North Wake News

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality has announced the appointment of Dwain Veach as the new State Geologist of North Carolina. This follows the retirement of Dr. Kenneth Taylor in November 2024 after more than three decades of service.

“Dwain Veach brings a wealth of leadership and experience in the geosciences field to the State Geologist role,” said DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson. “I’m grateful for his dedication and service to the people of our state.”

Veach, who was raised near Webster, NC, graduated from Smoky Mountain High School and brings 27 years of experience in geosciences. He currently serves as Section Chief at the North Carolina Geological Survey (NCGS), where he has managed Geological Survey operations and coordinated with various industry groups and government agencies. His previous roles include Energy & Minerals Geologist with NCGS and a Geological Analyst in the industry for 22 years.

“Dwain follows a small but illustrious group of State Geologists and comes into his position as the 14th North Carolina State Geologist since the creation of the position and the program in 1823,” said Toby Vinson, Director of DEMLR. “DEQ is confident Dwain’s extensive experience and dedication to the geosciences will greatly benefit the state of North Carolina. He has been an exceptional leader to the Survey and major contributor to Division leadership in his last two years as NCGS Section Chief, a position that he will also retain.”

Veach's career includes detailed geologic mapping, analysis, model development, report writing, and stakeholder collaboration on various projects. He holds a master's degree in Geology from the University of Oklahoma, is a licensed Professional Geologist in North Carolina, and has co-authored publications on critical minerals, geologic mapping, and organic geochemistry.

His work took him across western United States and Great Plains before returning to North Carolina several years ago. With advanced training in technical and managerial fields along with extensive experience, Veach is well-prepared for his new responsibilities.

As State Geologist, Veach will represent geoscience interests on boards, councils, commissions; coordinate with state/federal entities on issues including policy initiatives to protect public welfare/environment; engage in natural resource studies; assist disaster response; ensure regulatory compliance.

Outside work, Veach enjoys family time with his wife, three sons, two grandchildren; hobbies include hiking/traveling/rockhounding reflecting nature/geoscience passion.

For further details visit NCGS website or view latest NCGS Annual Report.