WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, along with 12 colleagues, today sent a letter to President Obama advising him of the background they believe the next Director of the U. S. Geological Survey (USGS) should bring to the job.

“It is our hope that you will nominate an economic geologist for the position of USGS Director,” the senators wrote. “We believe that an individual with such a background could most effectively balance the additional activities that USGS has taken on over the years with those contemplated by its Organic Act, which provides for ‘the classification of the public lands and examination of the geological structure, mineral resources and products of the national domain.’”

The resignation of Marcia McNutt, the previous USGS Director, was announced in January and took effect today.

“The benefits of restoring an emphasis on geological surveying at USGS would be significant. Knowing how many mineral resources we have – and where they are located – can inform decisions about their development and help to attract investment for the same,” the senators wrote. “An economic geologist is most likely to recognize these benefits, pursue them, and provide appropriate leadership as USGS Director.”

The letter, co-signed by Sens. Alexander, Barrasso, Cornyn, Enzi, Hatch, Heller, Hoeven, Lee, Portman, Risch, Vitter, and Wicker is attached.