Geologic repository manager serves researchers, regulators and industry partners

Doug Louis  | Manager, Kansas Geologic Sample Repository  | Kansas Geological Survey 

No matter where you are on Earth’s surface, millions of years of natural history stretch beneath you. Understanding that history requires collecting and preserving samples of underground materials for study.

Doug Louis, manager of the Kansas Geologic Sample Repository, helps connect researchers, regulators and industry partners to such samples.

Louis began his role at the Kansas Geological Survey in early 2021. He oversees daily operations at the KGS cuttings repository in Wichita and serves as its primary liaison for the western part of the state.

When surveying an area for fossil fuel, oil and natural gas companies often use a method called coring, which involves removing cylindrical, mostly pristine pieces of earth. Because coring is expensive, companies usually break up the rocks as they drill and flush them to the surface. The rock bits that rise are called cuttings. Louis processes, archives and distributes these cuttings when they are donated to KGS.

“Doug’s adept communication skills foster positive relationships with donors and underline the importance of such donations to the repository’s mission and research initiatives,” said Nikki Potter, librarian and manager of the KGS Core Library. “His coordination efforts ensure that these contributions are handled with care and precision, contributing to the repository’s growing collection of essential geological materials.”

Geological data is used by countless researchers across many different sectors. Industry groups, regulators and academics all rely on cuttings and core samples, which means KGS staff — including Louis — must be capable of serving a diverse range of needs. He conducts outreach in classrooms, at fairs and at conferences to help Kansans understand the repository’s work.

“Doug’s ability to collaborate with both external stakeholders and internal personnel makes him a valuable source for answering inquiries and fostering positive relationships,” Potter said.

Colleagues note that Louis’s patience and willingness to help others make him invaluable to KGS.

“Doug is a personable and approachable individual, known for his friendly demeanor and ever-present smile,” Potter said. “He possesses the remarkable quality of never making anyone feel like they’re burdening him with their questions.”