The Florida Geological Survey is the premier state government institution specializing in geoscience research and assessments to provide objective quality data and interpretations. Environmental, conservation, and public-welfare issues are addressed through applied field and laboratory investigations supported by our geologic sample and research libraries as well as collaborative efforts within the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and with other regulatory or policy-making entities. The FGS is dedicated to facilitating a culture of environmental stewardship. This is achieved by proactively sharing knowledge through accessible geoscience data, active participation on advisory committees, research and assessment publications, websites, public and technical presentations and educational activities.

Nation’s Longest Sitting State Geologist, Walt Schmidt, Retires

Jonathan Arthur Becomes Florida’s Sixth State Geologist

Walt Schmidt, Director of the Florida Geological Survey and the nation’s longest sitting State Geologist retired on May 31, 2009 after 34 years of dedicated service. Walt was hired as a geologist in 1975 and advanced rapidly from District Geologist to Section Administrator. He was appointed State Geologist and Chief in 1985. In 1983 Walt was awarded the PhD. in geology from Florida State University. He has published numerous scientific reports, papers and maps and was elected a Fellow of the Geological Society of America in 1995. In the course of his responsibilities as State Geologist and Chief of the Florida Geological Survey Dr. Schmidt has made presentations to scientific groups, environmental organizations, schools, universities and citizen’s groups. Over his long career, he has received many awards from those he has served in various leadership capacities, including most recently the Florida Geological Survey’s Lifetime Achievement Award and the Association of American State Geologists’ Distinguished Service Award. The FGS has benefited immeasurably from Walt’s intelligent, vigorous and wise leadership.

Jon Arthur became Director of the Florida Geological Survey and the 6th State Geologist of Florida upon the retirement of Walt Schmidt. He received his Doctoral degree in geology from Florida State University while working as a geologist with the FGS. Dr. Arthur’s research interests include hydrogeochemistry, hydrogeology and aquifer protection. His demonstrated leadership and research expertise in these areas uniquely qualify him to head the Survey at a time when environmental issues related to these topics are becoming increasingly important in Florida. He has served on numerous committees related to aquifer storage and recovery, including the National Academy of Sciences committee that produced the 2008 report: “Prospects for Managed Underground Storage of Recoverable Water.” Dr. Arthur has published numerous journal articles, technical reports, conference proceedings and maps. He has served as co-convener, invited speaker, moderator or panelist on numerous hydrogeology issues. In 2008, he was elected a Fellow of the Geological Society of America. He currently serves on the Florida Board of Professional Geologists and is past-president of the Florida Section of the American Institute of Professional Geologists.