Nathan Holt, Hydrogeologist
What are your responsibilities with the IGS?
I serve as an engineer and hydrogeologist for the IGS. My work generally involves the evaluation and sustainable management of Iowa’s aquifers.
What are your research/project interests?
I work on evaluating Iowa’s groundwater resources (i.e. aquifers). My work primarily involves developing groundwater models to evaluate sustainable water supplies.
What is your academic and professional background?
I grew up in Florida and attended the University of Florida where I received BS and MS degrees in agricultural and biological engineering with a focus on water resources. Upon graduation, I worked as an engineer for the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences on water resource issues related to agriculture. I started with the IGS in 2016, and have been working on a variety of projects related to groundwater.
At about what age and why did you decide to become a geologist/scientist?
I decided I wanted to become an engineer with a focus on water resources in college.
What field activity is your favorite?
I enjoy designing and collecting data from aquifer pump tests. It is fun to visit and collect water levels from various wells across the state. The data collected from pump tests also provides valuable information about the hydraulic properties of Iowa’s aquifers.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy spending time with my family. I also like to stay active through biking, running, hiking, and playing golf.
How can your research in your areas of interest improve the quality of life in Iowa?
I work on assuring cities, rural communities, industries, agriculture, and the citizens of Iowa have safe and sustainable water supplies through the evaluation of Iowa’s groundwater resources.