GEOLOGIC MAPPING AND LITHOSPHERIC DEFORMATION IN THE STRUCTURALLY COMPLEX REGION OF CENTRAL-WESTERN HONDURAS

Geologic mapping in a tropical jungle comes with a unique set of logistical challenges so when you add the factors of a remote location, language barrier, and structural complexities, the level of difficulty rises. However, as geoscientists we continue to take on these challenges, using technology to study beyond the identified limitations. Structural complexities in the study area are related to Caribbean tectonics including block faulting, rotation, transform faulting, subduction, and extension. Western Honduras consists of the Chortis lithospheric block overlain by Jurassic and Cretaceous sedimentary rocks that record evidence of deformation in the region. Our scientific team collected point data in and around La Union, Lempira in Western Honduras using the Fulcrum mapping application and cellular data during the summer of 2017. With each point collected, the application recorded latitude and longitude. Additionally, a photo was taken to document the outcrop along with parameters such as lithology, color, bedding, strike, and dip using a stratigraphic column, color charts, or a Brunton transit compass respectively. Within Fulcrum, these attributes are stored with the location data and downloaded as a spreadsheet that can be imported into ArcGIS. Capabilities with ArcGIS Online allow photos to be uploaded along with the attributes for a given point and assist in the geologic mapping interpretation. Building on existing geologic maps for the region, we refine the stratigraphic contacts at the surface as well as projecting lithologies into the subsurface based on new structural data for a more complete picture of the geology in and around La Union, Lempira, Honduras. This refined perspective provides additional information about the lithospheric deformation in the area as well as subsurface geometry of stratigraphic units.