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Patrick Lambert
Hydrologist, Associate Director U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Southwest Region
Professional Background
Patrick Lambert is a distinguished Hydrologist with an extensive career at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), where he currently serves as the Associate Director for the Southwest Region. With a professional journey beginning in 1985, Pat has garnered over three decades of experience in hydrology and water resource management. His work spans across various capacities including principal investigator and science program manager, contributing significantly to the understanding and management of hydrologic systems.
From 2004 to 2014, Pat took on a pivotal role as the Director of the USGS Utah Water Science Center, where he spearheaded significant research and science initiatives that impacted water resource management in Utah. His leadership experience is particularly notable given his successful management of various USGS science programs and personnel in Idaho, Nevada, and Utah since 1996. His expertise in conceptual and computer modeling of hydrologic systems has been instrumental in advancing knowledge around groundwater and surface water interactions, as well as the movement of chemical contaminants in groundwater.
In a recent endeavor, Pat took on a detail assignment with the Western States Federal Agency Support Team (WestFAST), a collaborative effort comprising 12 Federal agencies focusing on water management in the Western United States. This role further highlights his commitment to enhancing coordination among federal bodies and state water managers to ensure efficient and sustainable water resource management.
Currently, as the Regional Associate Director of the USGS Southwest Region, Pat continues to make strides in advancing the USGS Water Availability and Use Science Program, working closely with a dedicated leadership team to address critical water resource issues in the region.
Education and Achievements
Patrick Lambert’s educational background lays a strong foundation for his exceptional career in hydrology. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Geophysics from the prestigious University of Utah, providing him with a rigorous understanding of the physical processes affecting water systems. Following his undergraduate studies, Pat enhanced his knowledge through graduate studies in Natural Resources at Utah State University. His educational pursuits also included specialized study in hydrogeology at Boise State University, equipping him with the skills and insight required to address complex hydrologic challenges.
Throughout his career, Pat has achieved numerous milestones, particularly in the realm of hydrology and water resources. His work has led to pioneering research that contributed significantly to our understanding of groundwater systems, which is fundamental given the increasing demands on water resources in the American West.
Pat’s notable achievements include managing projects that have developed innovative models to evaluate groundwater-surface water interactions and addressing contamination issues, which have significant public health implications. His leadership and program management capabilities have consistently resulted in enhanced research outcomes and collaborative efforts across various water management agencies.
Achievements
- Over three decades of experience in hydrology and water resources management
- Led as Director of the USGS Utah Water Science Center from 2004 to 2014
- Extensive work with the Western States Federal Agency Support Team (WestFAST) to improve coordination among federal agencies and state water managers
- Principal investigator for numerous USGS science projects focusing on groundwater modeling and contamination transport
- Recognized for contributions to advancing water science and management in Idaho, Nevada, and Utah
- Active member of the USGS Water Availability and Use Science Program Leadership Team, contributing to regional water resource strategies and policies.