In this course students are introduced to the study of the earth and issues related to earth-forming processes, with an emphasis placed on the geology of western Canada. The first half of the course will deal with major elements of geology related to the earth- and rock-forming processes. The second half of the course will cover practical applications of geology, such as industrial uses (mining, oil and gas extraction), water supply from the earth (water wells), aggregate (gravel), and limestone (concrete). Other topics will include issues associated with subsurface and groundwater contamination, and with mechanisms of treatment of contaminants.