AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

General Information about Liaison

The notes from the Fall 2009 AASG Liaison are compiled and presented below. There was a different style meeting with the USGS, an attempt at strategic planning rather than talk of budgets and talking heads about their ongoing programs. Some of our members thought this was a good change as more joint planning is our goal rather than being included after the fact of programs being launched without any input from the state geologists. We explored whether to pursue new funding initiatives or to push for full(er) funding for the existing StateMap and Data preservation initiatives that exist. Some “insiders” question whether or not ramping up funding is even possible without DOI’s significant input into the process. While our strategies can be flexible, for now pushing Data Preservation and StateMap remain our top priorities. We have made a good start with Assistant Secretary Anne Castle and Deputy Assist. Secretary John Tubbs. They are key to increased funding for AASG cooperative programs through the president’s budget. Also key is new USGS Director Marcia McNutt. We have made a good start with her but must do more to push for state geological surveys.

We may make some small changes to Spring 2010 Liaison by including a Congressional committees both authorization and appropriation that have not been part of our previous visits. These new committees have been recommended to us by Linda Rowan, Government Affairs Director for AGI. A very big issue for AASG is getting more members to DC to participate in Liaison. We need more people to be involved. Also an important effort is to line up our own members to attend meetings who have key Congressman on key committees who can do us the most good.

Our main issue for the Spring 2010 Liaison is to frame our strategy for the DOI-USGS meetings and our message for the Congressional committees. Any input and insight from AASG members is welcome. There will be new information out soon about hotels and meetings for the Spring Liaison which will be March 14, 15, 16, and 17. The Pick and Gavel Banquet will be March 16 at the Cosmos Club. Any questions please let me know.

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

Meeting: Department of the Interior Water and Science (DOI)Location: Main Interior Building, 1849 C. Street, Washington, D. C. North Penthouse RoomDate: Monday, September 14, 2009Time: 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.

Met with: Telephone Number: E-mail:Anne Castle, Asst. Secretary 202-208-1751 anne_castle@ois.doi.govSuzette Kimball 703-648-6600 suzette_kimball@usgs.govBob Doyle

AASG Lead: David WunschOther AASG Attendees: All Note Takers: All

Key Points and Issues Discussed: In a break from the routine from previous AASG Liaisons, our first meeting on Monday morning was with the DOI Office of Water and Science, Assistant Secretary Anne Castle. The USGS contingent of top officials was also assembled in the room for the usual plenary session. Sec. Castle was confirmed after the last Liaison in March 2009, so we wanted her to meet us and hear what our issues are about. The USGS reports to the DOI Office of Water and Science so Assistant Sec. Anne Castle is an important contact for AASG in DOI and the new Pres. Obama administration. Randy Orndorff welcomed the whole group and covered the usual logistics. Then, Sallie Benson of the USGS Office of the Chief Scientist made introductions. Sallie was a key liaison person between USGS and DOI helping us to schedule the meetings at DOI. First, President Wunsch made his opening remarks and thanked DOI and USGS officials for having us as guests and for the open dialogue. Pres. Wunsch talked about the success and importance of USGS-state geological survey co-ops such as StateMap and Data Preservation but lamented that at current funding levels the states were leaving considerable funds on the table unleveraged by federal funds. If DOI could increase these programs in the President’s budget then more work in the nation could be done. Pres. Wunsch reminded the group that when the budgets and staffing of all 50 state geological surveys are counted the combined budget for state geological surveys is about $230 million and the geological workforce is about 2,000 geologists and engineers.

Secretary Castle addressed the group and immediately referred to her father and husband who are geologists. She is very familiar with geologist and she is an attorney who practiced water law in the western US. She stated that DOI Secretary Salazar and Pres. Obama want sound science. Energy and the environment are intimately linked. A top priority is how to manage the nation’s lands and resources in light of global climate change. DOI is preparing an important

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

announcement on climate change. Important issues in DOI are: inventory of resources, effectiveness of technology, cap-n-trade. In the western U.S. there is diminishing precipitation along with growth and increasing demand. The nation must prepare now for change and scarcity. DOI is looking at “conjunctive use”, aquifers and underground storage. We need a new conservation corps approach. There will be opportunities for sound science. The focus for DOI and federal departments will be on climate change.

Assistant Sec. Castle thanked us for coming and looks forward to working with state geological surveys.

Other notes taken on this session: Ms. Castle introduced herself and gave her background:

Practice water law in CO for decades + served on water commissions Husband is hard rock geologist Shares Sec. Salazar’s interest in USGS [observation: articulate, frank, competent, very engaging]

DOI Priorities:

Building new energy sources, especially how to manage federal land for renewable energy Addressing climate change impact to federal lands

o Adaptation for DOI land managedo Looking to USGS to partner with stakeholders & implement adaptive

management techniqueso CO2 sequestration & monitoringo Water management & conservationo Wants to see collaboration across departments and federal focus

Another of the Sec. Salazar’s priorities is the training of the next generation of scientists through the 21st Century Youth Conservation Corp

Notes that scientific integrity is important to Obama admin. Applauds the Secure Water Act and its collaborative nature When asked about minerals and minerals resources not a lot to say Would like to find ways to hasten data collection for National Map 40% of DoI will retire or are eligible to retire in the next 10 years

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)

I note that what the Sec.’s priority really needs is data inventories and data compilation and 3-D visualization mapping

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

Keep a close relationship with Ms. Castle – she is sharp but way too focused on water; she needs some education towards hazards, energy, mineral resources

Ideas for advancing AASG/USGS relationship:

Internship Program with Surveys National Groundwater Network OMB – May like space-based, but not demonstrated – private sector support 12.5 M to states (Secure Water Act) over 5 years for water use

Building Energy Economy:

USGS collecting the “science” for geothermal, etc. Interested in partnering – adaptive management

Other points discussed:

2009 Omnibus Act – adaptive practices Conjunctive use – of water Focus on growth – 21st century conservation corp. ED MAP – component of strategy Work Force issues Note: Secretary Castle referred to the ARRA funding ($140 M ) to USGS as for scientific

research? I thought it was portrayed as for capital improvements?

Suzette:

Data integration will be important, getting good feedback from congress & OMB in support of these programs

Lithium - $24M from DOE

Strategic Planning:

Not an increase in all issues in any year, but over 5 years Meeting with appropriations-members see value in partnerships. She sees our

relationship a real partnership.

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AASG/USGS Strategy SessionLocation: Main Interior Building, 1849 C. Street, Washington, D. C. North Penthouse RoomDate and Time: Monday, September 14, 2009, 10:00 a.m. – noon

Met with: Suzette Kimball, Acting Director; Linda Gundersen, Chief Scientist for GeologyAASG Lead: Dave Wunsch, Jim Cobb, Vicki McConnell, Linda Gundersen (USGS)AASG Attendee(s): AllKey Points/Issues Discussed: The session began with a few comments by Suzette Kimbal.

*See outline of facilitated discussion form Linda Gunderson

Potential Outcome:

AASG Document or White Paper indicating how AASG programs can support DOI Strategic Plan Initiatives, and perhaps serve as a tool kit.

Strategy for climate change White Paper to support- tool kit to understand and address climate change Role in industry partners

A discussion prompted by the slides below was held. The idea for this discussion in terms of strategic planning was to elicit ideas for mutual planning around either pushing existing co-ops, StateMap and Data Preservation, or ralleying around new co-ops for new funding. It seems that histotry has taught us how difficukt increasing funding is for existing programs really is. Perhaps pushing for new co-ops would be more productive use of time and energies.

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

Notes from AASG-USGS Liaison Meeting September 14 2009

Climate

• Mineral, Water, Geology and its derivatives, and Base Maps are the 4 main components common to most Geological Surveys. Provide fundamental information for good decision making.

• Preparedness for drought – geologic mapping for water supply options, 3D geology for water systems.

• Geological surveys are the primary generators and repositories of these data – fundamental to all the themes. Work with the people on the ground – states can be a bridge to those folks and Congress. Create national strategies for these

• Adaptive management strategies critical component – preparation for change• Understanding geologic controls and reservoirs for carbon sequestration. Major

uncertainties on effectiveness, environmental impacts, and safety. 3D geology is critical for in order to know the 3rd dimension.

• National Ground Water Monitoring Network –agreement with AASG for work• National Map – 18,000 base maps being produced next year.• Topography, LiDAR going to be the most critical base tie into understanding vegetation

and the biological side, can create need derivatives maps• National Topographic/LiDAR Initiative - $100M. (every 3 years) UAV or other to bring in

private sector in partnership• Secure Water Act to provide grants to states to improve understanding and integrating

their state water use databases to create a water use for the nation.

Energy and Minerals

• States have most of the info on energy to understand renewable. Partnerships with DOE and BLM. Getting federal land into the mix (slowed through the bureaucratic process.) help them get the geologic and base information they need to speed the process.

• National security issue, resources being bought up by foreign companies, need to look at our own resources and get that message across – where they come from and what we have.

• LiDAR again – effects everything• How do we engage the agencies that utilize but do not provide $$. DHS interested in

information on critical infrastructure, look for ways to get authorizing language.• It’s the anecdotes that sell!

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

• Information to resolve resource conflicts and related policy• Tapping into energy and mineral development revenue streams (royalties etc) need

provisions in bills to set aside some of those $$ for new research and initiatives• Alternative energy – gas shale, water quality impacts, wind energy, turbines, tidal

energy - working in the states on these local and regional aspects to it How do you fulfill mandates (25% renewable)

• Groundwater protection – made geologic mapping a synonym for this• How do we make energy, minerals, and climate synonyms for what the earth sciences

can contribute

Water Census

• Secure Water Act to provide grants to states to improve understanding and integrating their state water use databases to create a water use for the nation.

• National Ground Water Monitoring Network –agreement with AASG for work• Preparedness for drought – geologic mapping for water supply options, 3D geology for

water systems.• Groundwater protection – made geologic mapping a synonym for this

Ecosystems and Health

• Health and well-being is resonating with funders

Data Integration and Youth Initiatives

• Improve quality, integration, accessibility in all the states – providing systems of self improvement

• Better ways to provide information – what is needed and wanted and will be used. Information products and delivery is critical. Appeal to user – what does a legislator need? Educate them on where these data come from, the limitation, and use.

• LiDAR again!• Google Twitter, etc – how do we use these – Make data available in KLM and that

Google attributes it – using tagging.• National map Viewer coming out in December that is Google like.• Information problems are also generational and we need to bring that perspective in• Need to bring youth into the science, utilize those folks with new ideas, tools, and

technologies• USGS-AASG Mentorship Program – learn GIS, bring in new technologiesWhat’s Next

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

• Look for specific revenue streams in bill proposed now with relevant contributions we can make

• USGS-AASG exploratory committee on internships and mentoring• Creating messages to increase currently authorized programs to increase funding

without affecting other budgets• Climate change as an overarching theme that encompasses energy and mineral needs,

water sustainability, the why for getting youth into science, data integration and information science for tools and communication, adaption, modeling etc.

• LiDAR again! What does this get you that other technologies don’t – provide the stories (universal solution to all problems!)

• Laying out a geological survey strategy for climate change that provides the stories and ties into all the aspects of earth science that geological surveys do.

• Internal document between USGS and AASG to outline all our activities, priorities, and funding going on with climate and related activates (toolkit to address climate change) and where we want to go in the future – agreement on mutual budget initiatives going forward

• Adaptation and preparedness to climate change as the main theme.• Bring counterparts in states in on those complimentary areas

National Park ServiceMonday, September 14, 2009, 1:30 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.Met With: Lindsay McClelland, USGS Liaison, Geologic Resources DivisionAASG Lead: Jim CobbAASG Attendee(s): Tom BergNote Taker(s): Rex BuchananKey Points/Issues Discussed:

Lindsay McClelland is still working on potential U.S. participation in the International Geoparks Program, which is organized by UNESCO. New regulations regarding paleontological resources are in the process of being developed.

Action item: AASG should try to meet with the new director of NPS it may be Jonathan Jarvis, who has been nominated for the position.

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

Minerals Managements Service/Offshore Energy and Minerals Management (OEMM)Monday, September 14, 2009, 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.Met With: George Dellagiarino, Geological Program Tam Leader; Renee Orr, Chief, Leasing Division; Roger Amoto, Geologist; Lyn Herdt, Chief, Congressional Affairs; Will Waskes, Oceanographer (representing Renewable Energy Program); Melissa Batum for Rodney Cluck; Angela Mazullo for Cheri HunterAASG Lead: Nick TewAASG Attendee(s): Jay ParrishNote Taker(s): Vicki McConnellKey Points/Issues Discussed:Action Items:

American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG)

Monday, September 14, 2009, 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.Met With: David Curtiss, AAPG Washington Office, Tim Charters sends his regretsAASG Lead: Rex BuchananAASG Attendee(s): Jim Cobb, John SteinmetzNote Taker(s): Tom BergKey Points/Issues Discussed:

Looks like cap-n-trade not going anywhere in the Senate this year. The Markey-Waxman Bill may be added to the Bingaman-Boxer Bill. Sen. Jeff Bingaman (D-N.M.) is chairman of the Energy & Natural Resources Committee and a key player on energy issues. In June, his committee voted to approve S. 1462, the American Clean Energy Leadership Act, an energy bill that may or may not be combined with a climate bill from Sen. Barbara Boxer’s Environment & Public Works Committee (and possibly an allowance-allocation bill from Sen. Max Baucus’s Finance Committee) into a comprehensive bill to match the House’s.

Action Items: no action items.

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

Coastal States Organization (CSO)Monday, September 14, 2009, 3:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.Met With: Julia Wyman, Policy Analyst; 202.508.3844 or 202.508.3860

jwyman@coastalstateslorgAASG Lead: Vicki McConnellAASG Attendee(s): Dick Berg, Jay ParrishNote Taker(s): Nick TewKey Points/Issues Discussed:Key Points and Issues Discussed:

Discussed in general what the outstanding coastal issues are for CSO and the NOAA Coastal Management Program – reauthorization of the program, climate change, and renewable energy

We stressed the need for coastal mapping both bathymetric and topographic via lidar. Julia was familiar with seafloor mapping as they are aware of the federal coordinated coastal mapping group led by NOAA but less so of lidar so I promised to send her some information – they could be a great advocate for lidar data collection

She let us know again that the coastal program includes the Great Lakes and that all states have a Coastal Management Program Coordinator – if you have a coast you should know who is coordinating the program

She also invited us to name some one to sit on their Coastal Coordination Committee and we said we would take that back to the AASG Liaison and ExCom Committees

Outcome/Action Items:

o Send lidar topographic information – DONEo Recommend naming a AASG member to the CSO Coastal Coordination Committee

I like going to this group because it keeps the mapping issues fresh in the mind of a advocacy and policy organization focused on coastal issues. I get the feeling that few but me think it is useful; certainly I received no notes or feedback from any other participants. I recommend we discuss if AASG still wants to continue meeting with them. If yes, then I recommend we contact Julia to set up naming someone to the committee, otherwise not.

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, Majority StaffMonday, September 14, 2009, 2:15 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.Met With: Patty Beneke, Senior Council; 202-224-5451

patricial_beneke@energy.senate.gov

AASG Lead: Dave Wunsch

AASG Attendee(s): Don HoskinsNote Taker(s): Dick Berg, Jamie Robertson Key Points/Issues Discussed:

Data Preservation – 2009 Energy Bill – trying to keep under radar Subcommittee on Water – in Senate, 80% of H20 used for Energy needs Discussed Subcommittee on Ground Water (SOGW) efforts for national ground water

monitoring network. Some movement on CO-produces

Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP)Monday, September 14, 2009, 3:30 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.Met With: Jon Kolak, Policy Analyst; 202-456-6081 or 202-456-6130

jkolak@ostp.eop.govAASG Lead: Jon PriceAASG Attendee(s): Harvey ThorleifsonNote Taker(s): Jamie Robertson, Dave WunschKey Points/Issues Discussed:AASG Lead: Jon Price

Energy- long term Healthcare- public health, records, technology STEM Education Earth Observation networks Chopra-Assoc. director of IT Data Transfer Czar New transfer of data makes older historic data more valuable Science , transparency, important to Administration Diane DiEullis

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS) and Earthscope

Meeting: Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS) and EarthscopeLocation: AAAS BuildingDate: Tuesday, September 15, 2009Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Met with: Telephone Number: E-mail:

Robert Woodward 202-682-2220 woodward@iris.eduUSArray DirectorJohn Taber 202-682-2220 (X125) taber@iris.eduEducation and Outreach Program Manager AASG Lead: Harvey Thorleifson

Action Item: Schedule with NRC – Will pick up cost for seismic stations Bob Woodward—invite Bob and IRIS people to annual meeting

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE)Monday, September 14, 2009, 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.Met With: Glenda Owens, Acting Director; Pat Day McIlwain, SchedulerAASG Lead: Jim CobbAASG Attendee(s): Don McKay, John SteinmetzNote Taker(s): Tom Berg, Rex BuchananKey Points/Issues Discussed:

We met with John Craynon, Sterling Rider, and Al Whitehouse. Acting Director Glenda Owens who normally meets with us was unavailable. John Craynon is head of research for OSM gave us a rundown of issues with EPA. EPA brought 108 objections of which 29 fell out and the other 79 were with the Army Corps of Engineers should not issue permits. The excess stream buffer rule is in litigation. Reinstated 1973 rule so litigation continues on. Concerning MTR belief by some in Congress will overturn this practice based on MTM and valley fills. Coal combustion byproducts are high-volume and low value aggregate but cannot economically be trucked very far to both deep and surface mines. NRC report on placement in mines. In 2007 OSM said EPA should lead rules which went to OMB. Mine placement of coal combustion byproducts (CCB) requires thorough characterization a research opportunity. Some discussions of CO2 sequestration. Mine maps states are getting more state money to match federal funding. Getting collections scanned and geo-referenced. Selenium still an issue but not prominent one. The volcanic ash falls, tonsteins, could be a source. The source of selenium could be shale above the coal. Chemical reaction of selenite to selinate in valley fills is pH controlled treatment. This is a good meeting but only impacts a few states.

Department of Energy, Fossil Energy, Office of Sequestration, Hydrogen, and Clean Coal Fuels (DOE)Tuesday, September 15, 2009, 8:45 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.Met With: Bob Kane, Office of Sequestration; Robert Wright (Bob)AASG Lead: Jim CobbAASG Attendee(s): Rex Buchanan, Don McKayNote Taker(s): Nick TewKey Points/Issues Discussed:Action Items:

Grants for site characterization are close to being released. Stimulus funds were tied up by OMB for a while, lost a couple of months. OMB examiner John Dick is in geology B.S. degree and Public Affairs MS from I.U. John Steinmetz might consider a visit with him. The stimulus grants will be public by the end of this month. NETL put together the review teams. A big job. New NETL sequestration atlases have been printed. Funding for the regional partnerships is stable. An important meeting in July between DOE and USGS to not re-invent the wheel. Stake

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

out territory and leverage synergies. USGS is doing resources and characterization manual. Brenda Pierce, USGS Energy program, has released a document of characterization of sequestration resources. Up date on rule making with EPA for permanent sequestration wells. Notice was published in the Federal register Aug. 31, 2009, data is coming in from the Mississippi test well and NETL for modeling CO2 plumes. Wavier considered for very deep above or below useful water to get injection permit. Wavier idea from original EPA permitting reflects outside groups 45 day comment period. Federal register rule to be out by end of 2010 with quarterly meetings, air and water sides of EPA ready new piece is emissions process for injection sites fugitive CO2 monitoring in future from sequestration injection sites. CCS rule balance regional partnerships coming along well Cranfield in Mississippi, CO2 from natural CO2 wells. Half million tons per year. ADM in Decatur, ILL. good example of success story. Cost of CO2 is a problem up to $220 per ton. Problems encountered in west Ohio, agreement was never executed, so the company and community had a history so project was cancelled. Australia Commonwealth Science and Industrial Research (CSIRO) is doing social testing for sequestration. There is an international committee for energy security Legislators Forum it was agreed that GLOBE will create three complementary International commissions comprising senior legislators from G8+ 5 countries. The Commissions will act to provide continuity inpolicy development and will seek inputs from relevant experts and business representatives as required. The International Commission on Climate and Energy Security will provide national and regional insights into specific policy questions and act as an interface between policy development and practical political application.

There is a U.S.-Canada energy-climate policy dialogue. To put our countries on a path to achieve low-carbon development, both the United States and Canadian Governments are currently working to establish comprehensive legislative and regulatory approaches to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy security. The United States and Canada have announced ambitious emissions reduction goals for 2050, and will work to institute flexible, market-based systems to bring about economically and environmentally effective mitigation. Prime Minister Stephen Harper has approved this.

China is developing a coal gasification plant that will inject CO2. The gasifiers are built in the US. China is in the FutureGen Alliance. The International Energy Agency in London says the US is the standard for action in CCS. The group is 20 years old, with 15 international corporations involved. It reviewed the US CCS programs and said the US should publicize more about what is going on. Very impressive.

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

American Geological Institute (AGI)Tuesday, September 15, 2009, 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.Met With: Pat Leahy, Executive Director; Ann Benbow; Chris Keane; Linda RowanAASG Lead: John SteinmetzAASG Attendee(s): Vicki McConnell, Jon PriceNote Taker(s): Harvey ThorleifsonKey Points/Issues Discussed:

Awards – Campbell selection went well this year, and AASG was thanked for its role; AGI is making plans to open up the Campbell nomination process such that any member of a Member Society can submit a nomination, whereas presently each Member Society can only put in one nomination. The Milling Legendary Geoscientist Medal was not awarded this year, and Bill Fisher has been asked to identify a pool of candidates for whom nominations will be invited.

Member Societies: the 46th member society, the Geochemical Society, has joined; current priority is to recruit the Association of American Geographers (AAG) and the American Water Resources Association (AWRA).

Education: discussion regarding Earth Science Week (Oct. 11-17) – climate theme this year; two-thirds of state geological surveys have ordered kits; plans for an Earth Science Summit, tentatively Feb 9-11, likely in Houston; original intent was member society coordination, but AGI has done an analysis that indicates that there is not much overlap in respective group activities; new emphasis is on situation in which earth science is a soft option for less capable high school students, as physics, for example, is aggressively pushing us aside, and creationists concurrently have influence; Earth Science Education Standards were published in the late 1990s, and need updating; teacher prep also is an issue, as many earth science teachers have no earth science background; goal is to see what agencies can do, e.g. NAGT, along with other AGI member societies and federal agencies; AASG needs to have a person in touch with this, someone with a K-12 orientation; perhaps ask Larry Becker to find a capable state survey staffer; also, new videos for students – Visions of Earth and Earth and You.

Coordination: ‘Associates’ are earth science-reliant agencies; discussion of past AGI Associates meetings – NSF is interested; this would help the broader earth science community work together, and would help NSF link research to its users.

Earth: discussion of the status of Earth, successor to Geotimes; there is a discount to State Geological Survey employees; previously had several state geological surveys on bulk orders, but this is down; story ideas are invited.

AGI Affairs: AGI will revise its fiscal year to October 1, as most revenue comes in December; AGI finance is under stress, and some Societies are behind in payments, while the investment portfolio, as is the case for everyone, is down.

Data preservation: AGI played a large role in the history of this initiative; AGI recognizes the need for greater appropriation; we need an appropriations champion, and Senator

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

Murkowski might best fill this role, while Ann Castle could be a key ally, along with land agencies, e.g. BLM, MMS, USFS.

Action items:

Earth: David Wunsch will be asked to circulate information on Earth discounts and bulk order arrangements to State Geological Surveys; AASG Communications committee will be asked to solicit story ideas from surveys.

Data preservation: John and Pat will confer to update coordinated AASG-AGI strategy on appropriations. [done]

Education: ask Larry Becker to name a person to the AGI K-12 working group. Pat Leahy or Chris Keane will send David Wunsch an offer to state surveys for bulk

subscriptions to Earth magazine. AASG may want to have a representative (Larry Becker) at the Earth Science Education

Summit, tentatively planned for February 9-11, 2010, with NSF and BP support. Topics may include the “Physics First” initiative to replace 9th-grade Earth science with physics, creationist backlash, Earth science education standards (ready for an update, since 1996), Earth science literacy, and teacher preparation.

Office of Management and Budget (OMB)Tuesday, September 15, 2009, 8:45 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.Met With: Charlie Stern, Program Examiner, USGS, Natural Resources DivisionAASG Lead: Dave WunschAASG Attendee(s): Dick Berg, Tom Berg, Don HoskinsNote Taker(s): Jamie RobertsonKey Points/Issues Discussed:

A few notes from your book: Met with Charlie- Last year was pretty good budget gap between expectations and reality. Interested in monitoring.

Department of Energy, Fossil Energy, Oil and Gas (DOE)Tuesday, September 15, 2009, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.Met With: Edie Allison, Exploration Program Manager; Yinka Ogunsola, Unconventional OilAASG Lead: Nick TewAASG Attendee(s): Rex Buchanan; Jim CobbNote Taker(s): Don McKayKey Points/Issues Discussed:

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

Now have Assistant secretary James Markowski, former VP at AEP. He has a PhD from MIT and familiar with coal industry. There will be deputy assistant secretaries for oil & gas and coal will be nominated soon. At DOE clean coal is now good with CCS and need to cut oil consumption by 2012 by 3 1/2 million barrels per day. Natural gas looking at gas hydrates. CO2 into methane hydrate cages in theory very elegant but long way off. Alaska onshore must capture CO2. Pres. Obama announced the stimulus plan for infrastructure. Several recent announcements: The training grant was released this week; the next release will be construction grants; and industrial uses such as EOR, beneficial uses, excludes coal for other now.

Kansas very comfortable with EOR because of its long history, but what about permanent sequestration when reservoirs have so much heterogeneity. Older oil and gas wells a danger to permanent sequestration. Russell Kansas convinced independents not to do it.

Ask DOE for help with funding for preservation. The materials being preserved are core and logs of major importance to sequestration research. REPSEA has no money for preservation. REPSEA is in difficulty over funding grants up and down dramatic shifts

Geological Society of America (GSA)Tuesday, September 15, 2009, 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.Met With: Craig Schiffries, Director for Geoscience Policy, Jack Hess, Executive DirectorAASG Lead: Vicki McConnellAASG Attendee(s): John Steinmetz, Harvey ThorleifsonNote Taker(s): Jon PriceKey Points/Issues Discussed:

Key Points and Issues Discussed:

Discussed how to maximize the upcoming GSA meetings by tapping into the state surveys. Minneapolis MN meeting is already has Harvey in the lead. What about getting the CO survey more involved in the Denver meetings? Next comes Charolette, NC in 2012. We should all try to get a HI state geologist in place before the Hawai’i 2017 meeting.

Thanks to Dick Berg (Illinois, outgoing) and Rex Buchanan (Kansas, incoming) for their leadership in the GSA’s Geology and Public Policy Section. Notes that the Climate Change panel is still reviewing the comments to make recommendations to the GPPC.

Discussion on how to optimize AASG DC presence. The question “do we coordinate with the AGI/GSA/AGU Geopolicy Working Group, Congressional visits day, and the activities of USGS Coalition?” If so we will need to revise our Fall Liaison schedule to fit with the

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AGI/GSA/AGU schedule. Know for sure that USGS Coalition Reception will be on September 13, 2010.

Marcia McNutt, USGS Director-designate, will also be Science Advisor to DoI Secretary Salazar. A date for her confirmation hearing has not been set.

HR1145 National Water Resource Development Act (aka “Earth Day Bill”) assigned to Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. Authorizes $2MM per year for five years for NOAA “to run a committee,” not the USGS.

Many of today’s social issues have a geoscience basis, e.g., climate, water, hazards, energy.

Reminds us to thank those House and Senate staff members who facilitate legislation leading to authorization and appropriations.

Outcome/Action Items:

o Do we coordinate with AGI/GSA/AGU for Fall 2010 Liaison? If yes we need to start soon

o Need to get to Senator Lisa Murkoski to champion data preservation- also a draft Executive Order regarding National Collections Alliance – Craig to circulate draft to John Steinmetz

o Jack and Craig commended the new AASG Annual Meeting model thought the inclusive technical sessions very informative and useful, outreach is excellent, good mixture of policy issues. Recommends that we maintain an agenda that allows for the networking, keep the environment casual, and not too much USGS.

Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS) and EarthscopeTuesday, September 15, 2009, 10:15 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.Met With: David Simpson, President; Ray Willemann, Director of Planning; Bob Woodward, Director of USArray; John Taber, Education and Outreach Program ManagerAASG Lead: Harvey ThorleifsonAASG Attendee(s): Tom Berg, Vicki McConnell, Jon PriceNote Taker(s): John SteinmetzKey Points/Issues Discussed:AASG Lead: Harvey Thorleifson

Action Item: Schedule with NRC – Will pick up cost for seismic stations Bob Woodward—invite Bob and IRIS people to annual meeting

Department of Energy - Geothermal (DOE)Tuesday, September 15, 2009, 11:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.Met With: Ray Fortuna, Geothermal Program Staff; Ed Wall, Program Manager

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AASG Lead: Don McKayAASG Attendee(s): Rex BuchananNote Taker(s): Jim Cobb, Nick TewKey Points/Issues Discussed:Action Items:We met with Arlene Anderson, and Lauren Boyd (an intern). Ed Wall was involved in a conference and was unavailable. A general discussion went on about the AASG-DOE geothermal proposal by Arizona State Geologist Lee Allison and Walt Snyder of Boise State. The grant had not yet been awarded but since that date has been for $17.7 million.

Senate Energy Committee – Natural Resources Subcommittee, Minority StaffTuesday, September 15, 2009, 1:15 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.Met With: Frank Gladics, Professional StaffAASG Lead: Jamie RobertsonAASG Attendee(s): Don Hoskins, Dave WunschNote Taker(s): Dick BergKey Points/Issues Discussed:

Key Points and Issues Discussed:

Frank Healthcare reform subsumes everything Cap and Trade will cost money and not result in any savings Likely no progress on climate change legislation this fall Energy Bill

o Would undo many issues raised in the 2005 Energy Policy Acto Geothermal: Little in the Billo Nuclear energy: only to the extent that it be taught in college as a renewable

optiono Wind and solar: Could be blocked in the West by wilderness laws

Data Preservation:o Non-controversial, included in Energy Billo Suggested approaching new members of Congress and new staffo Need to visit often and address the problem de jeur and how it helps

Hydrofracking-watered down for sequestration, geothermal Geo data- Lots of new stuff (other than O&G), use other issues Frank said water is a big issue 2.5 people- on committee deal with water issues-but few hydrologists on staff

o

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

And last but not least—Frank’s List of potential Legislators to develop as champions:

Mr. Risch-ID-resource background Brasso-WY- Doctor, down with resource stuff Lincoln –AK – In charge of Ag committee Stubino – MI – Shaheen – NH- seems level headed

Bureau of Land Management (BLM)Tuesday, September 15, 2009, 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 pm.Met With: Matt Spangler; Deborah Watkins, SchedulerAASG Lead: Jon PriceAASG Attendee(s): Tom BergNote Taker(s): Rex BuchananKey Points/Issues Discussed:Action Items:

There was discussion of MOU between BLM and AASG. MOU is nearing completion. Tim Spisak will check on status. BLM minerals budget will probably remain steady; geothermal leasing and permitting will probably get more emphasis. 600,000 acres have been identified as suitable for solar installation, part of a push toward renewables. Data preservation should be an issue of importance for BLM also, particularly in terms of records of exploration related to hard rock mining. Tim Spisak will check with BLM about support for the data preservation proposal. BLM has paid $1 million for LIDAR in Oregon.

Action Items:

1. Follow up on AASG/BLM MOU.2. Arrange to meet with Bob Abbey, BLM Director, on one of our next Liaison Committee

meetings. (As an aside, Jon Price met with Bob Abbey a couple of weeks later at a geothermal resources conference. He looks forward to meeting with AASG in the future.)

Interstate Oil and Gas Commission (IOGCC)Tuesday, September 15, 2009, 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.Met With: Kevin BlissAASG Lead: Harvey ThorleifsonAASG Attendee(s): Don McKay, Nick Tew

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

Note Taker(s): Jim CobbKey Points/Issues Discussed: We met with Kevin Bliss. In a discussion of CO2 sequestration Kevin thinks the federal government will take the long-term liability for stored CO2. Hydrofracing is an issue because EPA concluded groundwater contamination is created by this practice. The history of safe drinking water act for long term injections different long disposal wells and class 2 oil and gas wells it is regulated by EPA. Hydrofracing is not now regulated. The Marcellus shale play has started up the controversy again. He does not think there will be climate change legislation and questions wisdom of cap-n-trade. Alberta Canada has good government support should be modeled. The states to be effective work on carbon storage funded through DOE partnerships and NETL. Energy Council states AASG does it well builds relationships with Congressional members. Action Items: No actions

Senate Subcommittee on Interior Appropriations, Majority and Minority StaffTuesday, September 15, 2009, 3:30 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.Met With: Ginny James and Rachelle Schroeder, Professional Staff; 202-224-7350

virginia_james@appro.senate.gov

AASG Lead: Jamie RobertsonAASG Attendee(s): Dick Berg, Don HoskinsNote Taker(s): Dave WunschKey Points/Issues Discussed:

An in-depth discussion took place regarding lidar, and how this information differs from remotely sensed data from LANDSAT, which is somewhat of a thorn in the side of appropriators with constant request to repair it

AASG members described and gave examples of the differences, and promoted lidar for the nation as an immediate need

Note to send Lidar sheet (done by Wunsch after meeting) Funding for Groundwater monitoring was supported by the groupOutcomes:

Budgets being formulated but some wiggle room for 2011 Water issues, climate change on top of issue of interest Ginny was very curious of Lidar, agrees that need better coordination of US agencies.

North American Carbon Capture Storage Association (NACCSA)Tuesday, September 15, 2009, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.Met With: Mike Moore, Executive Director; Kip Coddington

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AASG Lead: Rex BuchananAASG Attendee(s): Vicki McConnell, Jon Price, John SteinmetzNote Taker(s): Tom BergKey Points/Issues Discussed:Action Items:

Key Points and Issues Discussed:

Mike talked a bit about how TX is approaching the CO2 and carbon capture:

Not being handled through TXDEQ but through Railroad Commission and will be considered a resource not a hazard – this includes pore space in geologic formations

NACCSA represents the interests of petroleum companies, coal companies, oil and gas service industry but not the utilities

Noted we should cultivate an educational relationship with Senator Dorgan and staff – chairman of Senate Approps.

Notes that US DoE has the large carbon capture demo projects that he assumes some state agencies are vying for

We discussed data preservation and how we, AASG, might make more headway in getting decent appropriations for the program. Mike notes that US DoE has lots of funds at the present – why wouldn’t USGS not approach US DoE for funds? Should we?

BLM/USFS also have data and data preservation issues What about the grass roots interests? Industry, utilities, impacted emitters? Anecdotes and

understanding the knowledge base of who you are talking to will go a long way to achieving your goals

He noted that he had just been invited to visit with US DoE OMB analyst and had he known about the data preservation program would have certainly mentioned it

Action Items and Suggested Course(s) of Action:

Don’t know that we had exact actions but we really should discuss the possibility of getting US DoE funds injected into data preservation program in such a way it comes out into our hands on the other side.

Consider meeting with Senator Dorgan staff Consider meeting with Franz Wuerfmannsdobler, staff for Senate Appropriations

Committee

USDA – CSREES Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Extension OfficeWednesday, September 16, 2009, 8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.Met With: Robert Hedberg

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

AASG Lead: Rex BuchananAASG Attendee(s): Jon Price, Harvey ThorleifsonNote Taker(s): Vicki McConnellKey Points/Issues Discussed:

1. AASG should reestablish (annual) meetings with the Association of Public Land-grant Universities (formerly NASULGC). This group lobbies heavily for Agricultural programs and has supported AASG initiatives in the past.

Key Points and Issues Discussed:

Organization very plugged into Cooperative Extension and Land Grant Institutes and CREES is the research branch of that

Bob explains that the last farm bill changed the organization name (now National Institute of Food and Agriculture), leadership (now a Presidential appointee), and focus to research. Expect this all to raise their profile – reorganization taking place now

Received a bump in their grant program, likely up to $300 M Noted the water grant programs AASG might be interested in:

o Water and watersheds – agriculture resource issueso Solving specific water problems within watershedso Also always interested in outreach/education – developing new curriculum

Suggests that state geologists could assist them by serving on policy panels and grant programs reviews – we should work with the USGS Water Institutes in each state

Suggests two entities we should make contact with – Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities (APLU) and the National Institute for Water Resources

Action Items and Suggested Course(s) of Action:

They will contact AASG about inviting someone from leadership to visit with their leadership team meeting in April 2010

AASG is welcome to attend their annual conference – the next on is Hilton Head, February 21-25, 2010, and will be a joint conference between land-grant and sea-grant institutes

AASG will make sure that Phil Razmussen from CREES (who attended the AASG annual meeting in Park City) got a volunteer to serve on his panel – could be either SG or USGS

American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG)September 14, 2009

Met:

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)

David Curtiss, AAPG’s Geoscience and Energy Washington Office

AASG: Rex Buchanan (L), Lee Allison, Tom Berg, Jim Cobb, Jon Price, John Steinmetz

David “Does DoI believe its own talking points” Not yet known. AAPG “supports tax policies that support exploration and production.”

ACELA (American Clean Energy Leadership Act, S. 1462) Passed Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. House (Rahall, Chair)

version does not dovetail. Likely will not pass. Data preservation: 10 year reauthorization in the bill.

Cap-and-Trade legislation 5% chance of a bill this year; likely 25% chance of a bill this Congressional session. Then

an election year will be upon us.

Hydraulic fracturing Concern about contamination of U.S. drinking waters. Such an issue has not been seen

except in Alabama. It is being tested in Colorado and the Powder River Basin. NRDC report (2 years old) is “really bad.” A bunch of anecdotes. Prime issue of IOGCC. “A federal solution looking for a problem.”

Carbon sequestration2009 stimulus fund over $1B; will not happen again at this level.

Action ItemsSuggested meeting with Karen Wayland, energy Advisor to Nancy Pelosi

Suggested meeting with Franz Wuerfmannsdobler, staff for Senate Appropriations Committee

AASG 2009 FALL LIAISON MEETING NOTES

(September 13- 16, 2009)