David Barnes

Photo of David Barnes
David A. Barnes
Professor Emeritus
Office: 
(269) 387-5493 or (269) 387-MGRRE (8617)
Fax: 
(269) 387-5513
Location: 
1135 Rood Hall, Mail Stop 5241
Mailing address: 
Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences
Western Michigan University
1903 W Michigan Ave
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5241 USA
Education: 
  • Ph.D., University of California, Santa Barbara, 1982
  • B.A., San Francisco State University, 1974
Teaching interests: 
  • Numerical and spatial data analysis
  • Clastic sedimentary petrology
  • Clastic depositional systems
Research interests: 
  • Sedimentology
  • Characterization of petroleum
  • CO2 water reservoirs in the Michigan subsurface
Bio: 

Dr. David Barnes is professor emeritus at Western Michigan University; his primary research interests involve sedimentology and Michigan subsurface geology. More specifically, his research focuses on sedimentation, subsurface geology, application of geographic information systems in paleotectonic and basin analysis studies through the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences and the Michigan Geological Repository for Research and Education.

Barnes applies conventional oil field reservoir characterization methodology to the determination of geological carbon sequestration potential in the Michigan basin subsurface. Other investigations include:

  • Study of fracture related hydrothermal mineralization and the formation of dolostone hydrocarbon reservoirs in the Michigan basin.
  • Pennsylvanian bedrock aquifer delineation in the context of groundwater resource assessment and contaminant hydrogeology.

Barnes's research activities have lead to the integration of computer systems technologies and geographic information systems to subsurface stratigraphy, coastal change and water resources problems. His current research is funded by the Department of Energy and the National Energy Technology Laboratory for the study of geologic sequestration of carbon dioxide in the Michigan basin through the Midwest Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership.