The Wyoming State Geological Survey: Its mission & contribution to Wyoming and the United States

April 18 (Tuesday), 6 p.m.

Wyoming is a state of incredible diversity, ranging from jagged, high alpine peaks to broad, high-desert basins. Visitors from around the globe visit to see the dramatic scenery and its accompanying wildlife. What makes Wyoming what it is? – its geology!, which is as diverse as its scenery, and indeed is the reason for the scenery. But beyond and below the scenery lie vast reserves of commodities that are strategically important not just to Wyoming, but to the people of the United States. The current and future economy of Wyoming and the U.S.A. depends on understanding and careful extraction of these natural resources  –  coal, oil, natural gas, uranium, rare earth minerals, and more – such as the headwaters of the three major water-sheds that cover the majority of the USA: the Mississippi, the Colorado, and the Columbia river systems.

The diverse geology also brings with it natural hazards such as landslides and earthquakes, which are a constant consideration for public safety of Wyoming residents and the millions of visitors who come each year.

Since the late 1800’s, The Wyoming Geological Survey has had the vital responsibility of monitoring, investigating and reporting on all of these geologically related features. It also plays a key role in the growing field of geologic tourism (“geotourism”), which is becoming an increasingly significant contributor to Wyoming’s economy.

State Geologist Tom Drean will provide an overview of all these features and discuss their vital importance to each and everyone of us as residents of this great state. Every Wyomingite should be conversant with what the Wyoming State Geological Survey does for all of us!  Presented by Tom Drean, Director & State Geologist, Wyoming State Geological Survey.  Video