KANSAS GEOLOGIC MAPPING - MORE THAN JUST PAPER MAPS

The Kansas Geological Survey's new 1:50,000-scale county geologic maps are a product of the desire to create a map with a modern, updated appearance featuring a wide array of information for map users, and technologies that allow many of the same users to access the data in digital Geographic Information System (GIS) format. In addition to the traditional stratigraphic column and geologic descriptions, more descriptive information is included, such as physiography and drainages, geomorphology and geologic history, cross-sections illustrating subsurface geology, ground-water supplies, and mineral resources.

The surface geology map of Jewell County, Kansas (2007), is an example of the Survey's recent efforts. It incorporates a hillshade using digital elevation models (DEMs) with an uncommon multiple-sun-angle technique to enhance surface features without excessive vertical exaggeration. Hillshade effects are keyed with colors from a new statewide color scheme based on the USGS color code. Despite the large number of geologic units in the state, each map unit has been assigned a consistent color from county to county. New digital hydrology and road systems layers are also integrated to provide up-to-date ancillary data. An obvious advantage of working in the GIS environment is that changes in geology or other layers can easily be made. Much of this information, particularly the geologic data, is also available to users in digital GIS format through the Kansas Data Access and Support Center (DASC) located at the KGS. The digital geologic data can also be incorporated into Internet applications and other GIS uses at the KGS.