Acquisition, operation and maintenance of such instrumentation is relatively expensive for a small department albeit useful to a wide range of university researchers. To facilitate maintenance of the equipment and to enhance cooperative, interdisciplinary research, we plan to make Geology-LEG accessible to users outside the Department of Geology. Individual contracts and grants will provide extended funding for analytical operations, equipment maintenance, and equipment replacement. The Department of Geology has permanent and adjunct faculty with complementary research and teaching interests relating to all facets of environmental research. In addition, the department houses a branch office of the Idaho Geological Survey, which is active in hydrogeologic and aqueous geochemical studies.
Departmental affiliates are also active in environmental consulting and public service.
All Department of Geology affiliates have strong publication records and extensive experience in developing competitive research programs.