EARTH SCIENCE IN THE NEW MILLENNIUM: A GEOLOGICAL AND GEOPHYSICAL GIS DATABASE FOR SOUTH CAROLINA

The advent of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology over the past decade provides a powerful new tool for spatial integration and analysis of large and complex datasets. Application of GIS techniques is now prevalent in many aspects of Earth science research, with wide use in both the public and private sector for resource management, hazard assessment, and local and regional planning. With this project, we are developing a relational database for existing geological and geophysical data, traditionally captured in large-format paper maps, for the State of South Carolina. At present, the database consists of (1) base map and cultural data, (2) digital elevation data (3) selected geologic maps, (4) subsurface stratigraphic data, (5) gridded gravity field data, and (6) magnetic field data for the state of South Carolina. This effort is part of an ongoing tectonic and geomorphic study, with a specific focus on understanding the geologic evolution of the state and the southeastern U.S. over the past 60 million years. Preliminary results from this work, based on this prototype database, suggest that the passive margin of eastern North America has been tectonically active over the past tens of millions of years. Such observations have the potential to challenge traditional and long-held views of plate tectonics and global sea level history. This work complements existing GIS technology for the State of South Carolina, developed through the USC Department of Geography, and fills a critical void for geological and geophysical information of the state. Easy and reliable access to geological and geophysical data for the state through the internet will benefit both the public and the private sector.