The TDP mimics earth's natural geological processes, but at an accelerated rate, combining water, temperature and pressure in a contained environment to chemically reform the organic material. Water and organic material are heated under pressure and separated into liquid, solid, and gas streams. Materials that are fed into the machine are converted into high quality oils, gases, carbon, and specialty chemicals, without the usual secondary hazardous waste streams. Chamberlain, along with former CIA Director James Woolsey , DEP Bureau of Land Recycling Chief James Snyder , U.S. Department of Energy Special Assistant Richard Bradshaw , and other officials spoke at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the TDP at the former Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. The USGS will hold its 11th annual holiday model train showcase and science exhibition next week at its Reston headquarters.
Families can also explore science displays about animals, water, minerals and maps.
The 25th Annual USGS Employees' Photo Exhibition will be on display as well. The Center also sells topographic maps, satellite image maps and geologic maps down to the neighborhood scale. As the nation's largest water, earth and biological science, and civilian mapping agency, the USGS works in cooperation with more than 2,000 organizations across the country to provide reliable, impartial scientific information to resource managers, planners, and other customers. This information is gathered in every state by USGS scientists to minimize the loss of life and property from natural disasters, contribute to the sound conservation and the economic and physical development of the nation's natural resources, and enhance the quality of life by monitoring water, biological, energy, and mineral resources. All Rights Reserved.