AASG Spring Liaison... · Web viewAASG Liaison Notes March 14-17, 2010 Washington, D.C. AASG...

AASG Liaison NotesMarch 14-17, 2010Washington, D.C.

These are the notes from the March 14-17, 2010 AASG Liaison meeting in Washington D.C. AASG set up 45 meetings. Several meeting were cancelled at the last minute because of scheduling conflicts. In one case the DOE geothermal meeting was cancelled because the AASG-DOE Geothermal grant was pending and federal law prohibits federal officials from discussing details of a grant before it is awarded. Therefore that meeting was cancelled. It was a very good liaison with good participation by AASG members and associates and very warmly received by nearly all on the government and NGO side. If any particular meeting is not summarized here please contact members who attended for details. A few meeting were not captured in formal notes.

Meeting: AASG/USGS Spring 2010 Meeting

Monday, March 15, 2010, 9:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.AASG Lead: Dave WunschAASG Attendees: All participating Liaison Committee SG’s and Associates and Honoraries

Meet with:Senior staff of the USGS (see book for list of USGS names)Sally BradyTerry Davies, NSF Liaison to USGSFrances PierceIone Cunningham, GeographySusanne Haseltine, BiologyNote: Linda Gundersen’s present title, Acting Associate Director for Geology

David Wunsch, AASG President opening remarks: Financial distress experiencing at both state and federal levels AASG/USGS cooperative programs should advocate both science and human resources He and Pres-elect, J. Cobb, briefed new USGS Director McNutt on AASG and state survey activities and also offered a helping hand as she acclimates to her new position David presented Director McNutt with the new AASG State Directory, a survey of survey s.

Director McNutt opening remarks: Her visions are around environment, water, energy, ecology, … Budget – FY 2011 looks good - $1.1 Billion up $21.6 Million – good meetings with appropriations Opportunities for AASG/USGS? Water Smart – assess availability and uses of water resources Additional $500,000 in NCGMP for water mapping - $250,000 will go to StateMap – this will be for solving regional problems and will be written into the RFP not separate – framework geology for groundwater Assessment of wind farm siting Climate change appropriations - $11 Million – much of this will go to new climate science centers that are competitive with a broad list of partners – AK will be first with NW and SE announced soon $4 Million in multi-hazard projects – S. CA, PNW, AK $13.4 Million for LandSat upgrades and mission launch in 2012 Coastal and marine spatial planning National climate change and wildlife funding Youth programs USGS looking for a more diverse workforce.

Nate Hawley – Youth Program Coordinator for Sec. Salazar3 components to DOI program:Employment – increase youth employment in DOI


Engagement – finding new audiencesEducation – science, technical, innovation, mathematics (STEM), Youth Conservation CorpsGeoForce – geosciences outreach program for Minority students (Randy Orndoff and Lydia involvement)Tracking students after program – what = success of mentoring?

Action Items and Suggested Course(s) of Action: (these will be extracted and compiled for ExCom, Meeting Leads, and committee chairs for action and also provided to membership for information)

Action item involves a later liaison meeting of NSF, USGS, AASG to further discuss the concept of developing a new cooperative geosciences mentoring program There were three breakout sessions for lunch but no notes were assigned.

Meeting: National Park Service (NPS)Monday, March 15, 2010, 1:45 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.AASG Lead: Peter ScholleAASG Attendee(s): Peter Scholle, LeadVicki McConnell (Notes), Roy Breckinridge, Ian MadinNPS: Lindsay McClelland, USGS Liaison, Geologic Resources Division

Bruce Heise could not attend the meeting but had left a list of discussion points that matched well with our topics list. Data preservation: We discussed the reauthorization of the program – will it be handled under the energy office We suggested that data preservation should be of great interest to the land management agencies as for example there are around 3 million wells across the nation on federal land Discussed possible funding sources – DoE, royalties from energy resources Why wouldn’t federal agencies demand core/cuttings from wells on federal land be turned over to federal land management agencies? But no What about self-tax of energy private sector to contribute to leverage funds? Roy gives example of the “natural gas rush” occurring in ID right now due to study of old records (3 wells permitted) State surveys and NPS programs especially mapping in parks Thanks to OR and PA state surveys for arranging excellent geologic briefings to park personnel Kudos to VA, NM, AZ, MA, and AR for recent mapping work to the tune of ~$1Million of NPS funds Some talk about potential for pilot projects to explore the uses of LIDaR coverage at parks – OR will follow up with Bruce NPS – Geoparks Program – briefing by Lindsay GSA supported program UNESCO initiative (means no direct UN funding) 20 countries are presently participating – Canada just joined Focus in public education, heritage tourism, fundamental geological parks Greatest strength in multiple use and multiple owners – uses the example of the newly minted Ice Age Floods GeoPark Initiative needs the support of the broader community – Funding – try to keep costs low on the evaluation – typically ~$20k to fund travel of impartial scientists to evaluate a nomination NPS looking to nominate a site every other year – nomination must include business plan Been quite successful in Europe and Ice Age Floods GeoPark is modeling business plan after Europe plan – being coordinated through Whitman College and NPS Action Items and Suggested Course(s) of Action: (these will be extracted and compiled for ExCom, Meeting Leads, and committee chairs for action and also provided to membership for information)NOTE: Lindsay will be retired by 2010 Fall Liaison (actually leaving in April) – NPS is recruiting for his position and AASG should track to find out who the new person will be – possibly they will have

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someone new to invite to AASG Annual Meeting in addition to Bruce Heise Invite Gary Mackless, New NPS Science Advisor, to next liaison meeting. Gary’s job is to build NPS science. Background: formerly chief in social science and cooperative ecology. Also from ID out of Moscow. Might consider inviting to annual meeting – maybe check with Bruce Heise. Bruce Heise requests time to speak at the 2010 Annual Meeting (Peter has already contacted Karl Muessig about this) Roy was going to follow up on more information about Ice Age Floods GeoPark planning.

I append below an e-mail from Bruce Heise giving his comments with regard to this meeting – again his request to speak at the AASG Annual Meeting has already been forwarded to Karl Muessig. With less than three weeks to go in his career, Lindsay is low key and asked me to summarize my comments to him prior to your meeting earlier this week. Ergo: the NPS continues to be delighted in our cooperative mapping efforts with state surveys. We are fully funding or cost sharing with state surveys in WV, NM, AZ, MA, and AR for new maps in 11 park units, totaling over $1m in NPS funds. We continue to offer support at AASG meetings for field trips to park units.

We have a planned Cooperative Agreement with CA for mapping in at least 3 park units in that state We are very excited about two large park map products that we supported and should be completed this year: Glen Canyon by the UGS and Congaree Swamp by the South Carolina GS The relationship works both ways, we have benefited from advance information from some states, particularly Arizona, on upcoming issues that might affect park resources. Park units continue to utilize existing state products on park or regional geology for interpretive purposes or for sale in visitor centers. We appreciate state survey participation in our Inventory scoping meetings. In many cases, particularly where there is no USGS activity, the states provide the only expertise available. Specifically, we want to express our appreciation for Ian Madin's participation in our scoping in Oregon last fall, Jay's staff's willingness to review our reports for parks in PA, Roy's office delivering Nez Perce on time no less, and our continued association with the NM survey for mapping at Salinas Pueblo. And this year for the TN, AL, LA participation in scoping at Natchez Trace and Jean Lafitte; IN participation in scoping at Lincoln Boyhood Home and Indiana Dunes; MN and WI participation in scoping at Mississippi and St. Croix Riverways and Apostle Island, and NJ participation in scoping at Gateway. Lastly, I would like the opportunity to speak at AASG this year. I have not spoken at AASG for three years and would like to be on agenda in NJ to update mapping, discuss use of state products as it applies to copyrighted information, introduce the idea of a strip map of the Appalachian Trail, and offend feline lovers in the audience.-----------------------------------------------------------------Bruce HeiseGeologist, Geologic Resources DivisionNational Park ServicePO Box 25287Denver, CO 80225(303) 969-2017E-mail [email protected] (303) 987-6792http://www.nature.nps.gov/grd

Office of Management and Budget (OMB)3

http://www.nature.nps.gov/grd


Monday, March 15, 2010, 1:45 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.AASG Lead: John SteinmetzAASG Attendee(s): Jim Cobb, Joe Gillman, Jerry WeisenfluhNote Taker(s): Don McKay

Met with Emily Sharp

We met with Emily Sharp. She is new to us but has previously worked on budgets for OSM and MMS. Emily is a forest ecologist by training. John Steinmetz gave an overview of AASG and State Geological Survey activities. Cover StateMap in more detail. Emily stressed – the pressure for a flat DOI and federal budget. Emily described the OMB-DOI budget process as one of negotiating increases for new programs having to cut existing ones. Director of OMB values decisions. DOI in pushing youth initiatives – the age cut off is 26 yr. OMB is implementing 3 year plan to keep budgets flat.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Office of Water and C02 SequestrationMonday, March 15, 2010, 1:45 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.AASG Lead: Jamie RobertsonAASG Attendee(s): Karl Muessig, David Spears, Harvey Thorleifson, Dave WunschNote Taker(s): Randy Keller

Met With: Bruce Kobelski Environmental Geologist [email protected] 202-564-3881 Mike Muse [email protected] 202-564-3892 Lee Whitehurst Geologist Heather Kantor Shawn Forrest Molly Baer

EPA is drafting rules on CO2 and groundwater protection. Rules do not address leakage or safety issues. Final rules will be out in late 2010 or early 2011. Emphasis is on deep saline aquifers; Monitoring after injection will be necessary; They are working with DOE on demonstration projects; goal is to have 5 carbon storage and capture sites up and running by 2016; hydrofracing - We discussed this issue along with induced seismicity. Injection wells are a much bigger concern in this regard. Bruce commented on the close and productive relationship EPA's CO2 sequestration folks enjoy with Nick Tew.

American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG)Monday, March 15, 2010, 1:45 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.AASG Lead: Jon Price

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mailto:[email protected]



AASG Attendee(s): John ParrishNote Taker(s): Rod Combellick, Ed Deal, Vince Matthews

Met with: David Curtiss – AAPG Washington Office

Leasing Developments: OCS Issues: (1) Chukchi Sea, Alaska – Federal court determined that the environmental studies for the Chukchi Sea were inadequate and that leasing in this area is to be suspended until studies completed; however, leasing on other OCS Alaska areas may proceed. (2) Virginia OCS lease sale moved to 2014 from 2011 while environmental studies tied to seismic surveys are completed. Onshore Issues: BLM will remove categorical exclusions, resulting in an extended leasing process. Additional environmental studies result in a de facto moratorium on lease activities.The Obama Administration is directly setting rules and timetables, not the DOI.

Legislation: Hydraulic fracturing issue – specifically focused on Colorado and Pennsylvania, is in the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. AAPG believes that the issue may sit there for some time, as the Committee does not seem excited about it. As the issue now stands, hydraulic fracturing is exempt from the Clean Water Act. This proposed legislation removes the exemption – but, the bill(s) does not ban fracturing activities, only removes the Federal exemption. The bill(s) pushes the primary responsibility back to the states for permitting.

CO2 Sequestration (CCC) – Issues still being sorted out, with no decisions made. Decisions on Category II and proposed Category VI injection wells to be determined.

Geothermal – Heavily endowed with ARRA funds; however, a lack of knowledge where to spend the funds successfully is holding up actions.

Hydrates – Research is on hold for practical (safety) purposes; is back into R&D for extended period of time, and not slated for deployment in the near future.

Data Preservation – AAPG fully supports Data Preservation, and would support the full $30 million appropriation.

Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE)Monday, March 15, 2010, 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.AASG Lead: Roy BreckenridgeAASG Attendee(s): Ian Madin, Jay Parrish, Peter Scholle, Tom Berg

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Note Taker(s): Vicki McConnell

Hosts: (please include phone # and e-mail if possible)John Craynon, Chief, Division of Regulatory [email protected] (work)301.219.8348 (cell)

We all commiserated over the sorry state of funding for data preservation John let us know that he meets with Tammy Dickerson, USGS, frequently to be briefed on the program. Big focus on getting information into the national catalogue. Discussed the underground mine mapping program that OSMRE hosts. John noted that there are grant opportunities for map digitization Really leveraging funds from some states – average 2:1 – 3:1 match Concerned about private collections that may be lost If have certified AML program that can address reclamation of other mines than coal may be eligible On Coal John mentioned the National Academies study on coal reclamation – recommended funding at ~$60 Million. Notes that a lot of work is being done with PA on Workforce Issues. Minority higher education projects. partner schools and focus on community – sustainability and social sensitivity. Want to build more internship. Proud of internal initiatives – all DOI agencies must brief Sec. Salazar’s workforce team on them. On OSMRE, John Craynon is in charge of OSMRE team to write new stream protection rules (mountaintop mining) – will be out for public comment by Feb.2011. Some discussion about OSMRE involvement in reclamation of oil shale areas but nothing official. Nexus to Section 404 & Clean Air Act. Also petition of withdraw MPDES delegation from some mining states (Not sure if this is right). John requested that we, AASG, have a look at the OSMRE/AASG MOU to see if anything needs refreshing – particularly in the context of the underground mine mapping preservation

Minerals Management Service/Offshore Energy and Minerals Management (MMS/OEMM)

Monday, March 15, 2010, 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.AASG Lead: Rod CombellickAASG Attendee(s): Randy Keller, Jamie Robertson, Harvey ThorleifsonNote Taker(s): David Spears

Met with: Terry Schmidt (sp?), Vickie Zatarain (sp?), George Dellagiarino, Roger Amoto, Charlie Broadwater, Steve Textoris, Harold Syms

On offshore oil and gas leasing, the MMS is waiting for Secretary Salazar to make a decision at the end of March with respect to both five-year programs, the current 2007-2012 program and the accelerated 2010-2015 program proposed in the last months of the Bush administration. Not sure what areas will be in the new program. Virginia Sale 220 is still in the program, scheduled for 2011.

On offshore renewables, the Secretary held a Task Force meeting of parties interested in the Virginia Outer Continental Shelf on December 8. Two unsolicited applications for wind projects have been

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received, each in a different area. These areas will be included in an MMS Request for Interest, to be published in the Federal Register soon, after which the Secretary will determine if the leases will be offered competitively or noncompetitively. Under the new Renewable and Alternative Use rules, there is a separate process for competitive vs. noncompetitive. No wave or ocean current projects have been proposed.

The MMS and USGS are planning a third Mesozoic Basins workshop for New England in 2010. The first two workshops, hosted by Virginia, were successful.

A new assessment of technically recoverable oil and gas resources in the Atlantic is ready, waiting on Secretary’s approval to publish. The EIS for new seismic acquisition in the Atlantic may take up to two and a quarter years, which means that Sale 220 may happen before new data are collected. MMS has extended the confidentiality period for existing data by five years (extending it to thirty years, meaning that much of the data collected in the 1980s will remain confidential through the Virginia sale period).

The MMS budget was increased by about $1.2 million for the hard minerals (sand and gravel) program. About $210,000 will go into cooperative programs for three states the first year: Virginia, Louisiana, and Florida. The notice of financial assistance should be published this month. Some holdover funding will be used for post-Katrina evaluation of sand resources in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas.

On gas hydrates, the MMS is working on assessments for Atlantic, Pacific, and Alaska planning areas. The focus is on in-place resources in coarse-grained sediments. The Atlantic assessment has been completed but not published. The Gulf of Mexico assessment has been completed and released. This work is being carried out through partnerships with the USGS and industry. The focus is on coarse-grained sediments because there is little hope that hydrates in fine-grained sediments will ever be recoverable.

On the MMS budget, there are many unknowns in both Congress and the Department of the Interior, but they are adequately funded for now. MMS representatives will attend the AASG Annual Meeting in NJ.

Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)

Monday, March 15, 2010, 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.AASG Lead: Dave WunschAASG Attendee(s): Don McKay, John Steinmetz, Jerry Weisenfluh, Jim CobbNote Taker(s): Joe Gillman

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Met with: Andrew Murphy ([email protected])and a new staff person recently from Nevada Dr. Anooshehpour Rasool

Dave W. provided AASG overview and purpose of visit.

In an effort to staff the agency in anticipation of renewed efforts in licensing, the agency has been undergoing expansion from 2500 employees to nearly 4000

NRC currently has 30 license applications in-house – these are primarily multiple unit sites co-located with existing facilities; not Greenfields

NRC Engineering Science Program has recently developed strategic research plan that covers FY08-FY11 revised/updated version (currently being developed) will be for FY2011-2016; the FY08-FY11 plan can be found on NRCs ADAMS on-line search system under Document control #ML072960792

NRC wishes to improve interactions and progress on probabilistic seismic hazards in the central and east (Rockies eastward) through attenuation modeling and strong motion data; as a general rule – discourage construction within 200 km of New Madrid Seismic Zone

Interested in developing cooperative approach with USGS and State Surveys on using Earthscope US Array stations; want stations and information from hardrock sites Will be seeking appropriation in the FY11-FY12 budget for stations in the East for hardrock sites

National Stone, Sand, and Gravel Association (NSSGA)March 15, 2010Present for AASG: John Steinmetz (Lead), Tom Berg, Roy Breckenridge, David Spears

Present for NSSGA: Jennifer Joy Wilson, President and CEO [email protected] Hayden, Vice President, Environment, Safety and Health [email protected]

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Pam Whitted, Vice President, Government Affairs [email protected] Ford, Senior Counselor to the President [email protected]

The NSSGA represents about 10,000 rock quarries. This sector is currently experiencing 27% unemployment.

Joy Wilson would like to encourage more young people to enter the earth sciences. NSSGA has produced a careers DVD.

The Minerals Information Institute is now part of SME. There is a big push in the industry to educate young people about the geosciences to develop a “rocks are part of your world” mentality. Teacher education workshops have been held in Indiana, Missouri, Ohio, and Oklahoma.

Asbestos and asbesti-form mineralsThe NSSGA is very concerned about federal legislation introduced by Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA). It would essentially ban all asbestos in the USA as a contaminant without any consideration of natural background levels. The aggregates industry does not have a footprint of asbestos-related illness. It needs better methodologies and larger datasets for testing for background levels of asbestos in the natural environment. NSSGA does not want crushed stone to be classified as containing asbestos. It wants to ensure that the definition of asbestos in this bill does not include minerals that are not truly asbestos and that are not dangerous. A bill passed by the Senate in 2007 accurately defined asbestos, but the House took a different approach with a broader definition and zero tolerance of asbestos fibers with no consideration of ambient levels. The Senate bill provided for health risk studies before setting low limits. Need to develop all allies at the national level. Anyone who moves earth should be concerned. The NSSGA is very concerned that enlarging the definition of asbestos would expose stone producers to lawsuits. It needs to clearly distinguish true asbestos from cleavage fragments of common rock.

The NSSGA has produced a minerals identification guide so operators can know what minerals they’re producing, a “living document” of best practices. Guide was produced by industrial hygienists. The guide is available on the NSSGA website. www.nssga.orgArizona has published a “geonote” explaining what asbestos is and isn’t.NIOSH has published a roadmap for research on asbestos fibers and other elongate mineral particles. http://www.cdc.gov/Niosh/topics/asbestos/AIPG has published a Homeowner’s Guide to Geologic Hazards. Fairfax County, Virginia, also has an asbestos management guide for naturally-occurring asbestos. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/hd/asb/

Department of Energy, Fossil Energy, Office of Sequestration, Hydrogen, and Clean Coal Fuels (DOE)

Tuesday, March 16, 2010, 8:45 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.AASG Lead: Rodney CombellickAASG Attendee(s): Ian Madin, Vince Matthews, Vicki McConnell, Harvey Thorleifson

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http://www.nssga.org/


Note Taker(s): Joe Gillman

Met with: Robert Wright (Bob) [email protected] 202-586-4753Darian Ghorbi [email protected] 202-586-4927

General Regional Partnership updates. It is anticipated that draft final EPA Class VI well rules will be available for federal agency review in the April/May 2010 timeframe and will likely be promulgated by end of calendar year; current injection projects are operating under the Class V status of “other.” DOE, Fossil Energy has worked with EPA water division on rule development. DOE, Fossil Energy is currently working on sequestration research; discussion on using gas processing as a CO2 source. ARRA allocated $3.4 billion to CCS efforts that must be obligated by end of FY10 and spent by end of FY2015 – primarily related to large scale demonstration projects; there has been and will continue to be an expedited awards process related to these projects; $50 million of this was earmarked for enhanced geologic characterization; much of this money has been awarded to private enterprise. Projects and sites that will receive the bulk of the ARRA stimulus have been selected; these efforts will focus on research that can be relied on for “putting the package together” or America’s Clean Coal Power Initiative, which is generation, capture, and long term geologic storage on a commercial scale – see FutureGen

Currently $150 million budget to Office of Sequestration for geologic characterization, with most of this funding going to the regional partnerships; majority of the research at this level is focused on injection and storage

Will see an increased focus on capture technology in an effort to bring the energy penalty and the costs of capture down

Currently $400 million budget for coal program in FY 11; anticipated to stay flat for the next several years; potentially seeking additional funding beginning in years FY15/16

Task Force on C02 Sequestration-Task Force to examine the technical elements related to C02 mitigation through capture,

storage, transportation technology; will also monitor and make recommendations on necessary legislation and regulation development; FutureGen, Matoon Illinois – a final go/no go decision based on the technical feasibility of this project will be made by DOE by the end of March 2010; if approved, DOE is committed to project for $1.1 billion, all other resources will need to be independently developed

Geoscience Data Preservation – Office of Sequestration very supportive of the fundamental purpose of these efforts as see the value related to geologic characterization of sequestration, EOR, clean coal projects

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House, Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on Climate and Energy – Alex Barron, Ph.D.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010, 8:45 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.AASG Lead: Ed DealAASG Attendee(s): Larry Becker, Tom Berg, Jon Price, Peter ScholleNote Taker(s): Jon priceMet with: Alex Barron [email protected] 202-225-4407

There is no US energy policy but should include economics (utilities), employment, technology & renewables, climate and environment. Recovery Act is a start on funding energy policy through attention to renewables: Five titles: Clean energy, efficiency, global warming, transitioning to renewables, agricultural offsets. Stable energy base: Nuclear & stable CO2, Reprocessing— (different part of the bill) states need standards and flexibility, Carbon—put a price on it and let the market work.Recognize the need for new sources—renewables must happen. Efficiency, new plants, coal plants could be stranded assets, planning /liability recognition, bonus allowances, look to state geologists for help on CCS. Nuclear waste—on the radar but no action planned, WIPP—all waste going there is federal need increased financial incentives for states to consider taking wastes, training. This cannot detract from the main energy bill. Unconventional gas—previously, the debate was avoiding natural gas supply concerns; gas now gives time flexibility.

North American Carbon Capture Storage Association3:30 pm Monday, March 15Met with: Kipp Coddington AASG: Jon Price (lead), Vince Matthews, John Parrish, Ed Deal

The NACCSA deals in pore space for CO2 sequestration, i.e. carbon credits. Points clients toward states with their rules and regulations in place with respect to pore space. Currently that list includes LA, ND, OK, WY. Five states have laws that transfer liability to the state after the site has been closed and monitored for some period. Most states follow the IOGCC rules; NACCSA hopes that the feds will leave the states alone and accept state plans. NACCSA has completed one deal. Now working on their second. Would not talk about prices being paid for pore space, but indicated that a site near a large power plant would bring a premium over a site less favorably located. Not looking at either terrestrial or mineral carbonation (i.e. reaction with mafic minerals to yield carbonates) sequestration, and seemed to be unaware of the latter. Considerable discussion of various state rules, transition from enhanced oil recovery to CO2 sequestration in a reservoir.

Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS)10:30 Tuesday, March 15AASG Lead: Vince MatthewsAASG Notes: Ed DealAASG Attendees: Jay parrish, Tom Berg, Jon price Met with: Ray Willeman, Director of Planning

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Olga Cabello, Director of International Development SeismologyPerle Dorr, Public Outreach ManagerJohn Taber, Education and Outreach Program Manager

IRIS described the IRIS affiliation of universities and Earthscope, particularly the transportable array. They showed samples of transportable array wave form visualizations that can be downloaded from their website. Very nice and worth a look. Olga is new to the position. The purpose of the international program is to consolidate ideas to build scientific capabilities by implementing capacity-building concepts and needs in foreign countries. Latin America is being targeted first.

House Subcommittee on Water and PowerTuesday, March 16, 2010, 8:45 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.AASG Lead: Roy BreckenridgeAASG Attendee(s): Randy Keller, Jamie Robertson, David Spears, John Steinmetz

Note Taker(s): Jay Parrish Met with: David L. Wegner, Staff Director 202-225-8331, 202-596-4180 (cell)

[email protected] Waring, PG Staffer 202-225-8331

This was a good meeting and should be repeated. Introduction to AASG and state survey roles in natural resources especially water. This was the first time AASG has met with this subcommittee and mainly a meet and greet session. By chance a schedule change resulted in our meeting with the Staff Director. Both David and Katherine were very interested in state survey activities and application to water resources. And are knowledgeable. The House is exhibiting a leadership role on water issues and this committee is in a key position. By their calculation there are now 22 federal agencies and 40 offices with primary missions related to water and 26 % of the House Committee on Natural Resources business relates to water issues. David was so interested in sharing the interests of the committee and asking about our programs and research that he spent nearly twice the scheduled time with us. A very productive and enthusiastic meeting. Action Items and Suggested Course(s) of Action: (these will be extracted and compiled for ExCom, Meeting Leads, and committee chairs for action and also provided to membership for information)

We definitely should include this committee visit in our liaison schedule. They are sincerely interested in meeting with AASG. A follow up communication would be in order

Department of the Interior Water and Science (DOI)Tuesday, March 16, 2010, 9:30 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.AASG Lead: Jay ParrishAASG Attendee(s): Roy Breckenridge, Randy Keller, Jamie Robertson, David SpearsNote Taker(s): John Steinmetz

Met: John Tubbs

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Every bureau in DOI has a youth budget (contrary to what we heard at the USGS meeting, wherein Nate Hawely, DOI Office of Youth, said “I have no money, but I’m looking for partners.” Eight National Climate Science Centers are being established.

House Appropriations, Subcommittee on Energy and Water DevelopmentTuesday, March 16, 2010, 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.AASG Lead: Joe GillmanAASG Attendee(s): Rodney Combellick, Ian Madin, Vince Matthews, Harvey ThorleifsonNote Taker(s): Vicki McConnellRob Blair, Minority Staff Note: a real [email protected] (direct)202.225.3481 (main)

New contact so we attempted to brief him on who we are, what we represent, and why we would want to meet with him. To advance the science of geology to practical issues at the local, regional and national level – I’d say we were about 10% effective. We talked quite a bit about geosciences data preservation and why that is important to water and energy – I’d say we were about 50% effective on this subject – he got it but was quick to let us know he didn’t see any pots of $$. He staffs for USDoE, Yucca Mtn. (said that this is still a viable possibility), Army Corps of Engineers – didn’t immediately see where geologic mapping would fit in – not really up on what geologic mapping is. We spent some time talking about nuclear energy and policy regarding spent fuel – he noted that the Blue Ribbon Commission on this subject would not actually identify a location for fuel disposal but would identify the optimum geologic lithologies. He didn’t actually say lithologies – I am paraphrasing…No actions identified.

House Committee on Resources, Subcommittee on Energy, and Mineral Resources, Minority Staff – Benedetto

Tuesday, March 16, 2010, 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.AASG Lead: RDon McKayAASG Attendee(s): Jim Cobb, Jerry Weisenfluh, Dave WunschNote Taker(s): John Parrish

Kathy Benedetto – Professional StaffTim Charters – Staff Director – Republicans 202-226-7390 (Direct)

Legislative Agenda – At the time of the meeting, all legislation was on “hold” until the Health Bill was resolved. If the Health Bill passed, then staff expects there to be no action on the Federal Budget bills until after the Fall elections; and, the Budget may be on a Continuing Resolution for many months to come.

Global Warming – Founded on bad data; controversial.

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StateMap – Supports increasing funding levels, and believes there may be some discussions necessary to change the way the USGS is funded within DOI to increase USGS proportion.

Data Preservation – Supports increased dispersal of funds to states.

Uranium and Nuclear Power – Recognizes uranium resources will be issues, as will be the issue of reprocessing spent uranium rods. Another issue is the closure of Yucca Mtn., meaning uranium rod storage to remain on-site at nuclear generating plants.

Senate Energy Committee – Natural Resources Subcommittee, Minority Staff - Gladics

Tuesday, March 16, 2010, 10:45 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.AASG Lead: Peter ScholleAASG Attendee(s): Rodney Combellick, Joe Gillman, Ian Madin, Vicki McConnellNote Taker(s): Harvey ThorleifsonMet with: Frank Gladics, Professional Staff

Summary of meeting:

Discussion of Bingaman group visit to New Mexico

Discussion of Pick and Gavel award to Senator Murkowski

Discussion of attempts to bring forward the current Energy Bill; Reid wants cap and trade first, although this won’t come up until after health care; possible they could try to slip cap and trade into the existing energy bill; because the bill has been delayed, more committee work is being done; there is bipartisan support for the bill as it stands, although there are differences over renewables and nuclear; got it through committee in anticipation of an open debate on the floor; renewable standard is the big item – problem in the SE regarding biomass definition; offshore leasing is in the bill as well

Geothermal – everyone likes this – much funding for grants - discussion of AASG project

Discussion of conflict between renewables and protection of lands, such as protecting lands from solar development. Future energy utilization scenarios – extent to which renewables can really deliver

Discussion of cap and trade vs. EPA regulation scenarios

Discussion of rare earths as strategic minerals needed for energy tech; mineral potential is a topic where state geological surveys can help

Discussion of ANWR; $4 gas caused a sense of urgency – this has dissipated14


Discussion of NCGMP success story, and importance of geologic mapping Everything is on hold until after health care is dealt with Frank is making retirement plans! In Idaho of all places – does he know something

about climate change?

House of Representatives, Natural Resources Committee, Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Staff, Majority – Steve Feldgus

Tuesday, March 16, 2010, 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.AASG Lead: Dave WunschAASG Attendee(s): Don McKay, Jay Parrish, Jerry WeisenfluhNote Taker(s): Jim Cobb

Steve says they sweated out reauthorization for NCGM Act. He was a big help on reauthorization. Congress watching gas prices to see how high they go in the summer. A current big issue – hydro-fracturing for shale gas. Wendy handles gas and gas shales. Big issue. America View has $1.0 million for remote sensing. Only a million, PA gets $25k (Jay Parrish?). Carbon capture and storage (ccs) waiting action by senate. Offshore oil and gas Kerry, Graham. Lieberman energy bill getting attention will be out soon. Administration has a new 5-year offshore plan 2012-2017. Revenue sharing with state included. Reauthorization Data Preservation. Both Alaska and Virginia are in the offshore plan.

Suggestions for AASG for re-authorization of the Data Preservation program, find some champion s to sign a letter of support. Show appropriations committee who is supporting re-authorization.

Meet with Chairman Costa and tell him how data preservation is a valuable tool for carbon capture and storage. Congressman Chandler of Kentucky could be a help on appropriations. AASG needs a white knight to make it a priority – try to get in with people on President Obama’s sequestration task force. It is EPA and ODE Reform of the 1872 mining law is dead.

Congressional Research Services (CRS) Tuesday, March 16, 2010, 1:00 p.m. – 1:45 a.m.AASG Lead: Jon ParrishAASG Attendee(s): Don McKay, Jerry Weisenfluh, Dave WunschNote Taker(s): Jim CobbWe met with Gene Whitney, Pete Folger, and Nichole ?.

CRS and Gene Whitney, Pete Folger, and Nichole are good contacts for us to keep. In the Congressional Research Service there are 82 people doing energy and environmental work. There are sections doing energy and minerals, environmental policy, science and technology, agriculture, transportation, earth sciences, natural resources. Reports, one requested by Congress and one confidential although members may release the report at their discretion. Energy and water are big issues. Lots of requests. There are bills on energy and recognize the demands on water and bills on water that recognize the demands on energy. Cap-N-Trade and example. CRS works both reactive to requests and proactive in

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advance to of requests. Cap-N-Trade is up and down, hot item, then quiet. Anticipating requests on nuclear energy and financing of nuclear power plants. Also fuel cycle for uranium and a new fuel thorium. Uranium prices a concern. Hydrotracing and concern over water protection. Clean water Act exemption for hydrotracing. See Thomas Friedman on CCS. Recent 60 minutes showed the Bloom Fuel Cell but did not reveal the energy source,

Climate change - changes in climate change science climate change making legitimate science. Science dispute versus political disputes. Linking to hurricanes damage.

There is negotiation between CRS and the client concerning scope of effort. Congressional letters to the director get priority. Because of real shortages and perennial water problems, California and others still suffer. Therefore, climate change debate will go don. CRS has history of draught, know history to be prepared. CRS has large educational component. Time lines is important for CRS studies.

Department of Energy, Fossil Energy, Oil and Gas (DOE)Tuesday, March 16, 2010, 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.AASG Lead: Vince MatthewsAASG Attendee(s): Joe Gillman, Ian Madin, Vicki McConnell, Harvey ThorleifsonNote Taker(s): Rodney CombellickMet with: Edie Allison, Guido DeHoratiis, and Chris Smith

Senate Subcommittee on Interior Appropriations, Majority and Minority Staff - James

Tuesday, March 16, 2010, 2:15 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.AASG Lead: Dave WunschAASG Attendee(s): Jim Cobb, Jay Parrish, Jerry WeisenfluhNote Taker(s): Don McKayKey Points/Issues Discussed:Action Items:Senate Subcommittee on Interior Appropriations, Majority and Minority StaffTuesday, March 15, 2010, 2:15 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.Met With: Ginny James, Professional Staff; 202-224-350 [email protected]

Ginny cannot make it to Pick and Gavel but appreciates being invited very much.She asked about Milt Wiltse and John Talley, and said, “Remember me to Milt.”She asked who should be coordinating the US response to the international situation regarding minerals, which seems to undermine our national security.2011 Budget: an appropriations bill before the election is doubtful. Everything is contentious and very polarized on the Hill. Healthcare maneuvering forced passage via reconciliation will end dialog. A long-term continuing resolution is possible.Mandatory spending is very large and discretionary spending and earmarks have very little impact on the overall budget.USGS has a good budget this year, but sustainability at that level is at issue. Expect a 5% reduction next FY.

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Program increases may best be justified if tied to climate change.Wunch mentioned National Groundwater Monitoring Network being pushed by NGWA, but Ginny had not heard of it. She advised us to push it with USGS.LiDAR, if it is to be funded via the GS, should be put in the President’s budget. Otherwise it is viewed as an earmark. Are there other agencies who want LiDAR?The GS has not scrubbed the outdated programs from their budget.She asked, “How is the $500,000 in the WaterSmart (formerly Water Census) being projected to the states? She commented that FY11 priorities for increases are mainly Sec. Salazar’s initiatives.Ginny said that she “did not get a very clear sense that Director McNutt is up to speed.” Regarding USGS reorganization, “Reorganizations are expensive and the USGS must return to Congress for approval of any proposed reorganization. If we cannot figure out where the money is going, then the reorganization seems pretty useless. Are the proposed FY11 cuts legitimate? We keep looking for products from the GS, but the only thing that comes out annually is reorganization or another strategic plan.” Regarding NGGDPP, Ginny indicated she would check into the overhead rate that GS is taking.

Department of Energy – Geothermal (DOE) - Because the AASG-DOE geothermal grant was still pending at the time of this meeting and no communications were possible because of federal rules this meeting was cancelled.

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, Majority Staff – BenekeTuesday, March 16, 2010, 3:15 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.AASG Lead: Jim CobbAASG Attendee(s): Don McKay, Jerry Weisenfluh, Dave WunschNote Taker(s): John ParrishKey Points/Issues Discussed:Action Items:AASG SPRING LIAISON – MARCH, 2010 – MEETING MINUTES

Linda Lance – Professional staff (Legal)(Patty Beneke and Allyson Anderson were not able to attend)

Although Linda Lance was a last minute stand in, she was very astute and accommodating and quickly grasped the concepts behind the issues. Most of the session was spent educating Ms Lance about the issues listed below. There was little feedback from Linda as she was substituting for Beneke.

AASG Lead – Jon Price (substituting for Jim Cobb)Note Taker – John ParrishAASG Attendees – Don McKay, Jerry Weisenfluh, Dave Wunsch, Jamie Robertson, Jay Parrish

AASG members spoke on: Geothermal activities and Catalogue GrantNCGMP – good and valuable program, needs for additional funding

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LiDAR – national map, and necessity for state mappingData Preservation – need for and importance of data to be preserved; funding issues. NOTE: Linda requested a Position Paper from AASG on the Data Preservation issue and necessity.

Pick and Gavel Banquet and AwardCosmos Club Washington D.C.The Pick and Gavel Banquet was held March 16, 2010 at the Cosmos Club in the Crentz Room with a pre-banquet reception in the adjacent Old Dining Room. Invitations were sent to colleagues in the executive, legislative, and NGO’s in the D.C. area plus the state geologists attending Liaison. We attempt to invite most of the people with whom we meet during Liaison. About 120 invitations were sent and the dinner was arranged for about 80 people. The Crentz Dining Room at the Cosmos Club is very good for our purpose. The reception was from 6:00 to 7:00 and dinner scheduled for 7:00. As with many D.C. functions our honored guests had votes on the Hill and did not arrive on time. Cosmos Club did a wonderful job holding the meals for more than a hour when the honorees did arrive. The Pick and Gavel awards were presented to Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Rep. Russ Holt of New Jersey. Both honorees attended and gave nice acceptance speeches. The state geologists of the honorees states were responsible for getting the award mineral specimens and holders. Because of the $300 limit on value of gifts received by Senators and Congressman a professional appraisal might be needed.

There is always some uncertainty in the numbers. The Cosmos Club requires a final head count one week in advance. Our numbers do not change much from year to year. It looks like for the 120 invitations we send out, between 70 and 80 attend. We had 75 people at this year’s P & G. There are some addition and subtraction to the list each year. All the records are preserved from year to year.

KGS “formalized” the logo for use in future P & Gs programs, invitations, and name tags. The color scheme and graphics add some “branding” to our event. It would be good to carry on some facsimile of this for continuity sake. Jon Price is great about using his membership to the Cosmos for getting AASG access. The staff at the Cosmos is familiar with AASG and planning is made easier by looking a past event, numbers, set ups, etc. If there are any questions the previous Pres-Elect can hopefully answer them.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)Wednesday, March 17, 2010, 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. AASG Lead: Jay ParrishAASG Attendee(s): Rod Combellick, Karl Muessig, Peter ScholleNote Taker(s): Don McKayMet With: John LaBrecque, Lead Earth Surface and Interior Focus Area; 202.358.1373 [email protected] Dave Harding, Geodetic Imaging, NASA Goddard

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Michael Goodman, Natural Hazards Program

National LiDAR survey: How do we make this happen? FEMA to plan an acquisition of elevation data to modernize floodplain maps. Collaboration with USGS and NASA will produce 80% coverage. USGS is not enthusiastic. Greg Schneider (sp) is the contact. USGS is the mandated agency. LaBrecque: M. McNutt is not a teddy bear. If she wants it done, it will get done. NASA must abide by the USGS mandate on this. Neither USGS nor NASA has funds to do a national survey. Harding: USGS does not have a coherent program of data collection LaBrecque: Suggest a visit of NASA and AASG with McNutt. USGS said some time ago it wanted to be the NOAA for the land, but has not done it. Standards should focus on the data needed, not on the specifics of the technology. Cramer is frustrated and would be an effective advocate, as would Paul Rooney (FEMA) and David Applegate (USGS). These folks and NRCS might be part of a consortium to bring it forward. McNutt has asked where USGS should put LiDAR organizationally. NASA resolution tends to be coarser than needed in many communities of scientists, but NASA nor other federal agencies can justify the high resolution they desire. Craig Dobson carries the torch for imaging. Illinois should contact Craig for imaging over the Decatur sequestration site.Budget – LaBrecque indicates it is a good year (2011) for NASA. A number of sensors active or planned, including DESDynI radar and LiDAR mission; another on energy budget of the Earth; LVIS is full waveform LiDAR for vegetation and topo. A follow on to GRACE (sp) would be funded to characterize mass distribution of groundwater. The GPS-aided Real-time Earthquake And Tsunami (GREAT) system for realtime measure of ground movement for tsunami prediction was proven in concept by ground stations and satellite measurements of ocean waves during and after the Chili event.

Geological Society of America (GSA)Wednesday, March 17, 2010, 8:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. AASG Lead: Harvey ThorleifsonAASG Attendee(s): Tom Berg, Joe Gillman, Randy Keller, David SpearsNote Taker(s): John ParrishMet with: Craig Schiffries, Director for Geoscience PolicyAASG Lead – Harvey ThorleifsonNote Taker – John ParrishAASG Attendees – Tom Berg, Joe Gillman, Randy Keller, David Spears

AASG/GSA Cooperation: Both AASG and GSA acknowledged good cooperation between organizations.

Fall Coalition Meeting – Suggested that AASG participate in the Geoscience Congressional Meetings scheduled for September, 2010:

Sept. 20th (day) AGI Leadership meetings (training sessions)Sept. 20th (evening): USGS Coalition Reception (7th Annual)Sept. 21st and 22nd – Congressional visits

NOTE: Vicki McConnell and Craig Schiffries are to communicate and make arrangements for AASG participation.

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GSA is an advocate for funding from NSF; USGS, Fossil Fuels, NASA, and other solid earth science programs. NOAA programs generally are atmospheric, geophysics, and marine.

GSA is trying to influence the structure of the DOI Strategic Plan, specifically by have the topic of “earth science” raised to the level of a “mission area” within the Plan. This is because the DOI Strategic Plan, upon with budgeting is determined, does not align itself to structures within DOI (like the USGS), but rather to concepts and themes (like science).

Also, in the reauthorization of America Competes, the budgets for DOE science and NIST science are doubled. However, the USGS budget is not doubled because it is embedded into the DOI budget and not seen as an independent agency such as NOAA, NASA and DOE. GSA is working to get the USGS budget recognized as a science budget just as those of other independent agencies.

National Science Foundation and U.S. Geological Survey (NSF/USGS)Wednesday, March 17, 2010, 8:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. AASG Lead: Dave WunschAASG Attendee(s): Ed Deal, Ian Madin, John Steinmetz, Jerry WeisenfluhNote Taker(s): Jim Cobb

This was a large meeting geared at discussing a USGS-AASG-DOI-NSF mentoring program. Jim Cobb described the AASG-NSF mentoring program from 1999 to 2003. It was very successful in eyes of AASG and its demise by NSF left a negative opinion of NSF programs in the eyes of some (JCC) AASG members. AASG put a lot of effort into the mentoring program, graduated more than 125 mentorees, was highly valued by the mentorees as one of their best science experiences but in the end was poorly regarded by NSF for reasons never quite understood. Now DOI through USGS are looking to start a youth initiative under the new President Obama administration. The Water Resources Institutes at Universities get $6 million annually. Funding mechanisms through University Water Institutes get that access and diversity is a need. There is a need for infrastructure to happen across each site but faculty want students but getting student support.

Tina Patena REUS and distributed REUS through IRIS. Distributed REU she runs enhanced diversity every other year. NSF has 2 kinds – Track 1 and Track 2 best practices has $2 million.

Look at current solicitation. Broadening definition of minority serving universities. EPSCOR concept 27 states to leverage states Urban to field. Western Kentucky University has a program.

David Matty1. TWOs program on courses and curriculum with university enehancements.2. Huge assessment component – difficult to figure out the angle ATE Program Unity College train technicians through community college internships. The program is in place. Planning grants for NSF proposals, planning grants up to $200k to $2 million are available.

Environmental technicians program work force development. None currently in geology – but energy water, and GIS are in place.

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STEP Program pipeline for Student Talent Expansion Program for non-traditional students.

ATE book partnerships with Insititutions - Math/Science Program. You can get a planning grant for this program. Energy and energy education for universities and school districts. Conference early June D.C. Hilton for EHR.

NASA Sharp Program for Internships.

REU GIS in HER not the “end all.”

Undergrad support, seniors in High School.

Do it or one grant for state surveys AASG – USGS – NSF – DOI.

AASG needs the planning grant to pay state geological staff members to conceive, promote, and propose a worthy program.

Randy and Peter will help.

USDA – CSREES Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education and Extension Service

Wednesday, March 17, 2010, 8:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. AASG Lead: Roy BreckinridgeAASG Attendee(s): Vickie McConnell, Jon Prices, Jamie RobertsonNote Taker(s): Vince Matthews

Robert Hedberg, Interim Director 202-720-6071 [email protected],govNancy Cavallaro, National Program Leader, Soils, Water and Global Change 202-401-5176 [email protected] Ann Rozum, National Program Leader, Conservation and Environment202-401-4533

Geologic Mapping and Data Preservation

We discussed the need for geologic mapping and data while awaiting all of the hosts. NIFA is very aware of the importance of geologic mapping and data preservation and uses of geologic information.

Funding Opportunities with Surveys

There funding opportunities for partners with affiliations with cooperative extension programs (like land grant universities). USDA partnerships with the USGS was mentioned and we emphasized that the state surveys bring to the table localized expertise and in the aggregate a larger geologic team than the USGS.

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mailto:[email protected],gov


State surveys should subscribe to postings of the RFA’s (funding proposals) on the NIFA website. Several of interest to geological surveys will be posted in the near future.

USDA research budget has program funds in climate change studies and commodity programs including the availability of critical resources like fertilizer.

Action Items and Suggested Course(s) of Action:

Hedberg requested that we, AASG, provide representation on regional councils, specifically the Western Regional Administration Council. Course of action/ refer to AASG EXCOM

American Geological Institute (AGI)Wednesday, March 17, 2010, 9:30 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. AASG Lead: Randy KellerAASG Attendee(s): Tom Berg, Joe Gillman, John Parrish, Harvey ThorleifsonNote Taker(s): David Spears

Met with: Pat Leahy, Ann Benbow, Chris Keane

AGI presents the Ian Campbell Award, a unique award honoring a unique individual, each year at the GSA Annual Meeting. Three groups are represented on the award committee: the Mineralogical Society of America, AASG, and GSA (the incoming President represents the Society).

AGI representatives really enjoyed the Pick and Gavel Banquet.

Regarding the general health of AGI, the Institute is in “pretty good shape,” coming out of the financial crisis. A new organization, the Karst Waters Institute, has recently joined. It’s a small group that publishes a journal. They are the 47th member organization of AGI.

AGI has published two new books, a book of humorous essays by Steve Teste, which is also available as an e-book, and “Living with Earth,”a new environmental geology textbook aimed at second-semester college-level geology students (an alternative to historical geology), published cooperatively with NAGT. Both will generate royalties for AGI. Membership dues are only 2% of AGI’s revenue.

AGI selected its Congressional Fellow last weekend. Ernest Mancini, a former State Geologist, chaired the selection committee. The name has not yet been announced.

AGI would like to coordinate with AASG on Congressional Visit Day in September. We should deliver an agreed-upon, unified general message before presenting the message of individual group interests. Vicki McConnell is in charge of AASG CVD activities and should coordinate with Linda Rowan at AGI.

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Earth magazine is available to state geological surveys with a bulk discount. Articles in Earth would be a good way for state surveys to get their message out.

AGI is concerned about the career paths of graduating earth science majors. Only 13% are still in the geosciences three years after graduation, compared to 26% in engineering and other sciences. AGI forecasts a long-term shortage of trained geoscientists. The number of graduate students is flat while the number of undergraduates is increasing. We need to do more to promote internships. AGI offers ten internships each summer and receives approximately 300 applications. The USGS offers about 50 internships each summer. AGI would like to establish a clearinghouse for earth science internships. They need state geological surveys to join with them. Internship “hunting season” is February-March. Traditional fliers on bulletin boards don’t work anymore. Universities are falling short in career education. Chris would like to make a broad pitch to the AASG membership that we need to be doing more recruit young people into the geosciences. This should be put on the agenda for the AASG Annual Meeting.

AGI is working on their Geosciences Workforce report for 2010. They need cooperation from the state surveys in updating the Directory of Geoscience Departments. Need to coordinate with AASG statistician, Rick Allis. Tom Berg will ask John Talley to send copies of the new AASG directory to AGI staff. We need to correct/update the email lists that AGI has for AASG members. Are all state geologists aware of AGI publications, newsletters, and available services? We should also not forget about the 70 or so honorary AASG members.

AGI is working on education and outreach to K-12 students; they’ve produced a 4-DVD set for high school earth science classes and an “Earth and You” DVD for elementary students. The recent educational summit in California attracted 42 people, and would have attracted more if not for the snow storm. We need to bring together the AGI membership societies on K-12 earth science education. Creation science has emerged as a major challenge to traditional earth science education. Only three states require an earth science course for high school graduation; we need to work to make it a requirement in all states. Also, we must push to get universities to accept earth science as a valid means of fulfilling a science requirement.

The theme of this year’s Earth Science Week will be “Exploring Energy.” AGI would like to see a declaration from each state’s governor. See January 8 press release (handout). The AASG Education Committee (Larry Becker) should send an email to all members reminding them to request their Earth Science Education Week kits from AGI. See 2009 Earth Science Education Week report on the AGI website. State surveys should send summaries of their Education Week activities to Geoff Camphire ([email protected]).

National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)Wednesday, March 17, 2010, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. AASG Lead: Vicki McConnellAASG Attendee(s): Vince Matthews, Jon Price, Jamie RobertsonNote Taker(s): Roy BreckenridgeMet with: Dave Thackeray, National Civil Engineer (lead)

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Chris Smith, National Leader for National Cooperative Soil SurveyClaudia Hoeft, National Hydraulic Engineer and Acting Snow Survey and Water Forecasting Coordinator

Jerry Bernard, National Geologist, was unable to attend.

We provided a progress report on our initiative to preserve geologic and other geospatially referenced data. We also encouraged NRCS to make all USDA aerial imagery available online. Of interest are the photos such as the old ASCS photos available in field offices and used by the NRCS for conservation planning. NRCS informed us that they do maintain a sample repository in Lincoln, NB and there should be an online catalogue of samples and data, see below.

We expressed interest in greater progress on soil surveys on Federal Lands, which Chris Smith discussed. 90% complete soil surveys except for Federal Lands and those are only being mapped if funds are provided by land management agencies.

Claudia Hoeft handed out and discussed the announcement for the upcoming Joint Federal Interagency Conference on Sedimentation and Hydrologic Modeling, attached.

We did bring up National Lidar concept and opined as to whether EPA should be more involved. NRCS is all for National Lidar.

In addition to the handouts (attached as PDF files), the following provide additional information which was discussed or requested.

NRCS Information Related to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/recovery/

Contacts for NRCS State Conservationists, State Soil Scientists, and MLRA Soil Scientists, shown on the following web pages:http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/http://soils.usda.gov/contact/

The National Cooperative Soil Characterization Database is available at the following web page:http://ssldata.nrcs.usda.gov/

Do you know what your State Soil is???Action Items and Suggested Course(s) of Action: (these will be extracted and compiled for ExCom, Meeting Leads, and committee chairs for action and also provided to membership for information)

No definitive actions from this meeting. It is always good to touch base with NRCS and it would be great to get Dept. of Agriculture’s ear on such issues as data preservation and lidar.

Jim -- collected a couple of business cards at this meeting. Contact information is:

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http://ssldata.nrcs.usda.gov/

http://soils.usda.gov/contact/

http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/

http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/recovery/


Claudia Hoeft, National Hydraulic Engineer, 202-720-0772 [email protected] David Thackeray, National Civil Engineer, 202-205-8249 [email protected]

Interstate Oil and Gas Commission (IOGCC)Wednesday, March 17, 2010, 10:15 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. AASG Lead: Ed Deal AASG Attendee(s): Jim Cobb, John Steinmetz, Jerry Weisenfluh, Dave WunschNote Taker(s): Ian MadinKey Points/Issues Discussed:Action Items:

We met Kevin Bliss. Much of the discussion was about CCS. IOGSS has a pretty long history of involvement in the regulatory and permitting issues related to CCS. IOGSS was among the first groups to offer well thought out and well articulated draft regulations for CCS. There are also political issues being raised over “hydrofracing.” This could either gain or lose support.

American Geophysical Union (AGU)Wednesday, March 17, 2010, 10:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. AASG Lead: Roy BreckenridgeAASG Attendee(s): Randy Keller, John Parrish, David Spears, Harvey ThorleifsonNote Taker(s): Joe GillmanMet with:

Ann Cairns [email protected] 202-777-7505Elizabeth Landau [email protected] 202-777-7535

Peter Weiss [email protected]

Issues/Topics: Federal water initiatives/SOGW National Ground Water Monitoring Network Climate change research AGU teacher workshop updates/opportunities for state surveys General political scene for geoscience and environmental issues National Geological Mapping Program reauthorization Stimulus program opportunities in earth sciences

Outcomes/Action Items/Key Points:

Ann Cairns, Director of Communications and Outreach – former director of communications at GSA, Boulder CO

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AGU currently in the midst of a strategic planning process with a goal of better integrating outreach efforts that increase overall effectiveness of programs; attempting to identify ways of collaborating with partners in education, public affairs, information/outreach

Spring outreach event focuses on Engineering, Science, and Technology - Fall event coincides with Geosciences Congressional Visits Day and is coordinated with GSA, AGI

-Training includes efforts of AGU in the morning and AAAS in the afternoon; includes participants from industry, professional societies, and students; messages are established with collaborators prior to meetings; meeting assignments are based on experience, relevance, subject matter, expertise, or requests by participants; participating agencies include NASA, NOAA, NSF, EPA

AASG (Vicki) should coordinate with Elizabeth Landau, AGU

Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA)Wednesday, March 17, 2010, 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. AASG Lead: Rod CombellickAASG Attendee(s): Don McKay, Jay Parrish, Peter ScholleNote Taker(s): Karl Muessig

Met With: Fred Lawrence 202-857-4722 [email protected] President, Economics & International AffairsRyan Ullman 202-857-4722 [email protected]

We discussed the very low appropriations for the existing NGGDPP and mentioned Sen. Murkowski’s Energy Bill amendment to authorize $90 million for sample archive construction & updates. IPAA is supportive of all data preservation efforts.Scholle: Industry testimonials would be helpful to support increasing federal appropriations for data preservation and for states seeking funds to build or expand sample repositories

Funding for fossil energy R&DUllman: DOI Secretary Salazar is unsupportive of fossil energy issues, e.g., DOI is raising fees and closing areas to exploration, and Congress is deleting $50 million (plus match, or $100 million total) for R&D funding from DOEScholle: The important tie-over between fossil fuels (esp. natural gas) and renewables may help make the case for continued R&D fundingUllman encouraged AASG to write to appropriate committees to restore cuts. He offered to send an example letter for AASG considerationRPSEA Section 999 program funding is probably OK for this year (Sens. Dorgan and Bingaman on Energy & Natural Resources Committee are supportive, so repeal is not likely to pass)

Energy legislation/University research/Workforce development

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Everyone recognizes that, following health care legislation, climate change and carbon capture & storage (CCS) will dominate energy bill debate for some timeScholle asked about the consequences of cuts to DOE fossil energy R&D and whether any legislation is being considered to replace the loss of funds to universities and other training programs. Ullman replied that some language on workforce development is being introduced in the House (Rep. Sue Myrick, NC), but is not yet part of the energy bill. IPAA is supporting some magnet schools with course work that prepares students for petroleum industry careers. Scholle: The industry has fallen behind in its own workforce development programs.Lawrence: IPAA recognizes that there is high turnover and low retention of oilfield and other petroleum industry workers. IPAA annual meeting agendas are including more discussion on training and retention needs in the industry

OtherPrice asked if the permitting process in DOI is slowing down and, if so, how this is impacting petroleum producers. Ullman replied that the permitting process is becoming much more cumbersome, categorical exclusions are being reduced, and the “streamlined“ permitting process has become decidedly unstreamlined. Ullman: For independent producers, the cost of obtaining drilling permits has doubled. Although some companies are willing to pay BLM for accelerated permitting, gas companies that pay higher royalties are not likely to do so.

Action Items and Suggested Course(s) of Action: Follow up on IPAA’s agreement to solicit testimonials from producers on the value of data preservation efforts and core repositories.Follow up on Ullman’s offer to send AASG an example letter to encourage appropriate Congressional committees to restore cuts to fossil energy R&D

National Research Council (NRC) of the National Academy of Sciences; Board on Earth Sciences and Resources (BESR)

Wednesday, March 17, 2010, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.AASG Lead: Dave WunschAASG Attendee(s): ALLNote Taker(s): ALL

The usual lunch meeting and general overview of NRC projects and studies.

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