LAS VEGAS - Navarro Geologic Interpretation Manager Jeff Wurtz has supported EM’s missions at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) for more than 20 years.
As a hydrogeologist in the groundwater characterization program, Wurtz studies NNSS groundwater systems to determine the extent and movement of contaminants resulting from historic underground nuclear testing. Wurtz began his career at NNSS after working in mining for several years. He earned a bachelor’s degree in geology at the University of Arizona.
At NNSS, Wurtz has a significant role teaching members of the community about the importance of science and resource conservation.
Giving demonstrations on the science of groundwater is not in Wurtz’s official job description. But he prioritizes making time to interact with Nevada’s future scientists.
“If somebody asks, I’m coming," Wurtz said of outreach events. “I can always make time for the technical work I have; but I’ll never have another chance to interact with these kids."
His demonstration involves a dynamic model that allows students to see the behavior of groundwater firsthand. Dubbed the “ant farm," the glass rectangle filled with sand simulates various natural and constructed water systems.
When Navarro’s Strategic Communications group reached out to the company’s scientists for help creating an interactive demonstration for science students, Wurtz recalled the ant farm model used by a scientist from DOE’s Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. After borrowing the model for Wurtz’s first demonstrations, Navarro procured one for Wurtz and other NNSS scientists to use during outreach activities.
From in-class demonstrations at local schools to large events around Las Vegas and communities surrounding the NNSS, Wurtz and his ant farm have brought real-world science to thousands of children and adults.
“I hope when kids get a chance to see what I do, that it sparks some interest - not just in geology and groundwater, but in the physics of the world. I also try to help them understand how important finite resources like water are to our civilization. The ant farm keeps it interactive so that they stay interested and have fun," Wurtz said.
Source: U.S. Dept. of Energy, Office of Environmental Management
