Mabee appointed state geologist

by Elizabeth Luciano, News Office staff

Newly appointed state geologist Stephen Mabee studies a map in preparation for a field trip with Landscape Architecture and Regional Planning professor Jack Ahern and his students to Sunderland and South Deerfield to trace the geological history of the Connecticut River Valley. (Stan Sherer photo)

tephen B. Mabee, assistant professor in the Geosciences Department, was recently named state geologist for Massachusetts. His appointment is part of a new agreement between the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs and the University.

     This marks the first time that the state geologist has been appointed at the University. He views the post of state geologist as having several components: to perform research on the state's land, mineral and water resources; collect, compile, analyze, correlate, and preserve all data pertaining to the state's geological environment; coordinate and facilitate research activities among various state agencies; disseminate to the public all information leading to a better understanding of the geology, hydrology, and natural environment through the preparation of maps, database reports, and other publications.

     he state geologist also coordinates geological mapping within the state using funding from the U.S. Geological Survey. A specialist in hydrogeology, Mabee will continue to serve on the Geosciences faculty during his appointment.
Mabee has been a member of the faculty since 1995.