Texas Governor Greg Abbott has recently made key appointments to the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists, as announced in an Office of the Texas Governor press release. Mark Varhaug, a seasoned professional with over four decades in geology, has been named the chair of the board. Along with Varhaug, Governor Abbott appointed Eric Anderson, Ph.D., Rusty Branch, P.G., and Jeremy Ransom, expressing confidence in their diverse expertise to oversee the standards for professional geoscientists in the state.
The Board functions as a regulatory body, tasked with establishing reasonable and necessary fees for applications and license holders—these consist of costs for application, examination, licensure, and the renewal of licenses, not to mention the Board takes into account the costs for preparing, administering, and grading examinations for disciplinary specialization in geosciences when deciding on said fees. Mark Varhaug's experience is extensive, with his involvement in various geological societies and his current presidency at Beacon Hill Energy; he's already served on this board since August 2018 and holds a science degree from Southern Methodist University.
Dr. Eric Anderson, from Hallsville, brings a strong background in environmental science and is recognized for his certification in soil science by the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists, he's connected with the ecological and the local community through multiple associations, Rusty Branch hailing from Fort Worth applies his extensive educational background, which includes earth science and business administration, to his role as vice president and senior geoscientist at Gehrig, Inc., enriching the board with his leadership experiences from various non-profit and community organizations, and Jeremy Ransom's varied resume showcases his roles from strategic relationship director to his military service in the Marine Corps and his educational qualifications in finance, technology, and law.
Representing diverse regions and careers, all appointees are tasked with maintaining the integrity of geoscience practice in Texas. Varhaug, Anderson, Branch, and Ransom will serve on the board until February 1, 2031, the end of their term, during which they will be responsible for upholding the principles of ethical and professional conduct in the state’s geoscientific practices.
