MACROSTRAT’S GEOLOGIC MAP: A HARMONIZED, COMMUNITY-ACCESSIBLE DATA RESOURCE SUPPORTING GLOBAL TO LOCAL GEOSCIENCE (Invited Presentation)

Geologic maps are fundamental models of the distribution of rocks on the Earth’s surface. They comprise key outputs of field-based research in stratigraphy, crustal structure, mineral resources, and other geoscience domains. Although produced for many purposes, geologic maps express broadly useful basic interpretations that can guide future work in a study area. Flexible digital data systems can help harmonize mapping into synthetic models to guide and contextualize geoscientific work at a global scale.

Macrostrat is a platform for deep-time crustal research that integrates stratigraphic columns and geologic maps into a single database, creating a linked spatial and chronostratigraphic description of the upper crust. Macrostrat’s map system contains over 300 geologic maps (~40 GB of spatial data) at multiple scales, expressed as a unified product.

Maps ingested into Macrostrat are integrated into a multiscale geologic atlas. A public application programming interface (API) allows the map to be streamed over the internet to GIS systems or custom software. Macrostrat’s map can be explored in our main web interface (https://macrostrat.org/map) and a variety of mobile apps including Rockd, StraboSpot, Mancos, and Flyover Country. Its multiscale layout follows the intuitive design of modern web mapping systems, greatly enhancing data discovery by geologists and non-specialist users alike.

The Macrostrat geologic map system is a sophisticated platform, and enhancements to its scope and fidelity can serve new data integration efforts while providing new maps for community use. We are working to streamline data ingestion, open map entry to external collaborators, and better showcase the contributions of individual maps and organizations to the global product. Wider engagement will allow us to ingest more detailed mapping and integrate continual improvements (e.g., edge deconfliction efforts by geologic surveys). We are also building new capabilities, such as dynamically-constructed 3D framework models and paleographic rotations, that will continue to enhance the value of this global map product to the geoscience community.