We have grown to a high technical level in the data management and mapping fields for an undergraduate program. The projects have been the source of numerous internships and independent studies, and thus, has enhanced those programs within the Geology Department. Example of Possible Municipal Contamination. In the humid areas of the country, rain and snow on a landfill may carry dissolved substances downward, delivering biologic, organic, and inorganic pollutants to the ground water. The degree of hazard depends on the geology of the site, design of the landfill, and character of the wastes.
Most municipal trash is disposed of in such landfills.
Other important sources of municipal contamination include sewage effluent, sludge disposal, and leaky sewers. The opportunity to work with scientists and to be involved in the scientific process provides a unique opportunity for the students to gain experience in the field and in a job setting. The experience greatly supplements the learning experience of the regular classroom and lab activities. We have studied the effects of agricultural practices on stream bank erosion to interpreting the chemistry of ground water to analyzing the impact of well age and construction on the drinking water in the Garvin Brook Watershed. Every effort is made to involve the students in various types of tasks such as field work and lab work.