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K-State Today

November 15, 2016

Science on Tap: 'Soil is Alive – Exploring the Unseen World Beneath Our Feet'

Submitted by Michi Tobler

Science on Tap features a brief, informal presentation by a K-State scientist followed by lively conversation. The goal is to build our community's enthusiasm for science in a fun and unique way. The free, interactive program begins 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 16, at Tallgrass Tap House, 320 Poyntz Ave. Be sure to let the Tap House staff know you are there for Science on Tap.

This month's presentation is "Soil is Alive – Exploring the Unseen World Beneath Our Feet."

When you walk through nature, are you aware there is a whole ecosystem beneath your feet? We're not talking about the "upside down" from the TV show Stranger Things, but rather the soil habitat and the tiny bacteria that reside there. Soil is the most diverse ecosystem on the planet and all the life we see above ground is dependent on it. However, we still know very little and have much to learn.

CC Carson, a master's student in the Division of Biology at K-State, will take us on a journey through soil ecosystems. Carson grew up in Carson, Missouri, where she spent much of her time exploring Ozark forests and Missouri grasslands. She decided to channel her love for the outdoors toward a bachelor's degree in environmental science at the University of Missouri. She developed a passion for learning about the life in soil and how these organisms effect ecosystems.

Carson is currently studying soil microbial ecology with Lydia Zeglin and hopes to find a job where she can share her passion for soil and environmental science through teaching and science outreach.

Science on Tap is offered as part of Sunset Zoo's Behind the Science initiative; an effort to build our community's enthusiasm for science in a fun and unique way. The program is organized in partnership with Tallgrass Tap House, and K-State's Graduate School and Center for Engagement and Community Development.

Note this is the final Science on Tap of the semester. Events will resume from January to May 2017 with a diversity of new topics.

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