Powell, John Wesley (1834-1902)

US geologist whose enormous and original studies produced lasting insights into erosion by rivers, volcanism, and mountain formation. His greatness as a geologist and geomorphologist stemmed from his capacity to grasp the interconnections of geological and climatic causes.

Powell was born in New York State and self-educated. In the 1850s he became secretary of the Illinois Society of Natural History. Fighting in the Civil War, he had his right arm shot off, but continued in the service, rising to the rank of colonel. After the end of the war, Powell became professor of geology in Illinois, while continuing with intrepid fieldwork (he was one of the first to steer a way down the Grand Canyon).

In 1870, Congress appointed Powell to lead an official survey of the natural resources of the Utah, Colorado, and Arizona area.

Powell was appointed director of the US Geological Survey 1881. He drew attention to the aridity of the American southwest, and campaigned for irrigation projects and dams, for the geological surveys necessary to implement adequate water strategies, and for changes in land policy and farming techniques. Failing to win political support on such matters, he resigned in 1894 from the Geological Survey.