GeoSpectrum

The American Geological Institute (AGI) is pleased to announce that Larry D. Woodfork has been named the 2008 recipient of the Medal in Memory of Ian Campbell. Woodfork is the 27th recipient of this award that is given annually in memory of Ian Campbell, a man of remarkable accomplishment and influence.

Larry D. Woodfork, the 2008 Campbell Medalist, has had a highly productive professional career spanning four decades and including leadership positions in government, industry and academia. He began working in the petroleum industry and in 1968 joined the West Virginia Geologic and Economic Survey as a staff geologist. In 1989, he was appointed State Geologist and Director. During his tenure at the Survey, he concurrently held appointments as Adjunct Professor at West Virginia University. He has authored or edited publications on energy resources and the application of geology in addressing societal needs.

Larry served West Virginia with distinction for 34 years. He provided the insight required to build and maintain the geological research and outreach service programs of the Survey in a cost-effective manner. During his tenure, Larry served on state, regional, and national committees, boards, and commissions. His outstanding and timely service contributions were recognized by the Governors of West Virginia, Kentucky and Indiana by each awarding him the highest honor bestowed on citizens.

Larry’s dedication and commitment to geoscience professional organizations are legendary. He has served as President of AGI, AIPG, and ASSG and as Chair of the AAPG HOD. He has provided leadership to the international community by serving as a voting delegate for the 31^st and 32^nd International Geological Congresses and as Chairman of the Board of Directors and Officers of the Corporation of International Year of Planet Earth. For his distinguished service, accomplishments, and leadership, he has received high honors and prestigious awards: AIPG Ben H. Parker Medal, AIPG Honorary Membership, AAPG Honorary Membership, AASG Honorary Membership, and GSA Senior Fellow.

Larry D. Woodfork’s many and significant contributions and distinguished service to the geoscience profession, and his exceptional achievements and visionary leadership unequivocally qualify him as an excellent selection for the 2008 Ian Campbell Medal.

Compiled by: Ernest A. Mancini, Citationist

Recognizing his strong support for agriculture and the conservation of Colorado’s and the nation’s lands, Senator Ken Salazar (D-CO), received the 2008 Excellence in Soil Stewardship Award presented by the Soil Science Society of America on July 17.

A fifth generation Coloradan, Senator Salazar grew up on a ranch in Colorado’s San Luis Valley where his family has farmed and ranched the land since homesteading. The Senator serves on both the Agriculture and Energy and Natural Resources Committees where he is known as a champion for well-informed and science-based development of soil and water resources. His support for the 2008 Farm Bill conservation programs was critical to building awareness in the Senate about the value and promise of soil conservation across the nation.

“It is a great honor to present the Soil Science Society of America’s 2008 Excellence in Soil Stewardship Award to Senator Ken Salazar,” said SSSA President Gary A. Peterson, Colorado State University. “As a farmer and rancher, Senator Salazar has learned the importance of proper soil management to ensuring the long-term productivity of agricultural lands.”

Peterson presented the award to Senator Salazar at a luncheon in the U.S. Capitol and was joined by the leadership of SSSA and the Crop Science Society of America, both scientific societies based in Madison, Wis.

“The Soil Science Society of America provides an important forum for exchange of knowledge and ideas among soil scientists worldwide,” said Senator Salazar upon receiving the award. “As conditions and practices change, soil science research will be critical to helping ensure that America’s farmers and ranchers will continue to be able to provide the food and fiber we depend on. You all do important work in this area, and I look forward to our continued partnership. I am honored to accept this award.”