
Robert F. Collins, P.H.
Special Recognition Award
The following is the text found on the Special Recognition Award presented to Robert F. Collins, P.H., District Hydrologist of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at the 2009 California Extreme Precipitation Symposium held at the University of California, Davis on June 24, 2009.
Special Recognition Award
Presented To
Robert F. Collins
Today we recognize a man for excelling in one particular field … Hydrology. He is a Professional Hydrologist certified by the American Institute of Hydrology. Since September 1969, he has performed hydrology for the Sacramento District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for 40 years. He has analyzed hydrologic events in all 8 states west of the continental divide, including ice jams in Colorado and thunderstorms in the Great Basin. He is a recognized expert on probable maximum storms and floods. He was a major architect of the well-known Comprehensive Study for the Central Valley. He has mentored numerous hydrologists, professional engineers, and other scientists in the field of hydrology over the years.
Bob sets a high professional standard. He is not content to simply perform a hydrologic analysis and accept the answer. He strives to explain anomalies. He reads the literature, studies the meteorology, understands the soils, looks at historic floods, and compares results from various sources. He is not satisfied until he has an answer that makes sense. His work is known for its accuracy and completeness.
His dedicated public service has greatly contributed to protecting the people at risk of flooding in the Sacramento District, but without them knowing who to thank.
On behalf of the people and communities who have benefited from his work and the hydrology profession which has been advanced by his conscious efforts, we present this to express their and our deep appreciation and sincere gratitude for an outstanding career of service.
June 24, 2009
2009 California Extreme Precipitation Symposium
At the Event
Bob was invited to say a few words at this symposium. You can hear his comments by clicking the following link:
Biographical Sketch
Bob Collins began his career with the Sacramento District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in September 1969. His career has focused on hydrology and as the District Hydrologist. He is a Professional Hydrologist certified by the American Institute of Hydrology. He is a recognized expert on probable maximum storms and floods. He was a major architect of the well-known Comprehensive Study for the Central Valley covering the watersheds of the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers.