AGU Supports the National Science Foundation on Capitol Hill
19 April 2010
AGU Science Policy Alert 10-08
Several AGU scientists spent last Wednesday, 14 April, on Capitol Hill advocating for the National Science Foundation (NSF) and demonstrating their research at a Congressional exhibition and reception. Throughout the day, AGU and American Geological Institute (AGI) staff assisted the scientists as they met with their state delegations to discuss their research and highlight the importance of NSF funding for the Earth sciences, education, and universities.

(L to R): Sabine Mecking, Bob Byrne, & Rep. Brian Baird
The day was capped off by the 16th Annual Coalition for National Science Funding (CNSF) Exhibition and Reception, which features science, mathematics, and engineering research and education projects supported by NSF. The event is sponsored by CNSF, of which AGU and dozens of other scientific societies and universities are members. Policymakers and congressional staff attended the exhibition and had the chance to discuss research projects with scientists.

(L to R): Andrew Jacobson & Rep. Vern Ehlers
The participating AGU member scientists included Drs. Robert Byrne (University of South Florida), Sabine Mecking (University of Washington), Andrew Jacobson (Northwestern University), and Tim Melbourne (Central Washington University). In addition to their day visits, the participants also had the opportunity to present their research to several members of Congress during the exhibition, including Rep. Vernon Ehlers (R-MI) and Rep. Brian Baird (D-WA).
Throughout the year, AGU participates in many Congressional events. These include Congressional briefings, exhibitions, and Congressional Visits Day (CVD). AGU’s next CVD is 28-29 April, and the following CVD is 21-22 September. If you are interested in participating in a future Congressional event with AGU, please contact Kaitlin Chell at kchell@agu.org.