The new Cooperative National Geologic Map compiles data from more than 100 existing maps and provides the first nationwide platform where multiple layers of geologic information can be accessed in one place. Users can explore the age, composition, and distribution of rock and sediment units, from unconsolidated sand and gravel to ancient bedrock.
"Geologic maps have many uses, such as helping experts look for energy, mineral and water resources," explained Christopher Swezey, coordinator of the USGS National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program. "They can also be used to assess earthquake risks and inform decisions about land use, infrastructure and community planning, and real estate and insurance."
The digital interface is designed for both specialists and the public. Users can search by geologic unit properties or click directly on the map for links to detailed local maps and expanded datasets. The tool supports hazard assessment, resource exploration, and education by providing analysis-ready geologic data.
"This map provides complete, analysis-ready geologic data for the nation, in a format that is easy to expand going forward," noted Joseph Colgan, USGS research geologist and team lead. "By providing this map online, we aim to enhance educational engagement and foster a greater public appreciation of geology."
The interactive platform will serve government agencies, private industry, and academic institutions. A cost-benefit study found that geologic maps return up to ten times their production cost through their applications in hazard mitigation, planning, and resource management.
A major advance in this project was the creation of a largely automated method to merge geologic maps from state surveys and USGS datasets. This reduced production time from decades to only three years. "Ongoing mapping efforts continually make new discoveries, but past national maps took decades to create while our new method allows us to update our national map faster than ever possible before," said Sam Johnstone, USGS research geologist and lead developer.
Long-standing collaboration with state geological surveys was central to the project, according to Dave Soller, senior program scientist for the USGS National Geologic Map Database. He emphasized that these partnerships strengthen national geoscience capabilities and improve the speed and efficiency of future map updates.
The Cooperative National Geologic Map is currently available for the lower 48 states, with Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories planned for future inclusion. Users can access the map and related services through the National Geologic Map Database.
Research Report:The Cooperative National Geologic Map
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U.S. Geological Survey
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