WHAT THE OUGS IS ABOUT
The idea for a geological society in the Open University was initiated during the first Summer School of the original geology course back in 1972. It was actively supported and encouraged by the then Head of Department, Professor Ian Gass.
The OUGS is not an extension of the academic work of the Department. It is an
independent organisation whose members have mainly come to enjoy geology through
the teaching of the Department. But it should not be thought that the knowledge
all flows one-way, many members of the society have been able in their own ways
to contribute to the work of the OU.
The East Midlands Branch is one of 18 Branches of the Open University Geological Society covering Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Derbyshire, Northamptonshire & Nottinghamshire. Both the Branch and the Society organise a varied programme of field trips to venues both locally and throughout the UK, Ireland and Mainland Europe, and to support the local and Society membership in their study and enjoyment of Earth Sciences. We endeavour to welcome new and prospective members to join us in "learning by doing" in the field and to keep the branch membership informed of our activities and findings through our Branch Newsletters & through this site. See our Branch Events Diary for what we have lined up in the next little while! We are also planning ahead for many events, so keep coming back to see what we're up to & where we're going! You may know of an interesting locality close to you which may be of interest - let us know!
The OUGS is the third largest professional or amateur geological organisation in the United Kingdom and is the largest student geological society . If you are new to geology, one of the best ways to gain experience is to come along on our field trips. Members may attend trips organised by any Branch in the Society - as well as those arranged by their local Branch.
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Society, full information can be found on the OUGS Website.