Using the European Space Agency's Infrared Space Observatory, Spanish and Italian astronomers have for the first time measured the total amount of water in cold regions of the Milky Way. The findings and implications of this research are discussed here, with emphasis on the fact that water is abundant in these cold regions and exists mostly in the form of ice. Images and videos are included. Full description.

This slide show explores the threats to the Chinook salmon population in the Stillaguamish River watershed of Snohomish County, Washington. Topics include the status of the present population, factors contributing to the decline of the population, habitat needs for healthy salmon, and steps that are necessary for the recovery of the population. Full description.

This article discusses the necessity of locating water ice as astronauts explore the solar system, for oxygen and fuel as well as for drinking. Topics include the possible occurrence of ice at the lunar poles and in comets, and some of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) missions to locate it. Full description.

This lesson introduces the basics about how tornadoes are formed, and where and when they are most likely to occur. It includes a review of the current research on tornadoes and how scientists are trying to predict them. The equipment storm chasers use to study tornadoes is included. Students are asked to write a research plan for further study of tornadoes. Full description.

This is an Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) webpage for kids that deals with the ramifications of pollution, particularly runoff. The site has many components, which include a slide show for kids descibing microinvertebrates, word searches, a game about water quality, experiments that teach about the characteristics of water, resources for middle schoolers and links to the EPA's Water For Kids ... Full description.

Imagine the Universe is dedicated to discussion about the universe, how it is evolving, and the kinds of objects and phenomena it contains. The site is intended for students age 14 and up and is a service of NASA's High-Energy Astrophysics Science Archive Research Center (HEASARC). Contained within this site are explanations of the concepts and principles used to study and understand the universe, ... Full description.

This report describes the results of a major United States Geological Survey (USGS) geologic and oceanographic study of the Gulf of the Farallones, adjacent to the San Francisco Bay region. The first of its kind, the investigation was intended to establish a scientific database for an area of 3,400 square kilometers (1,000 square nautical miles) on the continental shelf for the purpose of evaluating ... Full description.

This report outlines the key elements of a comprehensive and effective national strategy for reducing losses from landslides nationwide and provides an assessment of the status, needs, and associated costs of this strategy. Topics include the rising costs resulting from landslide damage, the role of the federal government in mitigating this hazard, and some features of the new strategy such as partnerships ... Full description.

This report provides an overview of the changes that occurred in lakes in the region around Mount St. Helens following the eruption of May 18, 1980. Topics include water chemistry, sediment supply, and biology. Other factors which are discussed include the proximity of lakes to the volcano, and whether they were situated in the blast zone or simply received ashfall from the eruption. Links to related ... Full description.

This report summarizes the Volcano Hazards Program of the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Topics include its goals and activities, some key accomplishments, and a plan for future operations. There are also discussions of active and potentially active volcanoes in the U.S., the role of the USGS volcano observatories, prediction of eruptions, and potential danger to aircraft from volcanic plumes. ... Full description.