The Examining Board of Professional Geologists, Hydrologists and Soil Scientists licenses and regulates the professions of geology, hydrology and soil science. It also regulates firms, partnerships and corporations which provide geological, hydrological and soil science services.

The Board is composed of professional and public members who are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate.

The Board conducts much of its business through 3 sub-units called “Sections” (the Professional Geologists Section, the Professional Hydrologists Section, and Professional Soil Scientists Section). Each section has 3 professional members and 1 public member.

The regulation of professional geologists, hydrologists and soil scientists was contained in 1997 Wisconsin Act 300. This act was published on June 30, 1998, except that certain provisions became effective on the day after publication. They related to board member appointments, the conversion of professional geologist registrations under the Examining Board of Architects, Landscape Architects, Professional Engineers, Designers and Land Surveyors to a license under the new board, the issuance of professional hydrologist and professional soil scientist licenses for several months without examination, and the promulgation of emergency rules. The issuance of licenses without examination to otherwise qualified applicants was permitted until December 31, 1999.

The Department of Regulation and Licensing is an umbrella agency providing administrative services to the various professional boards. Within the Department, the Bureau of Business and Design Professions provides administrative services to the Examining Board of Professional Geologists, Hydrologists and Soil Scientists. Requests for information or technical questions may be directed to the Board at 1400 East Washington Avenue, PO Box 8935, Madison WI 53708. Telephone number: (608) 266-551 1 or TTY# (608) 267-2416 and TRS# 1-800-947-3529.

Last updated: October 18, 2004