Tales of a geologist: Rattlesnakes, black widows and rabies filled a long career

By: Jacob Orledge

Outlets: North Dakota Monitor

Published: May 18, 2026

Words: 953

Last Updated: 2 months ago

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North Dakota’s state geologist is quietly one of the most important energy officials in state government.

The current occupant, Ed Murphy, is retiring this summer after half a century. His 49-year career with the North Dakota Geological Survey has involved advancing research crucial to oil and gas exploration, laying the foundation for a potential critical minerals industry, and digging, literally, into the state’s prehistoric past.

The North Dakota Industrial Commission praised Murphy’s …

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