Sciacca new NV director at USGS water center

(AP) - A veteran geologist who has extensive experience in both the public and private sectors has been named Nevada's new state director at the U.S. Geological Survey's water science center.

John Sciacca will oversee about 90 scientists and staff who work at the headquarters in Carson City and the field stations in Henderson and Ely.

Sciacca has 28 years of experience in hydrogeological studies, including investigations into the impact of abandoned mines on groundwater. He has worked on projects in the Truckee, Carson and Walker river drainages, the Tahoe Basin, and the Nevada Test Site. His past employers range from Exxon to the California State Water Resources Control Board.

USGS regional boss Mike Shulters said in a statement Tuesday they are fortunate to have someone of his caliber for the job.