Submitted by Anonymous on Sun, 11/24/2013 - 13:51

Why are you doing this? I know you are learning about what science is doing in the polar regions but why? Is it to learn more about global warming in that region? Why? Maddison Maxa at Twin Falls High-school

Justin Kendhammer

Hi Maddison,This is an interesting question that I would like to answer with a question. Why not? Why read a book? Why climb a mountain? Why learn anything?Our knowledge of the role of bacteria in the soil is very limited. It is very likely they play a role in the fixing of nitrogen in the soil. Nitrogen, as you may know, is a key and often limiting factor in plant growth. No plant growth no food for us or the rest of the planet's creatures. Will we answer this question before we return to the United States, probably not. Will this project advance the understanding of the role and ecological importance of microbial life on the planet? I certainly hope so.Justin