NWS National Hydrologic program Director Gary Carter (R) presents the Gregg B. Rishel Award to Steven W. Bays, Service Hydrologist for WFO Little Rock, Ark. (Photo: Ron Trumbla, NWS Southern Region)
(July 31, 2008) - Steven Bays, service hydrologist at the National Weather Service forecast office in Little Rock, Ark. has been named the latest recipient of the Gregg Rishel Award.
The award is named for Gregg B. Rishel, who made numerous important contributions to the National Weather Service hydrologic mission; and, was well known for his strong work ethic, passion for hydrology and commitment to improving hydrologic services. The award recognizes outstanding contributions by an individual to hydrologic science and/or service which contribute to the fulfillment of the hydrologic services mission of the National Weather Service.
Beginning in March 2008, Bays conducted a series of Spring Flood Outlook briefings with local, state, and federal partners to share his concerns about the potential flood threat in Arkansas. As predicted, the rains and flooding began in mid-March and continued into April. Record rainfall of six to16 inches fell over many parts of the state, resulted in major flooding in the White and Black River Basins.
In addition to leading the Little Rock staff in providing timely flood forecasts and warnings, Bays spent countless hours conducting local and national media interviews and ensuring key partners in emergency management had the information they needed to prepare for and respond to flooding.
He personally contacted Hardy Mayor Nina Thornton on March 17 to inform her that the Spring River could crest higher than the record-setting September 2006 event. This communication occurred 24 hours before the heavy rainfall began. As it turned out, the flood crest was six feet higher. Afterwards, the Mayor said his phone call and early warning clearly saved numerous lives.
For several weeks, Bays worked nearly round-the-clock providing outstanding hydrologic services allowing businesses, partners and customers downstream to make informed decisions based on the flood warning information he provided. He also worked closely with the U.S. Geological Survey and the U.S. Corps of Engineers.
"Steve knows the three Arkansas River Basins like the back of his hand," said Little Rock Meteorologist-in-Charge Renee Fair. "He grew up near a river in Southern Arkansas, and his natural curiosity for the flowing waters led him to his chosen career field."
A plaque was presented to Bays by Gary Carter, director of the Office of Hydrologic Development, in front of his peers at the biannual Hydrologists Conference in Fort Worth, Texas.