In this study of a hepatitis outbreak combined data revealed the source of contamination, septic tank leakage into a stream. Children playing in the polluted ravine were most affected. (MR)

Reviews types of geothermal energy sources in the western states, including hot brine systems and dry steam systems. Conversion to electrical energy is a major potential use of geothermal energy, although it creates environmental disruptions such as noise, corrosion, and scaling of equipment. (AV)

Proposes that a case-study approach to pollution problems can enhance the environmental awareness of students. Presents background information and instructional ideas for case studies on water pollution, cars, and the urban environment. (ML)

Lists and explains the major characteristics of water. Compares water's molecular structure and its temperature-related properties with four other lightweight molecules. Discusses why water is considered the universal solvent. (ML)

Provides background information for teachers on the nature and role of sulfur in the biological and physical environments. Problems of sulfur in the air and in rain water are also considered. (JN)

Discusses strategies used in a course for nonengineering students which consists of case studies of such sociotechnological problems as automobile safety, water pollution, and energy. Solutions to the problems are classified according to three approaches: education, government regulation, and technological fix. (BC)

By foreseeing the possibility of crisis, we can plan how to respond. Five potential crisis areas are identified and possible consequences discussed. The areas are the warming of the earth; water shortage; collapse of the physical infrastructure, e.g., decay of roads; global financial crisis; and the threat of nuclear war. (Author/RM)

Five areas that have great potential for becoming crises in the future are described: a warming of the earth's climate, changing weather patterns and growing seasons; water shortage; the decay of the physical infrastructure, e.g., decay of roads, bridges; breakdown of the international monetary and trading system; and nuclear warfare. (Author/RM)

The Interior Department's Bureau of Outdoor Recreation is involved in a battle to save Mt. Bigelow in Maine from development. (SK)

Describes technological advances in the reclamation of deserts and arid lands, including control of silt, underground irrigation, desert aquaculture, and desert revegetation. (MLH)

This paper compares briefly, within the regional context of the western United States, several of the more readily adoptable models that are being used or could be used to provide estimates of annual climatic water need appropriate to macroscale applications in introductory geography courses. (Author)

A discrepant event is a happening contrary to our current beliefs. Discrepant events are said to be useful in clarifying concepts. This is one of the interesting features of current theories of constructivism. The story of Mpemba's ice cream is quite well known, but it is the educational aspects of the experiment that are of interest in this…

This "IssueTrak" discusses how saving energy and becoming energy efficient may significantly impact a school district's bottom line as well as simply being the right thing to do. There are many opportunities to conserve that can be implemented at little or no cost. To be successful, a school district must allow employees to gather data, analyze…

This guide highlights 10 conservation activities, adapted from farms and ranches, that can be used in the backyard. Each activity provides background information and instructions on how to complete the activity. The activities concern: (1) tree planting; (2) wildlife habitat; (3) backyard ponds; (4) nutrient management; (5) terracing; (6) water…