American Institute of Professional Geologists
Colorado Sectionwpe10.jpg (2888 bytes)

wpeF.jpg (3543 bytes)

Monthly luncheon meetings are held every third Tuesday,
running from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, at the
University Club, 1673 Sherman Street, Denver,
except as otherwise noted on the website.

Reservations to be made by calling
David Abbott
303-394-0321 or via e-mail at
dmageol@msn.com
 

Colorado Section News
Colorado Section Newsletter - June 2008
CO-AIPG Sept. Luncheon (09/04/08) Change of Speaker/Topic for Denver Region Exploration Geologists' Society Sept. Meeting (09/04/08)
DENVER COAL CLUB Sept. 2008 Luncheon (09/04/08) KY Job Opening (09/04/08)
RMAG-PTTC Risk Management Short Course-Registration Deadline (09/02/08) Job Openings (09/02/08)
Denver Region Exploration Geologists' Society September Meeting (09/02/08) GeoEvents (09/02/08)
RMAG Friday Luncheon (09/02/08) DIPS September Luncheon (09/02/08)
University of Colorado Geosciences Seminars (09/02/08) Job Openings (09/02/08)
Rocky Mountain GITA Workshop (08/04/08) 2 Job Openings (08/01/08)
New Short Course at Colorado School of Mines (07/14/08) M+M6 Meeting (07/07/08)
FCGS Website (07/07/08) Colorado Mining Exhibit Foundation (07/07/08
Mineral and Mining Job Openings (06/13/08) Position for Geologist at the Questa Mine, Chevron Mining Inc. (05/28/08)
GeoEvents (04/14/08) Northwest Environmental Training Center upcoming courses (04/21/08)
Creation "science" in Texas (03/14/08) Subcontract Job Opening (04/04/08)
OGS Director Search (03/03/08) CO-AIPG Opposition to HB 08-1161 and HB 08-1165 (02/08/08)
RTD's Interactive System Map (1/25/08) Awardees for CO-AIPG Annual Meeting (12/17/07)
Job Opening (12/05/07) Lat/Lon to Elevation Web Application (10/26/07)
Colorado Section of AIPG 2007 SUMMER FIELD TRIP (07/09/07)
Cave of Giant Crystals (04/23/07) More on Cave of Giant Crystals (04/25/07)
Susan Landon Fund Raising Campaign (10/15/05)
Access to 2003 AIPG Annual Meeting Proceedings
Scholarship Fund E-Mail Reminder
Colorado Section's Career Day handout 2002

Colorado Section's Bylaws - 11/06

FIELD TRIPS and ABSTRACTS (pdf file - 105 pages)
AIPG 40th Annual Meeting - Glenwood Springs, CO - October 5-9, 2003
Theme: Geology in the Next Decade
Road Log for the Trip from Denver to the Garfield County Line Along Interstate 70 in Colorado
(pdf file - 12 pages)
Job Postings Membership Application Forms
AIPG Store Geoscientist Salary Links
Student Resources AIPG Section Website Links
About AIPG IET Web Resources for Geoscientists
AIPG National Website

COLORADO SECTION OFFICERS

cgs_logo.gif (8850 bytes)

Go to AIPG National Home Page

go to top

CO-AIPG Sept. Luncheon (09/04/08)

Date: Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2008
Speaker: Jim Burnell, PhD, Colorado Geological Survey
Title: "Resource Constraints on Alternative Energy Development"
Time: 11:30 AM social gathering; Noon luncheon and subsequent speaker presentation

Abstract:
Public support is growing for the development of energy generation from renewable sources. An aspect of renewables that is possibly unknown by many, however, is the hardware needs for these technologies. The infrastructure requires mined materials, including imported strategic and critical minerals. Silica, copper, gallium, indium, selenium, cadmium and tellurium are required for the dominant photovoltaic technologies. Silver and aluminum are necessary for "concentrating solar power" technology. Zinc, vanadium, platinum group metals, and rare earth elements are key components of power storage, hybrid vehicle, and fuel cell applications. All these materials must be mined. At present, the U.S. is woefully dependent upon import sources for most of these materials and demand is already squeezing the prices. Domestic sources must be found and developed if energy independence is to be achieved using alternative sources.


The meeting will be held at the University Club, 1673 Sherman Street, Denver. Please make an advance reservation if at all possible so that seating and food preparation are adequate to cover attendance. Cost is $25 with advance reservation and $28 at the door. Paid parking is available along the street (metered) or in the adjacent parking lot.

Contact David Abbott by Noon on Sept. 12 for reservations at 303-394-0321 or via e-mail at
dmageol@msn.com.


 

go to top



Change of Speaker/Topic for Denver Region Exploration Geologists' Society Sept. Meeting (09/04/08)

Date: September 8, 2008
Social hour: 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.; Presentation: 7:00 p.m.
Topic: An exploration model for Wrangellia's high grade copper deposits at Kennecott, Alaska
Speaker: Jason B. Price, Murray Hitzman, Eric Nelson, and John Humphrey
Location: Consolidated Mutual Water Company, lower level, 12700 W. 27th Ave, Lakewood, Colorado.

Abstract:
The high grade copper deposits at Kennecott, Alaska are among the richest known copper occurrences in the world and are located in the Wrangellia terrane. The orebodies are stratabound replacement enlarged veins that are controlled by high angle faults hosted within the structurally deformed Triassic Chitistone Limestone. The Chitistone Limestone overlies the anomalously copper-bearing, prehnite-pumpellyite metamorphosed Nikolai Greenstone (basalt). The vast majority of the known mineralization in the Kennecott district occurs within 100 m of this basalt-limestone contact.

Field, petrographic, and stable isotope data suggest that the Kennecott deposits formed in the lowermost Chitistone Limestone when a copper-bearing, oxic fluid originating from the Nikolai Greenstone mixed in favorable structural traps with a sulfide-bearing, basinal, anoxic fluid originating from the Chitistone Limestone. While the original copper-bearing Nikolai fluid was produced by dehydration reactions during prehnite-pumpellyite metamorphism at ~200:C, the vast majority of the orthorhombic chalcocite+djurleite mineralization did not occur until fluid temperatures were ~90:C. The driving forces for the fluid mixing are envisaged to be a mixture of gravity and tectonic pumping generated by structural imbrication during the upper Jurassic to lower Cretaceous orogeny coincident with the accretion of Wrangellia (~110 Ma).

Exploration criteria for Kennecott-type deposits include (in order of importance): proximity to a source for the copper, especially intermediate to mafic igneous rocks or, potentially, redbeds; structurally deformed, basinal, host rocks that may or may not be metamorphosed; the presence of hydrothermal dolomite veins or breccia matrices; the presence of dedolomitized haloes around fluid pathways, particularly veins and faults; strong geophysical anomalies such as gravity, resistivity, SP, and CSAMT.


 

go to top



DENVER COAL CLUB Sept. 2008 Luncheon (09/04/08)

Speaker: Michael Wireman, Hydrogeologist, USEPA
Topic: "Hydrogeologic Characterization of Ground Waters, Mine Pools, and the Leadville Mine Drainage Tunnel, Leadville, Colorado"
Date & Time: Thursday, Sept. 11, 2008
11:30am - Social; 12:00pm - Lunch; 12:30pm - Presentation
Cost: Lunch: $14.00 (Wine & Beer $2.00)
Place: DAVIS, GRAHAM & STUBBS, 1550 17th Street, Suite 500, Denver, Colorado 80202
[Free parking in garage on first come, first serve basis. ]
RSVP: dkinnes@highlandgeocomp.com or (303) 915-4640
Please RSVP ASAP so we can order the proper number of lunches.


 

go to top



KY Job Opening (09/04/08)


Kentucky Geological Survey
HYDROGEOCHEMIST (GEOLOGIST V) 8/25/2008, revised

The Kentucky Geological Survey wishes to hire a low-temperature, hydrogeochemist at the Geologist V level. This senior-level position requires the PhD. degree or equivalent experience in hydrogeology, geochemistry, or a related discipline. The successful candidate will have demonstrated prominent skills in program development, project management, personnel supervision, budget control, and research activities both in the field and publication. The candidate must be familiar with hydrogeologic conditions in clastic and karst rock systems, and should have conducted research in discovery and characterization of groundwater resources from both quantitative and water-quality perspectives. The candidate must have demonstrated the ability to work with diverse groups of people including local officials, county and state agencies, contractors, and university researchers.

Preferred technical skills include use of computer geochemical models (e.g. AquaChem, PHREEQC), research statistics, knowledge of technology to identify microbial and organic contaminants, ARC GIS, MSAccess, report writing, and oral presentation. Other skills of interest are remote sensing analysis (Imagine), numerical and analytical methods for pumping test analysis, and near-surface geophysics (e.g. GPR, ER, SP). Appointment as adjunct member of the Graduate Faculty of a department within the University of Kentucky is possible.

For more details see www.uky.edu/hr/ukjobs ; job no. SA523288. To apply, a UK Online Application must be submitted at www.uky.edu/hr/ukjobs. Applications accepted until the position is filled. The University of Kentucky is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from minorities and females.

 

go to top


RMAG-PTTC Risk Management Short Course-Registration Deadline (09/02/08)

Early Registration Deadline this Friday, August 29 for the RMAG/PTTC Risk Management Short Course!!

This one-day Risk Management Short Course will be presented by industry-renowned Gary Citron, Rose & Associates, LLP, and John Howell III, Portfolio Decisions, Inc, on Tuesday, September 23rd at the Denver Marriott.

The course will offer a practical approach to portfolio & risk management for both conventional and unconventional plays, including unbiased pre-drill opportunity characterization, and learning from the tracking and measuring of your predictive performance as a platform for future improvement!

Save if you sign up by Friday, August 29th. Save even more if you also sign up for the Rocky Mountain Dusters Symposium being held on Monday, September 22nd.

Register online at www.rmag.org or call RMAG at 303-573-8621.

 

go to top



Job Openings (09/02/08)

1) We are assisting Delta Petroleum in Denver Colorado in finding Two (2) Senior Petroleum Geologist to assist in their growth mode. Please review the 2 job descriptions below and if you or anyone you know has interest, please send your resume to mckeever_m@bellsouth.net.

Senior Geologist (Eastern Texas focus)
We are seeking a Senior Geologist to join our geological team. This position will be responsible for utilizing standard geological practices to evaluate, select and present exploration opportunities in existing and new areas. The position requires an individual with originality, creativity and independent judgment. The ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic and ability to work in a team environment while working independently. Candidate must be willing to travel periodically. Prior experience with formation evaluation, uncertainty analysis, risk assessment and economic analysis is required. A minimum of 12 years exploratory geological experience, a bachelor's degree in geology and domestic experience are required. Masters degree preferred. Experience with mapping software required.

Senior Geologist (Unconventional focus)
We are seeking a Senior Geologist to join our geological team. This position will be responsible for utilizing standard geological practices to evaluate, select and present exploration opportunities in existing and new areas. The position requires an individual with originality, creativity and independent judgment. The ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic and ability to work in a team environment while working independently. Candidate must be willing to travel periodically. Prior experience with formation evaluation, uncertainty analysis, risk assessment and economic analysis is required. A minimum of 12 years exploratory geological experience, a bachelor's degree in geology and domestic experience are required. Masters degree preferred. Experience with mapping software required.

Mary McKeever
PCS, Inc. - Petroleum Consulting Service
310 Anchor Road
Casselberry, FL 32707
office 407-688-9283
cell 321-231-4248
---------------------------------

2) I currently have Mine Engineer and Sr. Geotechnical Engineer positions I'm looking to fill with a very large and productive company in Alberta province. The mine engineer candidate must have 3-7 years mine and/or tailings engineering experience. The Sr. Geotechnical Engineer position must have 10+ years geotechnical engineering experience. Being in the industry, I was wondering if you could network with me on where I might be able to get in touch with mine engineers and geotechnical engineers who might have an interest in a new position.

Christine Seddon
Intellecor
Senior Recruiting Specialist
cseddon@intellecor.com
888-279-4990 ext. 88
www.intellecor.com

 

go to top



Denver Region Exploration Geologists' Society September Meeting (09/02/08)

Date: September 8, 2008
Social hour: 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.; Presentation: 7:00 p.m.
Topic: Geology and discovery of the Cerro Jumil Gold Skarn, Morelos, Mexico
Speaker: Bill Bond and Paul Bartos, Esperanza Silver Corporation, Denver
Location: Consolidated Mutual Water Company, lower level, 12700 W. 27th Ave, Lakewood, Colorado.

Abstract:
The Cerro Jumil deposit, located 12 km SW of the city of Cuernavaca, represents a new grass roots discovery. The property comprises an erosional window through Upper Tertiary and Quaternary volcanics and volcaniclastics exposing Morelos Platform carbonate rocks. These have been intruded by a 500 by 900 meter multi-phase intrusive, primarily composed of feldspar porphyry and equigranular granite. Temporally related quartz porphyry and andesitic dikes have also been identified within the intrusive and near the contact boundaries.

From the late Cretaceous to Early Tertiary, compressional tectonics deformed the sediments of the Morelos Platform into a series of folds with northwesterly trending axes. Extensive normal block faulting then followed the intrusion during the Eocene-Oligocene. The entire area is currently undergoing uplift and erosion and a thin colluvial cover is present over most of the district.

Adjacent to the intrusive contact, the limestone has been recrystallized into marble and varied skarn mineral assemblages that include tremolite, wollastonite, diopside, and garnet. Weak to intense silicification (jasperoids), retrograde alteration, and iron oxide replacement occur locally within the skarn zone. Approaching the intrusive contact, the limestone becomes more altered and typically reflects the following progression: 1) coarser grained (recrystallized) grey limestone often containing interbeds of fine to medium-grained marble, 2) medium to coarse-grained white marble (locally brecciated), 3) wollastonite (+/- garnet) and/or tremolite/actinolite (+/- garnet) and 4) garnet (+/- pyroxene). Within the intrusive, there is pervasive clay alteration of feldspars near the contact that diminishes rapidly deeper into the intrusive. Skarn zones vary in width from 8 to over 60 meters.

The width of gold mineralization is directly related to the extent of prograde exoskarn alteration and appears to be controlled by pre-mineral faults, fractures, and bedding planes, forming bodies that are generally sub-parallel to the intrusive contact. Some of the greater thicknesses and highest grades of gold are observed in zones of extensive prograde alteration. Gold mineralization probably occurred during the later stages of prograde metasomatism although extensive retrograde alteration has also been observed. Retrograde alteration resulted in the development of actinolite-tremolite, epidote, calcite, clay, and jasperoids at the expense of the primary skarn minerals. Subsequent pervasive supergene oxidation converted all sulphide minerals to oxides; as a consequence, metallurgical recoveries are very good.

Mapping and drilling have partially delineated two gold skarn zones referred to as the West and Southeast Zones that parallel the intrusive contact along its northwest and southeast contacts. A new area connecting the West and Southeast Zones, called Cerro Calabasas, has recently been discovered. These zones have variable thicknesses of gold mineralization which range from 3 meters to over 60 meters in width. In the mineralized zones, gold grades typically range between 0.3 and 5 g/t, typically averaging above 1.5 g/t Au. An initial resource estimate is now being completed.

 

go to top



GeoEvents (09/02/08)

(comp. by P. Modreski, USGS-Denver)

Fri.-Sun., Sept. 12-14, Denver Gem and Mineral Show, Denver Merchandise Mart, 58th Ave. at I-25; sponsored by nine area gem and mineral societies, and the second-largest mineral show in the U.S.A., with displays from museums throughout the U.S. and from around the world. The show's theme this year is "Minerals of Colorado". Admission charge; free parking. For info see http://www.denvermineralshow.com/ and for interesting photos of last year's show, http://geology.com/articles/denver-gem-and-mineral-show.shtml
At the Denver Gem and Mineral Show, once again, in addition to encouraging all to visit the show, we can use volunteer help at our USGS-sponsored "Kids Corner" booth where we display hands-on exhibits about rocks, minerals, and interactive geophysics demonstrations. We can use help during all three days of the show--Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Sept. 12-13-14. You'll receive from admission to the show as a reward. If you know at least a bit about rocks, and like talking to people and kids too, please consider offering to help! Call or write me, Pete Modreski, pmodreski@usgs.gov, 303-202-4766. (I'll be away on annual leave during part of the coming two weeks, but I WILL see your email or hear your phone message, and I will get back to you. Thanks very much!

Taking place along with it is the Colorado Mineral and Fossil Show, Sept 10-14, held at the Holiday Inn-Denver Central (4849 Bannock St. = frontage road on west side of I-25, just north of I-70); for info see http://www.mzexpos.com/colorado_fall.htm There's no admission charge, free parking, and lots of interesting minerals, fossils, and jewelry to look at and "consider" buying.

The Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum hosts an "all invited" reception and silent auction fund-raiser the evening of Wednesday, Sept. 10, in Golden, which will also feature the "Grand Opening" of the Museum's new gift shop. It's an enjoyable evening and a great chance to see the museum and meet people:

CSM Geology Museum to Open Gift Shop
The CSM Geology Museum will be opening a gift shop shortly on the lower level of the Museum. This is the first time that the Museum has had a gift shop in its new building at 13th and Maple Street. The shop will feature surplus mineral specimens, lapidary materials and equipment, fossils, books, fluorescent minerals, starter kits, and related materials. Specimens will range from "starter" pieces for under a dollar, to fine specimens for the advanced collector. The Grand Opening of the shop will be in conjunction with the Museum's
annual open house slated for 6 P.M. on September 10th. Further information will be available as the event approaches. Phone inquiries can be directed to Bruce Geller at 303-273-3823.

 

go to top


 

RMAG Friday Luncheon (09/02/08)

Date: September 5, 2008
Speaker: Cathy Farmer, Exxon-Mobil, Houston, TX
Topic: "Structural and Sedimentological Evolution of the Ultra-Deep Gas Play Fairway  Gulf of Mexico Shelf, Texas and Louisiana"

Abstract:
Ultra-deep drilling activity on the Gulf of Mexico shelf is targeting a new deep gas play fairway below established older production. The fairway extends from the Mississippi delta across the Texas shelf in the section below 25,000 feet. Large relatively simple anticlines with inverted Paleogene and Cretaceous sediment packages have been identified. These packages have been mapped regionally and locally to identify isopach thicks that should be favorable for accumulation of reservoir sandstone. The main exploration risks identified for the ultra-deep fairway are reservoir presence and quality.

The targeted deep structures contain sediments that exhibit internal ponded geometries with thickening axes coincident with present day anticlinal axes. Closure on many of the deep inversion anticlines formed very early as a result of initial autochthonous salt withdrawal. The deep structures are de-coupled from the shallower growth faulted section. Restoration of the structures through geological time indicates a complex interaction between salt thickness, depositional thickening and structural geometry. Comparison of structures across the ultra-deep trend reveals important differences in the depositional and structural evolution of the anticlines. Three-dimensional seismic data is being used to identify some of the differences in depositional and structural history. Internal geometries of sediment packages are identified in their current structural setting as well as in their original depositional setting by flattening on major time horizons. Viewing seismic data in this manner assists in understanding inversion history related to evacuation of the underlying autochthonous salt.


Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists luncheons are held in downtown Denver at the Marriott City Center at California and 17th St. Please check the event listing in the lobby for the room. Lunch is served at 12 Noon and the Program begins around 12:20 pm.

The price of the luncheon is $30.00. Checks should be made payable to RMAG If you are using a free ticket for this luncheon, you must state this in your reservation message or e-mail. No reservation is required for the talk only and the cost is $5.00.

You can register for lunches Online and pay ahead of time with whatever credit card you would like! Go to www.rmag.org, click on Events, Scroll down to Friday lunches and click on "Online Registration for Friday Lunches". (Remember to "unblock" your pop-ups in order to see the EventBrite Registration Screen)

Please make your reservation prior to 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 3.
 If you wish, you may still handle your lunches in our "usual" way by e-mailing me and paying with a check at the doorthat won't change.
 We hope this will make it easier for so many members who have requested the ability to use any credit card.
 You must still register prior to 10:30 am on the Wednesday before the talk in order to ensure your reservation.
 All sales are final
 Make sure that you include all the requested contact information so that we can send you an e-mail confirmation.

If you have any questions feel free to call our office at 303-573-8621. The Reservation Line is 303-623-5396.

E-Mail Reservations to staff@rmag.org  we will send you a confirmation note when we receive it. If you don't get a confirmation within 24 hours of e-mailing RMAG or prior to the Wednesday 10:30 AM deadline, your reservation is not confirmed, so please call the office.

Please Take Note: If you make a reservation and do not attend the luncheon you will be billed for the luncheon. Please call us ahead of time if you know you are unable to attend the lunch cancellations are not guaranteed, but we will attempt to sell your lunch. If your reservation is not claimed by 12:00 Noon on the day of the luncheon and you have not called us, we will bill you and attempt to sell your lunch.
 

go to top



DIPS September Luncheon (09/02/08)

DENVER INTERNATIONAL PETROLEUM SOCIETY
Friday, Sept. 12, 2008

Title: "Where Will Tomorrow's Oil Come From?"
Speaker: Philip H. Stark, VP IHS, Denver and Ken Chew, VP IHS, Killin, Scotland

Abstract:
The discovered conventional proved plus potential (2P) liquids resource base as of January 1, 2007 was 2,342 Bb. Of this amount, 1,107 Bb had been produced, leaving 1,235 Bb of remaining resource. International conventional liquids additions peaked from 1956 through 1965 when more than 506 Bb (50.6 Bb/yr) were discovered. Subsequent discovery rates decreased and averaged only 9.8 Bb/yr since 1985. Conventional resources are a concern but the three pillars of future liquid supply growth  remaining yet-to-find (YTF) volumes, field or resource growth and unconventional resources  must be considered to understand the resource potential.

Adding technically recoverable estimates for the three pillars boosts the high case estimate to 4,010 Bb with 2,900 Bb remaining recoverable resources Half of the USGS yet-to-find oil resource  788 Bb at end-2006  is in the Middle East and FSU. Restricted access to these resources heightens the need to understand geological aspects of accessible resources in deepwater and frontier areas. Discoveries must accelerate to realize the YTF potential before 2025. Growth to known fields adds 314 Bb to the high case. Conventional resources, though, with estimated 6,000 Bbo in place offer larger upside potential for enhanced recovery. Boosting the average 34 percent recovery factor by 10 percent could replace almost two thirds of the historic oil consumption. Understanding reservoir geology and characteristics like porosity, permeability and fluid content is critical to determine field growth potential and recovery technologies. Reservoirs with some 960 Bb of 2P resources have characteristics that are suitable for enhanced recovery by CO2 injection.

Unconventional resources may be the wild card for future oil supplies. Some 565 Bb of recoverable oil from Canadian and Venezuelan oil sands are included in the high case. Estimated in-place resource of bitumen, extra-heavy oil and shale oil are about three times greater than conventional liquids discovered to date. Mining, horizontal wells and thermal recovery have the potential to boost annual production from Canadian and Venezuelan oil sands by about 400,000 b/d. Commercial in situ recovery from oil shales has not been established but China's determination that it has 241 Bb of technically recoverable oil from shales highlights the need to understand the geology and reservoir aspects of these important resources.

Geographic and geologic resource distributions impact commercial and energy security considerations. Onshore discoveries account for 58 percent of historic liquid resources but deepwater resources are increasingly important. Over the past decade 88% of large discoveries by super majors and 51 percent by large independents were in deepwater. Recent large discoveries in the Gulf of Mexico and Brazil highlight the future deepwater potential. The depositional environment of known reservoirs highlights the importance of marine conditions for conventional oil accumulation. Shallow and open marine reservoirs account for 1,052 Bb of 2P oil resources while deltas account for 231 Bb and other marine for 197 Bb. Fluvial and lacustrine reservoirs account for 319 Bb with upside as oil shale evolves.

This paper reviews oil resource distributions and factors that impact the evolution of the recoverable oil supplies.


Wynkoop Brewing Company, 1634 18th Street, Denver
Gather at 11:30 am; Lunch served at Noon; Price: $15.00 for members and $18 for non-members for lunch

Make Reservations with Bob Zilinski at Email: rezilin@aol.com; Telephone: 303-885-0615;
Reservation deadline is Noon on Sept. 10.


 

go to top



University of Colorado Geosciences Seminars (09/02/08)


Benson Earth Sciences lecture hall (380)
Wednesdays at 4pm
Refreshments are served at 3:30 on the 3rd floor
For more information see: http://www.colorado.edu/GeolSci/

September 3. Dena Smith, University of Colorado. "Ancient Insects: Diversification, Preservation and Paleoecology."
September 10. Jason Neff, University of Colorado. "Manifest Dust; the environmental legacy of the settlement of the western US."
September 17. Karen Chin, University of Colorado. "Using Fossil Feces to Decipher Ancient Diets and Trophic Pathways."
September 24. Karl Mueller, University of Colorado. "Erosional and Rheologic Controls on Late Quaternary Shortening in the Western Taiwan Thrust Belt."
October 1. James Syvitski, University of Colorado. "Sinking Deltas."
October 8. Michael Manga, University of California - Berkeley. "Why do volcanoes only sometimes erupt explosively."


 

go to top



Job Openings (09/02/08)

We currently have several positions I'm looking to fill with a very large and productive company in Alberta, Canada. A partial list of openings is as follows:

Turnaround Technical Coordinator
Turnaround Operations Coordinator
QA/QC Site Manager
Geologist  LR
Senior DCS Engineer
Senior Cost Engineer
Mine Engineer  JPM
Geotechnical Engineer
Turnaround Planner
Senior Mine Reclamation Engineer / Closure Engineer

Please pass these on to people who might have an interest in a new position Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you in advance for your help.

Christine Seddon
Intellecor, Senior Recruiting Specialist
cseddon@intellecor.com
888-279-4990 ext. 88
www.intellecor.com

go to top



Rocky Mountain GITA Workshop (08/04/08)
The Business Benefits of GIS: An ROI Approach

The GITA Rocky Mountain Chapter presents a Pre-Conference Workshop, "The Business Benefits of GIS an ROI Approach", at the upcoming GIS in the Rockies. Led by Ross Smith of PA Consulting Group, join us on Tuesday, September 9, 2008 for this detailed understanding of PA Consulting Group's vendor-independent Return On Investment (ROI)-Driven GIS Strategy Methodology. This end-to-end methodology addresses a means to win the "hearts and minds" of decision makers and the rest of the business; in addition to defining the quantifiable benefits which will result in positive impacts to revenue, cost containment, service excellent, regulatory compliance, health & safety and so forth.

The cost is $125 per person for GITA Members and $150 per person for non-Members. The registration fee includes the book (a $24.95 value), free online templates, and lunch.

To register, see https://
www.gita.org/forms/forms/Default/The_Business_Benefits_of_GIS_an_ROI_Approach.aspx

 

go to top




2 Job Openings (08/01/08)

IOWA:
The Iowa Geological and Water Survey of the Departments Environmental Services Division has an opening for an Environmental Program Supervisor of the Geology and Groundwater Section. The primary job responsibilities for this position include:

Provide leadership, administration and coordination for the work of the Geology and Groundwater (GG) Section. Responsible for supervising and directing the activities of the GG Section staff and determining project priorities. Work with section staff and the State Geologist to insure the appropriate distribution of work and to resolve conflicting project completion deadlines. Serve as the coordinator for GG services within the Department and with external users of geologic information. Work with other departmental staff to assess needs and communicate available geological and groundwater related services.

Provide expertise in geological and groundwater resources. Identify and help prioritize the states needs for geologic and hydrologic information. Prepare and make presentations to internal and external audiences as assigned. Work collaboratively with the State Geologist and other bureau supervisors on interdisciplinary projects or studies. Provide geological and groundwater information to the general public, private industry, department staff, and other government agencies to inform them of the state's natural resources, the potential for development, the need for protection, and approaches for sustainable utilization.
Develop annual goals and performance measures for the Section that are consistent with the Surveys and Departments mission and plans. Incorporate those goals, means for measuring progress and mechanisms for reviewing and updating goals into the performance expectations for staff. Develop and administer the section's budget to project expenses based upon sound fiscal reasoning and utilize funding most effectively by determining staff and resource needs for current and planned projects. Authorize expenditures for equipment, travel, supplies and outside services. Ensure that expenditures are consistent with the bureau's goals and the divisions strategic plan, as well as applicable rules, regulations and the Code of Iowa. Monitor expenditures against the bureau's budget throughout the year with the purpose of maintaining a balanced budget and make recommendations to bureau chief if adjustments are warranted.

Ensure that personnel practices, including hiring, firing, promotions, reclassifications, leaves of absence, work schedules and assignments, performance reviews and recognition, training, staff development and exit interviews are conducted in accordance with departmental policy, contractual language and DAS/HRE processes and rules. Hear grievances at the first step; resolve work related problems, and administer other personnel related policies and procedures, including but not limited to EEO/AA, ADA, FMLA and FLSA; and approve use of sick leave and vacation. Ensure that Position Description Questionnaires (PDQ) are rewritten as needed to reflect the changing needs of the organization, competencies required and the responsibilities inherent in all positions supervised. Establish and monitor staff performance plans. Assign duties to each staff person and monitor their performance. Prepare and conduct a formal performance appraisal for each employee within the section on an annual basis. All new employees will have a six-month performance appraisal. Ensure that training is scheduled for employees in accordance with agency and individual needs, and availability of funding. Conduct regular staff meetings.

ABILITIES AND SKILLS: Ability to read and comprehend policies, rules, laws, and technical information related to geology, groundwater, water resources, and Geographical Information Systems. Ability to use computers and basic computer software products for the purposes of data management, performing analytical functions, and generating reports, tables, and charts. Ability to use computers and advanced computer software products for GG related projects, mapping, and data analysis, as well as for budget preparation, monitoring, and review. Ability to write grant applications for the purpose of securing grants for GG projects.
Broad knowledge of the states geology and groundwater resources and of DNR programs, policies, operational abilities and regulatory requirements; ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing with constituents, legislators, Governor's staff, DNR staff, management personnel and other state and federal agencies; ability to work independently with consistent results and minimal supervision; ability to analyze organizational and operational problems and develop timely and economical solutions; ability to plan, organize, and effectively supervise the work of technical staff; knowledge of the principles, techniques and trends of public administration, including financial management, labor relations and other resource management; ability to establish program objectives or performance goals and assess progress toward their achievement; ability to read and interpret complex federal and state laws, rules and regulations; capacity to adjust to change, work pressures or difficult situations without undue stress; must demonstrate initiative, a customer service and team orientation and display high standards of ethical conduct; position is a full-time position and as such, requires regular attendance. Ability to travel with some overnight stays.

Education, Experience and Special Requirements: Applicants must meet the minimum requirements for an Environmental Program Supervisor based on education, experience and special requirements, or an acceptable combination thereof, as established by the Department of Administrative Services. Applicants with a degree in geology or a closely related geoscience field are preferred. Applicants must also qualify for the DAS Selective Certification: #242 Geology, which requires one year of experience, twenty-four semester hours, or a combination of both, practicing geosciences, in areas which can include identification, interpretation and logging of geologic materials, hydrogeology, geologic field work or geologic mapping.

HOW TO APPLY:

Step 1: Interested applicants must submit a State of Iowa application form for this position by the close of business on August 8, 2008 Application forms are available from the Iowa Department of Administrative Services (DAS) web page at www.das.hre.iowa.gov, from any Workforce Development Center, or at the DAS-HRE office in Des Moines. Completed applications must be submitted through the DAS web page or faxed to DAS at 515-281-7970. You must include the job title and job vacancy number on all applications.

Step 2: In addition, in order to be considered for this position, you must submit a cover letter, resume and three business references to: dnr.hiringcoordinator@dnr.iowa.gov or send a hard copy of the requested materials to: DNR Hiring Coordinator, BR4984, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, 502 E. 9th St., Des Moines, IA 50319-0034. The requested materials must be received no later than 48 hours (excluding weekends and State holidays) after the closing date. Please be precise when outlining your experience as related to the position and any selective(s) noted Failure to follow these instructions will disqualify you from consideration for this position. For more information about this position, contact Tim Hall at 515-281-8169 or tim.hall@dnr.iowa.gov.

SOUTH DAKOTA:
HYDROLOGIST SPECIALIST
Rapid City, SD
Requisition #: 80604
Agency:Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Financial and Technical Assistance; Geological Survey
Salary:$21.26 - $23.92 per hour, depending on experience T17
Closing Date:Open Until Filled

Position Purpose: This position will be based out of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources office in Rapid City. Work duties will be focused on ground-water and surface-water issues related to the Black Hills and other parts of western South Dakota. Specific duties of this position will include the following.
7     assisting the State Geologist in anticipating the natural resources data needs of South Dakota, and formulating and implementing activities to generate the required information;
7     planning, directing, and performing investigations and data collection for hydrologic and geologic issues;
7     this work may include the planning and direction of test drilling, well installation, and water sampling for hydrologic investigations;
7     representing the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in public forums and functioning as a liaison between the Geological Survey and public and private organizations in western South Dakota;
7     providing hydrogeologic expertise and assistance to other entities in State government and other public and private organizations;
7     developing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with other entities which may include other programs in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the U.S. Geological Survey, the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, the West Dakota Water Development District, cities, and counties;
7     working independently and as part of collaborative teams;
7     writing technical reports and reviewing reports prepared by others including other Department of Environment and Natural Resources staff members, the U.S. Geological Survey, and consultants;
7     conveying complex hydrologic and geologic issues to the lay public in an understandable manner;
7     developing and making public presentations related to hydrogeologic topics;
7     responding to numerous requests for information from the public, academia, industry, and consultants.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of:
7     design and implementation of hydrogeologic investigations;
7     ground-water flow in porous media;
7     analysis and interpretation of aquifer-test data;
7     geologic, structure-contour, and isopach maps;
7     water-table and potentiometric-surface maps;
7     evaluating water-quality data;
7     technical report writing and review;
7     Microsoft. software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint);
7     ArcGIS software;
7     making public presentations.

Comments: Degree in hydrology or geology or a closely related science are preferred. Experience or familiarity with the following topics is desirable: the geology and hydrology of the Black Hills and other parts of western South Dakota; Karst hydrology; Tracer tests; Isotope hydrology; ground-water flow in fractured media; derivative maps such as aquifer-vulnerability maps; ground-water flow modeling; down-hole geophysical logs; geophysics Normal work hours will be from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. Some overnight travel will be required to attend meetings and conduct field investigations. Most travel will likely be day excursions ending with a return to Rapid City at the end of the work day.

The successful candidate must be willing to adjust his/her work schedule to accommodate attendance at various meetings outside of normal working hours or to accommodate more than an 8-hour day in the field.

Much of the work will be performed in a typical office environment. Extended periods in the field will, however, be required performing activities such as hiking, working with drilling crews, or collecting water samples. Occasional lifting of up to 100 pounds may be necessary. Field work in extreme hot and cold weather conditions may occasionally be required.

 

go to top



New Short Course at Colorado School of Mines (07/14/08)
Uranium Geology and Geochemistry
October 20-21, 2008, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

General Research Lab (GRL) Conference room
Fee: $350 (includes food at breaks, workbook, and PDH certificate)
Instructor: Dr. Sam Romberger (Colorado School of Mines)

Course Content is based on the premise that an understanding of mineralizing processes is important in developing predictive models leading to exploration strategies. Course will include a brief review of the nuclear energy industry and the nuclear cycle. The distribution, geology and mineralogy of a wide range of types of uranium deposits will be discussed, including quartz pebble conglomerate, unconformity-related, sandstone-hosted, vein-type, breccia pipe, high grade metamorphic, magmatic deposits associated with alkalic plutons and pegmatites, contact metamorphic, volcanogenic, calcrete, black shale and phosphorite-hosted occurrences. Emphasis will be placed on structural, lithologic and geochemical controls important in their formation. The source of uranium and associated elements, the source of mineralizing fluids, and the mechanisms of transport and deposition of uranium and associated metals will be discussed. The role of various structural, lithologic and geochemical traps will be discussed in the context of understanding processes responsible for creating metal concentrations. Discussion will include the importance of various geologic structures serving as fluid conduits and mineral depositories, and the role of geochemical traps such as redox interfaces, for the precipitation of uranium and associated elements

Register online: www.pttcrockies.org
For more information, contact Mary Carr, 303.273.3107,
mcarr@mines.edu

 

go to top



M+M6 Meeting (07/07/08)

For those among you who may have a serious professional interest in mineralogy, I'd like to call your attention to the International Mineralogical Association (IMA's) Sixth International Conference on Minerals and Museums, "M+M6" being held at the Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado, Sept. 7-9 (plus field trips before & after), 2008. Full information is on the conference website, http://www.mines.edu/outreach/cont_ed/ICMM6/ Attendance at this conference is open to all interested persons who wish to register; no membership in any particular organization is required.

Please note that the deadline to register to attend the conference field trips is JULY 10. In fact, field trip signup has been slow and we still need to meet minimum attendance numbers in order for the trips to take place, so if you know of any colleagues who might be interested in attending this conference and in the field trips, please help us by informing them of the meeting and trips and encouraging them to attend.

The M+M6 meeting includes two full days of technical sessions (some 65 oral and poster papers being presented), a welcoming party at CSM, and a reception and dinner at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Conference registration is $425 until Aug. 1, and $475 thereafter (student attendance is considerably discounted, $175). The field trips are:

Sept. 2-4, Ouray and Silverton area, San Juan Mountains, Colorado
Sept. 4, Cresson gold mine, Cripple Creek, Colorado
Sept. 5-6, Leadville, Colorado
Sept. 7, Pikes Peak batholith pegmatites, Lake George and Florissant, Colorado
Sep. 10, State Line kimberlite district, Colorado [This last field trip is not listed on the online registration page, but those who wish to participate should contact the conference organizers to receive further information]

 

go to top



FCGS Website (07/07/08)

The Four Corners Geological Society Website is now UP and RUNNING and Much Improved! CHECK IT OUT at www.fourcornersgeologicalsociety.org

* Online Bookstore is fully functional
* Pay your Dues or make a Donation online

Please send us photos for the Photo Album (check it out) and announcements for the Announcements pages. Your help and comments are very much appreciated. Send to: tcasey@djsimmons.com

 

go to top



Colorado Mining Exhibit Foundation (07/07/08)
WE NEED VOLUNTEERS

There is not enough time or money to talk to every voter, visit every classroom, make a presentation to every Scout group or civic organization, etc. However, by using our experience in targeting the most influential segments of the (VOTING) population with properly understood "message points," we can have a high impact outreach event to educate people about

The Importance of Mining and Minerals to a Strong America.

An example is the award winning exhibit at the Taste of Colorado Festival, Labor Day weekend in downtown Denver. This project is organized by the Colorado Mining Exhibit Foundation. More than 500,000 people attend the four-day event and thousands went through our 40 ft x 40 ft tent (including hundreds of TEACHERS) in 2007. They tried their hand at free gold panning, the free fossil hunt, saw the many free educational videos and CDs that are now available on mining and reclamation and took home free rock samples and educational material.

We need volunteers for:
1. Loading trucks in Lakewood Wednesday & Thursday, August 27 & 28
2. Setting-up the displays in Civic Center Park Friday morning, August 29
3. Talking to people during 4-hour shifts (11 am to 3 pm, and 2 pm to 6 pm) in the tent Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday, August 29 - September 1
4. Unloading trucks in Lakewood Tuesday morning, September 2

If you can help, contact Guy Johnson, the Exhibit Coordinator, as soon as possible at (303) 969-0365 or
GPJ222@aol.com.


 

go to top



Mineral and Mining Job Openings (06/13/08)

Principal/ Senior Open Pit Mining Engineer, Denver &Tucson
Principal/ Senior Underground Mining Engineer, Denver
Principal Consultant, Mine, Heap Leach, Tailings and Water, Reno
Principal Mining Economist, Denver
Resource Geologist, Denver & Elko
Principal / Senior Civil Engineer-Storm-water Design & Tailings Construction, Tucson
Principal/ Senior Geotechnical/ Civil Engineer, Denver & Tucson

Successful candidates for the various Principal positions should have 15+ years of leadership and managerial experience in either open-pit or underground mining, knowledge of computerized mine planning tools, e.g. Gemcon, Vulcan or Whittle; or a minimum of 10 years experience for the Senior Engineer mining positions. The ideal candidate may also have had previous consulting experience. Geotechnical engineers have experience in rock mechanics & slope stability experience for open pit operations and tunneling expertise for hard rock underground mining.

The Principal Mining Economist will have a BS in Mining or Mineral Processing with an extensive knowledge of the precious and base metals industries. Having an MBA and/or Certified Mineral Appraiser designation is a plus. Consideration for staff positions will be based upon educational background in engineering or geology, the length of previous experience; and/ or the ability to obtain requisite licensing within one year. It goes without saying; our client is determined to be the best at what it does; mining consulting on a world-wide basis.

If you pride yourself on your intelligence, the ability to think strategically for your clients and have those interpersonal qualities to work successfully in a competitive team environment then by all means call us.

ABOUT THE COMPANY:
Our client is an independent, international consulting practice. It provides focused advice and solutions to clients, mainly from earth and water resource industries. For mining projects, the company offers services from exploration through feasibility, mine planning, and production to mine closure.

We realize that the most important part of being the best at what we do is you. Offering its team members excellent benefits available including 401K, medical and dental insurance, liberal PTO, and ESOP. Compensation is commensurate on background and experience.

Joe Walker
MANAGEMENT RECRUITERS OF LBJ PARK
400 E. Royal Lane, Suite 214, Irving, TX 75039
972-488-1133 Ext. 108; Fax: 972-488-1099
jwalker@mridfw.com; www.mridfw.com;
www.mrinetwork.com


 

go to top



Position for Geologist at the Questa Mine, Chevron Mining Inc. (05/28/08)

We are considering applications for the position of Mine Geologist/Exploration Geologist at the Questa Mine just east of the village of Questa, NM. We are an operating porphyry molybdenum mine in Northern New Mexico. As such we are part of Chevron Mining Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Chevron Corp. This position is a permanent one for an economic geologist with mining and exploration experience.

Interested candidates may apply on line for the Exploration/Mine Geologist position. Get on the internet and type www.chevron.com on the toolbar and then click on careers. Then, follow the instructions for applying. To make it easy, the requisition number for that position is as follows: 03126341

If you or anyone that you know is interested, please go to the above website and follow the instructions for applying.

Bruce M. Walker, PhD
Senior Mine Geologist
Questa Mine, CMI, P.O. Box 469, Questa, NM 87556
575-586-7628

 

go to top



The Northwest Environmental Training Center presents upcoming courses in Colorado (04/21/08)


Applied Hydrogeologic Site Characterization & Monitoring Well Construction for Environmental Professionals
Fort Collins, CO, October 22-24, 2008, More info: info@nwetc.org

Principles of Scientific Sampling for Environmental Professionals - Study Design, Data Reporting, and the Appropriate Use of Statistics to Support Conclusions
Denver, CO, November 18-20, 2008, More info: info@nwetc.org

NEPA: Writing the Perfect EA/FONSI or EIS
Denver, CO, December 9-10, 2008, More info: http://www.nwetc.org/pol-302_12-08_denverhtm

Complete Course Calendar:
http://www.nwetc.org/training.htm


 

go to top


 

GeoEvents (04/14/08)
(comp. by P. Modreski, USGS-Denver)

Geologic Time Chart Posted on the USGS web pages is a new and up-to-date chart of geologic time; prepared by the USGS in collaboration with the International Commission on Stratigraphy. The chart can be viewed and downloaded online as a two-page .pdf file, the first being a description of it and the second page the full-color chart.
http://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/2007/3015/ or, direct to the pdf file at, http://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/2007/3015/fs2007-3015.pdf
As you probably know, the nomenclature and exact ages of all the geologic time periods (Eons, Eras, Periods, and Epochs) are continually revised and updated as new and more precise data become available; this chart gives the most current data for all of geologic time. From it you'll see, for example, that the most current and most precise dates for the duration of the Pleistocene Epoch are from 1.806 +/- 0.005 million years, to 11,477 +/- 85 years, "b.p." (before present; and, "present" is defined as the year A.D. 1950 for purposes of uniformly expressing geologic ages). The chart is designated as USGS Fact Sheet 2007-3015, published (online) in March 2007.

Precambrian Time--The Story of the Early Earth is another excellent new USGS brochure--for those who think geology is cool stuff. This 6-page brochure contains text, photos, a time chart, and references, about the early history of the earth. It is USGS Fact Sheet 2007-3004, published June, 2007, and can obtained free of charge as a glossy-paper copy at the USGS Map Store on the Denver Federal Center, or it can be viewed and downloaded online at
http://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/2007/3004/

Geologic Map of the U.S.: another new USGS publication is USGS Circular 1300, "About the Geologic Map in the National Atlas of the United States of America", by John C. Reed and Charles A. Bush. This is a 48-page booklet containing text and color satellite images, describing the kinds of geologic features that can be seen on the geologic map of the U.S. This Circular is free, if you request it at the USGS Map Store in Building 810 on the Federal Center. The map it refers to can be purchased over-the-counter or ordered, for $7.00; ask for USGS map product #207470, "Geology, the National Atlas of the United States". This is a poster-sized map depicting a simplified geologic map of the conterminous U.S. + Alaska and Hawaii The map is described online at
http://pubs.usgs.gov/atlas/geologic/ , including a link to a .pdf file of the map (viewable at different scales) at http://pubs.usgs.gov/atlas/geologic/usgeoplot.pdf
The Map Store is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays; all items can be purchased directly over-the-counter, or, there is a $5.00 handling charge per order, for orders mailed to you. For orders or questions call 1-888-ASK-USGS, or locally call 303-202-4675 to reach the sales counter.

The USGS has recently published a series of maps about the historic occurrence of asbestos in mines of different parts of the U.S., the most recent of which is, Reported Historic Asbestos Mines, Historic Asbestos Prospects, and Natural Asbestos Occurrences in the Southwestern United States (Arizona, Nevada, and Utah), by Bradley S. Van Gosen; USGS Open-File Report 2008-1095. This includes a map, text, and pictures, and can be viewed at various magnifications or downloaded as a .pdf file at http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2008/1095/ . Other recently published maps in the same series cover asbestos deposits in the Eastern U.S. http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2005/1189/ , the Central U.S. http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2006/1211/ , and the Rocky Mountain States http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2007/1182/ ; the Rocky Mountain map includes Colorado. These are not available as printed maps, only as the downloadable files.

 

go to top



Subcontract Job Opening (04/04/08)


ERO is an environmental consulting firm headquartered in Denver, with an office on the Western Slope. We understand that the BLM will be issuing a request for a proposal for a Resource Management Plan for the Grand Junction Field Office. As part of the plan, they are looking for a Reasonably Foreseeable Development scenario for all minerals in their jurisdiction--oil and gas, oil shale, uranium, gold, silver, etc. We are looking for a geologist or a minerals economist who would be able to do this portion of the plan, as a subcontractor to ERO.

Nora Ruppert
Business Development
ERO Resources Corp.
1842 Clarkson St.
Denver, CO 80218
303.830.1188; Fax: 303.830.1199
nruppert@eroresources.com; www.eroresources.com


 

go to top


 

Creation "science" in Texas (03/14/08)
News item from the Association of Women Geoscientists' Newsletter:

The Institute for Creation Research located in Dallas, TX submitted a proposal for accreditation of a Master's of Science Education degree that does not include the teaching of modern geology, biology, or the scientific method. Recipients of the degree would, however, be eligible to teach science in private or public schools. A state advisory panel recommended that the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, which makes the final decision, approve the proposal. The Board has received a large volume of public comment regarding the proposal and has postponed a final decision on accreditation until April. You can send comments to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) at http://www.thecb.state.tx.us/Comments/.

Full Texas higher education Rules and Laws available at - http://www.thecb.state.tx.us/Rules/
 

go to top



OGS Director Search (03/03/08)

Applications are being solicited for the position of Director, Oklahoma Geological Survey (OGS). The OGS is located on the University of Oklahoma campus in Norman, Oklahoma, and is under the direction and supervision of the Board of Regents of the University of Oklahoma. Organizationally, the OGS is located within the Mewbourne College of Earth & Energy, which also includes: ConocoPhillips School of Geology & Geophysics, Mewbourne School of Petroleum & Geological Engineering and Sarkeys Energy Center.

The Director of the OGS reports administratively to the Dean, Mewbourne College of Earth & Energy and, depending on qualifications and experience, will hold a faculty position within the College as an Associate or Full Professor, renewable term or tenured. Candidates should hold a doctorate or have the equivalent experience in geology, geophysics, or a closely related field.

For more information, see http://www.ogs.ou.edu/directorposition.php
 

go to top


CO-AIPG Opposition to HB 08-1161 and HB 08-1165 (02/08/08)

The following statement is the Colorado Section's official position on Colorado House Bill 08-1161 (CONCERNING AN INCREASE IN THE REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF THE MINED LAND RECLAMATION BOARD OVER MINING, AND, IN CONNECTION THEREWITH, ENSURING THE PROTECTION OF GROUND WATER AND PUBLIC HEALTH)::

"The Colorado Section of AIPG unequivocally opposes the passage of HB 08-1161, which is likely to drastically reduce if not eliminate mining alternatives in Colorado, reduce severance tax income, increase the workload on the MLRB, increase the tax burden on citizens, and deter and inhibit the opportunity for this state and this nation to ever achieve energy independence."

In addition, the following written statement on HB 08-1165 (CONCERNING AN INCREASE IN THE REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF THE MINED LAND RECLAMATION BOARD OVER MINING) will be presented to the Colorado House of Representatives tomorrow (Feb.6) by Lawrence A. Cerrillo, Chair of the CO-AIPG Legislative and Regulatory Affairs Committee:

"The Colorado Section of the American Institute of Professional Geologists respectfully submits the following objections to the proposed HB 08-1165:

     Although stated as a bill to increase the regulatory authority of the Mined Land Reclamation Board, it appears to be a bill to prohibit in-situ mining of uranium and other minerals. It increases government by adding more members and thus it increases costs to applicants and to taxpayers. In addition, much of the proposed language merely reiterates what the Board is already responsible for, or is the responsibility of other State agencies.

Section 7, the provision that essentially gives authority to most any political subdivision to condition or prohibit any mining activity, operation, or process is perhaps most troublesome. This provision basically negates anything the Board may decide and insures that no mineral or energy extraction will occur within the State.

     Section 10 goes even further by enabling "A PERSON AGGRIEVED BY THE BOARDS FINAL AGENCY ACTION MAY FILE AN APPEAL WITH THE DISTRICT COURT WITHIN SIXTY DAYS AFTER SUCH ACTION." This provision will surely delay, deter, inhibit and essentially stop any proposed mineral or energy extraction activities.

     While it is generally admirable to enable government at the local level to have control over their area of jurisdiction, it is detrimental to the State and the Nation to enable a local entity or disgruntled individual citizen to deter, inhibit, or stop mineral and energy development. We unequivocally oppose the passage of this unnecessary, duplicative and detrimental bill."

 

go to top


RTD's Interactive System Map (1/25/08)

Try RTD's new 2008 Interactive System Map. Use the Interactive Map to pan, zoom, search for addresses and bus routes,
locate bus stops, light rail lines, stations, park-n-Rides, call-n-Rides and even access schedules at the click of a button.

The Interactive System Map can be accessed at www.rtd-denver.com > Then click on System Maps, OR access the map at
http://gis.rtd-denver.com

Dan Jackson
Regional Transportation District

go to top


Awardees for CO-AIPG Annual Meeting (12/17/07)

As part of proceedings at the CO-AIPG December Dinner and Annual Section Meeting, a number of awards will be presented prior to the speaker's presentation. All outgoing section Board members will be presented with a service memento by Pres. Dave Rhode. The highest honor that the Section awards, the Distinguished Service Award, will be presented to Tricia Beaver. Service to Geology Awards will be given to Logan MacMillan, Peter Barkmann, and Curtis Johnson. Finally, the first Rex Monahan Scholarship Award for the Colorado Section will be presented to Laura Pommer (see below for more information).

Tricia Beaver, CPG-7664, is receiving the Distinguished Service Award this year in recognition of her years of service to the Section as a member of the Executive Committee (ExCom) and Past President. She also worked on the Legislative Reception for a number of years.

Logan MacMillan, Peter Barkmann, and Curtis Johnson are receiving Service to Geology Awards. Logan for his chairmanship of the Legislative/Regulations (Leg/Reg) Committee, Peter for service as Section Editor, and Curtis in recognition of many years as an ExCom member and generally as a solid supporter of Section activities.

First CO-AIPG Scholarship Awardee:
It is with great pleasure that the Colorado Section of AIPG announces Laura Pommer as the first recipient of the Rex Monahan Geological Scholarship. This annual award of $500 is for academic year 2007-2008. Laura is an undergraduate student at the University of Colorado, in Boulder, and is currently working toward a dual major in Geology and Integrative Physiology. In addition to her studies, which include a current structural geology research project with Dr. Karl Mueller, Laura has served as an undergraduate learning assistant for an introductory geology class and is currently working two part-time jobs for work experience and to be able to afford her education at CU. Laura has expressed an interest in attending graduate school down the road with an aim to focus on structural geology.

go to top



Job Opening (12/05/07)

The Imperial Irrigation District (IID) just retained us to do an exclusive nationwide search to find their new Program / Project Manager to oversee environmental aspects of the IID / San Diego Water Transfer Project in southern California.

You have probably been following this project in passing over the last few years; its generated quite a bit of industry and press buzz.
Imperial Irrigation is the largest water district in the United States (servicing about $1.5 Billion in Agricultural product with some 3.1 million user acres as well as functioning as one of southern California's largest power generation companies) and the IID / San Diego Water Transfer is one of the most high profile water projects currently underway here in North America

The Transfer itself undoubtedly lays the foundation for future water issues here in California. With the transfer coming into play the IID has been tasked to implement hundreds of millions of dollars worth of transfer projects as well as conserve and save hundreds of thousands of acre feet of water a year in an effort to help offset California's draw from the lower Colorado River; this while continuously working to conserve or enhance the local and regional habitat.

With the close knit nature of local biological, planning and environmental engineering circles there is often extensive overlap in terms of relationships and projects. District Management is tasking us to identify an Environmental Project / Program Manager to oversee environmental oversight, assessment and mitigation projects related to meeting the requirements of the IID / SDCWA Water Conservation & Transfer Program and Quantification Settlement Agreement permit. This position is distinct in terms of the required project management, mitigation implementation and environmental compliance skill set.

Ideally we would be seeking a biology, ecology or related science background and at least five years of progressively responsible multi-discipline environmental project management experience. Specifically, the Program / Project Manager will be required to work in conjunction with the California Department of Fish and Game, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service as well as other water agencies, special committees and water task forces to create and monitor the overall program. This includes planning, scheduling, coordinating and directing multiple projects involving a host of tasks, multi-disciplinary teams, district employees and contractors.
In one regard the position requires a Project Manager capable of extensive management and administration for development and implementation of project schedules, status reports production and oversight of progress on initiatives; everything from cost tracking, quality control and scheduling to permitting, engineering and design construction.
In another it requires an individual capable and knowledgeable of the principles and hands on practices of biology, science, water and environmental compliance, including: National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, State and Federal Endangered Species Acts, Natural Community Conservation Plans (NCCPs) and Habitat Conservation Plans (HCPs).

There's also focus of developing project definitions, plans and survey protocols for scopes of work on all the various mitigation undertakings. Some of the main responsibilities of the position include:
1) Act as the Environmental Program Manager for the Imperial Irrigation District (IID) Water Transfer Project in southern California.
2) Be responsible under the Water Transfer Program Manager for the implementation of the $140 million dollar mitigation and habitat restoration budget as part of the existing Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan developed for the Water Transfer Project.
3) Management of a large consultant team developing a GIS based habitat and vegetation database for the Imperial Valley and the development of management scenarios to minimize impacts to wildlife species covered under the MSHCP.
4) Work with key agency and environmental players on the mitigation effort for the development of approximately 1200 acres of managed marsh habitat to compensate for loss of protected species habitat.
5) Lead the consulting team in the development of a Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP) and revision as necessary of the existing Habitat Conservation Plan for the Water Transfer Project.
6) Develop an adaptive management plan for use in implementing the 45 year project.
7) Serve as the IID's representative on varied advisory committee as necessary (i.e. the State's Salton Sea Ecosystem Restoration Program, etc.).

From an experience and exposure profile there is probably no better opportunity for a dynamic and talented biologist or environmental scientist to ply his / her trade. This is one of the very highest profile water projects in the western United States; being involved with it would open a wealth of opportunity and experience in addition to the rewards of having played a major role in helping to craft the regions environmental landscape. The position seems a good match to a senior biologist seeking to find a long term home working on one of the nations most high profile undertakings. It could also be the right opportunity for a talented and dynamic mid-level biologist to expand his / her abilities and grow with the implementation and development of the project over the years.

Key to personality make up would be someone who is able in skill set and dynamic of character, but who also has a long term view and approach towards accomplishing objectives over the life of numerous initiatives in this four decade project. Serving as a key part of a greater mechanism, this individual would be responsible for knowledgably and reliably moving environmental projects ahead in a larger organizational structure that is often slow moving and requiring patient thoughtful plying.

In terms of salary, the IID is offering very competitive wage and relocation expenses for the position in Imperial; the goal being to find the most skilled and able individual. The IID also has probably one of our industries best and most extensive benefits programs, including: comprehensive Health / Dental / Vision coverage, Vacation, Sick Leave, 401k with 7% Match and vesting over three years, Flexible Deferred Spending Program, Group Term Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, etc.

For serious and confidential consideration, resumes may be sent to me at: ctravis@sequencestaffing.com or to my address listed below. Please be assured that at Sequence, we conduct our executive searches with strict confidentiality, ensuring both clients and candidates their privacy and professional integrity.

Craig Travis
Director of Recruiting
Sequence, Executive Search and Staffing
2008 Opportunity Drive, Suite 150
Roseville, CA 95678
Phone: 916-782-6900 x207
Fax: 916-782-6307
E-mail: ctravis@sequencestaffing.com
www.sequencestaffing.com
 

go to top


Lat/Lon to Elevation Web Application (10/26/07)

As a part of my GIS Master's program at CU-Denver, I've completed a free, publicly-available web application that reads in a user-supplied file of lat/lon coordinate pairs, queries a USGS elevation web service, and downloads a new file containing the ground level elevation at each lat/lon point in the input file. The USGS has a similar site, but it only allows one lat/lon point to be processed at a time. I've found this functionality to be useful in my work as a hydrogeologist, and thought some of the recipients of this e-mail list might as well.

The website address is: www.latlontoelevation.com I've tested the site in Firefox and Internet Explorer, but hope to gather some user input to improve the site and to increase its use. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Matt Seitz
seitz18@yahoo.com

go to top


 

Colorado Section of AIPG 2007 SUMMER FIELD TRIP (07/09/07)



   Members and friends of the AIPG CO section suited up for a tour of the Cross Gold Mine    

           Gold Rush from Central City to Caribou
(with tours of the "Glory Hole" near Central City and the Cross/Caribou Mines near Nederland)
North Central Colorado Front Range
Saturday, July 21, 2007

 

go to top


More on Cave of Giant Crystals (04/25/07)

Editor's Note: This follow-up information was received from one of our members:

The cave is definitely real! It's been known for quite some time, but only now is gaining notoriety. Several of the geologists that work for me here in Mexico have seen it, the first about ten years ago. What is conveniently left out in a lot of descriptions is that it is in an active Pb-Zn-Ag mine and was only found when they mined into it!

Here's an official website with more information. The same geos I mentioned know someone working in the mine, so we have a tour trade set up for the near future!
http://naica.com.mx/ingles/index.htm

Ken Balleweg
Exploration Vice President, Alamos Gold Inc./Minas de Oro Nacional
Hermosillo, Sonora

go to top


Cave of Giant Crystals (04/23/07)

Editors Note: I thought this was worthwhile to send out because I have received the information from a couple friends without the original web address attached, making one wonder if the cave is real or not. Given that the below story and pictures are on the National Geographic website, it should be real.

A Site to See:

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/04/photogalleries/giant-crystals-cave/

go to top


Susan Landon Fund Raising Campaign (10/15/05) - Susan Landon Tribute Form (Word doc)

Dear Friend of Susan Landon,

As you know, Susan suffered a traumatic brain injury while skiing on February 22, 2005.  Comatose for over a month and with little memory of the 3-4 months after the accident, Susan is struggling to regain her health, both mental and physical.  She is wheelchair-bound and dependent on nursing help to turn in bed, weight shift in her chair, eat, and exercise. While she is regaining her memory, it is currently erratic.  Her long-term memory is good, but there is a great deal of short-term memory healing to accomplish.  Susan will continue to need physical, occupational, and speech therapy for at least a year, and possibly for many years.  She will have other medical needs as well.  The prognosis seems good that Susan will eventually be able to walk and resume an active life.  However, it has been slow and will continue to be slow. 

Susan is currently at Learning Services, a rehabilitation facility in Lakewood, Colorado, having transferred there from Craig Hospital on September 20th.  Her insurance no longer covers most of her expenses.  She could be at Learning Services for six months or more depending upon the rate of her recovery.  Susan will undoubtedly continue to require special care and therapy even when she leaves Learning Services and either goes to her home or is in another temporary home until she can operate well and safely on her own.

Many of you have asked over the last year if you could assist financially.  Until the insurance coverage started to dry up, we could not estimate what her needs might be and how much more care she would require. 

Now we have some reasonable estimates of both the recovery time and the cost, which is enormous.  We are projecting expenses of $500,000 not covered by insurance over the next five years.

If you would like to make a tax-deductible gift, we have established a fundraising campaign in Susan’s honor with the National Transplant Assistance Fund (NTAF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people who experienced catastrophic injuries.  A form with detailed instructions is attached for your convenience.  Please call or e-mail me if you have any questions.

Your concern and interest in Susan’s recovery has sustained her brilliantly over the last eight months.  I hope that you will continue to help Susan and her dedicated husband, Dick Dietz, with this immense financial burden. 

With warmest thanks for your interest and support,

Matt Silverman
Friend of Susan and volunteer coordinator in this effort
303-382-0910, silvermanmr@yahoo.com

Susan Landon Tribute Form (Word doc)

go to top