Great Salt Lake Might Contain Elements To Produce Biofuel
(Photo: Sun shines through the clouds above the Great Salt Lake)
KUTV - Responding to the lack of available research about the largest lake west of the Mississippi, Westminster College recently created the Great Salt Lake Institute. The institute will serve as everything from a library for research and educational materials to a meeting place for scientific and cultural discourse.Covering 1,700 square miles in Northern Utah, the Great Salt Lake is both an important commercial resource and a vibrant ecological site. The institute also believes that the lake represents a limitless outdoor laboratory where scientists can research wildlife, environmental concerns and possible alternative fuel solutions. Scientists have attempted to determine if the lake houses any hydrogen-producing species or algae that can either generate energy or be converted to biofuel.
Supported by grants from the U.S. Department of Energy and the Department of Labor, the institute will provide internships and research opportunities for college students, while reaching out to local elementary, middle and high schools.
As the institut's work will incorporate a variety of issues affecting the lake, educators anticipate the participation of environmental groups, cultural organizations and commercial interests; including companies invested in oil and mineral extraction.
While the institute's research will be available at the college, interested parties will be able to access results of studies and conferences via the project website.
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