Applying Science on Wyoming’s Public Lands

For more than five years, Morgan Hill has supported responsible mineral development as a geologist with the Bureau of Land Management’s Rock Springs Field Office. As a zoned employee, Hill manages solid minerals programs for all four field offices within Wyoming’s High Desert District, applying scientific analysis to decisions across a complex, multiple-use landscape.

Hill’s work relies heavily on science, data, and technical expertise. She interprets stratigraphy (the study of rock layers), mineral occurrence, and geospatial data to support National Environmental Policy Act analyses and permitting decisions.

“I’ve learned that the better I become as a scientist, the more effective I am as a public servant – and being a good scientist is only half the battle; our work must also fit within law and policy,” said Hill.

While some days take her into the field to verify production at gravel pits or inspect trona mines underground, she spends much of her time managing projects, processing applications, and maintaining databases and records. She emphasizes that strong scientific understanding allows her to communicate effectively with industry experts and ensure projects comply with law and policy while serving the public interest.

Mentorship and early encouragement played a central role in shaping Hill’s path into science. Her grandmother first sparked her curiosity by taking her to museums and organizing backyard scavenger hunts that encouraged observation and exploration. Later, while Hill attended junior college and worked as full-time cave tour guide at a state park in her Alabama hometown, a visiting research geologist with the Geological Survey of Alabama recognized her enthusiasm and attention to detail and encouraged her to pursue geology as a career. 

“She told me I’d make a great geologist. I wasn’t set on any specific path at the time, but that encouragement was the push I needed,” Hill said.

She later earned her bachelor’s degree in geology from the University of Alabama and her master’s degree in geology from Auburn University, gaining hands-on experience through internships that helped solidify her career in the field. Before securing her permanent position with the BLM, Hill also completed four seasonal assignments with the U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, and Bureau of Land Management.

Today, Hill’s work supports BLM’s mission to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of public lands. By pairing scientific analysis with clear communication, she helps balance mineral development with conservation, recreation, and other land uses, ensuring Wyoming’s public lands remain productive for present and future generations.