DGGS adds web-based geologic map index

Alaska’s Division of Geological and Geophysical Services, or DGGS, has implemented a web-based application that uses an interactive map as an index to DGGS and U.S. Geological Survey geologic maps of Alaska and to related publications about Alaska geology. Accessible on the division’s website at http://maps.dggs.alaska.gov/mapindex/, the application enables searches based on geographic area of interest, keywords, themes, publishing agency, dates and other criteria, the division says. Search results link into the division’s database of government publications from multiple agencies, from where material can be viewed and downloaded. Publications not associated with maps can be accessed through the division’s publications database at http://dggs.alaska.gov/pubs/advanced-search.

The map index application accesses a variety of geology-related maps including geophysical maps and geologic hazards maps, as well as traditional geologic maps. DGGS says that it plans to add additional maps to the system, including maps published by the U.S. Bureau of Mines and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.

“No other geographic index of Alaska geologic maps exists at this time,” DGGS says. “This valuable resource will make it easier for anyone with Internet access to find the geologic maps they need to perform research, make informed resource- and land-management decisions, and better understand the geology across the state.”

Original funding for the map index project came from the federal Minerals Data and Information Rescue in Alaska program — the State of Alaska is providing continuing funding, DGGS says.

—Alan Bailey