Dave Paysinger - Blue Water Drilling Company

     The Oregon Ground Water Association is proud to announce the 2001 recipient of the “Man of the Year” Award.  The award is presented annually to a member who has made outstanding contributions to the Association and the ground water industry in Oregon. It is the most prestigious award given by OGWA.  This year’s  award recipient is Dave Paysinger.  Dave is the owner and operator of Blue Water Drilling Co. near Dayton, Oregon.  The company was founded by Bob and Sharon Shelburne in 1964.

      Dave began working in well construction for Blue Water in 1984 and began operating the company in 1989.  In 1999 he became sole owner along with his wife Terri. The company operates two drilling rigs, a 1962 BE22W and a 1994 IRT3W. They have four employees.

      Dave has been an active member of the association since 1988.  Over the years, he has held many officer positions - elected to the board of directors, served three terms as secretary/treasurer and was elected as president in 1999.  In addition, Dave has served on numerous committees including membership committee chairman.  Presently, he continues to serve on the board of directors as ex-officio.

      Dave was selected, not only for his leadership roles, but for his many volunteer efforts promoting the association, the industry, and ground water education.  He has actively participated in the Children’s Clean Water Festival for three years by volunteering his time and equipment for the “Big Rig” outdoor display.  He has also donated the use of his drill rig for display at the OGWA Ground Water Day at the Capitol event held in February and the fall protection/hazmat class held at the OGWA Spring Technical Seminar in Salem.  His tireless efforts, perseverance and commitment are a tribute to our industry.

      The award was formally presented during the Friday night dinner at the OGWA Fall Convention held at Eagle Crest Resort in October.  Dave was also presented with a picture featured in the Capital Press taken in front of the state capitol.

      Dave states, "It has been my honor and privilege to be associated with this group of professionals. Not only our current membership but those that have come before us and laid the foundation for us to build and continue upon.  I am honored to receive this award and will display it proudly."

For more information, contact the OGWA office at 503.390.7080 or by e-mail at mail@ogwa.org