Steven Sobieszćzyk
Steven Sobieszćzyk is a scientist and spokesperson. While "Sobie" spent most of his career researching landslide hazards, flooding, sediment transport, and stream ecosystems, he now focuses on science communication and promoting scientific literacy. Steve is a multihazard first responder and has spoken extensively about seismic, wildfire, landslide, flooding, and volcanic hazards.
CURRENT WORK
- Media Lead for the USGS Natural Hazards Mission Area
- Public Information Officer for DOI Office of Wildland Fire
- Hydrologist for National DOI Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Team
Professional Experience
Public Affairs Specialist • U.S. Geological Survey • 2020 – Present
Develop, create, and execute national-level Bureau communication content (e.g., news releases, social media posts, videos), events (e.g., open houses, press conferences), and media & science communications training. Writer. Illustrator. Videographer. Webmaster. Instructor. Public Speaker.
Public Information Officer & Hydrologist • U.S. Department of Interior • 2017 – Present
Multi-incident first responder. Create talking points, press releases, videos, social media content, and online story maps. Coordinate community meetings and press conferences. DOI Burned Area Emergency Response hydrologist.
Co-founder • Association of Science Communicators • 2016 – 2023
Founding member and executive officer of an international non-profit science communication organization. Help guide internal/external communication and community marketing strategies, including graphic design, branding, and conference development.
Geographer & Hydrologist • U.S. Geological Survey • 2001 – 2020
Study debris flow, flooding, and sediment transport-related issues. Professional background in GIS, including runoff modeling and bathymetric surveys. Advised Leadership on strategies and methods to achieve better public understanding of science content.
Adjunct Professor • Portland State University • 2011 – 2017
Taught Hydrology (GEOG 4/514), GIS for Water Resources (GEOG 4/594), River Restoration, Part II: Ecological Processes (EPP 222), and Site Evaluation and Assessment Tools (EPP 223).
Research Assistant • NASA • 1999
Mapped, analyzed, and compiled a database of crater impacts on Ganymede, the largest moon of Jupiter, using Galileo and Viking satellite images.
Education and Certifications
Portland State University • M.S. • 2010
Landslide Engineering Geology and Hydrology
Portland State University • GISP • 2005
Licensed Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Professional
University of Wisconson - Oshkosh • B.S. • 2000
Geology, minor in Geography
Science and Products
When it comes to talking to others, especially when explaining science, the key is consequences outweigh precision. You should always be honest, tell the truth, but don't sweat the small stuff. People care about relatability, not the mundane. Knowing what information isn't worth sharing is hard. There are professionals out there who can help. Like me.
The May 18, 1980, eruption of Mount St. Helens was historic and fundamentally changed how we see volcanoes. For those who lost family and friends, homes, and their livelihoods, it was an unimaginable tragedy. For others around the world, the eruption was an exciting curiosity, an experience they could share with their kids and grandkids.
The May 18, 1980, eruption of Mount St. Helens was historic and fundamentally changed how we see volcanoes. For those who lost family and friends, homes, and their livelihoods, it was an unimaginable tragedy. For others around the world, the eruption was an exciting curiosity, an experience they could share with their kids and grandkids.
The May 18, 1980, eruption of Mount St. Helens was historic and fundamentally changed how we see volcanoes. For those who lost family and friends, homes, and their livelihoods, it was an unimaginable tragedy. For others around the world, the eruption was an exciting curiosity, an experience they could share with their kids and grandkids.
The May 18, 1980, eruption of Mount St. Helens was historic and fundamentally changed how we see volcanoes. For those who lost family and friends, homes, and their livelihoods, it was an unimaginable tragedy. For others around the world, the eruption was an exciting curiosity, an experience they could share with their kids and grandkids.
May is Volcano Awareness Month in Washington State. There's no better time to learn five incredible facts about Mount St. Helens. This list is a truncated version of the popular 30 Cool Facts about Mount St. Helens (usgs.gov) poster.
May is Volcano Awareness Month in Washington State. There's no better time to learn five incredible facts about Mount St. Helens. This list is a truncated version of the popular 30 Cool Facts about Mount St. Helens (usgs.gov) poster.
May is Volcano Awareness Month in Washington State. There's no better time to learn five incredible facts about Mount St. Helens. This list is a truncated version of the popular 30 Cool Facts about Mount St. Helens (usgs.gov) poster.
May is Volcano Awareness Month in Washington State. There's no better time to learn five incredible facts about Mount St. Helens. This list is a truncated version of the popular 30 Cool Facts about Mount St. Helens (usgs.gov) poster.
Have you ever wondered how scientists determine the burn severity of wildfire?
Have you ever wondered how scientists determine the burn severity of wildfire?
Have you ever wondered how scientists determine the burn severity of wildfire?
Have you ever wondered how scientists determine the burn severity of wildfire?
On February 6, around 4:15 a.m. local time, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck south-central Turkey near the Turkey/Syria border.
On February 6, around 4:15 a.m. local time, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck south-central Turkey near the Turkey/Syria border.
Panel 2 for science comic about Icy Mystery - Ice on Mars. This panel explores the actual Dec. 24, 2021 Impact.
Panel 2 for science comic about Icy Mystery - Ice on Mars. This panel explores the actual Dec. 24, 2021 Impact.
Panel 1 of Icy Mystery Discovery of Ice on Mars science comic. (Mars' Climate History)
Panel 1 of Icy Mystery Discovery of Ice on Mars science comic. (Mars' Climate History)
Panel 3 of science comic about Icy Mystery - Ice on Mars. This panel shows instruments used to study subsurface.
Panel 3 of science comic about Icy Mystery - Ice on Mars. This panel shows instruments used to study subsurface.
Panel 4 of science comic about Icy Mystery - Ice on Mars. This panel shows a whimsical future of how scientists can use new information about ice on Mars.
Panel 4 of science comic about Icy Mystery - Ice on Mars. This panel shows a whimsical future of how scientists can use new information about ice on Mars.
THE ALEUTIAN CRADLE OF TSUNAMIS
(Click here to read EOS Feature: Seismic Sources in the Aleutian Cradle of Tsunamis)
Dr. Annemarie Baltay talks about the October 25th, 2022 M5.1 earthquake in Seven Trees, California.
Dr. Annemarie Baltay talks about the October 25th, 2022 M5.1 earthquake in Seven Trees, California.
Although it may seem like it’s solid beneath your feet, the Earth is a dynamic structure. The surface is constantly moving. Different parts of the planet move in different ways and at different time scales. The USGS studies these sometimes subtle, yet sometimes dramatic movements to help keep us safe.
Although it may seem like it’s solid beneath your feet, the Earth is a dynamic structure. The surface is constantly moving. Different parts of the planet move in different ways and at different time scales. The USGS studies these sometimes subtle, yet sometimes dramatic movements to help keep us safe.
EARTH'S PULSE
Hazard Monitoring
Scientists rely on measurements and networks of sensors to monitor Earth’s movements. Similar to tracking someone’s pulse, these sensors check the ‘hazard heartbeat’ of Earth’s surface, waters, and air. Hazard monitoring helps us understand where, when, why, and how much things change over time.
EARTH'S PULSE
Hazard Monitoring
Scientists rely on measurements and networks of sensors to monitor Earth’s movements. Similar to tracking someone’s pulse, these sensors check the ‘hazard heartbeat’ of Earth’s surface, waters, and air. Hazard monitoring helps us understand where, when, why, and how much things change over time.
MONITORING BIOLOGICAL THREATS: Protecting Ecosystems, Public Safety, and the Economy
MONITORING BIOLOGICAL THREATS: Protecting Ecosystems, Public Safety, and the Economy
AS THE OCEAN WARMS AND FILLS WITH EXCESS NUTRIENTS FROM SURFACE RUNOFF, CERTAIN TYPES OF ALGAE CAN GROW OUT OF CONTROL AND PRODUCE DANGEROUS TOXINS.
TYPICALLY, THE HARMFUL ALGAE BLOOMS DURING THE SUMMER SEASON. THE WARMER TEMPERATURES KEEP WATER FROM MIXING, ALLOWING THE ALGAE TO GROW MUCH FASTER.
AS THE OCEAN WARMS AND FILLS WITH EXCESS NUTRIENTS FROM SURFACE RUNOFF, CERTAIN TYPES OF ALGAE CAN GROW OUT OF CONTROL AND PRODUCE DANGEROUS TOXINS.
TYPICALLY, THE HARMFUL ALGAE BLOOMS DURING THE SUMMER SEASON. THE WARMER TEMPERATURES KEEP WATER FROM MIXING, ALLOWING THE ALGAE TO GROW MUCH FASTER.
ALTHOUGH OTHER BIRD DIE-OFFS HAD BEEN SEEN RECENTLY IN ALASKA, THERE WAS SOMETHING DIFFERENT ABOUT THE TERNS. THEY HAD BEEN POISONED.
ALTHOUGH OTHER BIRD DIE-OFFS HAD BEEN SEEN RECENTLY IN ALASKA, THERE WAS SOMETHING DIFFERENT ABOUT THE TERNS. THEY HAD BEEN POISONED.
BRIGHT GREEN ALGAE CAN OFTEN BE SPOTTED FLOATING IN THE OCEAN NEAR THE SURFACE. THEY CONSUME NUTRIENTS, LIKE NITROGEN AND PHOSPHORUS. IN A BALANCED ECOSYSTEM, THEY GROW AND PROVIDE FOOD FOR MANY SEA CREATURES, INCLUDING KRILL, SNAILS, AND JELLYFISH.
BRIGHT GREEN ALGAE CAN OFTEN BE SPOTTED FLOATING IN THE OCEAN NEAR THE SURFACE. THEY CONSUME NUTRIENTS, LIKE NITROGEN AND PHOSPHORUS. IN A BALANCED ECOSYSTEM, THEY GROW AND PROVIDE FOOD FOR MANY SEA CREATURES, INCLUDING KRILL, SNAILS, AND JELLYFISH.
NOT ONLY ARE HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOMS IN THE OCEAN DANGEROUS FOR ARCTIC TERNS, THEY CAN ALSO IMPACT HUMAN FOOD SOURCES AND HEALTH.
NOT ONLY ARE HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOMS IN THE OCEAN DANGEROUS FOR ARCTIC TERNS, THEY CAN ALSO IMPACT HUMAN FOOD SOURCES AND HEALTH.
Steven is interested in landslide hazards, sediment transport, water quality, and stream ecosystems and has published numerous scientific reports, journal articles, and data sets on these topics (see subject links below for respective publications).
Nutrient and Suspended-Sediment Transport and Trends in the Columbia River and Puget Sound Basins, 1993-2003
Major Turbidity Events in the North Santiam River Basin, Oregon, Water Years 1999-2004
Suspended-Sediment Loads and Yields in the North Santiam River Basin, Oregon, Water Years 1999-2004
A Comparison of Natural and Urban Characteristics and the Development of Urban Intensity Indices Across Six Geographic Settings
Modeling Hydrodynamics, Water Temperature, and Suspended Sediment in Detroit Lake, Oregon
Non-USGS Publications**
**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.
Science and Products
When it comes to talking to others, especially when explaining science, the key is consequences outweigh precision. You should always be honest, tell the truth, but don't sweat the small stuff. People care about relatability, not the mundane. Knowing what information isn't worth sharing is hard. There are professionals out there who can help. Like me.
The May 18, 1980, eruption of Mount St. Helens was historic and fundamentally changed how we see volcanoes. For those who lost family and friends, homes, and their livelihoods, it was an unimaginable tragedy. For others around the world, the eruption was an exciting curiosity, an experience they could share with their kids and grandkids.
The May 18, 1980, eruption of Mount St. Helens was historic and fundamentally changed how we see volcanoes. For those who lost family and friends, homes, and their livelihoods, it was an unimaginable tragedy. For others around the world, the eruption was an exciting curiosity, an experience they could share with their kids and grandkids.
The May 18, 1980, eruption of Mount St. Helens was historic and fundamentally changed how we see volcanoes. For those who lost family and friends, homes, and their livelihoods, it was an unimaginable tragedy. For others around the world, the eruption was an exciting curiosity, an experience they could share with their kids and grandkids.
The May 18, 1980, eruption of Mount St. Helens was historic and fundamentally changed how we see volcanoes. For those who lost family and friends, homes, and their livelihoods, it was an unimaginable tragedy. For others around the world, the eruption was an exciting curiosity, an experience they could share with their kids and grandkids.
May is Volcano Awareness Month in Washington State. There's no better time to learn five incredible facts about Mount St. Helens. This list is a truncated version of the popular 30 Cool Facts about Mount St. Helens (usgs.gov) poster.
May is Volcano Awareness Month in Washington State. There's no better time to learn five incredible facts about Mount St. Helens. This list is a truncated version of the popular 30 Cool Facts about Mount St. Helens (usgs.gov) poster.
May is Volcano Awareness Month in Washington State. There's no better time to learn five incredible facts about Mount St. Helens. This list is a truncated version of the popular 30 Cool Facts about Mount St. Helens (usgs.gov) poster.
May is Volcano Awareness Month in Washington State. There's no better time to learn five incredible facts about Mount St. Helens. This list is a truncated version of the popular 30 Cool Facts about Mount St. Helens (usgs.gov) poster.
Have you ever wondered how scientists determine the burn severity of wildfire?
Have you ever wondered how scientists determine the burn severity of wildfire?
Have you ever wondered how scientists determine the burn severity of wildfire?
Have you ever wondered how scientists determine the burn severity of wildfire?
On February 6, around 4:15 a.m. local time, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck south-central Turkey near the Turkey/Syria border.
On February 6, around 4:15 a.m. local time, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck south-central Turkey near the Turkey/Syria border.
Panel 2 for science comic about Icy Mystery - Ice on Mars. This panel explores the actual Dec. 24, 2021 Impact.
Panel 2 for science comic about Icy Mystery - Ice on Mars. This panel explores the actual Dec. 24, 2021 Impact.
Panel 1 of Icy Mystery Discovery of Ice on Mars science comic. (Mars' Climate History)
Panel 1 of Icy Mystery Discovery of Ice on Mars science comic. (Mars' Climate History)
Panel 3 of science comic about Icy Mystery - Ice on Mars. This panel shows instruments used to study subsurface.
Panel 3 of science comic about Icy Mystery - Ice on Mars. This panel shows instruments used to study subsurface.
Panel 4 of science comic about Icy Mystery - Ice on Mars. This panel shows a whimsical future of how scientists can use new information about ice on Mars.
Panel 4 of science comic about Icy Mystery - Ice on Mars. This panel shows a whimsical future of how scientists can use new information about ice on Mars.
THE ALEUTIAN CRADLE OF TSUNAMIS
(Click here to read EOS Feature: Seismic Sources in the Aleutian Cradle of Tsunamis)
Dr. Annemarie Baltay talks about the October 25th, 2022 M5.1 earthquake in Seven Trees, California.
Dr. Annemarie Baltay talks about the October 25th, 2022 M5.1 earthquake in Seven Trees, California.
Although it may seem like it’s solid beneath your feet, the Earth is a dynamic structure. The surface is constantly moving. Different parts of the planet move in different ways and at different time scales. The USGS studies these sometimes subtle, yet sometimes dramatic movements to help keep us safe.
Although it may seem like it’s solid beneath your feet, the Earth is a dynamic structure. The surface is constantly moving. Different parts of the planet move in different ways and at different time scales. The USGS studies these sometimes subtle, yet sometimes dramatic movements to help keep us safe.
EARTH'S PULSE
Hazard Monitoring
Scientists rely on measurements and networks of sensors to monitor Earth’s movements. Similar to tracking someone’s pulse, these sensors check the ‘hazard heartbeat’ of Earth’s surface, waters, and air. Hazard monitoring helps us understand where, when, why, and how much things change over time.
EARTH'S PULSE
Hazard Monitoring
Scientists rely on measurements and networks of sensors to monitor Earth’s movements. Similar to tracking someone’s pulse, these sensors check the ‘hazard heartbeat’ of Earth’s surface, waters, and air. Hazard monitoring helps us understand where, when, why, and how much things change over time.
MONITORING BIOLOGICAL THREATS: Protecting Ecosystems, Public Safety, and the Economy
MONITORING BIOLOGICAL THREATS: Protecting Ecosystems, Public Safety, and the Economy
AS THE OCEAN WARMS AND FILLS WITH EXCESS NUTRIENTS FROM SURFACE RUNOFF, CERTAIN TYPES OF ALGAE CAN GROW OUT OF CONTROL AND PRODUCE DANGEROUS TOXINS.
TYPICALLY, THE HARMFUL ALGAE BLOOMS DURING THE SUMMER SEASON. THE WARMER TEMPERATURES KEEP WATER FROM MIXING, ALLOWING THE ALGAE TO GROW MUCH FASTER.
AS THE OCEAN WARMS AND FILLS WITH EXCESS NUTRIENTS FROM SURFACE RUNOFF, CERTAIN TYPES OF ALGAE CAN GROW OUT OF CONTROL AND PRODUCE DANGEROUS TOXINS.
TYPICALLY, THE HARMFUL ALGAE BLOOMS DURING THE SUMMER SEASON. THE WARMER TEMPERATURES KEEP WATER FROM MIXING, ALLOWING THE ALGAE TO GROW MUCH FASTER.
ALTHOUGH OTHER BIRD DIE-OFFS HAD BEEN SEEN RECENTLY IN ALASKA, THERE WAS SOMETHING DIFFERENT ABOUT THE TERNS. THEY HAD BEEN POISONED.
ALTHOUGH OTHER BIRD DIE-OFFS HAD BEEN SEEN RECENTLY IN ALASKA, THERE WAS SOMETHING DIFFERENT ABOUT THE TERNS. THEY HAD BEEN POISONED.
BRIGHT GREEN ALGAE CAN OFTEN BE SPOTTED FLOATING IN THE OCEAN NEAR THE SURFACE. THEY CONSUME NUTRIENTS, LIKE NITROGEN AND PHOSPHORUS. IN A BALANCED ECOSYSTEM, THEY GROW AND PROVIDE FOOD FOR MANY SEA CREATURES, INCLUDING KRILL, SNAILS, AND JELLYFISH.
BRIGHT GREEN ALGAE CAN OFTEN BE SPOTTED FLOATING IN THE OCEAN NEAR THE SURFACE. THEY CONSUME NUTRIENTS, LIKE NITROGEN AND PHOSPHORUS. IN A BALANCED ECOSYSTEM, THEY GROW AND PROVIDE FOOD FOR MANY SEA CREATURES, INCLUDING KRILL, SNAILS, AND JELLYFISH.
NOT ONLY ARE HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOMS IN THE OCEAN DANGEROUS FOR ARCTIC TERNS, THEY CAN ALSO IMPACT HUMAN FOOD SOURCES AND HEALTH.
NOT ONLY ARE HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOMS IN THE OCEAN DANGEROUS FOR ARCTIC TERNS, THEY CAN ALSO IMPACT HUMAN FOOD SOURCES AND HEALTH.
Steven is interested in landslide hazards, sediment transport, water quality, and stream ecosystems and has published numerous scientific reports, journal articles, and data sets on these topics (see subject links below for respective publications).
Nutrient and Suspended-Sediment Transport and Trends in the Columbia River and Puget Sound Basins, 1993-2003
Major Turbidity Events in the North Santiam River Basin, Oregon, Water Years 1999-2004
Suspended-Sediment Loads and Yields in the North Santiam River Basin, Oregon, Water Years 1999-2004
A Comparison of Natural and Urban Characteristics and the Development of Urban Intensity Indices Across Six Geographic Settings
Modeling Hydrodynamics, Water Temperature, and Suspended Sediment in Detroit Lake, Oregon
Non-USGS Publications**
**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.