Gerald Heston

About Gerald

Accomplished professional specializing in GIS, cartography, and environmental policy. Proven track record in managing complex exploration permitting projects with a focus on precise data management. Enhanced team performance through targeted training and effective communication strategies.

Professional Experience

Liberty Gold Corp. / Pilot Gold (USA) Inc.

Environmental and GIS Manager

April 2011-Present

I am the Environmental and GIS manager for Liberty Gold, an exploration development company focused on the Great Basin region of the United States. In this role, I am responsible for a wide range of processes and tasks, including:

  • Developing and implementing GIS strategies for mineral exploration projects, including improved workflows and migrating to ArcGIS Online
  • Managing GIS software applications to analyze geological data effectively and help geologists make better decisions.
  • Training staff on GIS tools, enhancing team capabilities in spatial analysis.
  • Creating detailed maps and visualizations to support project planning and decision-making.
  • Received Environmental Excellence Award from Utah Division of Oil, Gas, and Mining for tracking reclamation with GIS, going above and beyond industry standards and state regulations.
  • Overseeing mineral property management through GIS and databases, ensuring accurate property descriptions, claims, leases, and permit filings.
  • Collaborating with staff and consultants to secure federal and state permits for gold exploration projects.
  • Oversight of four Exploration Plans of Operations and Environmental Assessments with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service, as well of the States of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho
  • Directing baseline studies for NEPA, ensuring thorough evaluation of cultural, biological, and water resources.
  • Fostering strong stakeholder relationships, contributing to improved project outcomes.

I am the 2022 recipient of the Utah Division of Oil, Gas, and Mining Environmental Excellence Award for Liberty Gold’s innovative use of GIS to track reclamation that goes above and beyond industry standards and state regulations. This presentation to the Utah Geographic Information Council summarizes the work.

My presentation to the Utah Geographic Information Council in May 2023 can be viewed here.

Fronteer Gold

GIS Manager

2008-2011

I was the GIS manager for Fronteer Gold. In this role, I was responsible for a wide range of GIS processes and tasks, including:

  • Managed GIS projects and coordinated with cross-functional teams for successful implementation.
  • Managed the development of a database application to effectively organize and oversee complex mineral rights and claim packages.
  • Led a team of geoscientists in digitizing a comprehensive library of geologic data, enhancing data accessibility and preservation.
  • Performed comprehensive QA/QC on extensive historic datasets to ensure accuracy and readiness for enterprise database integration.
  • Developed detailed maps and presentation graphics to support investor relations and legal proceedings.

In 2011 Newmont Mining purchased Fronteer Gold, and spun off Pilot Gold/Liberty Gold as a new exploration company.

U.S. Gold

Geologist & Senior GIS Specialist

2007-2008

  • Utilized Geographic Information Systems software for spatial data management and visualization.
  • Performed meticulous QA/QC on large volumes of historical data, facilitating accurate enterprise database loading.
  • Trained geologists and staff in GIS software, enhancing team proficiency.

Consulting GIS Geologist

From 2002 to 2007 I held several overlapping contract positions with Reno-area mining companies, geologists, land managers, geophysicists, economists, and archaeologists. Jobs entailed GIS analysis, data compilation, map production, software training, and image processing. I employed time management skills to juggle multiple clients simultaneously.

At Huffman & Carpenter:

  • Elevated firm’s GIS operations through innovative cartographic design and streamlined processes.
  • Developed detailed maps for inclusion in wetlands reports, ensuring accurate representation of permit-related data.
  • Provided expert testimony in court, demonstrating proficiency in GPS, GIS, and aerial photo interpretation.

Homestake Mining Company

Computer Applications Geologist

1994-2002

  • Utilized GIS software to create maps illustrating geological features and data.
  • Collaborated with geologists and engineers to integrate GIS and remote sensing into project workflows.

Education

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Online Advanced GIS Capstone Certificate, May 2023

Focused on Cartography, Design, and Interactive Visualization, developing skills in JavaScript, Python, HTML, Adobe Illustrator

University of Denver – University College

Master of Applied Science, Environmental Policy & Management, 2011

Concentration: Natural Resources Management with Related Option in GIS

Capstone Project: Mitigating the Environmental Impacts of Mineral Exploration Activities on Federal Lands in Nevada with Geographic Information Systems.

University of Nevada, Reno

Graduate courses in Geology, Music, and Graphic Design.

University of Colorado at Boulder

Bachelor of Arts, Geology, 1993

Training

  • Esri Software, Python
  • NEPA, Environmental Laws and Policies, ESG
  • URISA GIS Leadership Academy, 2015
  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Water Rights
  • National Institute of Genealogical Studies: Intermediate Level Certificate in American Records, 2020

Certification

Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP) since 2009

Presentations

  • Esri User Conference, 2022, 2014, and 2012
  • Utah Geographic Information Council Conference, May 2022
  • Nevada GIS Society, 2018 (Genealogy and GIS)