The Holley, NY 7.5-minute quadrangle has been the focus of Quaternary geologic mapping in collaboration with the USGS-EDMAP program. This investigation helps undergraduate geology and water resources majors learn collaborative map compilation and production. This geologic mapping project allows undergraduates to investigate the dynamics of glacial processes, including the evolution of post-glacial flood plains, and mechanisms of active tectonics in the region.

Quaternary geologic maps are compiled using integrated geomorphic and stratigraphic techniques. Landforms are initially delineated using existing satellite images, topographic maps, and Soil Survey data. In the field, lithofacies are correlated to mappable landform areas using existing exposures and hand augered borings. Mapping data are integrated into ARCVIEW-GIS for distribution of both paper maps and a CD of project data.

The Holley mapping area is located adjacent to the Silurian Lockport escarpment and the area is covered with recessional moraines interfingered with wetland deposits and drumlins. The Clarendon-Linden fault zone crosses the area and produces a composite fault scarp that probably affected patterns of glacial erosion and deposition. Drumlins east of the fault scarp are partially buried by till fields and are exposed west of the fault scarp. Kame and kettle areas are cross cut by eskers that carried meltwaters to proglacial Lake Tonawanda.