This week in Today in Geography, host Nathan Moore sits down with Alan Arbogast, professor and geomorphologist in the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences at Michigan State University. He is best known for his research on the geomorphic history of coastal sand dunes along Lake Michigan. This work has demonstrated that the dunes are much younger than originally thought and that they have grown episodically through time. Activation cycles are likely related to lake level fluctuations and, perhaps, drought episodes. Alan has also conducted research on dune fields within the interior of Michigan, as well as the evolution of the upper Muskegon River valley. Stay tuned for the publication of his forthcoming book on Great Lakes coastal sand dunes.

Moore and Arbogast also discuss Geography Awareness Week, an annual public awareness program, typically celebrated in the third week of November, that encourages people to learn about the significance of place and how we impact and are impacted by our environment. It was established by presidential proclamation more than 35 years ago to promote geographical understanding through a variety of events, activities, and outreach programs.

Our sponsor for this episode is the Undergraduate Program in the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences at MSU. To learn more about exciting degree options, visit geo.msu.edu/undergraduate.