Geologic Mapping

Projects supported by the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program, FEDMAP component produce geologic maps and geologic frameworks for the United States used for various 3D models that help sustain and improve the quality of life and vitality of the Nation and to mitigate natural hazards.

Geologic Mapping Projects

Central Virginia Seismic Zone Mapping This project is investigating the geologic framework and tectonic history of the Central Virginia seismic zone. Initial work has been focused on the epicentral area of the 2011 M5.8 Mineral earthquake. The USGS coordinates with the Virginia Geological Survey and geologists at Lehigh University and the University of Delaware on this project. Geologic mapping at 1;24K is near completion for the Ferncliff and Pendleton 7.5' quadrangles; geologic mapping and dating of fluvial terrace deposits preserved on the landscape is ongoing. more	Eastern Coastal Plain Studies Eastern Coastal Plain Studies is an integrated project reflecting the goals of the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping and Climate and Land Use Change Programs as well as the project members' considerable cross-disciplinary expertises. The overall objective of this project is to describe and understand the processes that formed the Eastern Coastal Plain, focusing on the geologic and hydrologic framework, landscape evolution, and paleoclimate and paleoecology of targeted areas. more
Appalachian Blue Ridge The USGS research in the Appalachian Blue Ridge is characterizing the unique ecosystem through a variety of activities and issues related to land-use management by the National Park Service and other agencies. The underlying bedrock and surficial geology directly determines the chemical composition of the quality and quantity of soil and water, which relates directly to vegetation communities and aquatic flora and fauna. Research results are published electronically and in GIS format for immediate application. contact: C. Scott Southworth	Quaternary Glacial Stratigraphic Framework The objectives of this project are to: (1) produce the Quaternary Geologic Map of Massachusetts, digitally at 1:24,000 scale; (2) compile a regional map of correlated glacial deposits across areas of six glacial lobes in southern New England, Long Island, New York and adjacent offshore areas, and determine ages of deposits in the terminal zones of the six lobes; (3) produce maps in the southern peninsula of Michigan that demonstrate detailed processes and dated events during deglaciation; more
Northern Appalachian Bedrock Mapping The goal of this project is to produce modern 1:24,000-scale and 1:100,000-scale bedrock geologic maps that improve our understanding of crystalline bedrock in the Northern Appalachians. New 1:24,000-scale mapping will primarily focus in areas where limited detailed or modern mapping exists. Currently we are working in New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts and New York. The new maps will address questions about the tectonic evolution of the Appalachian orogenic belt, and contribute to framework studies to help characterize the distribution and behavior of groundwater and groundwater contaminants in fractured rock. contact: Greg Walsh	Karst Applied Research Studies The Karst Applied Research Studies through Geologic Mapping (KARST) project is funded primarily by the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program. Karst landscapes are typically underlain by relatively soluble rocks, such as limestone, which contain solution features like caves, sinkholes and springs. KARST scientists currently perform research and geologic mapping in areas of the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and West Virginia. The project anticipates expanding into new study areas in Pennsylvania in 2015. KARST is also working on updates and improvements to the new national KARST map and database. We invite public feedback and comments regarding our work. contact: Dave Weary