Despite the absence of earthquakes, volcanoes and tsunamis, Fargo-Moorhead residents have little reason for feeling smug about their geologic setting. According to Donald Schwert, North Dakota State University professor of geosciences, floods, shifting clays, landslides and radon make the Fargo-Moorhead region one of the most challenging geologic environments for development. Geologically related damages cost Fargo-Moorhead residents and taxpayers millions of dollars every year. Part of this expense is inevitable, but part of the expense is completely avoidable.

In the next Science Cafe on Thursday, Sept. 17 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at The Hotel Donaldson's Stokers Basement, 101 Broadway, Fargo, Schwert will facilitate a discussion, titled "A Citizen's Guide to Geologic Survival in Fargo-Moorhead," about the geologic setting of the region and how Fargo-Moorhead residents can better adapt to its many challenges.

Science Cafés are live events involving face-to-face conversation with a scientist about current science topics. They are sponsored by the NDSU College of Science and Mathematics and are open to the community. The events take place in casual settings like pubs or coffee houses.

A fall schedule has been set for upcoming Science Cafes. All will be held the third Thursday of each month at The Hotel Donaldson's Stokers Basement. Upcoming titles of discussion include "Molecules to Mozzarella: Chemistry of Cheese," "Science Saving Lives: Psychology of Suicide" and "Stem Cells Research: Is it Worth it?"