Jennifer LaVista
Communicating USGS science throughout the Southwest and Midwest regions
Biography
Over the last decade, Jennifer has worked on a number of USGS large-scale communication efforts including the Glen Canyon High Flow Experiment, the Coast Salish Tribal Journey, the 2011 Japan earthquake and has been on-site at numerous historic floods. Her favorite topics to cover include natural hazards and water-quality issues.
Jennifer has a Masters in Health Science Communications from the University of Florida (2006), as well as a Masters Certificate in Legislative Studies from Georgetown University. She is a former ABC affiliate news producer.
When she's not working, you can find Jennifer hiking, skiing, climbing or camping with her husband and dog, Pepper. She is an avid traveler and also enjoys practicing aerial arts.
Science and Products
USGS Dye-Tracing Study on the Kansas River to Aid in Protecting Water Supplies
U.S. Geological Survey and partners will inject a harmless, bright red fluorescent dye into the Kansas River on September 29, weather permitting. The study is being done by the USGS in cooperation with the Kansas Water Office, Kansas Department of Health and Environment, The Nature Conservancy, City of Manhattan, City of Topeka, City of Olathe and WaterOne.
USGS Scientists are Busy as a Bee
Many bumble bee species have declined in recent decades due to changes in habitat, climate, and pressures from pathogens, pesticides and introduced species. The western bumble bee, once common throughout western North America, is a species of concern and is being considered for listing by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the Endangered Species Act.
Food Web Dynamics Influence Mercury Movement in Colorado River, Grand Canyon
A new study describes how food web dynamics influence the movement of mercury throughout the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. This new research from the U.S. Geological Survey and partners represents one of the first times that the movement and fate of mercury has been traced through an entire food web.
USGS Responds to Spring Flooding
U.S. Geological Survey field crews are measuring flooding across the country as spring weather is in full swing. Warming temperatures, increased precipitation and snowmelt have caused moderate to major flooding in the upper Midwest, East Coast, Central Plains and the Southeast portions of the country.
M5.7 Earthquake Felt near Salt Lake City, UT
Updated Forecast Shows 1% Chance of Aftershock Above 5.7
New Tools for Flood Preparedness Available for Medina River Near Bandera, Texas
New tools for flood preparedness are now available for the Medina River near Bandera, Texas, from the U.S. Geological Survey, the Bandera County River Authority and Groundwater District, and the Texas Water Development Board.
Groundwater in Moab Area Less than Previously Reported
A new assessment of groundwater resources in the Spanish Valley watershed in southern Utah shows an amount that is about 30–40% lower than previously reported, according to a U.S. Geological Survey report.
Vaccination May Help Protect Bats from Deadly Disease
A new study shows that vaccination may reduce the impact of white-nose syndrome in bats, marking a milestone in the international fight against one of the most destructive wildlife diseases in modern times.
Salinity Cycles in Lower Colorado River Caused by Precipitation Patterns in Upper Basin
A new study shows that mysterious cycles in salinity in the lower Colorado River are a result of precipitation patterns in the headwaters of the upper basin more than a thousand river miles away. The salinity levels generally repeat about every 10 years.
Low-flying Helicopter Survey to Map Subsurface Geology and Groundwater Near Silverton, Colorado
In the public interest, and in accordance with FAA regulations, the USGS is announcing this low-level airborne project. Your assistance in informing the local communities is appreciated.
Online Tool Illustrates Groundwater Resources in Texas Panhandle
An interactive viewer to visualize groundwater resources in Gaines, Terry and Yoakum Counties, Texas, is now available from the U.S. Geological Survey in cooperation with the Llano Estacado Underground Water Conservation District, Sandy Land Underground Water Conservation District and South Plains Underground Water Conservation District.
Media Advisory: USGS Crews Measure Record Flooding in Southeastern South Dakota
Reporters: Do you want to interview USGS scientists in the Sioux Falls area on Monday, March 25, or Tuesday, March 26, as they measure flooding? Please contact Jennifer LaVista, Marisa Lubeck or Chris Laveau.