Statemap 2014-15 Update

Hello all,

Just wanted to let you know that the Statemap 2014-15 field mapping project has resulted in the publication of three new geologic maps.  These are the Parma, Prim, and Greers Ferry quadrangles.  Reduced images are posted below.  These should be available as .pdfs on our website in the near future.  I’ll keep you posted!

Parma Quadrangle

Prim Quadrangle

Greers Ferry Quadrangle

Also, I would like to thank the many people who helped with data collection in the field this year, without whom this project would have been impossible.

Andy Haner                                                        Danny Rains

 

Angela Chandler                                                                     Stefanie Domrois

 

Doug Hanson                                  Ty Johnson

Thanks, everyone!

 

Now it’s off to the Brownsville quad for next year!

Richard Hutto

Geopic of the week: Dye tracing

Dye tracing is a tool commonly used by geologists to monitor how water moves through the ground.  The above picture is from a study the Arkansas Geological Survey conducted for local residents  in Izard County, Arkansas.  Dye was added to water to track the path of farm runoff entering the groundwater through a sinkhole.

The test consists of pouring brightly colored, non-toxic dye into water before it enters the ground.  Charcoal packets, capable of detecting low concentrations of the dye, are placed in nearby springs and wells.  After some time has passed, the packets are analyzed to see where the water and dye travelled after soaking into the ground.

Because the earth is often their laboratory, geoscientists have to come up with creative approaches to studying inaccessible places.   Besides, there’s just something satisfying about dyeing large quantities of water bright colors.