The Wyoming State Geological Survey (WSGS) is a non-regulatory, science-based state agency, mandated for over 120 years to provide the foundational geologic information that underpins Wyoming's economy and public safety. As the primary source of geoscience data, the WSGS generates the state's geoframework—multi-scale geologic maps that de-risk private investment and support infrastructure, providing a demonstrated return on investment. Modern efforts, enhanced by the STATEMAP and Earth MRI program, focus on identifying and characterizing resources like critical minerals and conducting high-resolution airborne geophysics. In addition to supporting the energy economy, the WSGS maps and assesses geologic hazards to inform building codes and land-use planning, while also serving as the mandated public repository for valuable state geologic data and fossils, ensuring long-term accessibility for researchers and the public.

 

Ranie Lynds is the Interim State Geologist and Director of the Wyoming State Geological Survey (WSGS), bringing a seasoned combination of academic research and industry expertise to the role. She holds a B.S. in geology and an M.S. in geophysics from Stanford University, as well as a Ph.D. in geology from the University of Wyoming, where she specialized in fluvial sedimentology. Her career prior to joining the WSGS in 2012 included diverse experience with coalbed natural gas drill rigs, in the uranium industry, and research on geologic carbon sequestration. As a key contributor to the WSGS, Ranie has been instrumental in the state's mapping program, co-authoring numerous bedrock geologic maps, and is a major driver in advancing airborne geophysical surveys through the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative. Her current efforts center on understanding Wyoming’s mineral resources and expanding access to critical geoscience data.