The Value of Geologic Mapping, 2018

Geologic maps provide vital information for land-use planning, resource identification, and natural hazard avoidance, and are critical for growing the economy. Less than 50 percent of the conterminous U.S. has been mapped at the appropriate level of detail for today’s challenges. Advances in technology have moved beyond traditional map formats to provide comprehensive, multi-resolution, three-dimensional, digital information that can be readily customized for a wide range of users.

This project aims to increase the awareness of the importance and value of geologic mapping through the development of outreach materials and research into how geologic maps are used in decision making to address societal issues.

Webinar series

Geologic Mapping to Empower Communities: Examples from the Great Lakes

Less than one-third of the U.S. is mapped at the level of detail necessary to make informed planning decisions on a local scale concerning natural resources, natural hazards, infrastructure planning, and environmental stewardship. In the Great Lakes region, the Great Lakes Geologic Mapping Coalition (GLGMC), a group including U.S. and Canadian state and provincial geological surveys, is producing detailed 3D geologic maps that are helping to provide decision-relevant information to Great Lakes state communities. Due to similar regional geology, these state surveys can work together, sharing their expertise and resources so that each can better address geologic issues in their area. Working with the communities, the GLGMC provides and makes maps that solve problems such as groundwater contamination and resource development.

This webinar will introduce geologic mapping in the Great Lakes region, showcase projects from the Great Lakes Geologic Mapping Coalition, and review planning decisions made based on their work. Speakers from the Illinois, Minnesota, and Michigan State Geological Surveys will discuss case studies of recent and ongoing projects in their states where geologic maps inform major decisions and empower communities to protect their people, resources, and economies.

This webinar is co-sponsored by the American Association of State Geologists, Association of Engineering and Environmental Geologists, American Institute of Professional Geologists, Environmental and Engineering Geophysical Society, Geological Society of America, National Association of State Boards of Geology, Society for Sedimentary Geology, and the Society of Exploration Geophysicists’ International Exposition and 88th Annual Meeting in Anaheim.

Presentations

Case Studies and Factsheets

Additional Resources

Explore the Case Studies in the Meeting Challenges with Geologic Maps (2004) book which is part of AGI’s Environmental Awareness Series. The list of case studies show how geologic maps are helping to delineate fragile habitat and ecosystems, protect agains natural hazards, and find needed resources.