CNS Hydrologist Brian Yellen Appointed Director of MA Geological Survey

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Brian Yellen of the Department of Earth, Geographic, and Climate Sciences.

Brian Yellen, research professor in the College of Natural Sciences's Department of Earth, Geographic, and Climate Sciences, was recently tapped to lead the Massachusetts Geological Survey as state geologist. His term began September 3. 

A broadly trained geologist and avid naturalist, Yellen’s primary charge will be to develop data products and communications that lead to improved management of the commonwealth’s natural resources and increased resilience to climate change. Former State Geologist Steve Mabee retired in February, having served the state for 22 years. During his tenure, Mabee made valuable geologic maps available in digital form, and collaborated with the U.S. Geological Survey to complete a new statewide surficial materials map for the commonwealth. He recently published a new statewide depth-to-bedrock map, a critical resource for water resource and environmental engineers. 

“I am honored to serve the commonwealth as the state geologist,” says Yellen. “I will be providing geologic knowledge, data, and resources to help better manage our natural resources, from the rivers of the Berkshires to the coastal bluffs of Cape Cod. Climate change is already affecting many Massachusetts residents, for example by coastal flooding from rising sea levels and inland flooding from increasing precipitation. The survey is committed to providing resources to help partners, municipalities, and individuals adapt to these changes.”

The state geologist directs the Massachusetts Geologic Survey, housed within the College of Natural Sciences. In this role, Yellen will focus on the following four core mission areas:

1. Perform research on the land, mineral, and water resources of the commonwealth.
2. Coordinate/facilitate research and communication among various agencies, researchers, and stakeholders.
3. Collect, compile, analyze, correlate, and preserve all data pertaining to the geological environment.
4. Disseminate geologic information to the public.

Yellen specializes in Earth surface processes, coastal processes, and hydrology. He brings varied professional experience to the Massachusetts Geological Survey, including private-sector work in the groundwater cleanup industry, teaching high school science, and conducting academic research. Since 2012 he has taught professional-development workshops to licensed environmental consultants (LSPs) in Massachusetts, focused on skills in hydrogeology and geomorphology. 

Yellen’s recent research highlights include assessments of dam removals and sediment transport, coastal change and salt marsh carbon stocks, and fluvial erosion due to extreme floods. Climate change adaptation is a common theme in Yellen’s work, and reflects his past role directing a graduate fellowship program focused on developing stakeholder engagement and collaboration skills surrounding climate adaptation. He has ongoing projects in close collaboration with Mass Coastal Zone Management, Mass DEP, and the USGS in Woods Hole.

Yellen's appointment was covered by the State House News Service and the Daily Hampshire Gazette.

This story was originally published by the UMass News Office.