State College residents this week will take part in the National Issues Forum topic, "The Environment at Risk -- Responding to Growing Dangers."

Sponsored by State College Area School District Community Education, an expected 30 to 50 people will meet at 9 a.m. in Room 100 at the State College Intermediate High School to discuss and summarize environmental issues, said Nancy Desmond, SCASD Community Education director.

Robert A. Walker, University professor of science technology and society, will act as the forum opener and moderator. He said local concerns may be centered around:

-- High acid rain counts in Centre and Huntington counties.

-- Preventive environmental measures to deal with State College's expanding community.

-- Informing Congress members about common values as a basis for making environmental decisions.

Results of the forum are sent to elected officials and to the forum headquarters in Dayton, Ohio. The findings are considered "unadulterated public opinion" because National Issues Forum is not a special interest group, Desmond said.

The NIF began in 1981 and now has more than 300 chapters representing almost every state. It exists to inform citizens about national issues and is a medium for citizens to communicate with legislators and policy makers, according to a NIF brochure.

The local chapter of NIF began in 1985 and membership has increased every year. Forum members range from high school and college students to retirees, said Desmond.

The environmental forum attendance fee is $10 and includes literature, morning refreshments and a soup and salad lunch. Attendants should register today in Room 116 at the Fairmount Elementary School, 411 S. Fraser St. or call 231-1062.