Bedrock geology program

The Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey is engaged in a variety of investigations of the geologic framework of the state and related geologic processes. The WGNHS maintains active programs of mapping, resource characterizations, stratigraphic studies, and surface and subsurface geologic data management.

The Bedrock Geology Program encompasses a broad range of studies, including those related to the geology and history of Precambrian and Paleozoic bedrock, metallic and nonmetallic mineral resources, and the subsurface distribution of geologic units. Bedrock geology projects include geologic mapping at statewide (scale 1:1,000,000), regional (scale 1:250,000), and county (scale 1:100,000) levels. These framework studies are commonly the source of investigations into geologic processes. Mineral resource projects are typically carried out in support of federal and state agencies, such as the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (nonmetallic minerals) and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (nonmetallic and metallic minerals) as well as local governments involved in complex resource policy issues. Extensive collections of subsurface geologic records are maintained and studied, including records for public and private water-supply wells, mineral exploration core samples, and many physical samples from an extensive collection of rock core, tens of thousands of hand specimens collected in the course of fieldwork, and many other sets of information compiled, organized, and maintained throughout the more than 100 years of Survey activity throughout the state.

WGNHS staff members regularly engage in educational outreach by publishing and giving talks about the results of their research activities and providing general information about the geology of the state. Some researchers in the Bedrock Geology Program are faculty in the University of Wisconsin–Extension’s Department of Environmental Sciences.

Research of the Bedrock Geology Program is designed to support decision making by Wisconsin’s citizens, public and private interest groups, and government officials. The results of this research are available in Survey publications, journal and other technical articles, educational materials, specialized consultation on specific issues, and public presentations offered to members of the public as well as members of the geologic community.

Updated 11 September 2003
URL: http://www.uwex.edu/wgnhs/bdrkpgm.htm
© 2003 by Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action statement
Problems with this site? Send email to askageologist@uwex.edu.[To elude spam filters, please type “WGNHS” in the subject line of your note.]