Kirk Swanson

Biography

 Dr. Kirk Swanson is a Senior Hydrogeologist at Farr West Engineering with over 25 years of experience providing water resource solutions for local governments, federal programs, irrigation districts, mining and industrial operations. Kirk has managed numerous large and multiphase interdisciplinary projects from Alaska to South America, with most of his work completed in Nevada and California. His projects have included well depths greater than 5,000 feet and production yields in excess of 12,000 gpm, including the installation of a well field capable of producing 80,000 gpm in less than 3 months under an emergency order. The development of economic and energy efficient water resources, as well as the improvement of source water quality, has been the emphasis of Kirk's career. His extensive experience has led to proven methods to mitigate arsenic and other constituents at significantly lower capital and operation costs than water treatment, including modifying screen intervals, adjusting pumping schedules and exploring for new groundwater resources. Kirk's vast understanding of various methods of drilling and testing is critical for conducting a cost effective hydrogeologic investigation to identify water resources that meet production and water quality requirements. Kirk earned his bachelor's degree from Western State College of Colorado, and his masters and doctoral degrees from the University of Nevada, Reno. He is a licensed geologist and certified hydrogeologist, and has additional certifications related to environmental remediation. Kirk and his family enjoy wilderness raft trips, back country skiing, whitewater kayaking, rock and mountain climbing, and most recently, kite boarding. Recently they completed a self-guided kayak and raft trip down the Grand Canyon. Kirk's wife Katheryn is a nationally certified high school counselor, his son and daughter are attending the University of Nevada, Reno.

Research Interest

 Civil  Engineering,Land Surveying,Environmental Engineering