MULTI-DISCIPLINARY UTILIZATION OF GEOLOGIC MAPS PRODUCED BY THE STATEMAP

The STATEMAP and EDMAP programs were congressionally mandated in 1992. Since its beginning, the STATEMAP’s main focus of the program is to provide an avenue to develop accurate, usable geologic maps that address state specific needs. The mapping has typically been conducted at the 1:24,000 scale, with the intention of producing maps of sufficient detail that can be used for practical application. Historically, application of the geologic mapping has not been beneficial to the professional community; consequently, funding for the program has locally declined with resources redirected to other initiatives, in particular projects related to water resources.

Geologic mapping with no end purpose other than mapping for the sake of mapping is not sustainable or beneficial to society. Conducting the mapping for a stated purpose, whether it’s for resource management, economic development, resource exploration or other practical applications, will hopefully provide a more sustainable funding mechanism for this program. The reality of working for the government is that funded programs need to be adequately directed for practical application. For example, detailed geologic maps can be used throughout the entire mine cycle, from identification of deposits, to mine closure and remediation, and future land development in mind. An understanding of the location and geologic and geotechnical engineering characteristics of specific geologic formations will allow for the evaluation of the impact these subsurface conditions may have on engineered infrastructure. Identification of problematic geology that lends to substandard geotechnical conditions for construction is equally useful for engineering and design. Additionally, the basis for locating high-yield water wells is directly related to a comprehensive understanding of lithologic, weathering and structural controls, particularly in wells within fractured bedrock aquifer systems.

Accurate, and accessible, geologic maps are needed to ensure that geologic and geotechnical dependent projects are developed economically and timely for use by the public- and private-sector.