Appreciation: “the recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something.”
This defines all of the research done by the scientists and others who volunteer their time serving the Division of Environmental Geosciences.
One hundred years… a milestone for AAPG. Indeed, an accomplishment, especially given the cyclicity of the petroleum industry!
Although the DEG is much “younger,” our goal is to continue serving AAPG’s membership, and the public, regarding environmental issues related to energy development.
This effort was showcased at 2017 ACE, where the DEG was involved in:
- Three Oral and Poster Sessions, and two Forums (one each co-sponsored with the Energy Minerals Division and Division of Professional Affairs)
- Luncheon, co-sponsored with the EMD
- DEG awards (see accompanying list)
Ongoing research is a priority of the Division. Three publications related to CO2 sequestration appeared in the March issue of the Environmental Geosciences journal. They include:
- “A revised assessment of the CO2 storage capacity and enhanced oil recovery potential in the major oilfields of Ohio,” J. Hawkins, S. Mishra, R. Stowe, K. Makwana, J. Main.
- “Geologic carbon sequestration potential of the Ordovician St. Peter Sandstone, Michigan and Illinois Basins, USA.” D. Barnes, K. Ellett, J. Rupp.
- “Characterization of porosity and pore-size distribution using multiple analytical tools: Implications for carbonate reservoir characterization in geologic storage of CO2.” C. Medina, M. Mastalerz, J. Rupp.
Bylaws
The Division’s Executive Committee has approved amending its bylaws. The changes include adding another administrative committee (Honors and Awards), and eliminating the three Standing Technical Committees (Hydrogeology, Environmental Geophysics and CO2 Sequestration).
Instead, to comply with AAPG’s Executive Committee’s request, less structured ad hoc technical committees will be formed to address current topics facing the petroleum industry. Research papers will be developed and/or identified for presentations at meetings, in the Division’s newsletter (Spheres of Influence), the Environmental Geosciences journal, special publications, the Bulletin or the Explorer. The “Hydraulic Fracturing” white paper, on our website, is an example of one of the topics that will be addressed.
The revised bylaws will be sent to both AAPG’s Executive Committee and the DEG members for their final approval.
Appreciation
As my term ends on June 30, I want to give sincere thanks to those that served on our Executive Committee and Advisory Board. Of course, the AAPG staff should be recognized too. In particular, to Diane Keim, who always provided the much-needed support to the Division, and also to Vicki Beighle, Bryan Haws, Brian Ervin and David Curtiss.
I have very much enjoyed representing the Division as its president. It has given me the opportunity to work with all levels of AAPG membership in the United States and internationally. AAPG is truly a global organization.
If our efforts over the past year have helped AAPG members to better appreciate potential environmental issues while exploring for, and producing, fossil fuels, we have been successful. Always remember, good science is paramount to solving problems, and ignorance is not bliss!