Geologic Maps

Geologic maps supply a wealth of information about the surface and shallow subsurface of the earth. The types of materials that are present in a location and the three-dimensional structure of the bedrock both can be gleaned from a clearly prepared geologic map. Geologists, civil and environmental engineers, land-use planners, soil scientists, and geographers commonly use geologic maps as a source of information to facilitate problem solving and identify the qualities of a region. Maps reveal the position of many types of natural hazards, indicate the suitability of the land surface for various uses, reveal problems that may be encountered in excavation, provide clues to the natural processes that shape an area, and help locate important natural resources. Suitable for lab courses in structural geology as well as field geology work, Spencer describes representative examples of features found on geologic maps and outlines procedures for interpretation and projection. Geometric techniques are explained using a step-by-step approach. Coverage of mapping methods includes tools that provide necessary data, such as Google Earth, GPS, GIS, LiDAR maps, drones, and aerial photographs. Challenging and engaging exercises throughout the text involve students in the mapping process and stimulate an appreciation of the extent and precision of information presented in geologic maps. Regional geology is an important component of lab and field mapping projects. As such, the Third Edition includes new maps of the Gulf of Mexico Coastal Plain, Rocky Mountain Front Range, Yellowstone region, Moab, Utah, Shenandoah National Park, and Hawai’i. A new chapter devoted to tectonic maps also broadens students’ exposure. Ed Spencer brings over 45 years of teaching experience to the text along with valuable insight and clarity into the interpretation and preparation of geologic maps.

This workbook is designed to help readers who have no previous training in map interpretation learn how to prepare, read, and interpret geologic maps. The discussion of the types of geologic features found on geologic maps is followed by well-developed exercises based on a set of full- color geologic maps. Reorganizes material, with the inclusion of many new maps and new exercises. Adds new chapters devoted to the preparation of geologic maps, identification and classification of sedimentary rocks, and use of aerial photographs. Adds portions of geologic maps reproduced in full color. An invaluable workbook/reference book for professionals in this field.

Designed to be carried in the field, this pocket-sized how-to book is a practical guide to basic techniques in mapping geological structures. In addition to including the latest computerised developments, the author provides succinct information on drawing cross-sections and preparing and presenting 'fair copy' maps and geological diagrams. Contains a brief chapter on the essentials of report writing and discusses how to keep adequate field notebooks. A checklist of equipment needed in the field can be found in the appendices. Quote from 3rd edition "provides a wealth of good advice on how to measure, record and write reports of geological field observations" The Naturalist

Describes: geologic maps and their use as a fundamental data base, a rigorous benefit-cost model for valuing geologic map information, and the economic issues associated with determining whether or not a geologic map is a public good. Maps, charts and tables, some in color. Extensive bibliography.

Geologic maps: a few lucky geologists make them; many geoscientists, engineers, and planners use them; untold scores of people wonder what they are all about. Perhaps the most common question we are asked, those few of us who do make geologic maps, is, simply,“What is a geologic map?” This query is often followed by “What are geologic maps used for?,” “Hasn’t it been mapped before?,” and, if the person is really inquisitive, “What do all those lines, colors, and symbols represent?” It must be a puzzling sight - a lone geologist, often miles from the nearest road, looking at rocks, putting lines on a map or aerial photograph. One rightfully wonders what that person is doing. This pamphlet answers these questions and points out the value and many uses of geologic maps.