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UMW’s “On the Rocks” Series to Host Speakers Cam Carstarphen and Mathew Smith

January 12, 2026

The University of Montana Western’s Environmental Science Department is excited to host Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology (MBMG) hydrogeologists Cam Carstarphen and Mathew Smith as part of the “On the Rocks” lecture series. Carstarphen and Smith will present “Using Geochemistry to Answer Natural Resource Questions” on Wednesday, January 21, at 4:00 p.m. in UMW’s Lucy Carson Library.

On the Rocks Speakers Cam Carstarphen (left) and Matthew Smith (right).

Cam Carstarphen has worked in Montana and with the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology for more than 30 years. While her interests span all geology subdisciplines, her academic focus has been in sedimentology. Her work at MBMG integrates her appreciation for landscape, geology, problem-solving, study design, analysis, and outreach. She has particularly enjoyed applying these skills to understanding and mapping Montana’s aquifers.

Matthew Smith is in his final year of graduate study at the University of Kansas, completing a Master’s degree in Environmental Geology with a focus on hydrogeology. He works as a hydrogeologist with the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, based out of the Billings field office. Smith previously served in the U.S. Marines and retired after 10 years of service. He lives near Roundup in central Montana, where he maintains a small ranch. His geological interests are broad, with a particular emphasis on the use of aqueous isotopes and ion chemistry to understand system processes and sources.

The “On the Rocks” series is an excellent opportunity for students, faculty, and the public to engage with experts in the earth sciences and learn more about developments in hydrology and geomorphology. Each presentation will be preceded by a social gathering at 3:30 p.m., offering light refreshments. We look forward to seeing you!

For more information, please contact UMW Professor of Environmental Sciences Dr. Spruce Schoenemann at [email protected].