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FL AGSTA FF
FESTIVAL
of SCIENCE:
FIRST
the
25 YEARS
byK evin Schindler
& Bonnie Stevens
FREE ADMISSION INTO EVERY ACTIVITY
Preface
The story of the Flagstaff Festival of
Science is as rich as the subject it cele-
In loving memory of Flagstaff Festival of Science brates. We intend this book to capture the
founding members Robert Fried and Amy LeGere. spirit and significance of this annual event
while recalling the unique circumstances
that make it possible. While a year-by-year
review would be enjoyable for many of us
to read, such an effort is beyond the scope
Acknowledgments of this book. We have, however, included a
KS – Thanks to fellow Festival of Science board yearly listing of themes, keynote speakers
members—past, present and future—for your shared and program titles, host sites, sponsors Contents
passion of Flagstaff’s science, and to the scientists and board members (starting with the first Foreward…4
who gave us a reason to celebrate. Jeff Hall, Bryan board in 1992).
Bates and Mary DeMuth reviewed portions of the The Essence of the
Regarding the keynote presenters—in Flagstaff Festival of
text. As with all things, thanks to my wife Gretchen the early years multiple individuals were Science…5
and children Alicia, Sommer and Lauren for a lifetime sometimes highlighted as featured speak-
of inspiration and love. Celebrating Science
ers. Our list identifies the keynote speaker
Copyright ©2014 in the Skylight City…14
as the top-billed speaker for the year, with a
by Kevin Schindler
presentation usually on the opening Friday Developing
BS – Thank you to all the inquisitive souls who have
ISBN 978-0-692-28603-6 the Festival
wondered beyond the boundaries of our knowledge evening. In 1997, the main speaker was for-
of Science…34
and enriched the Flagstaff Festival of Science. Special ever identified as the Shoemaker Keynote
thanks to Fred for his love and enthusiasm and to all Presenter, in honor of Gene Shoemaker, Science:
Design & Layout
who tragically died earlier that year. The Endless Frontier…41
my children who are making the world a better place:
Andi Kleinman
Logan, Tyler, Ashley, Jacob, Jillian, Paul and Lily. The sponsor listings include the Festival’s The Authors…48
supporters at the following levels: Come-
Printing tary Friend, $250; Planetary Friend, $500;
Aspen Printing, Cosmic Friend, $1,000; Galactic Friend,
Flagstaff, Arizona $2,500; and Supernova Friend, $5,000.
Much of the historical information in this
book was gleaned from the private records
Cover Photos
of board members Steve Smith and Brenda
Horsehead Nebula: Russ Ruggles
San Francisco Peaks: A. Kleinman Strohmeyer. These, along with transcripts
of interviews with Ivo Lucchitta, John and
Ginger Giovale, Jeannette Baker and Gene
Hughes, are now stored in Cline Library’s
This book is made possible by the
Special Collections and Archives at North-
generous support of W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc.
ern Arizona University.
2 3
1990
Science from the Ground Up Foreward The Essence of the
Flagstaff Festival of Science
Antarctica—The Earth’s Barometer
Arctic Explorer Will Steger Apollo astronauts Jack Schmitt and Alan Bean; geo-
Host Participants physicist Larry Soderblom; Space Shuttle astronauts
The Arboretum at Flagstaff
Linda Godwin, Bonnie Dunbar and John Grunsfeld; Anticipating the collision of a fiery
“Science is an adventure of the mind.”
Braeside Observatory
Coconino National Forest
Lowell Observatory
astronomer/comet discoverer Carolyn Shoemaker; pa- comet screaming toward a huge
Mack Corporation
Museum of Northern Arizona — Ivo Lucchitta
Northern Arizona University
U.S. Geological Survey
leontologist David Gillett; National Geographic Emerg- gaseous planet; unearthing and U.S. Geological Survey Planetary Geologist
U.S. Naval Observatory
W.L. Gore & Assoc. ing Explorer Alexandra Cousteau; and now, one of the imagining a new kind of dinosaur
Sponsors
Arizona Daily Sun • Arizona Public Service • Citibank world’s leading researchers in DNA and anthrax, Dr. as it reveals itself bone by bone; or find out, “What happens next?”
Days Inn-Hwy 66 • First Interstate Bank
Flagstaff Public Library • Fred Nackard Wholesale Liquor
Monteverde Design • Northland Printing
Paul Keim! And this is only a partial list of the distin- making human footprints in the impos- Scientists understand why Christo-
Pepsi Cola Co. of Flagstaff • Ralston Purina
Security Pacific Bank • Southern Union Gas guished nationally and internationally known scientists sible stillness of moon dust. Such are pher Columbus had to, needed to, sail.
W.L. Gore & Assoc.
who have appeared here in Flagstaff, Arizona, over the the moments that make hearts pound, It’s a hunger for knowledge that over-
1991 breaths quicken and adrenaline surge. It
past 25 years as keynote speakers for the Flagstaff rides everything
Science at its Peak
Field Trip to the Moon Festival of Science. Their appearance has been a sig- is in these instances that we feel most else—resources,
Apollo Astronaut Jack Schmitt
nificant part of what evolved from a luncheon meeting alive. comfort, ex-
Host Participants
The Arboretum at Flagstaff
Braeside Observatory
of Flagstaff area scientific leaders in October 1989, If scientists were writing the novel haustion, even
Coconino National Forest
Flagstaff Medical Center with a pledge to develop a Festival of Science to be of their lives, there would be long, te- safety. Scien-
Lowell Observatory
Museum of Northern Arizona
Northern Arizona University
held in April 1990, as a part of Northern Arizona Univer- dious passages of training, researching, tists are driv-
U.S. Geological Survey
U.S. Naval Observatory sity’s Honor’s Week activities. Details of the Festival questioning, experimenting, disappoint- en by such
W.L. Gore & Assoc.
Sponsors were to be developed by a working group… and work ment, exasperation, failure and then passion that
Arizona Daily Sun • Coconino Center for the Arts
Coconino National Forest
Economic Develop. Culture & Arts Programs
they did! You will see, as you read this brief history of trying again. But some pages would be they enter into that
Flagstaff Health Management Corp.
Flagstaff Visitors Center • Fred Nackard Wholesale Liquor the Flagstaff Festival of Science, that their work, and page-turners, some chapters would be zone where they forget to eat. They
Museum of Northern Arizona • Northern Arizona University
Northland Printing • The Transition Foundation
W.L. Gore & Assoc. • Warner Cable & The Disney Channel
that of successive groups, has led to the development cliffhangers, and every discovery would lose track of time. Their imagination
Wilson Family/The Wilson Foundation
of one of the finest, if not the finest, festivals in the ignite a new spark, encouraging them to and thoughts of the possibilities put a
nation. As the one whose claim to fame is for having spring, bounce or even a leap in their
called the original group together and for appointing step. They can’t wait for the mysteries
Dr. Jeanette Baker as the university representative, I of their environment to reveal them-
can only say how pleased and proud I am of the Fes- selves. For them, the workday doesn’t
tival, of its accomplishments, of its successes and of end and they don’t want it to. For sci-
its longevity. The cooperation exhibited by Northern entists, every day holds such possibility
Arizona University and its scientific neighbors in bring- that it feels like Christmas Eve.
ing about this world-class Festival attests to the syn-
ergistic relationship that can be developed between
an institution of higher education and its community.
And now, read, enjoy and look forward to the next
25 years!
Dr. Eugene M. Hughes, President Emeritus
Northern Arizona University
Ivo Lucchitta: Earthly Musings–Wayne Ranney’s Geology Blog; Therizinosaur: Victor Leshyk; Alan Bean: NASA
4 5
1992
Our Changing Planet “Every time I dive, I am reminded of archaeologist Howard Carter’s
Planetary Fire and Ice
Geophysicist Larry Soderblom
famous comment at the door to Tutankhamen’s tomb.
Board Members
‘What do you see?’ he was asked. ‘Wonderful things!’ he answered.
Baker, Jeanette; NAU, President — James Delgado, Ph.D.
Smith, Steve; W.L. Gore, Pres. Elect
LeGere, Amy; W.L. Gore, Sec. Maritime Archaeologist
Franz, Otto; Lowell Observatory, Treasurer
Chase, David; David Chase & Co.
Giovale, Ginger; W.L. Gore
Lockwood, Wes; Lowell inquisitive minds, to see what they see, he was using.
Lucchitta, Ivo; USGS
Reed, Patsy; NAU
feel what they feel, have access to what “I couldn’t
Host Participants
The Arboretum at Flagstaff
Braeside Observatory
few people have access to. With the really articulate
Coconino National Forest
Glen Canyon Environmental Studies Festival everyone has the opportunity why space was
Lowell Observatory
Museum of Northern Arizona
Northern Arizona University “The driving force for me is the adventure,” says to hold a front row ticket into the known important to
U.S. Geological Survey
U.S. Naval Observatory
W.L. Gore & Assoc. storm chaser Warren Faidley. “I like it when I don’t and the unknown. me,” he says.
Sponsors
Arizona Daily Sun • Bank of America know what I’m going to see. It’s like opening a pres- Astronaut, test pilot and NASA Sci- “Certainly, it’s
Big Brothers Big Sisters • Clear Aire Radio
Coconino National Forest ent. Odds are you are not going to see something ence Mission Director John Grunsfeld, important for
Economic Develop. Culture & Arts Programs
First Interstate Bank • Flagstaff Visitors Center
KAFF/KMGN • KNAU • KNAZ TV/Channel 2 over the top…but you might. It’s about trying to be Ph.D., says, “It’s that curiosity that improving the
KVNA • Kay McKay • Northern Arizona University
Northland Printing • The Transition Foundation
W.L. Gore & Assoc. • Warner Cable & The Disney Channel in the right place at the right time and being as pre- drives us all, and has driven us since quality of life
Wilson Family/The Wilson Foundation
pared as you can be. It’s that anticipation, like waiting we’ve been human.” on Earth, for
for the fireworks show. You know increasing our
1993
Science and the Future something is going to happen, knowledge, for
The Mystery of Dead Dinosaurs: The
Smoking Gun & The Mexican Connection and then of course, when it helping to develop new technologies
Paleontologist Walter Alvarez
happens, when it’s bigger and for economic reasons. But ultimate-
Board Members
Smith, Steve; W.L. Gore, President than life, it re-energizes ly, I found out, it’s because it’s really fun
Buckingham, Bill; Lowell Observatory, Pres. Elect
Lockwood, Wes; Lowell Observatory, Sec.
you and teaches you and exciting. It’s engaging. Now, I can
Giovale, Ginger; W.L. Gore, Treasurer
Baker, Jeanette; NAU
Chase, David; David Chase & Co. to be more patient say without any hesitation, that I love
Ebert-May, Diane; NAU
Franz, Otto; Lowell
Hager, Lee; FUSD for the next big going into space and working on big
Holmes, Bonnie; U.S. Forest Service
LeGere, Amy; W.L. Gore
Lucchitta, Ivo; USGS
moment.” telescopes. Space is really magical.”
Reed, Patsy; NAU
Trotter, Mary Ellen; AZ Planners & Investors, CIS
Ward, Wes; USGS The Flagstaff Also magical, say scientists, is the
Werhan, Ron; Werhan, Folkers. & Monihan
Host Participants Festival of Science underwater world. Not just what could
The Arboretum at Flagstaff
Braeside Observatory is about such live in the deep, pressure-filled oceans,
Coconino National Forest
Glen Canyon Environmental Studies
Lowell Observatory adventures and Flying around Earth but also what washed-away relics wait
Museum of Northern Arizona
Northern Arizona University the pure joy of dis- at 17,500 miles per hour, Grunsfeld there to reveal their stories. Marine
U.S. Geological Survey
U.S. Naval Observatory
W.L. Gore & Assoc. covery. It’s about was tasked with making delicate adjust- archaeologist James Delgado’s fasci-
Sponsors
Arizona Daily Sun • Arizona Public Service storytelling from ments to the Hubble Space Telescope, nation with this mystery takes him far
The Arts & Science Commission • Bank of America
Big Brothers Big Sisters • City of Flagstaff pioneering spirits one of the most expensive and complex under the waves, diving for shipwrecks
Clear Aire Radio • Coconino National Forest
First Interstate Bank • Flagstaff Visitors Center
KAFF/KMGN • KNAU • KNAZ TV/Channel 2 who dare to push be- telescopes of all time. He admits he had in a dark, foreboding, watery world.
KVNA • KTNN • KRIM • KQST • KAZM
KZGL • Kay McKay • Northern Arizona University
The Transition Foundation • W.L. Gore & Assoc. yond the boundaries of fleeting thoughts about his vulnerability, “Part of the record of humanity’s
Warner Cable & The Disney Channel
Wilson Family/The Wilson Foundation what is known. And it’s fully aware that the only thing separat- achievements, its triumphs and trage-
about being lucky enough ing him from a hostile environment was dies, rests out of sight on the seabed;
to join in, alongside some of a thin parachute-type suit that could the greatest museum of all lies at the
the world’s most brilliant and easily be punctured by the sharp tools bottom of the sea,” he says.
Lightning: National Weather Service; Stellar spire in Eagle Nebula: NASA, ESA, John Grunfeld: NASA; James Delgado next to stern of clipper ship Ambassador: FFoS Archives
and The Hubble Heritage Team (STScI/AURA)
6 7
1994 Delgado, Ph.D., explains the allure of the unknown
The History of Science Times called problems, the voices of critics in
in Flagstaff
like this, “Every time I dive, I am reminded of archae-
her one of “a Biosphere 1 (planet Earth) grew louder.
Astronaut Training in Flagstaff ologist Howard Carter’s famous comment at the door
Space Shuttle Astronaut Linda Godwin new breed of She offers this advice for all who are
Board Members
to Tutankhamen’s tomb. ‘What do you see?’ he was
scientists.” considering embarking on a difficult, but
Buckingham, Bill; Lowell Observatory, President
Holmes, Bonnie; U.S. Forest Service, Pres. Elect
asked. ‘Wonderful things,’ he answered. No matter
Lockwood, Wes; Lowell Observatory, Sec.
Smith, Steve; W.L. Gore, Treasurer how many times I dive, how many shipwrecks I see, Meanwhile, exciting adventure. “Throw stereotypes
Baker, Jeanette; NAU
Chase, David; David Chase & Co.
the awe, the thrill of discovery are always there. I, too, another new to the wind and take opportunities. The
Dean, Janet; MNA
Ebert-May, Diane; NAU
Franz, Otto; Lowell
see wonderful things.” breed, Jane opportunity was put in front of me. In-
Giovale, Ginger; W.L. Gore
Hager, Lee; FUSD Poynter, was stead of thinking how difficult it would
LeGere, Amy; W.L. Gore
Lucchitta, Ivo; USGS As a little girl, growing up in Wynnewood, Oklaho-
Perko, Kathy; Coconino County Schools traveling the be, just go do it.”
Reed, Patsy; NAU ma, Donna Shirley would stare at the stars and wish
Trotter, Mary Ellen; AZ Planners & Investors, CIS
Ward, Wes; USGS world on That attitude is expressed in the ac-
Werhan, Ron; Werhan, Folkers. & Monihan she could be among them. Pondering how she could
Host Participants research ves- tions of 2013 Flagstaff STEM Teacher
The Arboretum at Flagstaff
do this, she started taking flying lessons at age 15. By
Braeside Observatory sels, acquiring of the Year Jillian Worssam. She fills
Coconino National Forest 16 she had her pilot’s license. She understood that ed-
Flagstaff Medical Center
first-hand experience on how to survive her summers with scientific ventures to
Lowell Observatory
Museum of Northern Arizona ucation and dedication could further stretch her wings,
Northern Arizona University with limited resources and tiny spaces. distant oceans, bringing topics like plate
U.S. Geological Survey
U.S. Naval Observatory
so she studied aerospace and engineering. Eventual-
W.L. Gore & Assoc. Along the journey she learned how tectonics and ocean currents to life in
Sponsors
ly, her lifelong quest led her to Mars. At the NASA
to milk and butcher animals and grow the classroom.
Arizona Daily Sun • Arizona Public Service
The Arts & Science Commission • Bank of America Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Shirley headed the team
Bank One • City of Flagstaff • Clear Aire Radio crops. This prepared her for perhaps
Coconino National Forest • First Interstate Bank that created micro-robot Sojourner and landed it suc- “Science is everything, it is the air we
Flagstaff Medical Center • Flagstaff Visitors Center
the greatest adventure of her life as
Gourmet Affair • KAFF/KMGN • KNAU
KNAZ TV/Channel 2 • KVNA • KRIM • KZ61 cessfully on the red planet. breathe, the ink in our pens and the chil-
Northern Arizona University • Peabody Coal
one of the original eight Biosphereans.
W.L. Gore & Assoc.
Back on Earth she’s dren in our arms,” she says. “To know
In 1991, she stepped into the hermeti- more about the science of this planet
1995 been dubbed “Wom-
Envisioning the Future cally sealed Biosphere 2 near Tucson, helps to make me a better educator and
an of the Year” by
Pioneering Space Docking
a three-acre mini world, to find out if person. I do not
Space Shuttle Astronaut Bonnie Dunbar Ms. Magazine.
humans could create a self-contained see rough seas
Board Members The New York
Smith, Steve; W.L. Gore, President
Dean, Janet; MNA, Pres. Elect habitat for themselves and potentially as uncomfortable
Lockwood, Wes; Lowell Observatory, Sec.
Werhan, Ron; Werhan, Folkers. & Monihan, Treasurer
Baker, Jeanette; NAU
colonize the moon or other uninhab- but exhilarating,
Buckingham, Bill; Lowell
Chase, David; David Chase & Co. itable places. This, she says, was the it reminds me
Clark,Roger; MNA
Ebert-May, Diane; NAU
Franz, Otto; Lowell closest thing to living on Mars. of the elemental
Giovale, Ginger; W.L. Gore
Hager, Lee; FUSD
Jacobson, John; Flagstaff Medical Center “Sometimes we need extraordinary nature of life and
LeGere, Amy; W.L. Gore
Lucchitta, Ivo; USGS
Perko, Kathy; Coconino County Schools
experiences to shock our senses alive, I am so glad to
Schroeder, Susan; NAU
Trotter, Mary Ellen; AZ Planners & Investors, CIS
Ward, Wes; USGS
to rip a hole in our well-protected world- be alive. I feel re-
Holmes, Bonnie; Festival Coordinator
Host Participants
view,” she says. born every time I
The Arboretum at Flagstaff
City of Flagstaff Her extraordinary experience included go to sea. There
Coconino National Forest
Flagstaff Medical Center
Glen Canyon Environmental Studies what she calls “an atomical game of are no words
Lowell Observatory
Museum of Northern Arizona
Northern Arizona University
hide and seek” as she and the sev-
“Science is everything, it is the air
U.S. Geological Survey
U.S. Naval Observatory en others searched for seven tons
W.L. Gore & Assoc.
Sponsors of oxygen that disappeared. Anoth- we breathe, the ink in our pens and
Arizona Community Foundation • Arizona Daily Sun
Arizona Public Service • The Arts & Science Commission
Bank of America • Bank One • City of Flagstaff
er obstacle occurred when mites the children in our arms,”
First Interstate Bank • Flagstaff Medical Center
devoured their white potato crop. — Jillian Worssam
KAFF/KMGN • Northern Arizona University
Norwest Bank • Peabody Coal • Pepsi Cola Co. of Flagstaff 2013 Flagstaff STEM Teacher of the Year
Soroptomist International of Flagstaff • W.L. Gore & Assoc.
While trying to solve challenging
Mars: USGS Astrogeology Science Center; Donna Shirley: NASA/JPL/Caltech Jane Poynter: FFoS Archives; Jillian Worssam: FFoS Archives
8 9
1996 in any language I know to put my feelings of excite- new specimen the tug of scientific inquiry as a child.
Discover Science
Treasures of the Rain Forest
ment, exhilaration, wonder and awe into perspective. has its own “I still remember it like it happened
Ethnobotanist Mark Plotkin
It is a feeling inside that causes my heart to pump dif- story to tell.” yesterday,” he recalls. “My parents had
Board Members
Dean, Janet; Mountain Living , President ferently and at times my eyes to water, because I am Creating bought me a small two-inch refractor
Buckingham, Bill; Lowell Observatory, Pres. Elect
Yoder, Steve; The Arboretum at Flagstaff, Sec.
Smith, Steve; W.L. Gore, Treasurer
just so overwhelmed about the amazingness of our stories to tell, when I was about 10 years old. It was
Baker, Jeanette; NAU
Clark,Roger; MNA world. Every breath is new and each sight a wonder based on sci- on a very wobbly tripod, and the only
Ebert-May, Diane; NAU
Giovale, Ginger; W.L. Gore
Hager, Lee; FUSD unto itself. From mud to waves, to ice to puffins, each ence, is the eyepiece supplied yielded a rather high
Hinsley, Curtis; NAU
Jacobson, John; Flagstaff Medical Center
LeGere, Amy; W.L. Gore
image is wonderfully stored in my brain and when I work of New magnification… I was getting very
Luginbuhl, Chris; USNO
Perez, Tony; National Weather Service
Perko, Kathy; Coconino County Schools
think about them, I realize there is always a smile on York Times frustrated since I didn’t know what to
Poturalski, Raquel; Coco. National Forest
Priest, Sue; USGS my face.” best-selling look for. However, one evening I aimed
Schroeder, Susan; NAU
Trotter, Mary Ellen; AZ Planners & Investors, CIS
Ward, Wes; USGS Smiling with the discovery of a subspecies of dino- novelist Rich- at a bright ‘star,’ managed to get it in
Wegner, David; Glen Canyon Environ. Studies
Werhan, Ron; Werhan, Folkers. & Monihan
Holmes, Bonnie; Festival Coordinator saur, paleontologist David Gillette, Ph.D., meticulously ard Preston, the eyepiece, and lo and behold there
Host Participants
scans the Southwest for fossils. “I am a paleontologist Ph.D. In his ef- was Saturn. It was magnificent. I was
The Arboretum at Flagstaff
Arizona Public Service
Association of Women Geoscientists because I want to learn about the evolution of life on fort to carefully hooked from then on, and Saturn has
Audubon Society
City of Flagstaff
Earth and the evolution of the Earth itself,” he says. research his topics, he chases down always been my favorite object through
Coconino Community College
Coconino National Forest
Colorado Plateau Research Station information. While writing his book, any eyepiece.”
Flagstaff Medical Center That desire to learn led him to find an odd, big-bel-
Glen Canyon Environmental Studies The Dead Zone, Preston donned a bio-
Kachina Wetlands
Lowell Observatory lied, long-tailed creature with claws, the Therizinosaur. When asked how
Museum of Northern Arizona medical suit to get close to, and better
National Weather Service it felt to walk on the
The Nature Conservancy
understand, deadly germs.
Northern Arizona University
U.S. Geological Survey moon, Apollo 12 as-
U.S. Naval Observatory
W.L. Gore & Assoc. “When I was in college, I became tronaut Alan Bean
Sponsors
Arizona Daily Sun • Arizona Public Service
hungry to explore the limits of human says, “It’s that feel-
The Arts & Science Commission • Aspey, Watkins & Diesel
Bank of America • Bank One • City of Flagstaff knowledge. Today, when I write about ing of excitement a
Clear Aire Radio • Coconino County Schools
Coconino National Forest • Flagstaff Exchange Club
something, I try to capture the feeling
Flagstaff Live! • Flagstaff Medical Center
Flagstaff Unified School District • Kwik Kopy
person experiences
Little America • Mountain Living • Nordstrom & Assoc. of wonder that comes from opening
Northern Arizona University • Norwest Bank
Peabody Coal • Pepsi Cola Co. of Flagstaff
only when his life’s
Residence Inn by Marriott the doors of a mystery. Writing, as
Soroptomist International of Flagstaff • SWCA Inc. vision becomes
Target Stores • Vestor Corp./BF Foundation
with science, is about seeing the world
W.L. Gore & Assoc. • Wells Fargo
a reality. It’s the
differently and slightly more clear than
feeling one has when years of intense
anyone has ever seen it before.”
dedication and training finally make your
The desire to see the world or other most cherished dream come true.”
“Every time we find a new fossil bone we are excit-
worlds more clearly can be as strong as
ed, not just me but everyone in the field crew. Is it a Bean, the fourth man to walk on the
a gravitational pull. Flagstaff astronomer
dinosaur, a plesiosaur, a turtle, or a mosasaur? Will the moon, credits the scientists of the
Marc Murison, Ph.D., felt
bones be complete? Will there be other bones, too? U.S. Geological Survey for facilitating
Will we find the head and jaws and teeth? Will it be a an important learning period in his life
complete skeleton? Will it be a species that is already that prepared him for his historic lunar
known or a species new to science? This excitement mission. “Flagstaff was the beginning
of discovery is what we live for when we are doing of my journey into learning and under-
fieldwork,” says Gillette. “Later, after lots of field time standing the world of geology. I now
and lab time, we can determine if what we have found love geology, thanks to these early ex-
is indeed new to science, but no matter if it’s not. Every periences in Flagstaff.”
Therizonosaur: Museum of Northern Arizona and David Gillette Richard Preston: FFoS Archives; Saturn: NASA and The Hubble Heritage Team (STScI/AURA); Alan Bean: FFoS archive
10 11
1997 For many, the fascinating been recognized around the world as Festival of Science sets our city apart as
Science the
Ultimate Voyage realm of science continues to a great workplace. I am tremendously one that truly values science, technol-
The 21st Century expand in Flagstaff. SenesTech proud of the associates’ accomplish- ogy and learning. Through the Festival,
Futurist B. Gentry Lee
Board Members
CEO Loretta Mayer, Ph.D., has ments, enthusiasm and creativity, as we celebrate and seek to continue our
Buckingham, Bill; Lowell Observatory, President
Wegner, David; Glen Canyon Environmental Studies,
built a biotechnology company I know my parents would be. Today, I heritage as a community of thinkers and
Pres. Elect
Dean, Janet; Mountain Living , Sec. specializing in rodent control around can say with confidence that we have dreamers, always striving to extend our
Smith, Steve; W.L. Gore, Treasurer
Baker, Jeanette; NAU
Clark,Roger; MNA the world. “You can’t swing a shovel in Flagstaff with- surpassed even my parents’ wildest knowledge and understanding of the
Ebert-May, Diane; NAU
Giovale, Ginger; W.L. Gore
Hager, Lee; FUSD
out hitting a biologist or ecologist or young people dreams.” world around us.”
Hinsley, Curtis; NAU
Jacobson, John; Flagstaff Medical Center who want to change the world,” she says. Moving beyond what can be imagined
LeGere, Amy; W.L. Gore
Luginbuhl, Chris; USNO
In a Sept. 25, 2009 editorial, the
Perez, Tony; National Weather Service And changing the world can start in a basement, as is often the reward for scientific pursuit.
Perko, Kathy; Coconino County Schools Arizona Daily Sun prepared readers for
Poturalski, Raquel; Coco. National Forest
was the case with W. L. Gore & Associates. With five For the Christopher Columbuses of
Priest, Sue; USGS
Schroeder, Susan; NAU the Festival. “Science and discovery
Trotter, Mary Ellen; AZ Planners & Investors, CIS
children to support, Bill and Vieve Gore launched a our time, and all those with a zest for
Yoder, Steve; The Arboretum at FlagstaffHolmes, Bonnie; produce as many questions as they help
Festival Coordinator
business out of their home by manufacturing cables. knowledge, exploring our world fulfills
Host Participants answer, but it’s that desire to under-
The Arboretum at Flagstaff
Bill, a chemist, kept exploring new uses for the syn- a purpose of living, along with some
Arizona Public Service
City of Flagstaff stand, that curiosity and wonderment at
Coconino National Forest thetic material polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). As a very real benefits in health, technology
Flagstaff Medical Center how the world works and how we can
Flagstaff Unified School District
Kachina Wetlands result, the company expanded to become a multi-bil- and quality of life. And then there’s the
Lowell Observatory make it work better that we celebrate
Museum of Northern Arizona
lion dollar global leader in the fabrics, medical, indus- gratitude that comes with having the op-
National Weather Service
in Flagstaff— not just this coming week
Northern Arizona University
Pulliam Airport trial and electronic products markets. portunity to gain new insight. Astronaut
U.S. Geological Survey
U.S. Naval Observatory Bean expresses it this way, “On the but every day of the year.”
W.L. Gore & Assoc.
Their son, Bob
Sponsors moon, everything is gray. And then you Thus, the Flagstaff Festival of Science
Arizona Daily Sun • Arizona Public Service Gore, Ph.D., has
The Arts & Science Commission • Bank of America realize, we live in the Garden of Eden.” is a celebration of science and also of
Bank One • City of Flagstaff • Clear Aire Radio
Coconino National Forest • Flagstaff Exchange Club been the chairman of
Flagstaff Live! • Flagstaff Medical Center • Kwik Kopy
That spirit of discovery is what is cele- the scientists who lead the way, daring
Mountain Living • Nature Conservancy the company’s board
Nordstrom & Assoc. • Northern Arizona University
Norwest Bank • Pasta Works • Paula Jansen Photography brated and shared through the Flagstaff to wonder, chasing after discovery and
Peabody Coal • Pepsi Cola Co. of Flagstaff of directors since
Residence Inn by Marriott
Festival of Science. Lowell Observatory inspiring greatness. The essence of the
Soroptomist International of Flagstaff • SWCA Inc.
Target Stores • Tyrell Chevrolet/Tyrell-Marxen Chevrolet 1986. “We have
Vestor Corp./BF Foundation • W.L. Gore & Assoc. Director Emeritus Robert Millis, Ph.D., Festival is that unquenchable thirst for,
Wells Fargo created thousands
describes it like this, “The Flagstaff “What happens next?”
of valuable, life-en-
hancing products,
achieved enviable
growth and have
Mouse: A. Kleinman; Bill & Vieve Gore, 1970: W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc.; Lowell Observatory: FFoS Archives
12 Bob Gore Stretching ePTFE, 1969: W.L. Gore & Associates Inc. 13
1998
Forces at Work Celebrating Science This chapter will address these two
factors, focusing first on the history of
in the Skylight City
Storm Into Science
Storm Chaser Warren Faidley scientific discovery in the area and the
Board Members
Wegner, David; Glen Canyon Environ. Studies, We now understand the essence of the Festival of extraordinary natural resources that
President
Yoder, Steve; The Arboretum at Flagstaff, President
Science, but why Flagstaff? Why does this commu- continue to seize the attention of scien-
“You can’t get a cup of coffee in
Elect
Buckingham, Bill; Lowell Observatory, Sec.
Smith, Steve; W.L. Gore, Treasurer nity throw back its shoulders, puff up its chest, and tists. Supplementing this is a look at the
Baker, Jeanette; NAU
Brown, Mary; Christensen School community’s longstanding custom of Flagstaff without bumping into
openly celebrate science? Communities across the
Clark, Roger; MNA
Ebert-May; Diane; NAU
celebrating its scientific heritage.
a scientist.”
Hager, Lee; FUSD
Hinsley, Curtis; NAU
globe hold fairs, festivals and other celebrations to — Ira Flatow
Jacobson, John; Flagstaff Medical Center
Laird, Mike; Christensen School honor some aspect of their cultures, from significant Scientific exploration often involves a Host of NPR’s ScienceFriday
Luginbuhl, Chris; USNO
Perez, Tony; National Weather Service
Poturalski, Raquel; Coco. National Forest historical events and people to local arts and home maturation process consisting of three
Priest, Sue; USGS
“permanent” ongoing research. The
Schroeder, Susan; NAU
Trotter, Mary Ellen; AZ Planners & Investors, CIS
brews. But why, for 25 years and counting, has Flag- stages, including 1) basic surveys, 2)
Watt, Bill; AZ Game & Fish Dept. exploration of Flagstaff’s scientific
Holmes, Bonnie; Festival Coordinator staff boasted such a celebration that pays homage to focused, longer-termed studies and 3)
Host Participants resources and related development of
The Arboretum at Flagstaff the pursuit of scientific discovery and understanding?
City of Flagstaff
Coconino National Forest
the community as a center for scientific
Flagstaff Medical Center One obvious reason relates to Flagstaff’s incredible
Flagstaff City - Coconino Public Library study follows this pattern: the area’s
Flagstaff Unified School District
breadth and diversity of natural resources, a bounty
Kachina Wetlands
Lowell Observatory scientific resources were first truly
Museum of Northern Arizona of riches that has inspired observations and scientif-
National Park Service recognized by 19th century expeditions
National Weather Service
Northern Arizona University ic study for nearly as long as people have rambled
U.S. Geological Survey looking for transportation routes. Later
U.S. Naval Observatory
across the mountains, valleys and plains of northern
W.L. Gore & Assoc.
expeditions came to the area for target-
Sponsors Arizona. A second reason involves the passionate
Arizona Daily Sun • Arizona Public Service ed scientific observations, ultimately
The Arts & Science Commission • BF Foundation
support of these scientific pursuits by a curious com-
Babbitt Brothers Trading Co. • Bank of America
Bank One • City of Flagstaff • Clear Aire Radio setting the stage for the establishment
Coconino National Forest • Flagstaff Exchange Club munity. Since Flagstaff’s early days, residents have
Flagstaff Live! • Flags. Medical Center
McAllister, Frances • Mountain Living
of permanent scientific facilities.
National Bank of Arizona • Nordstrom & Assoc. openly celebrated scientists and their research, em-
Northern Arizona University • Norwest Bank
Paula Jansen Photography • Peabody Coal
Pepsi Cola Co. of Flagstaff • Ralston Purina bracing opportunities to engage with these scholars
Residence Inn by Marriott
Soroptomist International of Flagstaff • SWCA Inc.
Tyrell Chevrolet/Tyrell-Marxen Chevrolet
while establishing a scientific consciousness for the
U.S. Forest Service • Vestor Corp./BF Foundation
W.L. Gore & Assoc. community.
Penstemon: The Arboretum at Flagstaff Ira Flatow: FFoS Archive; Richard Hofstetter, FFoS Archives;
14 Night Sky Over Flagstaff, © 2008 Dan & Cindy Duriscoe, FDSC, Lowell Observatory, USNO 15
1999
Science Rocks Early Surveys Hint at Scientific of explorers called scientists. supporting goals of this mission was
to learn about the natural history of the
Managing Martians
Aerospace Engineer Donna Shirley Importance of Northern Arizona Three centuries after Cardenas’s party
area. Samuel Woodhouse, M.D. was
saw the south rim of
Board Members
Yoder, Steve; The Arboretum at Flagstaff, President The first local observations with scientific elements hired to serve as expedition naturalist,
Luginbuhl, Chris; USNO, Pres. Elect
Poturalski, Raquel; Coconino National Forest, Sec.
Laird, Mike; Christensen School, Treasurer
date back centuries. At some archaeological sites, describing plants, rocks, animals and
Baker, Jeanette; NAU
Brown, Mary; Christensen School certain ancient structures might have been used as geography.
Clark, Roger; MNA
Hager, Lee; FUSD
Jacobson, John; Flagstaff Medical Center calendars for recording astronomical phenomena, Leaving from Santa Fe on Sept. 24 and
Olson, Paul; Norwest Bank
Pearce, SuZan; Flagstaff Area Nat. Monuments
Priest, Sue; USGS
information that the residents could then use to plan following the Zuni River to the Little Col-
Schindler, Kevin; Lowell Observatory
Schroeder, Susan; NAU their lives. An example is Crack-in-Rock, located orado, the party of 50 halted on day 15
Smith, Steve; W.L. Gore
Staudenmaier, Mike; National Weather Service
Strohmeyer, Brenda; Rocky Mountain Research Station
within the confines of modern-day Wupatki National as they arrived at a steep waterfall with
Watt, Bill; AZ Game & Fish Dept.
Holmes, Bonnie; Festival Coordinator Monument. Crack-in-Rock features a wall with three a vertical drop exceeding that of Niagara
Host Participants
The Arboretum at Flagstaff small windows that archaeologist Bryan Bates of Falls. This feature would become known
Arizona Theatre Works
City of Flagstaff
Coconino National Forest
Coconino Community College believes might have as Grand Falls or, to some locals,
Flagstaff Medical Center
Flagstaff City - Coconino Public Library been used to observe and mark sunrise at different the Grand Canyon, detailed ex- Chocolate Falls because of its
Flagstaff Unified School District
Kachina Wetlands
Lowell Observatory seasons. The sun passed through the middle window, ploration of northern Arizona muddy brown water. While
Museum of Northern Arizona
National Park Service
National Weather Service
for instance, at the midpoint of spring, known as the began. In 1848, Mexico this discovery essentially
Northern Arizona University
U.S. Geological Survey “May cross-quarters.” This signaled the time to plant had transferred control of extinguished any thoughts
U.S. Naval Observatory
W.L. Gore & Assoc.
crops, as the crippling frosts were likely done for the a wide section of land to of using the waterway for
Sponsors
Arizona Daily Sun • Arizona Public Service season. In August, the same window marks the ad- the United States. The regular transportation, lat-
The Arts & Science Commission • Aspen Printing
BF Foundation • Bank One • Citizens Arizona Gas
City of Flagstaff • Coconino Federal Credit Union vent of shorter days, indicating the coming fall season. so-called Mexico Cession er generations of explorers
Coconino National Forest • Cool 96.7
The Door Foundation • Flagstaff Live!
Flagstaff Medical Center • Imperial Lithography While such observations may not be purely scientif- included the present-day would realize a different
KAFF/KMGN • KFLX • KOLT/Kool/The Eagle • KNAU
KNAZ TV/Channel 2 • KVNA • McAllister, Frances
Michael’s Arts & Crafts • Mountain Living ic in the modern sense, they do indicate a desire by states of California, Nevada, kind of value of the river and
National Bank of Arizona • Nordstrom & Assoc.
Northern Arizona University • Norwest Bank
Paula Jansen Photography • Pepsi Cola Co. of Flagstaff
the ancients to observe and understand the universe Utah and most of Arizona, surrounding span of cinder
Ralston Purina • Radisson Woodlands Hotel
Raymond Educational Foundation around them. Furthermore, these celestial surveys set along with smaller portions of cones and volcanic rock—sci-
Soroptomist International of Flagstaff • Stern, Harold
Super Services • Target Stores • W.L. Gore & Assoc.
the scene for northern Arizona’s ultimate place as a other states such as New Mexico. entific. Geologists would study these
center of astronomical study. The geography and natural resources features to
The first non-Natives to see northern Arizona were of these lands were largely unknown learn about
likely members of a party to Anglos so U.S. government officials the inner
led by Garcia Lopez de planned several expeditions to learn workings of
Cardenas that broke off about the area, primarily for establishing Earth while
from the main Coronado transportation routes. Several of these a s tro n au t s ,
expedition of 1540. While campaigns traveled through northern the explor-
these Spaniards never did Arizona and ncountered the area’s nat- ers of other
find the riches of the fabled ural resources. w o r l d s ,
Seven Cities of Cibola for In 1851 Captain Lorenzo Sitgreaves of would train
which they searched, they the U.S. Army’s Corps of Topographi- here in
did locate a natural treasure cal Engineers led the first expedition prep aration
that would itself become through the area, exploring the Zuni for their voy-
legendary and, centuries and Colorado rivers in hopes of finding ages to the
later, welcome a new brand a water route to California. One of the moon.
Pueblo Window, Wupatki National Monument: FFoS Archives Grand Canyon: A. Kleinman; Samuel Woodhouse: Marian S. Carson Collection, Library of Congress;
16 Grand Falls: Jeffrey B. Plescia 17
2000 Following the advice of expedition guide Antoine
Huge Impacts
Huge Impacts
Leroux, the expedition left the river at Grand Falls and
Paleontologist Jack Horner headed west toward the San Francisco Peaks with the
Board Members
Luginbuhl, Chris; USNO, President
idea of meeting up with the Colorado River near the
Schindler, Kevin; Lowell Observatory, Pres. Elect
Poturalski, Raquel; Coconino National Forest, Sec. Grand Canyon and then following its course. On the
Laird, Mike; Christensen School, Treasurer
Baker, Jeanette; NAU
Brown, Mary; Christensen School way to the Peaks the expedition came across the ruins
Clark, Roger; MNA
Fasse, Chuck; Flagstaff Medical Center Foundation
Hager, Lee; FUSD
at Wupatki, marking the first Euro-American record of
Olson, Paul; Norwest Bank
Pearce, SuZan; Flagstaff Area Nat. Monuments the site. Several days later, the expedition stopped at
Perez, Tony; National Weather Service
Priest, Sue; USGS
Schroeder, Susan; NAU a spring on the west side of the Peaks. Later named
Smith, Steve; W.L. Gore
Staudenmaier, Mike; National Weather Service
Strohmeyer, Brenda; Rocky Mountain Research Station
Leroux Spring, it became a critical water source for
Thompson, Dave; Coconino High School
Watt, Bill; AZ Game & Fish Dept. future travelers and, eventually, residents. Just west
Yoder, Steve; The Arboretum at Flagstaff
Holmes, Bonnie; Festival Coordinator
of the spring was a stretch of land later called Fort
Host Participants
The Arboretum at Flagstaff
City of Flagstaff
Valley, the future site of the U.S. Forest Service’s first
Coconino Center for the Arts
Coconino National Forest research facility.
Flagstaff Medical Center
Flagstaff City - Coconino Public Library
Kaibab National Forest In his role as expedition naturalist, Woodhouse
Lowell Observatory
Museum of Northern Arizona
National Park Service became the first Anglo to carry out extensive scien- dramatically increased. Most interested In Arizona, the party discovered re-
Northern Arizona University
U.S. Geological Survey tific observations and collections in the area, estab- parties realized that a railroad would be markable samples of petrified wood
U.S. Naval Observatory
W.L. Gore & Assoc.
lishing the critical groundwork for later generations the best option, so Congress appropriat- in an area later designated as Petrified
Sponsors
Arizona Daily Sun • Arizona Public Service of explorers and scientists. Due to the massive flow ed money to undertake several surveys Forest National Monument. Future
The Arts & Science Commission • City of Flagstaff
Coconino National Forest • Ecological Restoration Institute
Flagstaff Live! • Flagstaff Medical Center • KAFF/KMGN of immigrants heading to California in response to to determine the best route. generations of scientists would exhaus-
KFLX • KOLT/Kool/The Eagle • KNAU • KVNA
Mountain Living • Nordstrom & Assoc.
Northern Arizona University • Pepsi Cola Co. of Flagstaff the 1848 discovery of gold at Sutter’s Mill, the need One of these surveys traveled along tively study these world-famous depos-
Personal Services Printing • Prime Equipment Sales & Rental
R & A Import Auto Parts & Repair of Flagstaff for a reliable transportation route to the west coast the 35th parallel during 1853-1854 and its, which included a rich sampling of
Rocky Mountain Research Station
Soroptomist International of Flagstaff • Super Services
Target Stores • Tyrell Chevrolet/Tyrell-Marxen Chevrolet was led by Lieutenant Amiel Weeks dinosaur and other fossils. Additional
U.S. Forest Service • Visible Difference
W.L. Gore & Assoc. • Wells Fargo
Whipple. The core of the expedition left expedition stops included a chasm that
Fort Smith, Ark., on July 14, 1853. This Whipple named Canyon Diablo, the
group was later joined by Lieutenant Jo- archaeological site Cosnino Caves and
seph Christmas Ives, guide Antoine Le- nearby Turkey Tanks, a site that would
roux and others in Albuquerque on their serve as a reliable water stop for future
way to northern Arizona and California. travelers through the area. Leroux Spring
later served as a base for the expedition
The many scientists—approximately
as small groups split off to explore the
17—of the Whipple expedition made
area, including the land encompassing
widespread collections and observa-
tions, significantly
adding to the sum
knowledge of the
area’s natural history.
Botanist John Bige-
low, for example, col-
lected more than 60
new species of plants.
Grand Falls: Baldwin Mollhausen Grand Falls: Baldwin Mollhausen; Petrified Forest National Park: FFoS Archives
18 192001 present-day Museum of Northern Arizona. Little could development of science in northern nature that the Colorado River along the
Extreme Science
Microbes, Meteorites and Mutants: The
these explorers know that this section of land would Arizona, as it laid the groundwork for greater portion of its lonely and majes-
Real Science Behind the X-Files
X-Files Consultant/Plant Virologist Anne Simon
one day serve as home to a museum dedicated to the the arrival of the railroad that led to the tic way, shall be forever unvisited and
Board Members study and preservation of the local natural history and founding of Flagstaff in 1882. undisturbed.”
Schindler, Kevin; Lowell Observatory, President
Brown, Mary; Christensen School, Pres. Elect culture that they were then exploring. Another survey expedition, in 1857- The era of transportation surveys
Strohmeyer, Brenda; Rocky Mountain Research
Station, Sec.
Laird, Mike; Christensen School, Treasurer
Baker, Jeanette; NAU
The surveys by Whipple and others indicated several 1858, that did incorporate strong ele- wound down in the late 1860s. In 1867-
Capek, Larry; Flagstaff Medical Center
Clark, Roger; MNA feasible railroad routes, but politicians couldn’t agree ments of science began aboard a steam- 1868 William Jackson Palmer led an
Ennenga, Winnie; NAU
Fasse, Chuck; Flagstaff Medical Center Foundation
Luginbuhl, Chris; USNO
on one and decided to perform additional surveys. boat that headed up the Colorado River expedition through northern Arizona,
Priest, Sue; USGS
Smith, Steve; W.L. Gore
Staudenmaier, Mike; National Weather Service
In the meantime, they authorized a wagon road that to explore that body of water’s navigabil- following the path of Whipple and Beale
Strohman, Mitch; FUSD
Watt, Bill; AZ Game & Fish Dept. could temporarily serve travelers and hired Edward ity for a potential trade route. Whipple’s and demonstrating once and for all the
Yoder, Steve; The Arboretum at Flagstaff
Holmes-Stevens, Bonnie; Festival Coordinator
Fitzgerald Beale to head the project. Beale, known for former assistant Ives took charge of the viability of a 35th parallel route for the
Host Participants
The Arboretum at Flagstaff contributing to the gold rush by carrying the first Cali- Colorado Exploring Expedition, known railroad. In his 1869 published report of
City of Flagstaff
Coconino Center for the Arts
Coconino National Forest fornia gold samples across the country and delivering today as the Ives Expedition, and was this excursion, Palmer not only named
Flagstaff Medical Center
Flagstaff City - Coconino Public Library
Lowell Observatory
them to the federal government, brought in more than joined by the eminent geologist and phy- Agassiz Peak but also used the term
Meteor Crater
Museum of Northern Arizona 50 men and, famously, dozens of camels to build the sician John Strong Newberry,. “Grand Cañon” in print for the first time.
Northern Arizona University
U.S. Geological Survey
U.S. Naval Observatory
road. The journey followed the Colora-
W.L. Gore & Assoc.
Sponsors Beginning in 1857, do River up to the end of the lower
Arizona Central Credit Union • Arizona Daily Sun
Arizona Public Service • The Arts & Science Commission
Bookmans • Citizens Arizona Gas • City of Flagstaff
Beale and crew Grand Canyon, where some of
Coconino County • Coconino National Forest
Ecological Restoration Institute • Flagstaff Live! traveled back and the party members headed back
Flagstaff Medical Center • Joy Cone • KAFF/KMGN
KFLX • KOLT/Kool/The Eagle • KNAU • KNAZ TV/Channel 2
KVNA • McAllister, Frances • Mountain Living
forth several downriver and the rest ventured
Nordstrom & Assoc. • Northern Arizona University
Pepsi Cola Co. of Flagstaff • Personal Services Printing times con- overland toward eastern Arizona.
Prime Equipment Sales & Rental
R & A Import Auto Parts & Repair of Flagstaff
Rocky Mountain Research Station • Salce, Kenneth & Lynn structing and The latter group approached the
Schindler, Kevin & Gretchen
Soroptomist International of Flagstaff • Target Stores
Tyrell Chevrolet/Tyrell-Marxen Chevrolet
improving Grand Canyon near Diamond
U.S. Forest Service • W.L. Gore & Assoc. • Wells Fargo
the road, Creek and became the first
following known non-Native Americans to
a path that walk in the bottom of the Canyon.
p a s s e d Newberry was the first geologist
through to study the Grand Canyon and
Flagst af f. his geological reports opened the
Often fol- door to future observations by
lowing the the likes of John Wesley Powell
trail created by and others, all despite the miser-
Whipple, Beale’s able assessment by of Ives, who
route passed by famously wrote, “It [the Grand
Cosnino Caves and Canyon] looks like the Gates of
Turkey Tanks to Leroux Hell. The region… is, of course, al-
Spring and through modern-day together valueless. Ours has been
Flagstaff on its way westward to California. the first and will undoubtedly be
While science was not part of Beale’s efforts, the last, party of whites to visit
the road he built had a long-lasting impact on the the locality. It seems intended by
Edward Fitzgerald Beale: U.S. Air Force Grand Canyon: Bob Fain
20 212002
Stellar Science
Scientists Target Northern Dutton studied the Grand Canyon and Based on this two-month-long study,
in 1882 published a seminal report about Merriam published the first compre-
Stellar Science—
A Crash Course in Astronomy Arizona for Research its geology. Gilbert, who in 1873 named hensive report of the animal and plant
Astronomer/Comet Discoverer Carolyn
Shoemaker
Board Members
The year after Palmer completed his survey, John Humphreys Peak after topographical life of the area while introducing his
Brown, Mary; Christensen School, President
Smith, Steve; W.L. Gore, Pres. Elect Wesley Powell heralded in the middle era of explo- engineer Andrew Atkinson Humphreys, now-famous life zone scheme. This
Strohmeyer, Brenda; Rocky Mountain Research
Station, Sec.
Laird, Mike; Christensen School, Treasurer ration in northern Arizona, a time that saw scientific is remembered in northern Arizona for groundbreaking work revealed northern
Baker, Jeanette; NAU
Blake, Julie; Ecological Restoration Institute
Butterfield, Lanah; Meteor Crater
studies focused on specific natural resources. In 1869, his research of Meteor Crater. Among Arizona’s vast array of environmental
Capek, Larry; Flagstaff Medical Center
Ennenga, Winnie; NAU Powell led the first expedition down the Colorado Riv- Gilbert’s many geological interests were and agricultural resources, leading to the
Farretta, Kathy; Riordan Mansion, MNA
Luginbuhl, Chris; USNO
Malis-Clark, Karen; Coconino National Forest er and through the Grand Canyon, a three-month-long the origins of craters, both terrestrial eventual establishment of facilities such
Priest, Sue; USGS
Schindler, Kevin; Lowell Observatory
Staudenmaier, Mike; National Weather Service
excursion that unveiled the vast scientific potential of and lunar. In 1891, he spent two weeks as the nation’s first forest experimental
Strohman, Mitch; FUSD
Wilcox, David; MNA this geological paradise. at the northern Arizona crater then station and a high-altitude horticultural
Yoder, Steve; The Arboretum at Flagstaff
Stevens, Bonnie; Festival Coordinator
Powell returned to northern Arizona numerous known as “Coon Butte”, surveying its research center now known as The Ar-
Host Participants
The Arboretum at Flagstaff
Arizona Snowbowl times, revisiting the Grand Canyon, exploring other topography and magnetism. Despite boretum at Flagstaff.
Arizona State Parks
City of Flagstaff geological features in northern Arizona, documenting some evidence indicating the crater had In Merriam’s 1890 paper, he acknowl-
Coconino National Forest
Flagstaff Medical Center
Flagstaff City - Coconino Public Library the area’s native cultures and studying regional water been formed by the impact of a rock edged the assistance of those ever-pres-
Lowell Observatory
Meteor Crater
Museum of Northern Arizona resources. While in Flagstaff, he sometimes stayed from space, Gilbert nonetheless de- ent community builders, the Riordan
Northern Arizona University
U.S. Geological Survey with the Riordan brothers, who owned the area’s larg- clared a volcanic origin. Three quarters brothers. They would soon welcome
U.S. Naval Observatory
Willow Bend Environmental Education Center
W.L. Gore & Assoc. est lumber mill. The Riordans were prominent citizens of a century would pass before another another scientist who would forever
Sponsors
Arizona Central Credit Union • Arizona Daily Sun
who often hosted visiting scientists, realizing the val- geologist interested in impacts, Eugene change the landscape of Flagstaff by
Arizona Public Service • Arizona State Parks
The Arts & Science Commission • Aspen Printing ue of science as a component of Flagstaff’s emerging Merle Shoemaker, would conclusively establishing the town’s first permanent
The Barringer Crater Company • Citizens Arizona Gas
City of Flagstaff • Clear Aire Radio • Coconino County
Coconino National Forest • Ecological Restoration Institute community. prove that Meteor Crater had, in fact, scientific institution.
Flagstaff Live! • Flagstaff Medical Center • Joy Cone
KAFF/KMGN • KFLX • KOLT/Kool/The Eagle • KNAU
KNAZ TV/Channel • McAllister, Frances Powell’s impact on the development of science in been caused by an extraterrestrial
Meteor Crater Enterprises • Mountain Living
Nordstrom & Assoc. • Northern Arizona University
northern Arizona was profound. He studied and named collision.
Northern Arizona University Centennial Forest
Northern Arizona University School of Forestry
Pepsi Cola Co. of Flagstaff
Rocky Mountain Research Station • Sunny 97
many geological features in the area, including Sunset The early expeditions to northern
Super Services • Target Stores
Tyrell Chevrolet/Tyrell-Marxen Chevrolet Mountain (later modified to Sunset Crater), and investi- Arizona had revealed quite a diver-
U.S. Forest Service • W.L. Gore & Assoc.
gated the limited water resources of the region, warn- sity of geographical regions, often
ing government officials about the effect this paucity harboring distinct plant and animal
would have on America’s westward expansion. He life. This caught the attention of Clin-
performed many of these ton Hart Merriam, Ph.D., a naturalist
efforts while serving as and the first director of the Division
the second director of the of Economic Ornithology and Mam-
U.S. Geological Survey, malogy, a predecessor of the U.S.
an organization that would Fish and Wildlife Service. In 1889,
establish a Flagstaff station Merriam led a biological survey to
a century later and build on northern Arizona in order to study
Powell’s early research. the succession of climate zones and
Powell also laid the ground- corresponding life, ranging from the
work for other geologists depths of the Grand Canyon and
such as Clarence Dutton deserts to the east of Flagstaff, to
and Grove Karl Gilbert. the top of the San Francisco Peaks.
John Wesley Powell: NAU Cline Library Special Collection Clinton Hart Merriam: Frances Benjamin Johnston
22 23You can also read
