I moved to WA in the early 1980s just before the authorities had decided to build the Dawsville Channel in the Peel-Harvey Estuary. The data from my PhD work on the effects of excessive seaweed and toxic microalgae on the food chain helped contribute to the final decision. That's one of the great things about science - you actually feel like you can contribute something positive and helpful to decisions. In my line of science work you can also help society combat the deterioration of the environment. I got into water quality management through a job working on a research fishing boat in the San Franscisco Bay delta after my science degree.
Science is more a way of life or a philosophy than a job.
Its an approach to doing things. Working with the environment opens your eyes to the beauty and poetry of the world, and makes the stuff you do for fun much better, no matter if you are into arts or sports. Tom is available for webchats or school visits anytime during National Science Week, so long he has some warning.