SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 964

WHEREAS, The Bureau of Economic Geology at The University of Texas at Austin, the oldest research unit at the school, is celebrating its centennial in 2009; and

WHEREAS, Established by The University of Texas Board of Regents in 1909, the bureau is now part of the John A. and Katherine G. Jackson School of Geosciences; members of the bureau staff contribute to the state and to the advancement of science through the undertaking of basic and applied research related to energy and mineral resources, water resources, coastal processes, and environmental issues; in addition, the staff provides a wide range of advisory and technical services to industries, nonprofit organizations, and local, state, and federal government agencies; and

WHEREAS, Since its inception, the bureau has performed State Geological Survey functions as requested by the Texas Legislature, providing the geoscience information needed for the crafting of state energy and other policies; and

WHEREAS, Bureau staff also conduct research for various industry partners who lease mineral rights from the state, including independent operators responsible for most of the oil and gas production in Texas, and such initiatives create enhanced royalty income and severance tax revenue; and

WHEREAS, Along with its service to elected officials, government employees, and individuals in private industry, the bureau provides outstanding educational opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, supports science fairs and other programs oriented toward elementary and secondary students, fosters the professional development of teachers, and promotes professional education through its staff's engagement in symposia, conferences, and the like; and

WHEREAS, A major research institution, the bureau maintains the largest volume of subsurface core samples in the country, while its publications program has produced hundreds of maps, reports, and other publications; and

WHEREAS, Standing on the threshold of its second century, the Bureau of Economic Geology is committed to addressing the issues of energy, water, and the environment--three fundamental challenges that are confronting Texas and the rest of the world; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 81st Legislature, hereby commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Bureau of Economic Geology and extend to its staff sincere best wishes for continued success in all their endeavors; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for the bureau as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate. Watson

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 20, 2009.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate