USGS Home Contact USGS Search USGS

Alaska Geologic Map and Database

Summary

The last state-wide geologic map of Alaska, published in 1980, was significantly handicapped by the limited data available and reflected an interpretation of the state's geologic history that is notably different from present-day models. From 1998 to 2007, under the National Surveys and Analysis project in Alaska, an extensive volume of Alaskan geologic data was gathered and incorporated into new digital compilations that covered large regions of the state. This project continues that effort and, in addition, will work to enhance, refine, and integrate these datasets into one seamless database.

 

Objectives

• Create a new state-wide geologic map of Alaska that seamlessly integrates the available geologic data into a cohesive whole.
• Complete additional regional geologic maps, adding to those completed under the National Surveys and Analysis project.
• Deliver spatial and attribute datasets that provide users with the data to produce additional derivative models and analysis.

 

Relevance and Impact

Throughout the earth-science community, there is a high demand for geologic maps and a new state-wide geologic map of Alaska that reflects current geologic paradigms. Mineral and energy issues drive much of this demand, but at the same time, the map and associated spatial and attribute data behind the map have a tremendous potential for contributing to solutions of regional environmental and natural-resource problems. Maps and analyses produced from the databases will provide information that can be used for mineral-resource and energy-resource assessments; environmental studies; regional land-use studies; and earth-science research, such as the identification of metallogenic terranes, determination of regional geochemical backgrounds, and the study of the relationships between toxic elements and human health.