The Visiting Committee of the BEG provides vital counsel and advice to the Director and staff of the Bureau with regard to research programs, research opportunities, strategic directions, and other significant issues. Members of the Visiting Committee include:

Mr. Bud Scherr, Chair (effective August 2011)
Chief Executive Officer
Valence Operating Company

Ms. Annell R. Bay
Senior Vice President, Exploration
Marathon Oil Company

Mr. Bud Brigham
CEO & President
Brigham Exploration

Mr. Tim Brittan
President
Infinity Oil & Gas, Inc.

Ms. Melanie L. Callahan, CPA
Executive Administrator
Texas Water Development Board

The Honorable Susan Combs
Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts

Mr. Zak Covar
Executive Director
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Mr. Richard J. Chuchla
New Opportunity Manager / South America
ExxonMobil Exploration Co.

Mr. James W. Farnsworth
President and Chief Operating Officer
Cobalt International Energy, LP

Mr. John Gibson
Chief Executive Officer
CCS Corporation

Mr. Mike Ming
Oklahoma Secretary of Energy

The Honorable Jerry Patterson
Texas Land Commissioner
Texas General Land Office

The Honorable Mr. Barry Smitherman
Commissioner
Railroad Commission of Texas

Dr. Charles R. Williamson
Sonoma, CA