Winona State University President Judith Ramaley and Director Michael Jawson from the United States Geological Survey¹s (USGS) Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center (UMESC) met June 26 to sign an updated Cooperative Agreement that will enhance the collaboration of future work between WSU and the USGS.

WSU and USGS officially signed an initial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 2003 to begin working together, and a Cooperative Agreement was signed in December 2005 to establish monetary efforts to collaborate with students. A pilot year of interaction began in 2006 with four students working as cost shares on two projects.

The purpose of the Cooperative Agreement is to provide WSU students with research, work and internship opportunities at UMESC.

Through the renewed Cooperative Agreement, officials hope to increase the quantity and quality of research conducted by UMESC scientists; increase science, math and technology awareness while providing students with hands-on opportunities; and develop and maintain cooperative partnerships with WSU to facilitate professional interactions and exchange of scientific information.

The mission of USGS is to serve the nation by providing reliable scientific information to describe and understand the Earth; minimize loss of life and property from natural disasters; manage water, biological, energy, and mineral resources; and enhance and protect the quality of life.

For more information visit: http://www.umesc.usgs.gov/.

- WSU -