science and the Environment, National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration, THOMAS legislative database, United
States Senate hearing testimony, and the Washington Post.
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2) INTERVIEWEES WANTED
Carol Ruhl is a staff writer for EnviroEducation.com, an online
resource for environmental and science students. She is looking for a
geologist to interview for the site, and is hoping that someone in AWG might
be interested in volunteering. The interviews are a helpful resource
for students and others who visit the web site.
Interviews are conducted via email. To learn more about them visit the
EnviroEducation.com archive at
http://www.enviroeducation.com/interviews/.
If you are interested in providing Ms Ruhl with an interview for
EnviroEducation.com, please contact her directly at ruhl@EnviroEducation.com
or phone (866) 486-4017.
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3) POSITION OPENINGS
2004-048
SUNY Buffalo
Faculty Position: Remote Sensing or Volcanological Geohazards
Geoscientist
The Department of Geology at the University at Buffalo, a Research I
University, invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position. We
seek a specialist in either remote-sensing or volcanological
geohazards, starting in August 2005 at the rank of Assistant Professor. The
successful candidate will demonstrate a potential for research and teaching
that will complement and integrate with our existing programs in
volcanology and environmental geology. Existing research in the department
includes studies of geohazards, volcanology, planetary geology,
surficial processes, neotectonics, fractured rock systems, ground water, and
basin analysis, including oil and gas exploration. The successful
candidate may also wish to collaborate with the National Center for
Geographic Information and Analysis and the Center for Computational Research
at the University at Buffalo. Teaching duties will involve
undergraduate and graduate level courses in the candidate's specialties. Suc
cessful candidates must have a Ph.D. degree at the time of appointment.
Apply with a statement of teaching and research goals and a curriculum
vitae, including published research, grant support, and names of at
least three references to: Chair, Search Committee, Department of
Geology, 876 Natural Science Complex, University at Buffalo, The State
University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14260-3050. More information about our
department can be found at: http://www.geology.buffalo.edu. We will
begin evaluating applicants November 1, 2004. Posting No. F-4039.
The University at Buffalo is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Recruiter.
* * * * * * * * * *
2004-050
Center for Advanced Radiation Source, University of Chicago
Postdoctoral Research Associate
The Center for Advanced Radiation Sources (CARS) at the University of
Chicago is seeking a Research Associate to work with GeoSoilEnviroCARS
in the area of the structures and properties of mineral surfaces in the
presence of water. The program is focused on studying mineral/water
interfaces at the atomic scale using third generation synchrotron
radiation. Applicants with experience in synchrotron radiation techniques
and/or surface diffraction methods are encouraged to apply. The
successful candidate is expected to conduct research, develop techniques and
instrumentation, and collaborate with and assist users at the Advanced
Photon Source (APS). A recent Ph.D. is required.
Qualifications:
1. A minimum of a Ph.D. degree in earth science, environmental
science, physics, chemistry, or a related field.
2. Experience using synchrotron radiation for atomic level studies is
required. Synchrotron experience studying mineral surfaces and
interfaces is highly desirable.
3. Experience in the following is desirable: crystallography,
instrument design, computer hardware and software development.
4. Ability to work well independently.
5. Excellent organizational skills.
6. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
7. Ability to satisfy DOE requirements for access to Argonne National
Laboratory.
For more information contact Dr. Peter Eng (eng@cars.uchicgao.edu) or
Dr. Steve Sutton (Sutton@cars.uchicago.edu).
To apply for the position visit:
https://jobopportunities.uchicago.edu/.
Click on "Search posting", in the "Requisition Number" box enter:
067135 then click "Search".
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2004-051
San Diego State University
Tenure-Track Professorship in Sedimentological and Stratigraphic
Approaches to Earth System History and Dynamics
The Department of Geological Sciences at San Diego State University
invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professorship starting
in Fall 2005. Applicants should employ novel approaches that address
fundamental questions on the history and dynamics of the Earth system
using techniques drawn from sedimentology, stratigraphy, and related
disciplines. We are particularly interested in applicants that build upon
our established research programs in paleobiology, paleoecology,
paleoceanography, Quaternary geology, isotope geochemistry, geohydrology, and
tectonics. Applicants are expected to develop an integrated research
and education program that fosters excellence at the undergraduate and
graduate levels; teaching expectations include undergraduate
non-major/major courses and graduate courses in the applicant's field of
expertise.
Applicants should post-mail a letter describing their experiences and
interests in research and teaching, a curriculum vitae, and contact
information for three references to Dr. Stephen A. Schellenberg, Search
Committee Chair, Department of Geological Sciences, San Diego State
University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182-1020. References
should post-mail their letters directly to the search committee chair.
Closing date for receipt of applicant and reference materials is 1 November
2004 and a Ph.D. is required at time of appointment. SDSU is a Title
IX, equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against
individuals on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sexual
orientation, gender, marital status, age, disability or veteran status, including
veterans of the Vietnam era. Learn more about our department at
www.geology.sdsu.edu and our university at www.sdsu.edu.
* * * * * * * * * *
2004-052
University of Washington
Faculty Position: Glaciology
The Dept. of Earth and Space Sciences at the University of
Washington-Seattle is seeking candidates for a research faculty position in the
field of glaciology to complement existing strengths in ice sheet and
glacier geophysics. The appointment is expected to be filled at the
Research Assistant Professor level.
Primary duties are to develop field-oriented research programs
involving both geophysical measurements and theoretical analysis founded on
independent intellectual initiative and successful competition for
external grant funding. Examples of attractive research direction are: to
elucidate processes presently controlling the evolution of land ice, to
decipher past history of ice in relation to climate and to assess future
mass changes especially in regard to potential large or rapid sea level
rise. Participation in the teaching program will be primarily through
seminars, occasional classroom lectures, and supervision of
undergraduate and graduate students.
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Geophysics, Geology or a closely
related field at the time of appointment.
Applicants should send a curriculum vita, bibliography, description of
research and teaching interests, and the names of four references. All
materials should be sent to: Glaciology Search Committee, c/o D.Ellen
McDannald, Department of Earth and Space Sciences, University of
Washington, Box 351310, Seattle, WA 98195-1310. Preference will be given to
applications received prior to September 24, 2004.
The University of Washington is an affirmative action, equal
opportunity employer. The University is building a culturally diverse faculty
and staff committed to working in a multicultural environment and
strongly encourages applications from women, minorities, individuals with
disabilities and covered veterans.
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4) CONTACT INFORMATION
To submit an item to E-MAIL NEWS contact: editor@awg.org
To submit advertising contact: ads@awg.org
To change your address or be removed from the list contact: office@awg.org