To what extent has the publics health, safety, or economic well-being been harmed?
As mentioned above, in the most extreme case loss of life has been documented to occur because of the lack of adequate geological input. However, harm to public welfare often occurs in a more subtle form. The status quo is that any person, regardless of experience or training, can assume the title of “geologist” and/or offer geological services. Since geological analysis impacts so many current issues including resource development, delineation and protection of public water supplies, waste disposal, private development, and infrastructure construction, it is clear that sound geological information, interpretation and advice is critical. The harm to the public’s health, safety and economic well being has been in the form of improper data collection, poor interpretation and/or inaccurate advice regarding site selection for a wide range of private and public facilities.
