Department of the Interior

Office of the Secretary
For Immediate Release
April 6, 2006
Contact: Shane Wolfe
202-208-6416

Acting Secretary Scarlett Names Timothy R. Petty As New Deputy Assistant Secretary For Water And Science

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Acting Interior Secretary Lynn Scarlett and Assistant Secretary for Water and Science Mark Limbaugh today announced the appointment of Timothy R. Petty as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Water and Science.

Petty, a hydrogeologist with private and public sector experience, fills a vacancy left by Tom Weimer, who now serves as Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management and Budget.

"Tim has a strong foundation in the geosciences and information technology. His expertise will be invaluable as Interior addresses complex issues involving water resources, hazards and the further development of geospatial capabilities," Limbaugh said. "We know that he can hit the ground running with his science and engineering background."

Petty has a Masters degree in Executive International Business Management from the University of Maryland's University College and a bachelor's degree in Geosciences from Purdue University. He is a native of Indiana, where he grew up on a farm.

He worked in the private sector for more than 10 years in California and Indiana as a geologist and a hydrogeologist specializing in structural geology, aquifer testing, ground water well installation, environmental risk assessment, underground water contamination and cleanup.

Petty worked for a non-profit educational organization in Russia for four years, providing logistical and strategic support for educational conferences. In addition to these duties, he conducted research on potable ground water resources, air ambient studies and radiation detection. He conducted a health risk analysis study associated with environmental contaminants, working with the Russia Academy of Sciences and the Department of Geology Science of Russia.

Upon his return to the U.S., Petty served as a senior analyst at the U.S. Department of Energy, assisting the director of NN-30 (Non proliferation/National Security).

Most recently, Petty has worked for the U.S. Senate to enhance communications systems using advanced technology resources.

In his new position, effective immediately, Petty will assist the assistant secretary with his oversight of the U.S. Geological Survey.

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