Joanna Thamke
Joanna is currently the Center Director for the USGS Oregon Water Science Center. She works with the ORWSC's leadership team to guide more than 100 scientists, technicians, administrative and information technology professionals.
Joanna has been with the USGS since the mid-1980s and has spent most of her career in Helena, MT. Her projects focus on water quality, water availability, water use, and energy in the Williston Basin.
Professional Experience
Center Director, USGS Oregon Water Science Center, July 2023 - Present
Acting Center Director, USGS Oregon Water Science Center, October 2022 - July 2023
Associate Director for Studies, USGS Wyoming-Montana Water Science Center, 2020 - 2023
Groundwater / Surface-Water Studies Section Chief, USGS Wyoming-Montana Water Science Center, 2016 - 2020
Groundwater Support Unit Chief, USGS Wyoming-Montana Water Science Center, 2015 - 2016
Groundwater Specialist, USGS Montana Water Science Center, 2008 - 2015
Hydrologist, USGS Montana Water Science Center, 1988 - 2015
Student Trainee, USGS Iowa District, 1984 - 1988
Education and Certifications
B.S., Geology, 1987, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
Honors and Awards
2007 American Association of Petroleum Geologists Research Award
2008 U.S. Department of Interior Environmental Achievement Award
2011 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency National Honor Award
2019 American Water Resources Association Montana Water Legend Award
2020 University of Iowa Distinguished Alumni Award from the Earth and Environmental Sciences Department