Desert Research Institute President Stephen G. Wells has received the Farouk El-Baz Award for Desert Research from the Geological Society of America (GSA). The award, from the Quaternary Geology and Geomorphology Division of GSA, acknowledges Wells' research into the evolution of desert pavement surfaces, and was presented during the international association's annual meeting in Reno in November.

Stephen Wells in the field.

The award recognizes the research conducted by Wells and colleague Leslie D. McFadden, of the University of New Mexico, on the natural formation of "armored" soil surfaces in desert valleys. The process, which creates a thin, protective top layer, influences the stability of surface soils and is a significant factor affecting vegetation patterns, precipitation run-off, and wind erosion.

Wells became DRI President in January 1999 and was previously director of one of DRI's research divisions. He continues his research into the processes affecting surface landforms.

The award's namesake, geology professor Farouk El-Baz of Boston University, is a native of Egypt who became a renowned American scientist recognized for dramatic advances in studying arid lands using satellite remote-sensing technology.

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