Most people may not know what fluvial geomorphology is, but they've heard of glaciers and related natural resources at mountains. And seemingly no one knows more about those things than Paul Kennard. Kennard, a National Park Service employee stationed at Mount Rainier National Park, has been named by the NPS as this year's recipient of its Director's Award for Professional Excellence in Natural Resources. In recognition of his achievements in fluvial geomorphology (for the record, it's the work of predicting changes of rivers in reaction to altered watershed conditions), Kennard will be honored Oct. 2l at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. at the U.S. Department of the Interior. The award includes a $2,000 prize and a limited-edition bronze sculpture of a bison by artist Chris Schiller. Kennard's prowess in his field of expertise is virtually as massive as the mountain itself, said Randy King, superintendent of Mount Rainier National Park. "Paul's familiarity and experience with glaciers, glacial river systems and their geomorphic dynamics affecting park infrastructure and visitor safety are invaluable to park management. His knowledge of these processes is unsurpassed,GÇ¥ King said, noting Kennard's "numerous contributions as principle author and advisor on planning efforts.GÇ¥ Chip Jenkins, deputy regional director for the Park Service, cited Kennard's "great contribution not only to Mount Rainier, but also to the entire National Park Service. His achievements have significantly improved our understanding in identifying mitigating geological hazards. GÇ¥ Kennard, who has worked at Mount Rainier for 12 years, has developed techniques for predicting landslides and debris flows, recommended ways to protect natural resources and the overall safety and experience of park visitors. He's also known for his collaboration with other researchers, government agencies, contractors, and universities. Kennard is "extraordinary at public outreachGÇ¥ and communicating "his findings and messageGÇ¥ through publications and the media in ways "that are understandable and informative,GÇ¥ said Roger Andrascik, chief of natural and cultural resources at Mount Rainier National Park. The award Kennard is receiving is for work that has the potential to be recognized by peers as a significant advancement in the science of natural resource management. Recipients typically are scientific, research administration, technical, policy and educational specialists involved with natural resources in the National Park Service.
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