In 2021, the Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ) Land Quality Division (LQD) established a summer intern work program to recruit a junior or senior student enrolled at the University of Wyoming. The summer temporary position provides an opportunity for a student to gain valuable skills while supporting the DEQ intern mission on real world projects in mining and reclamation.
During the summer, the student works with experienced professionals in their field of study and further applies the knowledge they have gained from their university education. The program also offers the opportunity to earn university credits that the student can apply towards their degree. This program fosters a continued productive technical partnership between the University of Wyoming and the DEQ.
Cole Cassell was this year’s intern at the DEQ/LQD in Cheyenne. Mr. Cassell earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in May 2024 from the University of Wyoming, completing a major in Criminal Justice. Mr. Cassell is currently in the process of applying to law schools to earn a law degree.
Mr. Cassell worked out of the DEQ office in Cheyenne on projects involving the support of mine permitting, environmental compliance and analysis, and land reclamation.
According to Craig Hults, LQD Natural Resources Program Principal, Cole was a very positive and valuable addition to LQD this summer. “He helped push several rule projects across the finish line during his internship. He was quick to learn new things and asked the right questions when necessary. A real pleasure to work with.”
Specific projects included:
- Assisted the LQD Rules Program
- Updated and Revised LQD Permitting Public Notice Formats
- Compiled water use and water rights data from the State Engineer’s Office database.
- Attended LQD/industry work group meetings, LQD Advisory Board meetings, and other staff meetings.
- Assisted on coal and non-coal mine inspections.
Natural Resources Program Manager at the LQD, Muthu Kuchanur also worked closely with Cole said he provided beneficial assistance during his internship. “Cole was instrumental in drafting documents associated with the three rules packages that LQD submitted to the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement. He was always willing to learn the nuances of rulemaking. It was a pleasure to work with Cole.”
Kyle Wendtland, Administrator of LQD stated that “Cole made substantial contributions to our Division during his short tenure, LQD was very fortunate to have him as part of the staff, and was an absolute pleasure to work with.”