News Release, Kansas Geological Survey, June 25, 2008
LAWRENCE--Three University of Kansas students were recognized this spring for outstanding achievement at the Kansas Geological Survey, based on KU's west campus.
Shelby Walters, a graduate student in geophysics, received the Lee C. and Darcy Gerhard Field Research Student Award. A research assistant in the Survey's Exploration Services section, Walters explores ways to characterize near-surface layers of the earth using seismic techniques. Other studies she has been involved with include one on tunnel and mine detection and another on ground subsidence. The award is named after the Survey's director from 1987 to 1999 and his wife.
Lindsay Mayer, a graduate student in geophysics, received the William W. Hambleton Student Research Award. As a research assistant in the Survey's Exploration Services section, Mayer investigates problems caused by rapid changes in shallow earth materials, which are often detected through seismic reflection during petroleum exploration. She also helps with the seismic monitoring of enhanced oil recovery efforts in Russell County, among other projects. William W. Hambleton was the Survey's director from 1970 to 1986.
Darren Haag, an undergraduate in geography, was the recipient of the Norman Plummer Outstanding Student Award. In the Survey's Cartographic Services unit, Haag helps produce new geologic maps and has created Geographic Information Systems (GIS) geology data for 45 Kansas counties from historical geologic maps. Norman Plummer was a Survey employee from 1936 to 1969.
The Kansas Geological Survey studies and provides information on the state's geologic resources and hazards, particularly ground water, oil, natural gas, and other minerals. It employs approximately 40 students.
The recipients were given cash awards and certificates, presented by the Survey's director, William Harrison, in a mid-May ceremony.