A director at the Maryland Geological Survey, a professor at the University of Arizona, a pilot, and a television production company all have something in common. Their contributions to the advancement of the U.S. Geological Survey were recently recognized when they each received the John Wesley Powell Award for Achievement.

The USGS presented the John Wesley Powell Award at their annual awards ceremony in Reston, VA. The award recognizes an individual or group, not employed by the USGS, whose contributions to the agency's objectives and mission are noteworthy. John Wesley Powell, the second director of the USGS, was a distinguished scientist responsible for setting the high standards that govern the USGS today.

Four categories of the award include: State government; educational; citizen; and industry achievement.

State Government Achievement Dr. Emery T. Cleaves is the Director of the Maryland Geological Survey. He has provided outstanding leadership for the State in hydrological and geological investigations and has been part of numerous USGS scientific initiatives. He has played a major role in the development of cooperative programs with State agencies and has provided critical support to the Delmarva National Water Quality Assessment program and the National Water Quality Monitoring Council. His leadership in the Association of American State Geologists has facilitated a closer working relationship between AASG and USGS. He has also proven to be an enthusiastic supporter of cooperative geologic mapping in the State of Maryland.

Educational Achievement Dr. Paul “Ty” Ferre is a professor at the University of Arizona, home of the top-rated hydrology and water resources academic program in the United States. Ferre’s contributions to ongoing USGS projects such as the Southwest Ground Water Resources Project, studies in the San Pedro River basin, and the Rillito Creek Recharge Investigation has helped further the mission of the USGS in the desert southwest.

Citizen Achievement Captain Edward K. Miller has made important contributions in working with USGS scientists and other national and international organizations in reducing the risk of life-threatening encounters between aircraft and volcanic ash. The liaison role he has played between the USGS and other Federal agencies, the airline industry, and other air travel organizations was instrumental in the development of an operational global advisory and warning network for airborne volcanic ash hazards.

Industry Achievement Vantage Point Productions has produced documentary films for commercial and public television on earthquakes, which has helped communicate how USGS is working to lessen future earthquake destruction. These films let the public see the role of federally funded science and convey the value of USGS work.

The USGS serves the nation by providing reliable scientific information to: describe and understand the Earth; minimize loss of life and property from natural disasters; manage water, biological, energy, and mineral resources; and enhance and protect our quality of life.