EXPANDING FROM 2D TO 3D GEOLOGIC MAPPING AT THE KENTUCKY GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
The KGS is building upon an extensive dataset of 2D geological mapping and associated geological and subsurface databases. Through a robust website and online map service, the KGS supports a broad-based user audience applying KGS geologic data to academic, environmental management, energy resource, hazard mitigation, and geotechnical projects. KGS anticipates possible future demand for three-dimensional petroleum, geochemical, hazard, and hydrologic modeling as well as predictive interpolation of drilling targets and geotechnical conditions. To support these demands, KGS is embarking on the development of a statewide 3D geologic database to provide a three-dimensional architecture and characterization of rock bodies in the state which may support applied modeling applications.
KGS is building on extensive existing databases of petroleum wells, water wells, coal boreholes, mineral data, geotechnical data, and seismic profiles. Statewide 2D geologic map data provides structure contour maps, contact elevations, stratigraphic data, and surface fault locations that can be used in development of 3D datasets. The KGS Energy and Minerals Section research staff has produced many local and regional structural surfaces on key horizons across the state which can be directly incorporated into a 3D database.
Issues and concerns faced in the development of the KGS 3D database include data accessibility for users and clients; software platform compatibility and interoperability; conversion of some 2D hard-copy databases to digital form; documenting uncertainty and variability at different scales in the datasets; and the challenges of managing and integrating a complex statewide 3D database with existing 2D databases.