Scientists descend on Soap Lake for research
SOAP LAKE — The healing mysteries of Soap Lake will be discussed at the 2005 Soap Lake Science Conference, sponsored by the Soap Lake Conservancy, beginning at 8 a.m. Monday.
Soap Lake is the subject of a study being conducted by researchers from Central Washington University, Washington State University, Western Washington University and the University of Missouri/Rolla. Most current research is funded by the 2002 National Science Foundation grant that established the Soap Lake Microbial Observatory. Through this grant and the research that has been done, new microorganisms have been discovered in Soap Lake.
The opening will be given by Gerald Vice, Chair of the Soap Lake Conservancy. Conference topics will include: "Geology and the Formation of Soap Lake" by Dr. Eugene Kiver of Eastern Washington University; a limnology report by Dr. Anthony Gabriel of Central Washington University; and "The Chemistry and Potential for Industrial Applications of Soap Lake Microorganisms" by Dr. Brent Peyton.
The afternoon sessions will include: a biology report by Dr. Melanie Mormile of the University of Missouri/Rolla; "Biodiversity: Why it Matters" by Dr. Holly Pinkart of Central Washington University; "Astrobiology Report of Soap Lake" by Dr. Michael Storrie-Lombardi from Kinohi Institute; and "Management of Soap Lake: Options" by John Glassco of the Soap Lake Conservancy.
A question and answer period will follow the afternoon session presentations with Lynn Wilson of Ossia, Partnerships, Conflict Resolution and Strategies as the moderator.
The closing banquet and keynote address will be held in the evening with George Sharp of the Washington State Department of Community Trade and Economic Development as the speaker. Sharp's topic is "Transforming a Community Asset into a Community Future."
Members of universities, government agencies and the public are invited to register to attend the conference which will be held at Masquers Theater in Soap Lake. Registration is $50 per person and includes lunch and dinner in addition to the various presentations. Those interested can register at www.thelake.org.
— Staff report