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People usually become interested in studying the environment through a love of the outdoors. There is nothing nicer than wandering through pristine woods or along clear, fast running streams teeming with fish, frogs, and other wildlife... unless it might be sailing across the blue water of a Great Lake under clear, clean skies. But these wonderful places will not exist within our modern industrial society without great understanding, hard work, and dedication.

In order to understand how these beautiful places can be preserved, or restored, we must first understand the laws of nature which create them and maintain them; and then we must learn how our modern society and high standard of living can coexist with nature without polluting and destroying it.

The best lab to study the environment, is in Gannon's backyard.. We're located on the shore of Lake Erie, in one of the few natural great harbors on the Great Lakes. On Presque Isle Bay you will not only study science, math, and engineering to understand the consequences of pollution, and learn to control it, but you also put tools learned in the classroom to practical use.

The Bay became contaminated by many years of industrial and urban activity, but has begun a strong recovery. The once industrial waterfront is now lined with restaurants, marinas, and museums. The water of the Bay supports great fishing, boating, and sailing ... in fact, water sports of all kinds, even ice-fishing in the winter. The forests of Presque Isle and the mainland are occupied by plentiful wildlife and natural areas. The beaches of Presque Isle facing Lake Erie are crowded all summer long with sun bathers and swimmers.

So, Erie presents opportunities to enjoy the benefits of a waterfront resort, while studying the effects of decades-long pollution. We invite you to join us in the rewarding adventure of improving the world in which we live.

Rick Diz
Program Chair