THE U.S.GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 

IN ALASKA--1982 Programs 

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY CIRCULAR 867 
Cover photographs, clockwise from upper left: 

Aerial view of gravel island drilling site, Beaufort Sea 

Surveying for the National Mapping Division, Kachemak Bay area 

Stream sampling in Lignite Creek, south of Fairbanks 

Remote-sensing class instruction, EROS Field Office, Anchorage 

Fieldwork in the Noatak River valley; DeLong Mountains in the background 

Radiolarian from an Upper Devonian to Pennsylvanian chert-rich "black ball" 

unit in the Talkeetna C-6 quadrangle, Alaska Range 
THE U. S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 

IN ALASKA 

1982 PROGRAMS 

Katherine M. Reed, Ed ito r 

Technical assistance by 

Robert F. Gilmore 

Linda-Lee Harris 

Lisa D. Tennison 

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY CIRCULAR 867 

1982 
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 

JAMES G. WATT , Secretary 

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 

DALLAS L. PECK, Director 

Free on application to Distribution Branch, U.S. Geological Survey, 604 South Pickett Street, 

Alexandria, Va. 22304 and Public Inquiries Office, 508 Second Avenue, Anchorage, AK 99501. 
ABOUT THIS CIRCULAR 

This Circular describes the Fiscal Year (FY) 1982 programs and projects of 

the U.S. Geological Survey and of the Minerals Management Service in Alaska. 

The Minerals Management Service was established by order of the Secretary of the 

Interior on January 19, 1982. Formerly the U.S. Geological Survey, Conservation 

Division, the Minerals Management Service is responsible for managing the Federal 

royalty program, continuing the functions of the Conservation Division, and implementing policies developed by the newly established Minerals Management Board. 

A brief description of the Alaskan operations of each office and division of 

the Survey and of the Service is followed by project descriptions arranged by 

geographic regions in which the work takes place. A directory at the end of this 

booklet (table 3) lists all project chiefs in alphabetical order and summarizes 1other 

general information. Also in the back of this booklet is a listing (table 4) of 

cooperating agencies. 

A companion Circular, 868, consists of artic~es describing significant accomplishments of the Survey's topical and field investigations in Alaska during 1981. 

CONTENTS 

Page 

The U.S. Geological Survey in Alaska • . • • • • • • • • . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . • 1 

The challenge . . . . . . . . . . • . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

Publications of the U.S. Geological Survey • • • . • • • . • . . . . . • • . . • • . . . . . . • • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • • . . . . 1 

Sources of Additional htformation • • . . . . • . . . . . . . . • . . . . • . . . . . • • . • • . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . 2 

Office of Earth Science Applications • • . • . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • • • . . . . . . . . . . • . . . • • • . . . . 3 

Earth Resources Observation System (EROS) Program.............................. 4 

EROS projects..................................................................... 6 

Statewide . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 

West-central region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . • • . . . . . . . . • • . . . . . 6 

East-central region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • • . . . . . . . • • . • . . . • • . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . 8 

Southwestern region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . 8 

Southern region . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . • . 9 

Alaska Mapping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • • . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . 11 

Projects of the National Mapping Division • . . • . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . 12 

Statewide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • • . . . . 12 

Northern region . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . • . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 

West-central region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . • • . . . . . . . . . . . 16 

East-central region........................................................... 16 

Southern region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 

Southwestern region.......................................................... 17 

Minerals Management Service . . • . • . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . • • . . . . . . . • . . • . . . . . . . . . 19 

Projects of the Minerals Management Service . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . 22 

Northern region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 

Southern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 4 

West-central region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 

Southwestern................................................................. 25 

Office of National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska • • . • . • . . . . . . . . . . • • . . . . . . • . • • . . . . . . . . • • • • . . . • . • 29 

Projects of the Office of National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . 34 

Water resources investigations • • . • • • . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . • . • • . . . . . . . 37 

National programs . . . . • . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • • . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . 38 

Collection of Basic Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • • . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 

National Water Data Exchange . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . • . . . . . . . . • • . . . . . . • • . . . . . . . • • • . . . . 38 

National Stream Quality Accounting Network • . . • .. .. . . . • . . • . .. . • . . .. .. .. . . . . • • 38 

Hydrologic research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . • . . . • • • . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . 39 

Projects of the Water Resources Division . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . • . . . . . . . . • • . . . . . . . . . . . 39 

Statewide . • . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . • • • . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . • • • . . . . . • • . . . . . . . • • • . . . . . . . . 39 

Northern region ........•.... , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . • • • 41 

East-central region . . . . . . . • • • • • • . • • . . . . . • • • . . . . . • • • • . . . . • . . . . . . . . . • • . . . . . . . . . . 42 

Southern region • . . . . . . . . • • . . . . . . . . . . . . . • • . . . . . . . . • • • . . . . . • • • • • • . . . • • • • • • . . . . . 44 

Southeastern region • • • . • • . . . . . . . . . • . . . • . . . . . • • . . . . . • • • • . . . . . . . . . . • • • . . . . . • • . . 4 7 

Energy, minerals, geologic hazards, and geologic research........ . . • . . . . . . • . . • • . . . . . • • • • • . . . . . • 49 

Alaska Mineral Resource Assessment Program...................................... 50 

North Slope Petroleum Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • • . . . . . . . . • . • . • . . . . . • . • • • . . . . • • • • • • • • 52 

Arctic Environmental Studies Program • • . • • • • • . . . . • • . . . . . . . . • . • • . . . • • • • . . . . . • • . . . • . 52 

iii 
CONTENTS-Continued 

Page 

Marine Geology Program 0 o o o 0 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 52 

Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program o 0 o 0 0 0 0 o o o o o o o 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 53 

Volcanic Hazards Program 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 o o 0 o o 0 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 53 

Climate Change Program 0 o o o o o 0 0 o o o 0 0 0 0 o o 0 0 0 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 54 

Geothermal Research Program 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 54 

Geologic Framework and Synthesis Program o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 54 

Projects of the Geologic Division o 0 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 0 o o o o 0 0 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 55 

Statewide o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 0 0 0 o o o o 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 55 

Northern region o o 0 0 o o o o 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 o o o o o 0 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 61 

West-central region 0 o o 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 o o o 0 o 0 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 66 

East-central region 0 o o o o 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 68 

Southern region o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 0 0 0 o o o 0 0 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 70 

Southwestern region o o o o o o o o o o o o 0 0 o o o o 0 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 77 

Southeastern region o o o o o o o o o o o 0 o 0 o o o 0 0 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 77 

Offshore o o o o o o o o o o 0 o o o o 0 0 0 o o 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 0 o o o o o o 0 0 o o o • o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 8 0 

Public Inquiries Office, supporting division and services 00 00 oo oo o o oo 00 o .. oo oo oo oo oo oo .. oo oo o .. oo 85 

Public Inquiries Office o o o o o o o o 0 o o o o 0 o 0 o o o 0 0 0 0 0 o o o o o 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 85 

Administrative Division 0 0 o o 0 0 0 0 0 o o 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 o o o 0 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 85 

Alaska Core Library o o o o 0 o o o o o 0 0 o o 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 o o o 0 0 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 86 

Technical Data Unit o o o o 0 o o o o 0 0 0 o o 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 86 

ILLUSTRATIONS 

Figure 

1. Map showing Office of Earth Science Applications activities in Alaska carried out by 

the EROS program o 0 0 0 o o o 0 0 0 0 o o 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 0 o o o o o o o 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 7 

2 o Map showing National Mapping Division activities in Alaska for 1982 0 o o o o o 0 o o o o o o o o o o o 14 

3o Map showing location of Outer Continental Shelf basins o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 21 

4o Map showing Minerals Management Service activities in northern Alaska o o o o o o o o o o 0 o o o 23 

5o Map showing Minerals Management Service activities in and southern Alaska o o o o o o o o o o 23 

6 o Map showing Minerals Management Service activities in west-central Alaska o o o o o o o o o o o 26 

7 o Map showing Minerals Management Service activities in southwestern Alaska o o o o o o o o o o 26 

8 o Map showing exploration wells on National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska o 0 o 0 o o o o o o o o o o 35 

9o Map showing location of ground-water observation wells o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 41 

lOo Map showing location of Water Resources Division activities in northern Alaska o o o o o o o 42 

llo Map showing locations of Water Resources Division glaciology studies in southern 

Alaska o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 0 0 o o o 0 0 0 0 o o 0 0 0 0 0 o o o o 0 0 0 0 o o o o o 0 0 o o o o o o 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 43 

12o Map showing location of Water Resources Division activities in east-central and 

southern Alaska o o o o o 0 0 o o o o 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 0 o o 0 0 0 0 0 0 o o o o o 0 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 44 

13o Map showing Water Resources Division activities in southeastern Alaska o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 46 

14o Map showing status of Level III Alaska Mineral Resource Assessment Program 

(AMRAP), January 1, 1982 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 51 

15o Map showing Geologic Division activities statewide in Alaska o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 56 

iv 
ILLUSTRATIONS-Continued 

Page 

Figure 

16. Map showing sample-site coverage for geochemical census of Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 

17. Map showing Geologic Division activities in northern Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 

18. Map showing Geologic Division activities in west-central and east-central Alaska..... 67 

19. Map showing Geologic Division activities in southern Alaska......................... 71 

20. Map showing Geologic Division earthquake and seismic studies in southern Alaska . . . 76 

21. Map showing large lakes in southern Alaska and Yukon Territory used to monitor 

tectonic tilt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 

22. Map showing Geologic Division activities in southeastern Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 

23. Map showing offshore geologic activities in Alaska (Marine Geology Program) . . . . . . . . 81 

TABLES 

Table 

1. Oil and gas leasing schedule for onshore and offshore areas of Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 

2. Exploration wells drilled by the Navy from 1975 through 1977 and by the U.S. 

Geological Survey from FY 1978 through FY 1981 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 

3. Directory of project chiefs, associated personnel,and brief description of project 

work............................................................................. 87 

4. Cooperating agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 

CONVERSION TABLE 

U.S. customary units used in this report may be expressed as metric units by use of the following 

conversion factors. 

Multiply 

foot 

mile 

pound 

ton 

square mile 

square foot (or foot squared) 

per day 

gallon 

cubic foot 

By 

0.3048 

1.609 

0.4536 

0.9072 

2.589 

0.0929 

3.785 

0.02831 

To obtain 

meter 

kilometer 

kilogram 

tonne, mega gram 

square kilometer 

square meter per day 

liter 

cubic meter 

Metric units used in this report may be expressed as U.S. customary units by use of the following 

conversion factors. 

Multiply .!!¥. To obtain 

meter 3.281 foot 

kilometer 0.6214 mile 

kilogram 2.205 pound 

megagram 1.102 ton 

square kilometer 0.3861 square mile 

square meter per day 10.76 square foot per day 

liter 0.2641 gallon 

cubic meter 35.31 cubic foot 

The use of trade names and trademarks in this publication is for descriptive purposes only and does 

not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Geological Survey. 

v 

THE U. S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 

IN ALASKA 

THE CHALLENGE 

Alaska programs of the Survey are expanding 

and changing in response to the Nation's need for 

energy and minerals, advancing technology, and 

passage of the Alaska National Interest Lands 

Conservation Act (ANILCA) in December 1980. By 

that act, Congress made fundamental decisions on 

the ownership and management of Alaska's vast 

lands. 

Alaska is at once the largest and the least 

populated, least explored, and least developed of 

the Nation's States. The land area contains 375 

million acres and comprises 16 percent of the onshore land and more than half of the Outer 

Continental Shelf (OCS) of the Nation. After 

Native and State of Alaska land selections of 44 

million acres have been made, approximately 60 

percent, 225 million acres, of Alaska land will 

remain under Federal jurisdiction. Federal lands in 

Alaska then will comprise approximately 30 percent 

of all onshore land in the Nation's public domain. 

In a sense, the Geological Survey in Alaska in 

the 1980's faces the challenge it faced 100 years ago 

when it set out to map and assess the public 

domain. From this perspective, the 1980's will be a 

critical decade for resource exploration and 

appraisal in Alaska; although most of Alaska has 

been explored on a reconnaissance level, much work 

remains to be done to appraise its resources in more detail. 

Declining oil and gas reserves in the United 

States and worldwide have caused an increase in 

the value of petroleum reserve units, and this 

change, coupled with advances in technology, has 

made many of the Alaskan resources economically 

competitive with resources elsewhere in the world. 

Demand for and increased cost of petroleum have 

brought Alaska into the forefront. In addition, 

Alaska's reserves are available from a politically 

stable area, and they tend to reduce the balance of 

payments deficit. Currently, 18 percent of 

domestic oil production is from Alaskan fields. 

It is probable that, in the decade ahead, 

exploration for and production of Alaska's other 

mineral resources will follow a pattern similar to 

that of petroleum resources as demand and costs 

rise owing to global political conditions and declining reserves. 

The Geological Survey is therefore challenged 

with evaluating Alaska's resources so that they can 

be used wisely for the benefit of the Nation's 

citizens and with providing information on the 

environmental effects associated with such development. 

1 

PUBLICATIONS OF THE 

U. S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 

The Geological Survey publishes several types 

of reports that describe the results of projects or 

programs or that are the products of a Division's 

work. These reports range from books to preliminary maps. 

Survey publications can be purchased at two 

offices in Alaska. The Public Inquiries Office 

(PIO) at 508 Second Ave., Anchorage, sells book 

reports and many kinds of maps relating to Alaska. 

It also acts as a depository for Open-File Reports 

about Alaska and maintains a reference library of 

Survey publications and selected journals for public 

use. The Alaska Distribution Section in Room 126 

of the Federal Building in Fairbanks provides maps 

of Alaska both by mail and over the counter. 

Alaska maps are also available from the Distribution 

Branch, Box 25286, Federal Center, Denver, Colo. 

80225. 

Listings of Survey reports and maps, but not 

including Open-File Reports, are available in "Publications of the Geological Survey 1879-1961" and 

"Publications of the Geological Survey 1962-1970"; 

these can be purchased for $2. 00 each. Each 

month the Survey prints a catalog "New Publications 

of the Geological Survey," which contains a list of 

new reports and maps released during the month. 

At the end of each year these lists are compiled in 

a single volume. Both the monthly catalogs and the 

annual lists released since 1970 are available free 

from the PIO, as are request forms for the monthly 

catalogs. The Survey began listing Open-File 

Reports in its 197 4 catalog; information about older 

reports of this type is available from the PIO. 

A list of publications (except Open-File 

Reports and Water-Resources Investigations) that 

describe geology or hydrology of Alaska and that 

were released before August 1980 may also be 

obtained, at no charge, from the PIO or the Alaska 

Distribution Center; updated information is available 

on request at both offices. 

Book reports, such as Professional Papers, 

Bulletins, Water-Supply Papers, Techniques of 

Water Resources Investigations, Water-Resources 

Data Reports, the Survey's annual Yearbook, and 

non-technical leaflets, can be ordered from the 

Distribution Branch , 604 South Pickett St. , 

Alexandria, Va. 22304, or from the Superintendent 

of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. Not all Survey reports are still 

in print, and information about price and availability can generally be obtained from the PIO. 

Most Open-File Reports and Water-Resources 

Investigations can be ordered from the Open-File 
Services Section, Box 25425, Federal Center, 

Denver, Colo. 80225, in paper copy or microfiche 

form. Some Open-File Reports and Water-Resources 

Investigations are also available from the National 

Technical Information Service (NT IS), Springfield, 

Va. 22161. These are also in microfiche or paper 

copy. The PIO has prices for both NTIS releases 

and Open-File Reports. 

Maps of Alaska are available at several scales; 

some maps have metric scales. Maps can be 

purchased at the PIO and at the Alaska Distribution 

Section; most cost $2.00 or $3.25 per sheet. Both 

of the Alaska offices provide free indexes that show 

the current status of orthophotoquad and topo- graphic mapping in Alaska. 

The Geologic Division's office in the O'Neill 

Building on the Fairbanks campus of the University 

of Alaska has a browse file of some Survey booktype reports. 

Mailing addresses and telephone numbers for 

the two offices from which publications can be 

purchased are: 

Public Inquiries Office 

508 Second A venue 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 277-0577 

and 

Alaska Distribution Section 

Box 12, Federal Building 

101 12th Avenue (Room 126) 

Fairbanks, AK 99701 

Tel. (907) 456-7535 

SOURCES OF 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

For futher information about the Geological Survey 

and Minerals Management Service activities in 

Alaska, please contact: 

The Geological Survey 

Max Brewer, Acting Special Assistant to the 

Director for Alaska 

Room 216, Skyline Building 

218 E Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 271-4396 

2 

Office of Earth Science Applications 

Gene Thorley, Chief 

104 National Center 

12201 Sunrise Drive 

Reston, VA 22092 

Tel. (703) 860-7471 

EROS Program 

David M. Carneggie, Chief 

Room 316, Skyline Building 

218 E Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 271-4065 

National Mapping Division 

Paul D. Brooks, Chief, Alaska District 

Room 207, Skyline Building 

218 E Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 271-4148 

Geologic Division 

Thomas P. Miller, Chief, Branch of Alaskan 

Geology 

Gould Hall, APU Campus 

University Drive 

Anchorage, AK 99504 

Tel. (907) 278-3571 

Water Resources Division 

Philip A . Emery, Chief, Alaska District 

733 West 4th Avenue, Suite 400 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 271-4138 

National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska 

George Gryc, Chief 

2525 C Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 276-7422 

Minerals Management Service 

Joseph A. Jones, Manager, Alaska Region 

800 A Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 271-4304 
~ 

Office of Earth Science Applications 

Landsat mosaic map of mainland Alaska. 

For further information, contact the offices listed below. 

Anchorage, Alaska 

David Carneggie 

Reston, Virginia 

Gene A. Thorley 

Chief, USGS/EROS Field Office 

218 E Street, Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 271-4065 

Chief, Office of Earth Science Applications 

104 National Center, Reston, VA 22092 

Tel. (703) 860-7471 

3 
OESA 

OFFICE OF EARTH SCIENCE 

APPLICATIONS 

The Office of Earth Science Applications 

( 0 ES A) coordinates and administers some interrelated and interdisciplinary programs of the Geological Survey and other bureaus in the Department 

of the Interior. The major objective of the Office's 

work is to interpret and display resource information so as to be readily accessible and understandable to a wide range of users. 

An element of OES A is the Earth Science 

Assistance Office. Although no representatives of 

this office are stationed in Alaska, it plays an 

active part in the Survey's activities in the State. 

Much of this involvement consists of supplying 

funds and encouraging projects that seek to apply 

scientific knowledge to practical problems. In 

addition, the office coordinates activities that relate 

to such applications and has encouraged publication 

of information about the Survey's work nationwide. 

Information about the office's work in the western 

States can be obtained from: 

William Kockelman 

U.S. Geological Survey 

345 Middlefield Road 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

Tel. (415) 323-8111 ext. 2312 

The Environmental Affairs Office (EAO) was 

established in 1975 to provide the Survey's 

response to environmental impact statement (EIS) 

preparation and review requirements of the National 

Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). 

The Geological Survey usually becomes 

involved as a lead agency in the preparation of 

NEPA-related documents, including the preparation 

of EIS's, as a result of the Minerals Management 

Service's (formerly Conservation Division) supervision of mineral resource exploration, development, 

extraction, and reclamation operations on Federal 

lands. The Survey may also be a lead agency when 

activities of other divisions might require the preparation of an EIS. The Survey participates as a 

cooperating agency as a result of its supervisor 

function (as described above) and through its 

special expertise in the areas of geology, 

hydrology, and mining and petroleum engineering. 

Survey review of EIS's focuses primarily on the 

adequacy of descriptions of geologic and hydrologic 

environments, and of the analysis of related 

environmental impacts and mitigating measures and 

alternatives. 

EAO, as the Bureau focal point for NEPA 

matters, provides an integrated Geological Survey 

response to the requirements of NEPA by: (1) 

developing NEPA-related policy and guidance for 

the Geological Survey, (2) ensuring the quality 

compliance with NEPA; (3) monitoring Bureau-wide 

compliance with NEPA; ( 4) reviewing and commenting on environmental documents prepared by other 

bureaus and agencies; (5) assisting in the performance of specialized studies in support of 

ong?ing environmental analyses; ( 6) preparing 

enVIronmental documents at the request of other 

agencies; (7) managing Geological Survey personnel 

4 

assigned to other agencies' EIS's; and (8) conducting research to improve the NEPA process. 

Oilspill risk analyses to determine the relative 

environmental hazards of developing oil have been 

conducted by EAO since 1976 for the Geological 

Survey in different regions of the Alaskan Outer 

Continental Shelf. These studies analyze the probability of spill occurrences, likely paths of oil 

slicks, and locations of resources vulnerable to 

spilled oil. The combined results yield estimates of 

the probability of oilspill impacts occurring due to 

development of proposed lease areas. Analyses for 

the North Aleutian Basin (proposed sale 75) and 

Navarin Basin (proposed sale 83) are scheduled for 

release to the open file in March and December 

1983, respectively. 

The Coordinator, Coastal Zone Management 

Act, EAO, assisted in the preparation of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the State 

of Alaska and the Geological Survey regarding the 

consistency of Federal activities affecting Alaska's 

coastal zone. The MO U lists those activities that 

the two parties feel will not affect the coastal zone 

and describes in detail the steps necessary to 

review other activities. As a result of the 

regulatory simplification enhanced by this MOU, similar MOU's are now being negotiated in other coastal 

States. 

The Geological Survey is preparing an EIS on 

the oil and gas exploration regulations for the 

Arctic National Wildlife Refuge which is scheduled to 

be completed in August 1982. 

Additional information on the EAO may be 

obtained from: 

Chief, Environmental Affairs Office 

U . S . Geological Survey 

760 National Center 

Reston, VA 22092 

Tel. (703) 860-7455 

The office is developing standardized directories of natural resource development pennits for 

most States. Permit requirements for 18 elements of 

such development, including energy resources and 

air and water quality, are included. The standardized format facilitates easy State-by-State comparison of permit requirements. The permit directory 

for the State of Alaska is now available. For 

information about the directory, contact: 

Gina Sanders 

Alaska Department of Energy and Conservation 

437 E Street, 2d Floor 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 279-0254 

A third major segment of OES A is the Earth 

Resources Observation System (EROS), whose work 

in Alaska is described below. 

EARTH RESOURCES 

OBSERVATION SYSTEM (EROS) PROGRAM 

The EROS Program was established by the 

Department of the Interior in 1967 to assist in 
realizing the practical benefits to earth-resource 

and environment inventory and monitoring of using 

aerial photographs and other remotely sensed data 

acquired by aircraft and spacecraft, including the 

Landsat satellite. The EROS program office is 

located in the Geological Survey's National Center in 

Reston, Va. The program operates a national 

archive for aerial and space photographs at the 

EROS Data Center in Sioux Falls, S. Dak. That 

facility is responsible for distributing Landsat 

imagery, computer-compatible tapes, Survey aerial 

photographs, and other forms of remotely sensed 

data to users throughout the world. The center also 

assists government agencies in applying remotesensing techniques to various kinds of resource 

problems. Inquiries on specific problems about 

remote-sensing technology, including training opportunities, should be addressed to the Branch of 

Applications at the Data Center, Sioux Falls, S D 

57198; the telephone number is (605) 594-6511. 

In November 197 4, an EROS Applications 

Assistance Facility was opened in Fairbanks to 

assist users to determine the availability of aircraft 

and spacecraft imagery and to handle image and 

photograph orders. This facility is at the Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska. Interpretation equipment, including a color-additive viewer, 

zoom transfer scope, and variable magnification 

stereoscope, is available there. In addition, the 

Fairbanks files contain selected Landsat images, 

National Aeronautics and Space Administration 

(NASA) and other aerial photographs, and other 

remotely sensed data for Alaska. In October 1981, 

administration of the facility was transferred from 

the EROS Program to the Geological Survey's 

National Cartographic Information Center. For 

information concerning the Fairbanks facility, contact Katherine Martz at (907) 479-7484, or Cheryl 

Hallam at (907) 271-4159. 

The EROS Data Center opened a Field Office in 

Anchorage in March 198 0 to expand its programs for 

transferring remote-sensing technology to Department of the Interior and other Federal, State, and 

local government agencies. The USGS-EROS Field 

Office has an Interactive Digital Image Manipulation 

System (IDIMS) to assist in automating the analysis 

of Landsat data. The primary objectives of the 

Field Office are to provide training in manual and 

automated analysis of remotely sensed data for 

resource inventory and to make the analysis equipment available to resource managers from government agencies in Alaska. To accomplish its mission, 

the Field Office will: 

* 

* 

* 

Assist government personnel to increase their 

understanding and use of remote-sensing 

techniques for resource assessment through a variety of training programs. 

Encourage resource agencies to develop or 

implement their own remote-sensing analysis 

capability consistent with their resource assessment needs. 

Encourage each resource agency to train one 

or more of its employees to be remote-sensing 

data analysts capable of using manual and 

digital analysis equipment available at the Field 

Office. 

5 

OESA 

* Operate a state-of-the-art digital analysis 

laboratory that is available to resource management agencies for their operational inventories. 

Since opening the USGS-EROS Field Office, the 

staff has given more than 60 demonstrations of the 

digital analysis system, assisted in or conducted 

seven 2-to-5-day training courses, and worked on 

cooperative projects with the National Park Service, 

the U.S. Forest Service, and the U.S. Fish and 

Wildlife Service on vegetation mapping projects. In 

addition, personnel from the following agencies or 

institutions used the digital analysis system for 

their own inventory or project work: Bureau of 

Land Management, Soil Conservation Service, 

National Park Service, University of Alaska, U.S. 

Forest Service, National Aeronautics and Space 

Administration, and the Alaska Department of 

Natural Resources. EROS personnel also have 

assisted in two research projects conducted by the 

University of Alaska, Fairbanks; one studied the 

effect of seasonality on the mapping of vegetation, 

and the other examined enhancement techniques for 

studying geologic lineaments. 

The Field Office is staffed by six full-time 

scientists, but it calls on EROS Data Center personnel, analysis techniques, and software as 

required to address Alaskan needs. Several training courses on remote-sensing techniques will be 

offered in FY 1982 in the disciplines of land cover 

and vegetation mapping, geologic assessment, and 

an introduction to digital analysis techniques. 

The USGS-EROS Field Office has a variety of 

stereoscopes and light tables to support its training 

programs. In addition, it has several kinds of 

state-of-the-art equipment for analyzing remotely 

sensed data. The !DIMS equipment will be used for 

training, as well as operationally, to digitally display, enhance, classify, and manipulate Landsat 

data. The Field Office also has two illm recorders. 

One recorder allows the user to produce geometrically correct and enhanced Landsat images, and 

both film recorders are also used to produce cover 

maps. Finally, the Field Office has a stereo zoom 

transfer scope which transfers interpretive resource overlays from remotely sensed data to maps. 

During the next 5 years, the Field Office 

mission will focus on remote-sensing training and 

operational support of resource inventory and 

assessment for government users, especially those 

responding to inventory requirements mandated by 

the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act 

(ANILCA). EROS therefore will devote more effort 

to Department of the Interior and Geological Survey 

needs. In addition, increased attention will be 

given to operational research and development of 

remote-sensing techniques to meet inventory needs 

in Alaska. The Digital Analysis laboratory will 

continue to be available to all government agencies 

for their operational inventories, and EROS Field 

Office staff will provide analytical services for 

Interior bureaus and offices that do not have personnel trained to use the analysis equipment of the 

Field Office. The Field Office will maintain a direct 

communication link with the EROS Data Center for 

the acquisition of digital Landsat data, existing 

Landsat data, supporting resource information 
OESA 

formatted to 1:250, 000-scale quadrangles and to 

other appropriate jurisdictional boundaries, and 

other forms of digital data, such as digital terrain 

data that have been tailored to meet Department of 

the Interior needs in Alaska. EROS personnel will 

work with other Government agencies to explore 

needs for and (or) installation of a remote terminal 

link to the Field Office digital analysis system or 

other Landsat processing capability to be implemented in the State. 

The Field Office will work closely with the 

Geological Survey's National Cartographic and 

Information Center (NCIC) recently established in 

Anchorage and the NCIC facility at the University 

of Alaska in Fairbanks to provide information on the 

availability of remotely sensed data and its uses. A 

microfilm browse file of Landsat imagery is available 

for public inspection at the Public Inquiries Office 

of the Survey, Room 108, Skyline Building, 508 

Second Avenue, Anchorage 99501. The USGS-EROS 

Field Office is located on the third floor of the 

Skyline Building at the corner of Second Avenue 

and E Street. For more information, contact the 

Field Office Chief, David M. Carneggie, 218 E 

Street, Anchorage 99501, or phone (907) 271-4065. 

EROS PROJECTS 

With the exception of the Statewide projects 

below that describe the operational uses of the Field 

Office's digital analysis equipment and the training 

program, all project locations are shown on figure 

1. 

STATEWIDE 

Project Title: Operational Use of USGS-EROS 

Digital Analysis System for Vegetation Classification 

Using Landsat Data 

Chiefs: David M. Carneggie and Michael D. Fleming 

Objectives: To maintain and operate an interactive 

digital 1m age manipulation system (I DIMS) for automating vegetation-cover classification of Landsat 

data. The IDIMS is available at an hourly fee to all 

Federal, State, and local agency personnel qualified 

to use the system. The EROS Field Office staff 

provides training to those who wish to use the 

system. 

Status: The Field Office IDIMS consists of a 

Hewlett-Packard 3000 Series III computer, an array 

processor, three tape drives, four 120-Mbyte disks, 

a digitizer, a line printer, a printer plotter, and an 

interactive color display monitor. A second color 

display will be on line early in the summer of 1982. 

Since October 1981, the demand for the IDIMS by 

as many as five users has necessitated operating 

the system for one and a half to two shifts per 

day. The primary operational users include: 

Bureau of Land Management, which uses the system 

to develop digital data bases for the National 

Petroleum Reserve in Alaska, land-cover maps for 

the North Slope, and materials to support their 

remote-sensing training courses; the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Research 

and Development, which uses the system to produce 

land-cover maps for 30 million acres in the Bristol 

6 

Bay region in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and 

Wildlife Service; the U.S. Forest Service, which is 

classifying land cover at all grid intersections from 

a 5,000-meter grid in the western half of the 

Tanana River watershed; and the University of 

Alaska, Geophysical Institute, Fairbanks, which has 

been involved in a variety of land classification and 

geologic research projects, with funding support 

from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and EROS. 

In addition, the system is used to support 

training activities and cooperative projects with 

other government agencies. EROS personnel, as 

well as operational users, are using IDIMS to 

process and reformat digital terrain data from 

1:250 ;ooo-scale Survey quadrangles. The terrain 

data is being mosaicked and registered to a 50-

meter UTM grid for each of the 1:250,000-scale 

quadrangles in Alaska. 

The Field Office does not require operational users to produce documents detailing their procedures and results. Information regarding these 

projects can be obtained by contacting the agency 

involved. 

Project Title: EROS Field Office Remote-Sensing 

Traimng Program 

Chief: David M. Carneggie 

Objective: To provide training in the use of 

remote-sensing data and techniques for resource 

inventory and assessment. Training courses are 

offered to satisfy needs identified in Alaska or at 

the request of a government agency. 

Status: Field Office and EROS Data Center personnel will conduct at least three one-week remotesensing training courses in FY 1982. Course topics 

include a remote-sensing course for geologic and 

hydrologic applications; an introduction to digital 

analysis techniques; and the use of remotely sensed 

data for land-cover mapping. Shorter workshops 

and seminars can be conducted on request. 

Courses are designed to introduce the principles of 

remote-sensing data acquisition and analysis and to 

demonstrate the application of remote-sensing technology for resource inventory and assessment. 

Courses are primarily for government agencies, but 

participants from the private sector may attend on a 

space-available basis. The Field Office also hosts 

training courses conducted by other agencies and 

provides instructors where appropriate. 

WEST- CENTRAL REGION 

Project Title: Development of a Geologic Digital Data 

Base for the Bendeleben and Solomon Quadrangles 

Chiefs: James E. York (EROS) and Alison Till 

(USGS, Geologic Division) 

Objectives: To demonstrate the usefulness of 

enhanced Landsat imagery and color-infrared aerial 

photographs, and to develop a digital geologic 

(geochemistry, aeromagnetics, gravity, and lithology) data base for assessing mineral potential. 
OESA 

50 100 IllES 

f--''-Jj-Ll T"j --'--,,c-11 50 100 150 lllOIETERS 

EXPLANATION 

1. Effects of Date and Phenology on Classification of Alaska Vegetation 

2. Vegetation Classification Using Landsat Data for Renewable Resources Evaluation Research for Alaska 

3. Land-Cover and Terrain Mapping on the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge 

4. Land-Cover and Terrain Mapping on Togiak National Wildlife Refuge 

5. Land-Cover and Terrain Mapping in the Bristol Bay Region 

6. Development of a Geologic Digital Base for the Bendeleben and Solomon AMRAP Area 

Figure 1.--0ffice of Earth Science Applications activities in Alaska carried out by the EROS Program. 

7 
OESA 

Status: Enhanced and enlarged (1:63,360-scale) 

Landsat images of the Bendeleben and parts of the 

Solomon quadrangles were produced early in FY 

1982 for planning field activities during the summer 

of 1982. High-altitude color-infrared aerial photographs also were acquired for preliminary interpretation of lithology and structure and for use as a 

base for recording field observations. Existing 

terrain (elevation, slope, aspect), geochemical, 

aeromagnetic, and gravity data are being digitized 

for entry into a digital data base. As more geochemical and geologic data become available, they 

too will be entered. The digital data base will be 

used to test models derived to identify target areas 

of high potential for the known minerals in the area. 

EAST- CENTRAL REGION 

Project Title: Effects of Date and Phenology on 

Classification of Alaska Vegetation Using Landsat 

Data 

Chiefs: Donald T. Lauer (EROS) and John Miller 

(Univ. of Alaska) 

Objectives: To conduct remote-sensing research to 

assist resource managers using Landsat data to 

classify vegetation. The research Is oriented 

toward determining the optimum dates on which to 

obtain Landsat data in order to produce the most 

accurate vegetation maps. The test area will 

include representative vegetation from Alaska's 

interior. The results will be particularly useful for 

large cover-mapping projects, such as for National 

Parks and Wildlife Refuges. 

Status: Seven cloud-free Landsat scenes that 

represent dates prior to, during, and following the 

growing period at a test site northeast of Fairbanks 

have been selected and processed. The Interactive 

Digital Image Manipulation System (I DIMS) was used 

in early FY 1982 to produce statistics (mean, standard deviation, and covariance matrices) for various 

cover types based on four bands of Landsat Multispectral Scanner data for each date. The statistics 

were produced from training sites selected by the 

analyst. A comparison of the statistics for different cover types on a given date and for the 

same cover type on several dates was made to 

determine the best time to obtain imagery for discriminating land-cover types. A preliminary 

assessment shows that differences between cover 

types in the test area are greatest during early 

July. Moreover, the study showed that the 

optimum date for digital analysis may not be optimal 

for manual analysis. 

Project Title: 

Landsat Data 

Research 

Vegetation Classification Using 

for Renewable-Resource Evaluation 

Chiefs: Mark B. Shasby (EROS), Vernon LaBau 

(U.S. Forest Service), Michael D. Fleming (EROS), 

and Ken Winterberger (U.S. Forest Service) 

Objective: To determine the accuracy of classifying 

vegetation at sample points by digital analysis of 

Landsat data. The U . S. Forest Service is com par8 

ing Landsat data, aerial photographs, and 

vegetation samples to determine optimum sampling 

procedures to collect data for the National Resource 

Inventory of the western half of the Tanana River 

basin. 

Status: Vegetation-cover maps have been produced 

for sample plots (20 acres each) that represent the 

intersections from a 5, 000-meter grid superimposed 

on the western half of the basin. The maps were 

produced using digital analysis procedures on the 

USGS-EROS Field Office Interactive Digital Image 

Manipulation System. Forest Service personnel will 

compare these maps with ground data and aerial 

photographs to assess classification accuracy. 

SOUTHWESTERN REGION 

Project Title: Land-Cover and Terrain Mapping in 

the Bristol Bay Region Using Digital Landsat Data 

Chiefs: Mark B. Shasby (EROS), Merlin Wibbenmeyer (Alaska Department of Natural Resources 

[ADNR]) and Jess Grunblatt (ADNR) 

Objectives: To produce land-cover maps for the 

Bristol Bay region (approximately 30 million acres). 

Status: The study originated in FY 1981 as a 

cooperative project between EROS and the State's 

Department of Natural Resources. EROS provided 

training to ADNR personnel and assisted in preprocessing and classifying four of 12 Landsat 

scenes. ADNR personnel completed preprocessing 

of the 12 scenes in December 1981. Preprocessing 

of digital terrain data was competed in January 

1982, and preliminary classifications were completed 

in February 1982. Final land-cover maps for the 

region are expected by mid-1982. Map scales will 

be 1:250,000 and 1:63,360. Digital Landsat cover 

classifications and terrain data for each 1:63,360-

scale quadrangle will be transferred to ADNR 's 

digital data base at the end of the project. 

Project Title: Land-Cover Mapping in the Togiak 

National Wildlife Refuge 

Chiefs: David M. Carneggie (EROS), Mark D. 

Shasby (EROS), Michael B. Fleming (EROS), and 

Steven Talbot (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) 

Objectives: To demonstrate the feasibility of producing a land-cover and terrain map using digital 

Landsat and terrain data, and to develop a digital 

data base for use in preparing a comprehensive 

plan for the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge. The 

study seeks to determine the cost effectiveness and 

accuracy of using digital Landsat data in conjunction with field data to produce land-cover maps. 

Digital terrain data will be used to improve cover 

classification and to produce terrain maps 

(elevation, slope, aspect). 

Status: Land-cover and terrain maps at a scale of 

1:250,000 have been produced for the U.S. Fish 

and Wildlife Service to be used in a comprehensive 

plan for the refuge (approximately 4 million acres). 

These maps were made available to the Bristol Bay 

Mapping Project of the Alaska Department of Natural 
Resources as input to the comprehensive plan for 

the Bristol Bay Subregion as mandated by Title 2 of 

the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation 

Act. Processing of digital Landsat (four scenes) 

and terrain data was completed by January 1982. 

The digital land-cover and terrain data are available 

for each of the Survey's 1: 63, 360-scale quadrangles 

in the refuge, and maps at this scale can be produced by either the EROS Field Office or U.S. Fish 

and Wildlife Service. The land-cover and terrain 

data will be transferred to digital data bases of the 

Alaska Department of Natural Resources and the 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 

SOUTHERN REGION 

Project Title: Land-Cover and Terrain Mapping in 

Kenai National Wildlife Refuge 

Chiefs: Mark B. Shasby (EROS) and Steven Talbot 

(U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) 

Objectives: To demonstrate the feasibility of produCing land-cover and terrain maps using digital 

Landsat data and terrain data, and to develop a 

digital data base for use in preparing a comprehensive plan for the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. 

The study seeks to deteiTline the cost effectiveness 

9 

OESA 

and accuracy of using digital Landsat data in conjunction with field data collection to produce landcover maps. Digital terrain data will be used in 

the study to improve cover classification and to 

produce terrain maps (elevation, slope, aspect). 

Status: Processing of two Landsat scenes and 

digital terrain data was completed in November 

1981. Land-cover and terrain maps of the refuge 

(approximately 2. 5 million acres) at a scale of 

1:250,000 have been produced for the U.S. Fish 

and Wildlife Service to be used in the comprehensive plan in preparation for_ the refuge. The maps 

are being evaluated in terms of accuracy and cost 

effectiveness. Land-cover and terrain data for each 

of the Survey 1: 63, 360-scale quadrangles in the 

refuge are part of the Field Office digital data 

base, and these maps, as well as combinations of 

these types of data, can be produced on request. 

The digital data base for the refuge also includes 

Spetzman's vegetation maps (available at 1:250,000 

for most quadrangles in Alaska and for viewing at 

the Department of the Interior's Alaska Resources 

Library, 701 C Street, Anchorage) and surficial 

geology. All digital resource data produced in this 

study will be transferred to the U.S. Fish and 

Wildlife Service digital data base at the completion 

of the study in late winter 1982. 
10 
Alaska Mapping • National Mapping Division 

Surveying on the south side of Kachemak Bay; Homer Spit in the background. 

For further information, contact the offices listed below. 

Anchorage, Alaska 

Paul D. Brooks 

Chief, Alaska Office, National Mapping Division 

218 E Street, Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 271-4149 

Cheryl A. Hallam 

Chief, National Cartographic Information Center 

218 E Street, Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4159 

Denver, Colorado 

John D. McLaurin 

Chief, Rocky Mountain Mapping Center 

National Mapping Division, Bldg. 2 5, 

Box 25046, 510 Denver Federal Center 

Lakewood, CO 80225 

Tel. (303) 234-2351 

11 

Reston, Virginia 

Rupert B. Southard 

Chief, National Mapping Division 

516 National Center, Reston, VA 22092 

Tel. ( 703) 860-6231 

Roy E. Fordham 

Chief, Eastern Mapping Center 

National Mapping Division 

567 National Center, Reston, VA 22092 

Tel. (703) 860-6352 

Richard E. Witmer 

Chief, Office of Geographic Research 

National Mapping Division 

521 National Center, Reston, VA 22092 

Tel. ( 703) 860-6341 

Menlo Park, California 

John R. Swinnerton 

Chief, Western Mapping Center 

National Mapping Division 

Mail Stop 31, Building 3 

345 Middlefield Road 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

Tel. (415) 323-2411 
ALASKA MAPPING 

ALASKA MAPPING 

The National Mapping Division is responsible 

for the preparation of maps, map products (including digital cartographic and geographic data) and 

research for the National Mapping Program. The 

Division also operates the National Cartographic 

Information Center (NCIC) which provides information on maps, aerial and space imagery, geodetic 

control, and other cartographic data. 

The Alaskan mapping program field activities 

are managed by the Chief, Alaska Office, with 

operational management support being provided by 

the Chief, Rocky Mountain Mapping Center in 

Denver, Colo., and the Chief, Eastern Mapping 

Center in Reston, Va. The Alaska Office, located 

in Anchorage, gathers and maintains files on cartographic material used in mapping. In addition, this 

office provides technical assistance in mapping to 

Federal and State agencies and to the public in 

obtaining cartographic data, photographic products, 

geodetic control, and base-map materials. 

Topographic maps at a scale of 1:63,360 

(1 inch = 1 mile) with contour intervals expressed 

in feet are available for about 8 5 percent of Alaska. 

Maps of an additional 10 percent of the State are in 

various stages of production at 1:63,360 scale with 

contour intervals in metric units. 

The Division plans to provide 1:25,000-scale 

(metric) maps for the agricultural, industrial, and 

urbanized areas of Alaska. Maps of the Anchorage 

area were published in FY 1980. Other areas for 

which maps are being prepared include Valdez, 

Seward, Cordova, Whittier, Willow, North Kenai, 

and, in newly authorized projects, Homer, 

Talkeetna, and Kodiak. 

The Division also prepares for each State 

indexes that show the topographic maps that have 

been published. The Alaska index is available free 

from the Division's Public Inquiries Office, Room 

108, Skyline Building, 508 Second Avenue, in 

Anchorage and the Map Distribution Office, Federal 

Building, Box 12, 101 Twelfth Avenue, in Fairbanks. In addition, a periodic index of publication 

status is also available free. For detailed information on revisions or current mapping status of 

specific areas, contact the Alaska Office, 218 E 

Street, in Anchorage. 

The National Mapping Division will continue to 

support the production of land plats of the public 

lands surveys of the Bureau of Land Management 

(BLM) in Alaska through the preparation of orthophoto products. In the past, the Division has 

provided horizontal geodetic control, but this 

support is no longer needed because BLM has 

developed sufficient capacity of their own. The 

Division also continues its supportive role in the 

State-Federal interagency program to obtain uniform 

high-altitude aerial photograph coverage for the 

entire State. This program will provide the photographic data base for map revision, orthophotoquad, 

and land-use land-cover mapping programs. 

Under a jointly funded agreement with the State of 

Alaska, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), 

12 

the Division is preparing orthophotoquad maps for 

selected high-priority areas in support of the 

State's Land Dispersal Programs. In addition, the 

Division has recently negotiated an agreement with 

DNR to provide technical assistance for the Alaska 

Resource Assessment Program. 

PROJECTS OF THE 

NATIONAL MAPPING DIVISION 

Projects of the National Mapping Division are 

described below. Those listed under the heading 

"Statewide" are not shown on the map. Figure 2 

shows all but two of the other projects. The 

regional headings are given for cross referencing 

with other divisions' work, but the regions are not 

shown in figure 2. 

STATEWIDE 

Project Title: Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act Maps - Boundary Series 

Chief: Roy E. Fordham 

Objectives: To provide a series of boundary maps 

to meet requirements mandated in Public Law 96-487, 

the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation 

Act. 

Status: Map series numbered 2 through 31 are 

complete and printed. Series number 1 is to be 

printed in FY 1982. Cost estimates have been 

provided for series numbers 33 through 36. 

Project Title: Alaska Orthophoto Products 

Chiefs: John D. McLaurin and Roy E. Fordham 

Objectives: To provide orthophoto products by full 

stereo-model at a scale of 1:31,680 for areas prioritized by the Bureau of Land Management. This 

program and the State of Alaska cost-share orthophotoquad program are intended to be mutually 

compatible. The individual models provided here 

will be used in producing full quadrangles for the 

State program. 

Status: In FY 1982, the nine project areas 

originally scaled by simple rectification will now be 

differentially scanned and expanded to provide full 

township area coverage. The 12 new groups begun 

in FY 1981 will also be completed. 

Project Title: Alaska Orthophotoquads 

Chiefs: John D. McLaurin, Roy E. Fordham, and 

John R. Swinnerton 

Objectives: To provide 1: 63, 360-scale orthophotoquad coverage in areas whose priority is designated 

by the State. This is a pilot program being accomplished under a joint funding agreement with the 

State of Alaska. 

Status: Existing geodetic control and photography 

availability is being evaluated for the highest 
priority requests outlined by the State. The FY 

1982 program will consist of approximately 112 

quadrangles. The future of a program for the 

remainder of the State will be decided after the 

pilot program is evaluated. 

Project Title: Alaska Map E 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objectives: To provide a limited reVIsion at a scale 

of 1:2,500,000 to include new legislative boundaries 

described in Public Law 96-487, the Alaska National 

Interest Lands Conservation Act. 

Status: Work will proceed when boundary information, including legal description, is complete. 

Project Title: Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act 1:250 ,000-scale Revision 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objectives: Provide limited revision for 1: 250,000-

scale maps in support of the implementation of the 

Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act. 

Status: Thirty-one quadrangles have been selected 

as high priority areas for possible work in FY 1982. 

One map has already been sent to publication, and 

six more are in progress. 

NORTHERN REGION 

Project Title: Arctic Alaska Landsat Land-Cover 

Mapping 

Chief: Leonard Gaydos 

Objectives: To produce vegetation land-cover maps 

and digital data using Landsat analysis techniques 

in arctic Alaska with the cooperation of interested 

agencies. Mapping is proceeding in three regions: 

the National Petroleum Reserve (NPRA), Prudhoe 

Bay and the Dalton Highway corridor, and the 

Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. 

Status: Final products from mapping land cover 

and vegetation using Landsat digital data for NPRA 

are being used and evaluated by the Bureau of 

Land Management. Geological Survey Open-File 

Report 81-0315 describes the results of the mapping in NPRA. 

Work continues in finalizing data for the Beechey 

Point quadrangle and in comparing manuscript maps 

with those produced by the National Wetland Inventory. 

Map 1-1443, with 12 classes of vegetation and land 

cover, is being prepared for the Arctic National 

Wildlife Refuge Environmental Impact Statement for 

the coastal plain. The scale is 1: 25 0, 000. This 

classification is being extended to cover additional 

areas in the refuge. 

Descriptions of the vegetation mapped in each of 

these areas have been compiled and compared with 

ALASKA MAPPING 

several classification systems in use in Alaska. 

Digital vegetation and land-cover maps of NPR A, 

the Dalton Highway, and Arctic National Wildlife 

Range originally prepared for Environmental 

Assessments -- are being adapted for issue as interim quadrangle maps at 1:250,000 scale in the 

nationwide land-use and land-cover L-series. 

Project Title: Tikikluk Orthophotoquads 

Chief: Roy E. Fordham 

Objectives: To provide 1:63, 360-scale orthophotoquads m a 12-quadrangle area of the North Slope 

and gas fields near Point Barrow. 

Status: The orthophotoquads were completed in 

mid-1981 and are now available as open-file material 

at the Rocky Mountain Mapping Center, Denver, 

Colo. 

Project Title: National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska 

Chiefs: John D. McLaurin and Roy E. Fordham 

Objective: To provide 1:63, 360-scale maps for that 

part of the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska 

presently mapped only at a scale of 1:250,000. 

Status: The project consists of 82 quadrangles 

originally compiled at a scale of 1: 50,000 with metric 

contours. Advance manuscript copy is available for 

the complete project area and may be ordered from 

the Rocky Mountain Mapping Center. Map-finishing 

operations that will convert the sheets to 1:63,360-

scale for publication have been started. 

13 

Project Title: Coal Resources Area, Northern 

Alaska 

Chiefs: Roy E. Fordham and John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To provide 1:63,360-scale maps of an 

area presently mapped only at 1: 250,000 scale. 

Status: The project consists of 45 quadrangles to 

be mapped at 1:63, 360-scale with metric contours. 

Aerotriangulation is complete for 36 of the quadrangles. Stereocompilation is completed for six 

quadrangles and will continue during FY 1982. 

Photographic coverage is not available for nine of 

the remaining quadrangles. 

Project Title: Demarcation Point 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To provide eleven 1:63, 360-scale maps 

of an area previously unmapped at this scale. 

Status: Advance manuscript copy is available and 

may be ordered from the Rocky Mountain Mapping 

Center. Map-finishing operations are in progress. 
ALASKA MAPPING 

54' 

~ \/ 

~"'"/ I 

10' 

I 

~~ 

14 

I I 

I 

I 

I 

I 

I 

171' 

/ 

-!-

/ 

/ SEA 

Figure 2 .--National Mapping Divi: 

ALASKA MAPPING 

Project Title: Table Mountain 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To provide thirty-eight 1: 63, 360-scale 

maps of an area previously unmapped at this scale. 

Status: Maps for 17 quadrangles have been published. Of the 21 quadrangles remaining in this 

?rea, t!lo are compiled and advance manuscript copy 

Is available from the Rocky Mountain Mapping 

Center, and 19 quadrangles are presently being compiled. 

WEST- CENTRAL REGION 

Project Title: Hughes - Shungnak 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To provide 1:63,360-scale maps of an 

area previously mapped only at the 1:250,000 scale. 

Status: The project area consists of 50 quadrangles that will be mapped with metric contours. 

Aerotriangulation has been completed, and compilation of 46 quadrangles is scheduled for contract 

completion during FY 1982. The remaining four 

quadrangles will be compiled at the Eastern Mapping Center. 

EAST- CENTRAL REGION 

Project Title: Christian East 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To provide 1: 63, 360-scale maps of an 

area previously unmapped at this scale. 

Status: Map finishing operations of the four quadrangles in this area are scheduled for completion in 

FY 1982. 

SOUTHERN REGION 

Project Title: Talkeetna 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To satisfy the first priority request of 

the Alaska State Mapping Advisory Committee for 

1:25, 000-scale mapping. 

Status: The project consists of eight 1: 25, 000-scale 

maps with metric contours. Mapping photography 

was flown in 1981, and field operations will com- mence in FY 1982. 

Project Title: Willow South 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objectives: To provide large-scale maps of the new State capital site near Willow. 

Status: The project consists of four 1:25, 000-scale 

maps with metric contours. Advance manuscript 

16 

copy is available and may be ordered from the 

Rocky Mountain Mapping Center. 

Project Title: North Kenai 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To provide 41 large-scale maps for an 

area that covers the towns of Kenai and Soldotna, 

the industrial complex north of Kenai, areas along 

Sterling Highway in the National Moose Range, and 

recreation areas. 

Status: Geodetic computations of the field surveys are complete for the 41 quadrangles in the project 

area, and map compilation at 1:25,000-scale with 

metric contours will follow. 

Project Title: Homer 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To provide large-scale maps with metric 

contours for the part of the southern end of the 

Kenai Peninsula including the towns of Homer and 

Seldovia. 

Status: Horizontal and vertical control necessary 

for compilation of the twenty-seven 1:25,000-scale 

maps in the project area is complete. Classification 

will be completed in the summer of 1982. Geodetic 

computations of the field surveys are in progress, 

and map compilation at a scale of 1:25,000 and with 

metric contours will follow. 

Project Title: Whittier 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To provide large-scale maps of Whittier, 

Portage, and the Turnagain Arm area south of 

Anchorage. 

Status: The project consists of seven 1: 25,000-

scale quadrangles with metric contours. Aerotriangulation is complete, and the maps are scheduled to be compiled during FY 1982. 

Project Title: Seward 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To provide large-scale maps of the 

Seward area and vicinity. 

Status: The project consists of six 1:25, 000-scale 

quadrangles with metric contours. Five quadrangles are available in advance manuscript form 

and may be ordered from the Rocky Mountain Mapping Center. The remaining quadrangle will be 

compiled in FY 1982. 

Project Title: Valdez 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 
Objective: To provide large-scale maps for the city 

of Valdez and the surrounding area. 

Status: The project consists of five 1:25, 000-scale 

maps with metric contours. Compilation is complete, 

and the map-finishing operations are scheduled for 

FY 1982-83. 

Project Title: Cordova 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To provide large-scale maps of the town 

of Cordova and vicinity. 

Status: The project consists of four 1: 25, 000-scale 

quadrangles with metric contours. These quadrangles have been compiled, and advance copy of 

the compilation manuscripts is available. Mapfinishing operations have been started; completion 

is expected in FY 1983. 

Project Title: Chugach National Forest Map 

Revision 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To satisfy the first priority request of 

the U.S. Forest Service for revision of 36 quadrangles at a scale of 1:63,360. 

Status: Work in this area is being deferred pendi'iigreceipt of National Aeronautics and Space 

Administration photography. 

Project Title: Bering Glacier - Mount St. Elias 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To provide 1: 63, 360-scale maps in an 

area previously unmapped at this scale. 

Status: These two projects consist of 50 quadrangles at 1:63,360-scale. Five maps of areas along 

the coast of the Gulf of Alaska have been compiled 

and are available in advance manuscript copy. 

Compilation of the eight remaining quadrangles in 

the ''A" and "D" rows of the Bering Glacier 

1: 250, 000-scale quadrangles will be completed in FY 

1982. The 37 quadrangles in the Mount St. Elias 

project area will be compiled under contract, with 

expected completion in FY 1982. 

Project Title: Bering Glacier, McCarthy, and 

Valdez Land-Use Maps 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To prepare three Land-Use and LandCover maps at 1:250,000-scale. 

Status: Preliminary reconnaissance has been completed, and the maps should be completed by the 

end of FY 1983. The quadrangles are shown on the 

figure but not identified as a discrete project. 

17 

ALASKA MAPPING 

Project Title: Alaska Topographic-Bathymetric Maps 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To provide 1: 250, 000-scale topographicbathymetric maps of the Alaska Peninsula and Cook 

Inlet areas in support of the Bureau of Land Management's Outer Continental Shelf and other coastal 

zone studies. 

Status: The project consists of sixteen 1:250,000-

scale quadrangles to be prepared under the 

Geological Survey-National Oceanographic Survey 

(NOS) joint topographic-bathymetric mapping agreement. NOS plans to provide the bathymetric data 

for one remaining quadrangle, and the Survey plans 

to add these data to the topographic maps during 

FY 1982. Fifteen quadrangles have been shipped to 

NOS for completion of the bathymetric overlay and 

registration. The project's study area can be 

found on the figure, but it is not specifically 

identified there. 

SOUTHWESTERN REGION 

Project Title: Kodiak 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To provide large-scale maps for the 

port and town of Kodiak. 

Status: Attempts_ during 1980 and 1981 to acquire 

aerial photography for 12 quadrangles in the project 

area were not completely successful. Until problems 

with photography acquisition are solved, the horizontal and vertical geodetic control for the compilation of the 1:25, 000-scale maps with metric 

contours must be deferred. 

Project Title: Port Moller 

Chief: John D. McLaurin 

Objective: To provide eight 1: 63, 360-scale maps of 

the Port Moller area presently mapped only at a 

scale of 1:250,000. 

Status: Advance copy of the compilation manuscripts is available for the eight quadrangles. 

Map-finishing operations are expected to be completed by FY 1983. 

Project Title: Ugashik 

Chief: Lee Bender 

Objective: To develop a series of radar image maps 

at 1:250,000 scale by screenless lithography. 

Status: The project consists of four radar image 

mosaics, two from the MARS real aperture system 

and two from the GEMS synthetic aperture system. 

Stereo strips are also included. Printing should be 

complete in summer 1982. 
18 
Regulation· Minerals Management Service 

Construction of a gravel island for offshore drilling ; the hanging cloth is a filter that protects the island's sediment base from erosion. 

The Minerals Management Service oversees this kind of activity. 

For further information, contact the offices listed below. 

Anchorage, Alaska 

Joseph M. Jones 

Irven F. Palmer Jr. 

Rodney A. Smith 

James E. Callahan 

Robert E. Goff 

Reston, Virginia 

Andrew Bailey 

Minerals Manager, Alaskan Region 

800 A Street, Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 271-4304 

Deputy Minerals Manager 

Offshore Resource Evaluation 

800 A Street, Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 271-4361 

Deputy Minerals Manager 

Offshore Field Operations 

800 A Street, Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 271-4303 

Deputy Minerals Manager 

Onshore Resource Evaluation 

411 W. 4th Ave., Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 271-4361 

Deputy Minerals Manager 

Onshore Field Operations 

411 W. 4th Ave., Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 271-4356 

Acting Chief, Minerals Management Service 

600 National Center, Reston, VA 22092 

Tel. (703) 860-7581 

19 
MINERALS MANAGEMENT SERVICE 

RESOURCE EVALUATION 

AND LEASE REGULATION 

The recently established Minerals Management 

Service 1 examines and classifies Federal lands 

according to their mineral resources and waterpower 

or water-storage values, determines fair-market 

values of tracts offered for lease in competitive 

onshore and offshore sales, and supervises exploration and development for leases on the Outer Continental Shelf ( 0 CS) and on Federal, Indian, and 

national petroleum reserve lands. In addition, the 

Service maintains accounts and collects rentals and 

royalties from petroleum production on Federal 

lands. 

Consistent with national concern for environmental protection, the Service's regulations and 

procedures are frequently reappraised and revised 

to avoid or lessen consequences that may result 

from pollution incidents, surface damage from mining, geothermal, or petroleum operations, and other 

hazards that may be associated with activities 

conducted under leases or prospecting permits. 

The Minerals Management Service performs the 

following functions in Alaska: 

Resource Evaluation 

Pre-Sale Reports.-- Several years before lease 

sales, scheduled dates of which are shown in table 

1, the Service acquires and interprets geological 

and geophysical data and then prepares reports and 

background material on lease sale areas (fig. 3; 

table 1). This work is closely coordinated with the 

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and other 

Federal and State agencies. Geologic, exploration, 

and development reports are prepared in cooperation with the Survey's Geologic Division. These 

reports consist of information on the stratigraphy, 

structure, petroleum resource potential, environmental geology and geologic hazards, technology, 

time-frame, and infrastructure needed for exploration and development. This information is then 

made available to the BLM for incorporation into 

Environmental Impact Statements pertaining to OCS 

and onshore Planning Areas. The Department of 

the Interior selects sale areas based on the data 

from the geologic reports, other geologic and geophyical data that may exist at the time before the 

sale, and on industry interest. 

Resource Estimates 

The Geologic Division estimates petroleum 

resources for geologic basins using volumetric yield 

methods. These estimates are revised periodically 

when new data become available. Before lease area 

selection, more refined estimates are made by the 

Deputy Minerals Managers (DMM's) for Offshore 

(ORE) and Onshore Resource Evaluation (ONRE). 

These estimates are further refined by detailed 

structural mapping and analysis as part of the 

evaluation process that continues right up to the 

lease sale date. 

The DMM-ORE supervises the resource evaluation, mineral inventory, and classification of lands 

1 Formerly Conservation Division. 

20 

for all leasable mineral commodities on Federal Outer 

Continental Shelf lands. Approximately 75 percent 

of the data interpreted by the Minerals Management 

Service are proprietary. In accordance with sections 8 (g) and 26 of the OCS Lands Act, the 

DMM-ORE cooperates with designated State officials 

to provide them access to proprietary data. The 

DMM-ORE provides for protection of proprietary 

data and for the timely release of nonproprietary 

data. Regional interpretations and sale-areaspecific and tract-economic evaluations are also 

managed by the DMM-ORE who insures that the 

public receives fair-market value for oil and gas 

resources on the OCS. 

Onshore Federal lands in Alaska are evaluated 

and classified for leasable minerals and geothermal 

energy resources by the DMM-ONRE. Leasable 

minerals in Alaska include oil and gas, coal, oil 

shale, and phosphate. 

The ONRE organization in the Alaska Region 

was established as a separate entity in 1980 primarily to meet provisions in two recent acts: ( 1) 

the FY 1981 Interior Appropriations Bill, which 

included competitive oil and gas leasing in the 

National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska (NPRA), and 

(2) the Alaska National InteresCLands Conservation 

Act (ANILCA) that establishes an oil and gas leasing program in Alaska for all Federal lands south of 

the Brooks Range and North Slope lands east of 

NPRA. In addition to these Federal leasing programs, the ONRE organization prepares mineral 

reports for surface management agencies, including 

economic evaluation of tracts requiring a fair-market 

value determination for exchanges or conveyances. 

Geologic Hazards.--High-resolution seismic data 

and shallow core hole data are used to delineate 

areas in proposed lease sale areas where geologic 

conditions are dangerous for man-made structures. 

These potential hazards are made known to the 

public so that mitigating measures can be taken 

during leasing, exploration, and production. 

Tract Evaluation. --The Minerals Management 

Service makes detailed prospect and tract evaluations for each geologic structure in a sale area from 

all available geologic and geophysical data. Using a 

Monte Carlo Range of Values Program, a net 

present value is calculated for each tract. These 

values serve as a basis for accepting or rejecting 

bids for tracts during the lease sale. 

Regulatory Activities 

The Minerals Management Service supervises 

and inspects oil and gas exploration and production 

operations on Federal lands to insure safety, prevent pollution, and assure environmental protection. 

These activities are carried out by personnel from 

the Deputy Minerals Manager-Offshore Field Operations and Onshore Field Operations (DMM-OFO and 

-ONFO) offices. Before activities may begin in a 

proposed operational area, all proposals, plans, and 

permits must be approved by the Minerals Management Service. In addition, environmental assessments are required that determine the potential for 

environmental impacts in the proposed operational 

areas. Special regulations have been developed for 
MINERALS MANAGEMENT SERVICE 

··········· Continental shelf 

60° - Existing oil and gas fields 

KODIAK 

Figure 3. -- Location of Outer Continental Shelf basins. 

Table 1. - - Oil and gas leasing schedule for onshore and offshore areas of Alaska. 

1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 

NAT'L PET. RES. - AK Ill II Ill sl NS I I I lEI I 1F 1 1N 1

5

1111 1 I I I I II II I I I I I I II I I I I I I I I I I I 

60 - COOK INLET F P GRNS 

71 - DIAPIR FIELD E H ~ ~NS 

57 - NORTON BASIN F P ~NS 

70- ST. GEORGE BASIN H F p ~ NS 

7 5 - N. ALEUTIAN BASIN E H ~ ~NS 

83- NAVARIN BASIN ~ I CD A E H F R p ~NS 

87 - DIAPIR FIELD A I 

I R CiD A E H ~ ~NS 

88 - NORTON BASIN R I 

I R CD A E H ~ ~NS 

89 - ST. GEORGE BASIN ~ ~ CD A E H ~ ~NS 

85- BARROW ARCH 7 I CD A E H ~ ~ NS R 

92 - N. ALEUTIAN BASIN R A 1 CD A E H ~ ~NS 

86 - HOPE BASIN CD A E H ~ ~NS 

100 -s. ALASKA I* CDA E H ~ ~NS 

107- NAVARIN BASIN CD A E H ~ ~NS 

97 - DIAPIR FIELD CD A E H ~ ~NS 

99 -NORTON BASIN CD A E H ~ ~NS 

101 - ST. GEORGE BASIN CD A E H ~ ~NS 

RS-2 REOFFERING SALE 11111111111 I~ ~~"1~11 I II 11111111111 11111111111 11111111111 IIIII LLJU I 

C - Call for information D · Information due A · Area selection E- Draft environmental statement H- Public hearing F - Final 

environmental statement P - Proposed notice of sale G -Governor's comments due R -Energy review N- Notice of sale S- Sale 

Rl- Request infrastructure IR- Infrastructure report due *Includes Cook Inlet, Shumagin, Kodiak, Gulf of Alaska 

21 
MINERALS MANAGEMENT SERVICE 

Alaska and its environment, and Minerals Management Service geologists, geophysicists, petroleum 

engineers, and environmental experts review all 

exploration plans to insure compliance with these 

regulations . 

On-site inspectors monitor each phase of 

exploration, development, and production. These 

inspectors are specially trained petroleum engineering technicians who are familiar with arctic conditions. During operational activities, the Service's 

environmental specialists enforce the restrictions of 

the lease stipulations for each exploration site. 

These restrictions are designed to minimize possible 

impacts. 

Offshore activities.--At the present time, 

industry holds leases in three areas in the Alaskan 

OCS: the Gulf of Alaska, Lower Cook Inlet, and the 

Beaufort Sea. Seventeen additional lease sales are proposed for Alaskan waters in the next 5 years, 

and two sales are planned for 198 7. 

A gravel island drilling site was constructed 

on Beaufort Sea Lease Y-0191 about 15 miles northeast of Prudhoe Bay. Approval for the construction was obtained in February 1981 from the 

DMM-OFO for Alaska Region. Despite several arctic 

storms that halted work, Exxon, the designated 

operator, completed the island on April 9, 1981. 

Several kinds of instruments have been installed in 

the island to monitor temperatures, displacement, 

and settlement. Minerals Management Service 

personnel provided on-site monitoring throughout 

construction and will continue to monitor the island 

during drilling. 

Drilling operations are taking place on Federally managed leases in the Beaufort Sea, and 

plans have been submitted to drill four deep stratigraphic test wells in the Bering Sea. With 

continued exploration on leases and with the number 

of new proposed sales, there will likely be an 

increase in exploration activity and an attendant 

increase in the regulatory responsibility of this 

office. 

Onshore activities.--There are seven gas and 

three oil unit agreements in effect on Federal lands 

adjacent to Cook Inlet. All of the oil units and 

three of the gas units are producing at this time. 

In the oil fields and one of the gas fields, development drilling is currently underway and should 

continue for the next several years. 

In January 1982, the BLM held a lease sale of 

1. 5 million acres of land on NPRA. This sale and 

others on NPRA are expected to generate exploration drilling; the sale is the first of the noncompetitive oil and gas leasing of other Federal lands 

in Alaska. The inspection requirements and other 

regulatory activities of the ONFO office will be 

increased accordingly. 

Special Studies 

The Service has several special projects under 

way that will provide data for appraisal and regulation of Federal mineral and oil and gas resources. 

These projects include one geologic study to define 

22 

the extent of coal resources, four geologic studies 

to help define the petroleum reservoir and sourcerock potential of basins, four paleontologic studies 

to support oil and gas exploration activities, and 

five geophysical and · geotechnical studies to provide 

detailed environmental data on seafloor surficial 

geology and foundation conditions in future OCS 

lease sale areas. These projects are described in 

detail in the following section. 

In addition, because of the Minerals Management Service's involvement with leasing activity in 

the area, the Minerals Management Service is assisting in the preparation of an Environmental Impact 

Statement on the oil and gas exploration regulations 

for the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge which is 

scheduled to be completed in August 1982. 

PROJECTS OF THE 

MINERALS MANAGEMENT SERVICE 

NORTHERN REGION 

Project Title: Coal Resources of National Petroleum 

Reserve m Alaska (NPRA) 

Chief: James E. Callahan 

Objectives: To determine identified and hypothetical coal resources in western N PR A for use in 

land-use planning and to delineate areas suitable 

for leasing. 

Status: The project is of an indefinite term and 

il'aSbeen dependent in recent years on timing and 

location of oil and gas exploratory _activity in the 

petroleum reserve. Data on coal bed thickness, 

quality, and distribution acquired from shot holes 

during the 1980 seismic program are being integrated with existing data for the Wainwright and 

Utukok River topographic quadrangles. An attempt 

is also being made to project surface and nearsurface data into available seismic record sections 

for structural control and to provide approximate 

stratigraphic ties to coal zones logged in several 

coastal plain exploratory wells. The data acquisition phase of this project was terminated with 

completion of government oil and gas exploration in 

NPRA. Data will be compiled and analyzed as time 

permits, subject to higher priority work on evaluation of NPRA for oil and gas leasing. 

The project location is shown in figure 4. 

Project Title: Alaska Conodont Biostratigraphy and 

Thermal Maturity Study 

Chief: John A. Larson 

Objectives: To refine the biostratigraphy and 

establish thermal maturity of Paleozoic and Triassic 

rocks in potential oil-producing areas in and relating to the Alaska Outer Continental Shelf by processing well-cutting and outcrop samples and 

examining the conodonts. Conodont biostratigraphy 

has become well established in the conterminous 

United States, in Canada, and in Europe. Cono-
MINERALS MANAGEMENT SERVICE 

IOOMILES 

1--'''TI-'--,---'--TI-'1 

50 150 KILOMETERS 

1. Coal Resources of National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska 

2. Conodont Biostratigraphy and Thermal Maturity Study 

3. Shallow Geology of the Beaufort Outer Continental Shelf 

ARCTIC 

CHRISTIAN 

Figure 4. -- Minerals Management Service activities in northern Alaska. 

50 100 MILES 

McGRATH 

1--'''TI-LI 'I --'--TI-'1 

50 100 150 KILOMETERS 

EXPLANATION 

1. Biostratigraphy and Paleoenvironments of the Outer Continental Shelf in the Sale 39 Area, Gulf of Alaska. 

2. Lower Cook Inlet Basin Analysis 

3. Shallow Geology of the Eastern Gulf of Alaska Outer Continental Shelf 

4. Lower Cook Inlet Stratigraphic Study 

Figure 5. --Minerals Management Service activities in southern Alaska. 

23 
MINERALS MANAGEMENT SERVICE 

dont colors are accurate indicators of the thermal 

history of the enclosing rock. Potential targets for 

this study include the Shublik and older formations 

in the Prudhoe Bay area, the Brooks Range, and 

Cape Lisburne and the Triassic and (or) Paleozoic 

section from Continental Offshore Stratigraphic Test 

(COST) wells. The project will eventually be 

carried out statewide. Figure 4 shows the current 

study area, but some work is being done in the 

Goodnews Bay, Iliamna, Teller, and Seldovia 

quadrangles as well. 

Status: The project is in early planning stages, 

and personnel are seeking to develop a program for 

sampling outcrops in the above-mentioned areas and 

to acquire from Prudhoe Bay area wells the large 

amount of well cuttings required for this research. 

Rock crushing equipment is needed. Expansion and 

refinement of existing lab facilities will have to 

precede acid processing of samples and subsequent 

heavy-liquid separation of residues that may contain 

conodonts. 

The project location is shown in figure 4. 

Project Title: Shallow Geology of the Beaufort 

Outer Continental Shelf 

Chiefs: Glenn P. Thrasher and James D. Craig 

Objectives: To identify geologic features and 

processes that might represent hazards or constraints to petroleum exploration in the area of Oil 

and Gas Lease Sale 71. Additional objectives are to 

locate potential sources of gravel for construction of 

offshore facilities and better to understand the 

subsea permafrost conditions in the area. 

Status: High-resolution geophysical data were 

collected over Harrison Bay, about one-half of the 

sale area, during the summer of 1980. Data were 

also collected from previously drilled core holes to 

obtain stratigraphic and permafrost control. Project 

products will include maps showing bathymetry, 

shallow geology, environmental geology, and ice 

scour features . 

The project location is shown in figure 4. 

SOUTHERN REGION 

Project Title: Biostratigraphy and Paleoenvironments of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) in the 

Sale 39 Area, Gulf of Alaska 

Chiefs: Ronald F. Turner and John A. Larson 

Objectives: To make a detailed biostratigraphic, 

lithologic, and paleoenvironmental analysis of three 

Gulf of Alaska Outer Continental Shelf wells 

( Y -0007, Y -0032, and Y -0080) that penetrate 

through the glaciomarine Yakataga Formation in sale 

area 39. This analysis will involve recovery, 

identification, and analysis of microfossils such as 

foraminifers, diatoms, radiolarians, dinoflagellates, 

and nanoplankton from well samples, and examination of rock cuttings contained in the samples. 

Detailed biostratigraphic analysis of these wells will 

provide a correlation base for projection to and 

24 

comparison with wells drilled on tracts leased in the 

recent Gulf of Alaska OCS Sale 55 and with any 

subsequent wells on the Kodiak Shelf. Paleoenvironmental analysis will provide an additional tool 

for locating the most favorable parts of the Gulf of 

Alaska OCS geologic section for petroleum source 

and reservoir rocks and for projecting the lateral 

trends of these rocks. 

Status: This study is part of a larger, continuing 

project. Mud samples from three wells have been 

washed for recovery of foraminifers. Preliminary 

biostratigraphy based on foraminifers has been 

completed for wells Y -0007 and Y -0032; work on 

Y-0080 is nearing completion. Processing for other 

microfossil groups will be undertaken following 

upgrading and expansion of laboratory facilities. 

Study of siliceous microfossils is in abeyance. 

The project location is shown in figure 5. 

Project Title: Lower Cook Inlet Basin Analysis 

Chiefs: John G. Bolm, John Larson, and Ronald F. 

Turner 

Objectives: To integrate data from exploratory 

wells in lower Cook Inlet with seismic data and 

information from wells and outcrops in surrounding 

areas and to develop a regional framework for use 

in tract selection and evaluation for future oil and 

gas lease sales. 

Status: Project work began in mid -1981. The 

comprehensive interpretive report will remain inhouse until proprietary data used in the study have 

been released to the public. 

The project location is shown in figure 5. 

Project Title: Shallow Geology of the Eastern Gulf 

of Alaska Outer Continental Shelf 

Chiefs: Bruce W. Turner and Glenn P. Thrasher 

Objectives: To carry out investigations of surficial 

geology on the eastern Gulf of Alaska Outer Continental Shelf between Malaspina Glacier and Dry 

Bay. Of particular importance is the identification 

of geologic features and conditions that might 

represent hazards or constraints to petroleum 

exploration. 

Status: During the summer of 1979, 5, 580 linekilometers of multisystem, high-resolution geophysical data was collected offshore on a rectangular grid between Malaspina Glacier and Dry Bay. 

Bathymetric, geologic, isopach, and geologic 

hazards maps are in review. 

The project location is shown in figure 5. 

Project Title: Lower Cook Inlet Stratigraphic Study 

Chiefs: John G. Bolm and William M. Lyle (State of 

Alaska) 
Objectives: To collect reservoir and source-rock 

data from outcrops of rocks along the east side of 

lower Cook Inlet for use in overall analysis of the 

basin. 

Status: This is a cooperative project with the State 

of Alaska, Division of Geological and Geophysical 

Surveys. Fieldwork was completed during the summer of 1981, and a report describing the results 

of the project is being drafted. 

The project location in shown in figure 5. 

WEST-CENTRAL REGION 

Project Title: Shallow Geology of Norton Basin, 

Bering Sea 

Chiefs: David A. Steffy and Peter J. Hoose 

Objectives: To map the near-surface geology of the 

Norton Sound sedimentary basin and to identify and 

map features such as shallow gas accumulations, 

shallow or minor faults, and unstable sediments that 

may constitute hazards or constraints to petroleum 

exploration or development activities in the area of 

Oil and Gas Lease Sale 57. 

Status: Data acquisition is complete. About 5,800 

line-kilometers of multisystem seismic data has been 

collected, and interpretation began in January 1981. 

The following maps have been released to the open 

file: bathymetric map (81-0719), Holocene isopach 

map (81-0720), selected geologic features map (81-

0721) , acoustic anomalies and near-surface faulting 

map ( 81-0722), and an Upper Tertiary and Quaternary isopach map (81-0723). 

The project location is shown in figure 6. 

Project Title: Conodont Biostratigraphy and 

Thermal Maturity in the Minchumina Basin 

Chief: John A. Larson 

Objectives: To acquire conodont material from the 

Minchumina Basin area for biostratigraphic study 

and for evaluation of the thermal maturity as indicated by conodont color. The data will be useful in 

regional comparisons and analysis of biostratigraphy 

and thermal maturity of sedimentary basins in 

Federal onshore lease areas (National Petroleum 

Reserve in Alaska) and offshore areas (northern 

Aleutian Shelf, St. George Basin, and the like). 

Status: This project is part of a joint FederalState investigation of the stratigraphy and structure of the Minchumina Basin. Bulk samples to be 

processed for conodonts were collected in June 1981 

from localities in the White Mountain, Limestone 

Mtn., and Lone Mountain areas in the Minchumina 

Basin. The study results will be offered for publication in the State Geological and Geophysical 

Surveys open-file series. 

The project location is shown in figure 6. 

25 

MINERALS MANAGEMENT SERVICE 

SOUTHWESTERN REGION 

Project Title: Taxonomy, Ecology, and Bathymetric 

Distribution of Fossil and Recent Bryozoa, Kodiak 

Shelf, Gulf of Alaska 

Chief: Ronald F. Turner 

Objectives: To make detailed taxonomic and 

ecologic analysis of the fossil and modern fauna and 

flora of the Albatross Bank, Kodiak Shelf, with 

special emphasis on the bryozoans. Sediment type 

and distribution will be analyzed with reference to 

faunal distribution, source, and tectonic setting. 

The recent tectonic evolution of this area of the 

shelf will be interpreted using changes in bathymetrically sensitive components of the fauna and 

flora. 

Status: Sampling, initial processing, and mapping 

have been completed; integration of seismic lines is 

incomplete. Work on this project is continuing. 

The project location is shown in figure 7. 

Project Title: Lower Cook Inlet-Shelikof Strait 

Field Project - 1981 

Chiefs: Thomas N. Smith and George W. Petering 

Objectives: To investigate potential reservoir and 

source rocks in upland areas adjacent to proposed 

Outer Continental Shelf sale areas in preparation 

for tract selection and block evaluations. To 

gather additional information on a quartz-rich 

sandstone of Upper Jurassic age . 

Status: Open-File Report 81-0021, "Stratigraphic 

Sections, Hallo Bay to Katmai Bay, Shelikof Strait, 

Alaska, 1979", describes some of the project's 

results. 

The project location is shown in figure 7. 

Project Title: Shallow Geology of St. George Basin, 

Southern Bering Sea 

Chief: C. Drew Comer 

Objectives: To map the near-surface geology of the 

St. George Basin and to identify features such as' 

shallow faults, shallow gas accumulation, and 

unstable sediments that may constitute hazards or 

constraints to petroleum exploration or development 

activities in the area of Oil and Gas Lease Sale 70. 

Status: High-resolution geophysical data collected 

in 1980 have been interpreted and merged with 

previously collected data. A bathymetric map has 

been completed and is undergoing technical review, 

an isopach map and a shallow structure map are 

near completion, and a map of geologic hazards is 

being prepared. 

The project location is shown in figure 1. 
MINERALS MANAGEMENT SERVICE 

EXPLANATION 

1. Shallow Geology of Norton Basin, Bering Sea 

2. Conodont Biostratigraphy and Thermal Maturity Study in the Minchumina Basin 

Figure 6. --Minerals Management Service activities in west-central Alaska. 

50 100 MILES 

1--....J'Lyi-Ll 'I -'--,-1 -ll 

50 100 150 K I LOMETERSCAPE MENDENHALL 

S E A 

c 

SIMEONOF I. 0 c A 

EXPLANATION 

1. Taxonomy, Ecology and Bathymetric Distribution of Fossil and Recent Bryozoa, Kodiak Shelf, Gulf of Alaska 

2. Lower Cook Inlet - Shelikof Strait Field Program 

3. Shallow Geology of St. George Basin, Southern Bering Sea 

4. St. George Basin Field Project 

5. Shallow Geology of the Northern Aleutian Shelf, Bering Sea 

Figure 7. -- Minerals Management Service activities in southwestern Alaska. 

26 
Project Title: St. George Basin Field Project 

Chiefs: Thomas N. Smith and George W. Petering 

Objective: To sample the Pribilof Island sedimentary rocks and assess their reservoir- and sourcerock potential. 

Status: Porosity and permeability data were collected in 1981. Petrographic analysis is underway. 

The project location is shown in figure 5. 

Project Title: Shallow Geology of the Northern 

Aleutian Shelf, Bering Sea 

27 

MINERALS MANAGEMENT SERVICE 

Chief: Peter J. Hoose 

Objectives: To map the near-surface geologic 

enVIronment of Bristol Bay and Amak Basins. Of 

particular importance is the identification of geologic 

features and conditions that might constitute 

hazards or constraints to hydrocarbon exploration 

in the areas of Oil and Gas Lease Sale 75. 

Status: During the 1981 summer field season, 

approximately 4,000 line-kilometers of multisensored, 

high-resolution geophysical data were collected. 

Reproduced data arrived and interpretation began 

in the late fall of 1981. No fieldwork is planned for 

1982. 

Project location is shown in figure 7. 
28 
Camp Lonely 

For further information , contact the offices listed below. 

Anchorage , Alaska 

George Gryc , Chief; or 

Max Brewer, Chief, Operations 

Office 

Office of National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska 

2525 C Street, Suite 400 

Anchorage, AK 99503 

Tel. (907) 276-7422 

29 
ONPRA 

OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL PETROLEUM 

RESERVE IN ALASKA 

During FY 1981, the U.S. Geological Survey 

completed the operational phase of the petroleum 

exploration on the National Petroleum Reserve in 

Alaska (NPRA) begun by the Navy in 1974. Responsibility for the exploration program on the 

Reserve was transferred from the Department of the 

Navy to the Department of the Interior on June 1, 

1977, in accordance with the Naval Petroleum 

Reserves Act of 1976. The Geological Survey was 

assigned the responsibility of continuing the 

petroleum exploration program and other activities 

initiated by the Department of the Navy, namely to: 

* Explore and evaluate the petroleum resources of NPRA by means of drilling and geological 

and geophysical investigations; 

* Continue to develop and produce natural gas 

from the South Barrow gas field or other fields 

as may be necessary to supply gas at reasonable and equitable rates to the Native village 

of Barrow and other communities and Federal 

installations in the vicinity of Barrow; and 

* Continue environmental rehabilitation of those areas of the Reserve disturbed by previous 

exploration activities. 

In FY 1982, the Office of National Petroleum 

Reserve in Alaska (ONPRA) will be closed out, and 

all contin_uing responsibilities will be taken over by 

other offices, namely the Geologic Division and the 

Minerals Management Service (formerly the Conservation Division). During FY 1982, ONPRA will (1) 

complete the cleanup and rehabilitation of activity 

sites and return management to the Bureau of Land 

Management; (2) complete the public release of all 

technical information; (3) plan and contract for the 

continuation of operation of the Barrow gas fields; 

and ( 4) inventory and assign all technical files to 

other Geological Survey offices. 

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FISCAL YEAR 1981 PROGRAM 

During FY 1981, six exploration wells were 

completed. Since 197 4, 28 wells (table 1, figure 8.) 

have been drilled, for a total of 283,877 feet of 

borehole, on 26 "structures". Husky Oil NPR 

Operations, Inc. , continued as contractor for drilling in 1981. At the completion of drilling, all 

contractor equipment and the drilling rigs were 

demobilized from the Reserve, and all materials 

equipment, and supplies were removed from th~ Reserve, surplused, or transferred to Barrow for use in operating and maintaining the Barrow gas 

fields. The base camp at Point Lonely was closed 

on December 6, 1981. 

One geophysical party acquired 590-line miles 

of seismic data in 1981. The geophysical program 

was designed to study Cretaceous and Jurassic 

sandstones penetrated by the North Inigok and 

Walakpa wells. The seismic data were collected in areas of the Reserve where industry has expressed 

interest in early leasing on NPRA. Geophysical 

Services, Inc. was the contractor for field seismic 

data collection and processing, and Tetra Tech, 

Inc. provided technical services, including interpretation of the seismic data. 

The Geological Survey continued to operate the 

South Barrow gas field. Construction continued on surface facilities at the newer East Barrow gas field 

in preparation for production from five wells during 

winter of 1981-82. 

Environmental rehabilitation activities continued 

on the Reserve. More than 380 tons of debris and 

waste materials from old construction and drilling 

sites was collected. 

Data on wells finished in FY 1980 were 

released to the public. All geophysical data from 

1974 through FY 1980 have also been released. 

Weekly summaries of drilling data and well logs were 

also made available to the public. 

Details of these activities are given in the 

sections that follow. 

WELLS DRILLED IN FISCAL YEAR 1981 

Awuna Test Well No. 1, at a site approximately 

152 miles south-southwest of Barrow in the central 

part of the Reserve, was started on March 1, 1980, 

to test for potential oil and gas accumulations on 

one of the high structural positions on the prominent Carbon Creek-Awuna anticline, which extends 

across much of the Reserve. Specifically, the well 

was designed to test sandstones of the Torok and 

Fortress Mountain Formations of Cretaceous age. 

The well was suspended for the summer on May 8, 

1980, at a depth of 5,300 feet before it penetrated 

the potential reservoir horizons. It was re-entered 

on December 5, 1980, and drilled to a total depth of 

11,200 feet. The well was spudded in the Torok 

and reached the top of the Fortress Mountain at 

about 7, 886 feet below land surface. (All depths 

reported herein are measured from land surface 

datum.) At that location the Torok is mostly shale 

with some thin, nonporous sandstones, many of 

which have gas shows. The upper part of the 

Fortress Mountain Formation includes more sandstone than the Torok, but the sandstones are fine 

grained, calcareous, and argillaceous, and generally 

have poor porosity. The mud logger recorded gas 

shows in many of the sandstones. A drill stem test 

near the top of the Fortress Mountain produced 

water at a rate of 2, 057 ( 42- gallon) barrels a day. 

There is evidence of fracturing in some of the 

sandstones, and the high rate of water flow is 

probably due to fracture porosity. Minor amounts 

of asphaltic material occur in the lower part of the 

well. Very high pore pressures and lost circulation 

problems slowed the penetration rate, and drilling 

was terminated short of the projected total depth. 

Walakpa Test Well No. 2, located 4 miles southsouthwest of Walakpa Test Well No. 1, was drilled 

to a total depth of 4, 3 60 feet and, following testing, was temporarily abandoned on February 15, 

1981. The well was designed to test the Jurassic 

Simpson sandstone of local usage near its updip 

truncation and a Lower Cretaceous sandstone (the 

Walakpa sand of local usage); the latter tested gas 

in the Walakpa Test Well No. 1. The well was 

30 
spudded in the Torok Formation, which here consists mainly of shale with thin streaks of sandstone 

containing minor gas shows. Below the Torok 

Formation a normal sequence of the Lower 

Cretaceous pebble shale unit, Jurassic Kingak 

Shale, Triassic Sag River Sandstone, and shale, 

sandstone, and limestone beds of the Triassic 

Shublik Formation was penetrated. Drilling was 

terminated in argillite basement. The Lower 

Cretaceous Walakpa sand, found 536 feet deeper 

than in the Walakpa No. 1 well, was cored from 

2, 611 to 2, 640 feet. The core recovered finegrained, glauconitic sandstone with poor to good 

porosity and a show of hydrocarbons. A drill stem 

test of the sandstone recovered gas at a rate of 2. 4 

million cubic feet per day. The sandstone is 28 

feet thick, compared to 16 feet in the Walakpa No. 

1 well, and established a minimum gas column of 550 

feet. The Simpson interval is siltstone, as in the 

Walakpa No. 1 well. 

North Inigok Test Well No. 1 was spudded on 

February 13, 1981, and completed on April 4, 1981. 

It is situated 20 miles north-northeast of the Inigok 

No. 1 well. It was drilled to a total depth of 

10, 17 0 feet and bottomed in the Triassic Shublik 

Formation as a dry hole. Seismic records indicate 

an anomaly at the Upper Jurassic "C" datum level, 

which was interpreted as an offshore bar. The test 

well spudded in Tertiary (Paleocene) beds, then 

penetrated the Cretaceous Colville Group, Nanushuk 

Group, the Torok Formation, and the pebble shale 

unit. No sandstones were found in the Jurassic 

section, although a silty zone, perhaps representing 

the seismic anomaly, extends from 8,145 to about 

8,400 feet. A thin siltstone in the Triassic Sag 

River Sandstone was drilled, and the well reached 

its total depth in the Shublik Formation. The 

wellsite geologist logged gas shows in the lowermost 

part of Torok Formation, and a single show was 

indicated in the Jurassic siltstone. A drill stem 

test of the latter zone produced gas at an estimated 

rate of 30,000 cubic feet per day and recovered 310 

feet of gas-cut mud. The gas consisted of 73 

percent methane, 12. 8 percent ethane, 7. 3 percent 

propane, 3.2 percent butane, and 3.7 percent pentanes and heavier hydrocarbons. Such an analysis 

implies the possible presence of an oil column downdip and suggests reservoirs may be found in the 

Jurassic Kingak Shale elsewhere. 

Kuyanak Test Well No. 1 was spudded on 

February 13, 1981, and completed on March 31, 

1981, at a total depth of 6, 690 feet. It is located 

22 miles southeast of Walakpa No. 2. The well was 

drilled to explore primarily for the Simpson sandstone of local usage in the Jurassic Kingak Shale. 

This sandstone has good reservoir characteristics 

and occurs in wells to the southeast, south, and 

southwest of the Kuyanak test well. It is best 

developed in the Kugrua No. 1 test well, and 

subsurface controls indicate that similar conditions 

could be expected at the Kuyanak location. A trap 

was postulated because of the truncation of the 

sandstone on the Barrow Arch by the Early 

Cretaceous unconformity and by a facies change to 

the northwest. A secondary objective was the Sag 

River Sandstone of Triassic age. Drilling was 

begun in the Cretaceous Nanushuk Group, and a 

normal sequence of Cretaceous Torok Formation and 

31 

ONPRA 

pebble shale unit, Jurassic Kingak Shale, Triassic 

Sag River Sandstone, and Shublik Formation was 

penetrated before drilling was terminated in the 

argillite basement. A sandstone correlated with the 

Walakpa sand of local usage was found at 5, 092 feet 

and cored from 5, 093 to 5, 186 feet; it is more than 

2, 500 feet structurally lower at this site than at the 

Walakpa No. 2 well. There were no hydrocarbon 

shows in the sand, but core analyses show that 

porosity ranges from 15 to 22 percent and permeabilities are as high as 318 millidarcys. These 

results indicate a possibly continuous "sand" with 

good reservoir characteristics below a proven gas 

column. A Simpson sandstone equivalent occurs in 

the Kuyanak well from 5,378 to 5,656 feet; it consists mostly of siltstone and has minor gas shows 

near the top. The Simpson sandstone play lies to 

the south of this well. Equivalents of the Jurassic 

Barrow sand of local usage and Triassic Sag River 

Sandstone of the East Barrow field were cored; the 

latter indicated a minor gas show. 

Tulageak Test Well No. 1, on the Beaufort Sea 

coast 24 miles east-southeast of Barrow, was spudded on February 26, 1981, and completed at a total 

depth of 4,015 feet on March 23, 1981. The well 

was drilled to test a combination structural-stratigraphic prospect. Detailed seismic studies indicate 

an east-trending graben north of the West Dease 

No. 1 well and separated from it by the Iko fault. 

Closure to the west is afforded by cross faulting 

and stratigraphic pinchout, whereas regional dip is 

maintained to the northeast. It was believed that 

Simpson level equivalents would be preserved in the 

structurally lower area. Four objectives were 

considered: the pebble shale unit - Walakpa sand, 

Simpson sand, Barrow sand, and Sag River Sandstone. The well was spudded in claystone of the 

Torok Formation and drilled mostly through shale 

with thin sandstones and some limestone streaks 

before reaching the pebble shale. The Early 

Cretaceous unconformity was indicated at approximately 2, 950 feet. Below that point the Jurassic 

Kingak Shale, the Triassic Sag River Sandstone, 

and the Shublik sand and shale sequence was 

drilled until argillite basement was reached at 3,947 

feet. Argillite was drilled and cored from this 

point to a depth of 4, 015 feet. No sand was found 

in the pebble shale or at the Jurassic Simpson 

sandstone level. The Barrow sand is present, 

along with the Sag River Sandstone and several 

thin sandstones of the Shublik Formation. The Sag 

River Sandstone contained the only hydrocarbon 

show, and a drill stem test recovered slightly 

water-cut drilling mud with no evidence of hydrocarbons. 

Koluktak Test Well No. 1, at a site 39 miles 

southwest of Inigok No. 1 well, was spudded on 

March 24, 1981, and completed as a dry hole on 

April 19, 1981, after reaching a total depth of 5,882 

feet. The primary objective of the well was the 

sandstones of the Cretaceous Nanushuk Group, 

which had good gas and oil shows in several wells 

drilled under the Pet-4 pr~gram. Good reservoir 

conditions were indicated at the location on the east 

end of the Oumalik anticlinal trend. A low-velocity 

anomaly interpreted as a possible gas accumulation 

was also indicated by seismic records. The well 

penetrated a Nanushuk Group sequence from the 
Table 2.-- Exploration wells drilled by the Navy from 1975 through 1977 and by the USGS from FY 1978 through FY 1981 

Date Date Total Deepest Horizon 

Name Location SJ2Udded Com:Qleted De:Qth Attained Remarks 

Cape Halkett 18 mi ESE of 3/24/75 6/1/75 9,900 ft Argillite basement Dry; plugged and abandoned 

Number 1 Lonely (Devonian or older) 

East Teshekpuk 25 mi S of 3/12/76 5/11/76 10,664 ft Granite basement Dry; plugged and abandoned 

Number 1 Lonely 

South Harrison 50 mi SE of 11/21/76 2/8/77 11,290 ft Lisburne Group Poor oil shows; plugged and 

Bay Number 1 Barrow (Pennsylvanian part) abandoned 

A tigaru Point 44 mi SE of 1/12/77 3/18/77 11,535 ft Argillite basement Poor oil shows; plugged and 

Number 1 Lonely (Devonian or older) abandoned 

West Fish Creek 51 mi SE of 2/14/77 4/27/77 11,427 ft Kayak Shale Poor oil shows; plugged and 

Number 1 Lonely (Mississippian) abandoned 

South Simpson 41 mi WSW of 3/9/77 4/30/77 8, 795 ft Argillite basement Dry; plugged and abandoned 

Number 1 Lonely (Devonian or older) 

(,) 

1\) W. T. Foran 23 .mi ESE of 3/7/77 4/24/77 8, 864 ft Argillite basement Oil and gas shows; plugged 

Number 1 Lonely (Devonian or older) and abandoned 

Drew Point Test 14 mi W of 1/13/78 3/13/78 7' 946 ft Argillite basement Poor oil and gas shows; plugged 

Well Number 1 Lonely (Devonian or older) and abandoned 

South Meade Test 45 mi S of 2/7/78 1/22/79 9,945 ft Argillite basement Poor gas shows; plugged 

Well Number 1 Barrow (reentered (Devonian or older) and abandoned 

12/4/78) 

Kugrua Test 67 mi SW of 2/12/78 5/29/78 12,588 ft Lisburne Group Dry; plugged and abandoned 

Well Number 1 Barrow (Mississippian part) 

North Kalikpik 37 mi SE of 2/27/78 4/14/78 7' 395 ft Kingak Shale Poor oil and gas shows; plugged 

Test Well Number 1 Lonely (Jurassic) and abandoned 

Inigok Test Well 60 mi S of 6/7/78 5/22/79 20,102 ft Kekiktuk Conglom- Encountered hydrogen sulfide 

Number 1 Lonely erate (Mississippian) and sulfur at 17,570 ft; poor 

gas shows; plugged and 

abandoned 

Tunalik Test Well 22 mi SE of 11/10/78 1/7/80 20,335 ft Lisburne Group Gas test; plugged and 

Number 1 Icy Cape (Pennsylvanian part) abandoned 
Table 2. --Continued 

Date Date Total Deepest Horizon 

Name Location Spudded Completed Depth Attained Remarks 

Ikpikpuk Test 42 mi SW of 11/28/78 2/28/80 15,481 ft Kekiktuk Conglom- Gas shows; plugged and 

Well Number 1 Lonely erate (Mississippian) abandoned 

Peard Test Well 25 mi NE of 1/26/79 4/13/79 10,225 ft Argillite basement Poor gas shows; plugged 

Number 1 Wainwright (Devonian or older) and abandoned 

East Simpson Test 55 mi SE of 2/19/79 4/10/79 7' 739 ft Argillite basement Oil and gas shows; 

Well Number 1 Barrow (Devonian or older) plugged and abandoned 

J. W. Dalton Test 3 mi E of 5/7/79 8/1/79 9,367 ft Argillite basement Oil and gas shows; some 

Well Number 1 Lonely (Devonian or older) heavy oil recovered during 

testing; plugged and abando ned 

Lisburn Test 110 mi SW 6/11/79 6/2/80 17,000 ft Lisburne Group Shows of gas; plugged 

Well Number 1 Umiat (Mississippian part) and abandoned 

Seabee Test 1 mi NW of 7/1/79 4/15/80 15,611 ft "pebble shale" Oil and gas shows; 

Well Number 1 Umiat (Late Jurassic? and plugged and abandoned 

Early Cretaceous) 

(A) Walakpa Test 15 mi S of 12/25/79 2/7/80 3,666 ft Argillite basement Shows of gas; plugged (A) Well Number 1 Barrow (Devonian or older) and abandoned 

East Simpson Test 50 mi SE of 1/29/80 3/15/80 7,505 ft Argillite basement Oil and gas shows; plugged 

Well Number 2 Barrow (Devonian or older) and abandoned 

West Dease Test 28 mi SE of 2/19/80 3/26/80 4,170 ft Argillite basement Oil and gas shows; plugged 

Test Well Number 1 Barrow (Devonian or older) and abandoned 

Awuna Test Well 152 mi S of 3/1/80 4/20/81 11,200 ft Fortress Mountain Many gas shows; plugged 

Number 1 Barrow (reentered Formation and abandoned 

12/5/80) (Cretaceous) 

Walakpa Test 16 mi S of 1/3/81 2/15/81 4,360 ft Argillite basement Temporarily abandoned 

Well Number 2 Barrow (Devonian or older) (Gas well - Walakpa sand) 

North Inigok Test 20 mi SE of 2/13/81 4/4/81 10,170 ft Shublik Formation Shows of gas; plugged 

Well Number 1 Teshekpuk Lake (Triassic) and abandoned 

Kuyanak Test 30 mi SE of 2/18/81 3/31/81 6,690 ft Argillite basement Minor gas and-oil shows; 

Well Number 1 Barrow (Devonian or older) plugged and abandoned 

Tulageak Test 24 mi ESE of 2/26/81 3/23/81 4, 015 ft Argillite basement Few poor oil shows; plugged 

Well Number 1 Barrow (Devonian or older) and abandoned 

Koluktak Test 75 mi S of 3/24/81 4/19/81 5,882 ft Torok Formation Gas shows and minor oil 

Well Number 1 Smith Bay (Cretaceous) shows; plugged and 

abandoned 
ONPRA 

surface to about 4,200 feet. The upper two-thirds 

of this section was predominantly sandstone but had 

thin shale, siltstone, limestone, and coal beds, 

many minor gas shows, and a few oil shows. The 

top of the Torok Formation was estimated to be at 

about 4,200 feet; from this point to total depth, 

shale with minor amounts of sandstone and siltstone 

was drilled. The imminence of spring break-up 

precluded any testing. 

BARROW AREA GAS ACTIVITIES 

No new gas wells were drilled during FY 1981. 

The Geological Survey continued to operate and 

maintain the South Barrow gas field, which supplies 

gas to the village of Barrow, as well as to Federal 

installations in that area. Construction continued 

on the production facilities at the newer East 

Barrow gas field, located approximately 7 miles 

southeast of the South Barrow gas field. New production will double the amount of natural gas available to the Barrow area. 

GEOPHYSICAL SURVEYS 

Geophysical studies on NPRA continued during 

FY 1981 with the acquistion, processing, and interpretation of 590 line-miles of seismic surveys in the 

eastern part of the Reserve. The purpose of the 

seismic work was to investigate the shallow 

Cretaceous sandstones, which are known to contain 

oil at Umiat, and deeper Jurassic sandstones penetrated by the North Inigok and Walakpa wells. The 

areas covered by the surveys coincided with areas 

of the Reserve where industry expressed interest in 

early leasing of NPRA. To date 13,455 line-miles of 

seismic data have been collected and processed. 

GEOLOGIC STUDIES 

In addition to the drilling and geophysical 

investigations, geologic and special studies were 

carried out by the Geological Survey and by contractors to support oil exploration activities. They 

include: geochemical studies to identify the type 

and amount of organic matter in rocks from wells 

and outcrops and to determine thermal history and 

source rock potential; studies of selected rock units 

in NPRA and adjacent areas to determine their 

depositional environment, structure, petroleum 

potential, reservoir properties, and stratigraphic 

relationships; field structural and stratigraphic 

studies to supplement well and seismic data and to 

resolve problems arising from interpretation of 

subsurface geologic and geophysical data; engineering geologic studies related to the source of construction materials for roads, airfields, and drilling 

pads, and hydrologic studies of the chemistry and 

controls of oilfield waters in NPRA and the effects 

of drilling on nearby lakes. These studies are being concluded, and the information is being made 

available to the public. 

ENVIRONMENTAL REHABILITATION 

The Geological Survey's environmental rehabilitation program on NPRA consists of two parts: the 

collection and consolidation of litter and debris left 

from earlier construction and oil exploration 

activities, and the cleanup and revegetation of current drilling sites. 

Early oil exploration and construction were 

carried out with little consideration for environmental protection or effects of drilling operations on 

the tundra. Fuel drums, abandoned equipment and 

supplies, and other litter of exploration and construction were left in place at many sites. During 

FY 1981 the Survey collected more than 380 tons of 

debris and waste materials, including 8,000 old barrels, from numerous sites on the Reserve. These 

materials were consolidated and stockpiled at several 

collection points on the Reserve. 

Rehabilitation of current drill sites consists of 

an initial recontouring and revegetation, with a 

second reseeding during the following year. 

During FY 1981, initial rehabilitation work was done 

at six sites, and followup reseeding and refertilization was completed at other sites as necessary. 

Both cleanup and rehabilitation activities were 

accomplished by contract personnel. 

DATA AVAILABILITY 

Geologic and geophysical reports and well data 

from the drilling program are made available to the 

public through the Environmental Data and Information Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 

Administration, Boulder, Colo. 80303; tel. (303) 

499-1000, ext. 6338. Core chips and ditch cuttings 

are provided through the Alaska Department of 

Natural Resources, Division of Oil and Gas Conservation, 3001 Porcupine Drive, Anchorage, Alaska 

99501. 

The NPRA exploration program has required 

many technical background studies in addition to 

the drilling and seismic operations carried out by 

the prime contractor, Husky Oil NPR Operations, 

Inc. In addition to the projects below, other 

current studies, being conducted primarily by the 

Geological Survey's Geologic Division, are described 

in this circular as part of each division's program 

in the northern region of the State. 

For additional information about ONPRA 

activities, contact : 

George Gryc, Chief, ONPRA, or 

Max Brewer, Chief, Operations Office, ONPRA 

2525 C Street, Suite 400 

Anchorage, A K 99503 

Tel. (907) 276-7422 

PROJECTS OF THE OFFICE OF 

NATIONAL PETROLEUM RESERVE IN ALASKA 

34 

Listed below are current projects of ONPRA. 

All project locations are included in the area shown 

in figure 8 .. 

Project Title: National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska 

(NPRA) Data Open-File 

Chief: (Please address questions about this project 

to George Gryc ) 
(,) 

(JI 

71° 

70° 

69° 

68° 

,. 

162° 

162° 160° 158° 156° 

ARCTIC 

I 

I 

I 

, 

I 

I 

I 

I 

I 

I 

I I QU!HAINS i l

l V'-......;.,,.,- DfLDNG ~.::r---...,,~ Lisburne-! '\.._, I 

B R 0 0 K s '"--1.. )!-~ N G E I 

• <..._,~ I 

-~_I 

160° 158° 156° 

154° 

OCEAN 

BgA. 

152° 

t"'\.,-' 

• lnigok \ 

~ 

J 

Seabee,rr/ / UMIAT 

----- _..,..,,/- '-./" 

EXPLANATION 

150° 

8gA. 

---Boundary of National Petroleum Reserve 

in Alaska 

0 1,0 2p ap '\0 Miles 

I I I I I I 

0 10 203040 50 Kilometers 

154° 152° 

Figure 8. --Exploration wells on the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska, 1975-1981. 

71° 

70° 

69° 

68° 

0 

z 

"V 

::0 

~ 
ONPRA 

Objectives: To inventory, organize, and make 

available to the public all geological and geophysical 

data generated in the petroleum exploration of the 

NPRA by the U.S. Navy and by the Office of 

National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska. 

Status: The exploration drilling and seismic survey 

programs on NPRA were terminated at the end of 

the 1980-81 winter season. All well and seismic 

information generated in that period has been 

released to the public through the National Oceanic 

and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). A sum- mary geologic report for FY 1980 activities, along 

with several topical geologic reports and special 

geophysical .studies, have been released by N 0 A A. 

Final summary reports from the contractors and 

consultants will be released as they are received 

and approved by ONPRA. The first of these 

should be available in late 1982. NOAA has prepared a comprehensive catalog of the many data 

items provided to them by ONPRA, and interested 

data users should contact the Environmental Data 

Center in Boulder, Colo. 

Project Title: Development and Operation of Gas 

Fields in the Barrow Area 

Chief: Robert J. Lantz 

Objectives: To operate and maintain the South 

Barrow and East Barrow gas fields through an 

Interagency Support Agreement with the Naval 

Arctic Research Laboratory at Barrow. These 

activities are undertaken in order to continue the 

supply of gas to the village of Barrow and to the 

Federal installations in the vicinity of Barrow. 

Status: The Geological Survey continued to operate 

the South Barrow gas field. A gas production 

system was constructed at the newer East Barrow 

gas field to permit production of gas from this field 

beginning in early FY 1982. Two gas wells drilled 

in FY 1980 in the East Barrow gas field were com36 

pleted as gas producers; one was suspended as a 

possible oil producer. No additional gas wells will 

be drilled in the Barrow area during FY 1982. 

Project Title: National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska 

Paleontological Data 

Chief: David C. Blanchard 

Objectives: To date and correlate, by biostratigraphic methods, strata penetrated by the test field 

wells in NPRA; to make available to the public, by 

loan agreement, microscope slides of palynological 

and foraminiferal material; to describe micropaleontological material for reports based on well samples; 

to prepare plots of species diversity; and to 

complete a detailed study of the Lower Cretaceous 

section. 

Status: Biostratigraphics Consulting Micropaleontology of San Diego, Calif. , have processed and 

analyzed samples of well cuttings, cores, and sidewall cores provided by Husky Oil NPR Operations, 

Inc., drilling contractor for ONPRA, for five of the 

wells drilled during FY 1981. These are in addition 

to the wells analyzed previously by Anderson Worldwide Associates Micropaleontology Consultants of 

San Diego, Calif. Microfossil assemblages, including foraminifers and palynomorphs (dinoflagellates, 

acritarchs, pollen, spores), from 33 wells drilled 

between 1975 and 1981 have been analyzed with 

respect to their biostratigraphy and paleoecology. 

Reports on the microfossils and biostratigraphy 

distribution charts (paper copy and microfiche) for 

all wells can now be purchased from the National 

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 

Boulder, Colo. Survey Open-File Reports 80-193, 

81-0013, and 81-1081 list all available palynomorph 

and foraminiferal microscope slides available, as well 

as details of the loan policy. Open-File Report 

81-1165 discusses the biostratigraphic correlation of 

three lines of section ( 19 wells) across the Reserve. 

Paleontologic stage/zonule tops for all wells are 

listed and discussed in Open-File Report 81-1166. 
Water Resources Investigations• Water Resources Division 

Anchorage, Aillska 

Philip A. Emery 

Larry Leveen 

Fairbanks, Alaska 

Bruce Parks 

Juneau, Alaska 

Harold Seitz 

Suspended-sediment sampling in the Tanana River near Fairbanks. 

For further information, contact the offices listed below. 

District Chief 

733 West 4th Avenue, Suite 400 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 271-4138 

Chief, Anchorage Subdistrict 

1209 Orca Street 

Anchorage, A K 9 9501 

Tel. (907) 271-4153 

Chief, Fairbanks Subdistrict 

101 12th Avenue, Box 11 

Fairbanks, AK 99701 

Tel. (907) 456-0214 

Chief, Juneau Subdistrict 

P. 0. Box 150 8 

Juneau, AK 99802 

Tel. (907) 586-7216 

37 

Menlo Park, California 

John D. Bredehoeft Regional Hydrologist 

Western Region 

Reston, Virginia 

Philip Cohen 

345 Middlefield Road 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

Tel. (415) 323-8111 

ext. 2337 

Chief Hydrologist 

409 National Center 

Reston, VA 22092 

Tel. (703) 860-6921 
WATER RESOURCES 

WATER RESOURCES 

INVESTIGATIONS 

The water-resources program of the Geological 

Survey "has the objective of seeing that the 

Nation's water resources are appraised and that the 

necessary water data to develop and manage them 

efficiently are available when needed." 1 The Survey 

is the primary source of hydrologic data that are 

basic not only to quantification of water resources 

but also to their development and conservation, 

including data for both planning and management. 

This role, practiced for many years and tacitly 

accepted by the water-resource community, was 

given express recognition in 1964 when the responsibility for coordinating water-data programs of 

Federal agencies was delegated to the Geological 

Survey (Office of Management and Budget Circular 

A-67). For the past decade, largely in response to 

the growing public awareness of the environment, 

the Survey has provided data and technology 

needed to predict the impact of man's activities 

upon the water resource and the water environment. 

The Geological Survey's Water Resources 

Division determines the source, quantity, quality, 

distribution, movement, and availability of surface 

and ground water. This work includes investigations of floods and potential sources of water supply 

in river basins and ground-water systems; determination of the chemical, biological, and physical 

quality of water resources and their relation to 

various parts of the hydrologic cycle; special 

hydrologic studies of the inter-relations between 

climate, topography, vegetation, soils, and the 

water supply; research to improve the scientific 

basis of investigations and techniques; scientific 

and technical assistance to other Federal agencies 

and to licensees of the Federal Energy Regulatory 

Commission; coordination of Federal water-data 

acquisition activities; design and operation of a 

national water-data network; and publication of 

results of investigations. 

The Division's program in Alaska is divided 

into three broad categories. One category is 

hydrologic data collection to provide information 

about hydrologic characteristics essential to planning and carrying out hydrologic appraisals and/or 

hydrologic research. In 1982 this type of work 

constitutes the major part of the Division's efforts 

in Alaska. A second category is hydrologic 

appraisals. This includes analyses of conditions in 

hydrologic basins, studies of areas likely to be or 

being affected by mineral, energy, fisheries, 

coastal zone, or urban development, studies of 

water resources in urban areas, investigations of 

potential hydrologic hazards and environmental 

impacts of pipeline construction, and other cooperative studies. The third category consists of 

basic and applied research in hydrologic topics 

unique to cold climates. Subjects being studied 

include surface and ground water, water quality, 

instrumentation, glaciers, snow and ice, ice 

dynamics, and limnology. 

In Alaska, the Water Resources Division 

operates through a district office and its three 

subdistrict offices, in Anchorage, Fairbanks, and 

1 The Bud get of the United States Government, 

Fiscal Year 1974, Appendix, p. 552. 

38 

Juneau. Each of the subdistrict offices maintains 

files of data for a geographic area for which it is 

responsible. Site-specific infonnation on water 

resources is available from the subdistrict office 

nearest the site in question. The District Office in 

Anchorage should be contacted for general information on statewide projects or activities. 

Water-resources studies in Alaska are carried out in 

cooperation with a variety of Federal, State, and 

local agencies. These are identified in table 4. 

NATIONAL PROGRAMS 

Alaska's water resource investigations are part 

of several national programs. These are described 

briefly below. 

COLLECTION OF BASIC RECORDS 

The Collection of Basic Records or CB R program in Alaska entails the operation of 120 river 

gaging stations, 70 crest-gage stations, and 31 

observation wells. The data collected at these sites 

appear in the annual publication "Water Resources 

Data for Alaska." (In addition, about 80 wells are 

operated for short periods for specific projects.) 

The CBR program is described in more detail in the 

appropriate projects which follow this summary. 

NATIONAL STREAM QUALITY 

ACCOUNTING NETWORK (NASQAN) 

This is a data-collection program for obtaining 

regional and national overviews of the quality of 

our streams. Water-quality data from NASQAN 

stations provide the information needed to: (1) 

account for the quantity and quality of water moving within and from the United States; (2) develop 

a large-scale picture of how stream quality varies 

from place to place; and (3) detect changes in 

stream quality with time. At a NASQAN station a 

continuous record of stream stage is obtained , from 

which streamflow is computed. Most of these 

stations are also equipped with a recorder for 

obtaining continuous data on water temperature. 

The following data are collected approximately six 

times per year at each site: pH, bacteria, inorganic compounds, nutrients, suspended sediment, 

and floating algae. Samples are collected less 

frequently for trace-element and organic-carbon 

analysis. 

In Alaska, the following N ASQAN stations are 

currently in operation: Stikine River near 

Wrangell, Skagway River at Skagway, Copper River 

near Chitina, Susitna River near Susitna Station, 

Nushagak River at Ekwok, Kuskokwim River at 

Crooked Creek, Tanana River at Nenana, Yukon 

River near Pilot Station, and Kuparuk River near 

Deadhorse. 

NATIONAL WATER DATA EXCHANGE 

(NAWDEX) 

This is a national confederation of wateroriented organizations working together to improve 

access to water data. Its primary objective is to 

assist users of water data in the identification, 

location, and acquisition of needed data. For the 

users' convenience, NAWDEX services are available 
through a nationwide network of local assistance 

centers. In Alaska, the NAWDEX assistance center 

is located in the District Office of the Water 

Resources Division, 733 West 4th Avenue, in 

Anchorage. 

Through its master water-data exchange, 

NAWDEX provides a nationwide indexing service. 

This computerized index identifies more than 

180,000 sites for which water data are available 

from over 300 organizations, the geographic location 

of these sites, the data-collecting organization , the 

types of data available, the periods of time for 

which the data are available, the major water parameters for which data are available, the frequency of 

measurements, and the media in which the data are stored. NAWDEX has direct access to the computerized data tiles of the U.S. Geological Survey's 

national water data storage and retrieval system, 

WATSTORE (which includes several types of tiles 

and indexes such as the Ground Water Site Inventory, or GWSI). NAWDEX is also an authorized user of the storage and retrieval (STORET) system 

of the U.S . Environmental Protection Agency. 

HYDROLOGIC RESEARCH 

As part of its national program of hydrologic 

research, the Water Resources Division has for 

many years conducted fundamental investigations in 

Alaska on several aspects of arctic hydrology. Late 

in 1980 an important step toward the intensification 

of these studies was taken with the establishment of 

a Cold Regions Hydrology Project Office in Fairbanks. The Project Office carries out basic 

research in such topics as glacier dynamics and 

fluctuations and the interaction of glaciers and 

volcanoes. For information about this glacier 

research, contact Larry Mayo of the Fairbanks 

office of the division. Other project studies involve 

the relationships between permafrost and ground 

water, the formation of and hazards presented by 

river-ice jams, the chemistry and ecology of arctic 

lakes and streams, and erosion and sedimentation 

by arctic streams. In addition to new knowledge 

provided by these studies, which will be immediately applicable in a wide spectrum of investigations 

in the Geological Survey programs, the project staff · 

will provide consultation and advice to staff of the 

Water Resources Division and to other elements of 

the Geological Survey and, through the Bureau, to 

other Federal and State agencies concerned with 

problems related to the hydrology of cold regions. 

For information about the Cold Regions Hydrology 

Project, contact John Conomos of the Division's 

Regional Office in Menlo Park, Calif. 

PROJECTS OF THE 

WATER RESOURCES DMSION 

STATEWIDE 

Project Title: Surface-Water Stations 

Chief: Robert D. Lamke 

Objectives: To provide data on (1) streamflow, (2) 

fJood discharge and stages, and (3) lake stage 

through a network of gaging stations. This project 

39 

WATER RESOURCES 

is part of an ongoing assessment of the Nation's 

water resources and is part of the Collection of 

Basic Records (CBR) program. The data are used 

in project design and planning of water-supply and 

waste-disposal systems, of stream crossings and 

hydroelectric facilities, and of bridges, and also are 

useful in the assessment of environmental impacts of 

these and other proposed activities. 

Status: This is a continuing project; all data are 

published in the Survey's annual series ''Water 

Resources Data for Alaska." The 1981 report is 

expected to be completed by July 1982. Discharge 

data will be published for 120 daily-record stations, 

70 crest-stage gages, and 48 low-flow partial-record 

stations. The gaging-station network operated 

during 1982 will differ from that in 1981 because of 

program changes. There will be a decrease in the 

number of stations in southeast Alaska, and many 

of the stations along the Dalton Highway north of 

Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay will be reactivated. 

Project Title: Quality-of-Water Stations 

Chief: Robert J. Madison 

Objectives: To provide a national bank of waterquality data for broad Federal planning and action 

programs and management of interstate and international waters. To provide information on the 

physical and chemical properties of water by: (1) 

determining the mineral content and biological 

aspects of water, thereby establishing a baseline 

from which changes can be evaluated; and (2) 

determining mineral composition of water to evaluate 

its use for domestic, municipal, and industrial water 

supplies. These objectives are accomplished by 

operation of a network of water-quality stations. 

This project is part of the Collection of Basic 

Records (CBR) program. 

Status: This is a continuing project; all data are released in the annual Geological Survey publication 

"Water Resources Data for Alaska." 

Project Title: Sediment Stations 

Chief: James M. Knott 

Objectives: To provide a national bank of sediment 

data for broad Federal and State planning and 

action' programs and for Federal management of 

interstate and international waters. This project is 

part of the Collection of Basic Records (CBR) 

program. 

Status: Data collection is continuing for 9 NASQAN 

sites, 9 sites for the U • S. Forest Service, 2 

stations for the Corps of Engineers, 1 benchmark 

station, and at 4 additional sites in the southeast, 

southcentral, and Yukon subregions. Each year's 

data are reported in the annual publication "Water 

Resources Data for Alaska." 

Project Title: Alaska Water-Use Data Program 

Chief: Leslie D. Patrick 
WATER RESOURCES 

Objectives: To develop an orderly and systematic 

method to collect , store, and disseminate detailed 

water-use data for policy planning, budgeting, and 

management of Alaska's water resources. This 

system will support the National Water-Use Data 

System and Alaska's water rights program. The 

majority of the work will be completed by State 

personnel. 

Status: The Alaska Department of Natural 

Resources, Division of Forest, Land, and Water 

Management has fully staffed the water-use component of the Water Management Section. Their 

water rights computer file is now operational and 

contains approximately 8,000 case files. In 

addition, a general design workplan for the more sophisticated water-use data base has been 

established. The State has published several 

documents, including: the "Project Management 

Plan", a public information brochure entitled 

"Alaska Water Use Data System", a "Statement of 

State Objectives and Statement of Rationale for the 

Alaska Program", the "State of Alaska Water User's 

Handbook", the "Alaska Water Meter Manual", 

"Water Use Information Coding and Entry to Easytrieve-Access Files", and "Personnel Requirements." 

A survey of seafood processors and agricultural 

water users was completed in FY 1981. The data 

collected will be compiled and entered into the new computer system when it is available. Hydroelectric, domestic, and public water supply wateruse data have been entered into the National WaterUse Data System. 

Project Title: Techniques of Hydrologic Assessment 

for Planning and Management in Alaska 

Chiefs: Robert J. Madison and Bruce Parks 

Objectives: To summarize available techniques that can be used with existing data bases or a minimum 

of simple field data collection to predict or estimate 

hydrologic parameters for planning purposes, and 

to evaluate the confidence levels of the various 

techniques and their applicability to Alaskan 

streams. 

Status: This is the first full year of project work. 

Methodologies for estimating hydrologic parameters are being defined, and the data bases are being 

evaluated to determine confidence levels for the 

available methods. A report is in preparation. 

Project Title: Ground-Water Stations 

Chief: Gordon L. Nelson 

Objectives: To maintain a network of observation 

wells to provide data on ground-water level fluctuations in Alaska. For selected aquifers, these 

data will indicate the status of ground water in 

storage, changes in levels due to development 

(pumping) , probable effects of current or planned 

land use or water-supply development, and probable 

base flow of hydraulically connected streams 

nearby. The network will provide long-term 

records for regional studies that, in turn, serve as 

40 

a basis for correlation of short-term hydrologic 

records for specific purposes. 

A related project began in 1982; the objective of 

that study is to develop a statewide observationwell network that will provide ground-water hydrographs in areas of significant demand for hydrologic 

information. 

Status: This is a continuing long-term project. 

Water-level records collected at 31 federally funded 

Collection of Basic Records (CBR) wells will be 

published in the 1981 annual Survey report "Water 

Resources Data for Alaska." Data for other network wells are published infrequently in reports on specific water-resource studies. 

The locations of ground-water observation wells are shown in figure 9. 

Project Title: Water, Ice, and Energy Balance of 

Snow and Glaciers, and Snow and Ice Physics 

Chief: Mark F. Meier 

Objectives: To improve understanding of aspects of snow accumulation, melt, and runoff processes on 

glaciers and in high mountains, the mechanics of 

water flow through and under glaciers, and the 

dynamics of glaciers, and to apply this understanding to problems such as the nature of glacier 

surges and the stability of iceberg-calving glaciers, 

Status: Research continues on Columbia Glacier, 

near Valdez , which is expected to begin rapid 

retreat perhaps as early as 1982. This retreat will 

cause increased iceberg discharge into Valdez Arm. 

In July and August 1981, heavy rains and the 

partial outbreak of a glacier-dammed lake caused 

high rates of iceberg calving, producing the greatest retreat yet observed. However, about 1 kilometer of the terminus is still in shallow water on a 

moraine shoal, and an irreversible retreat has not 

yet begun. Basic-data and modeling reports are in 

preparation, and research continues on the transient, dynamic response of this glacier. 

A research team aboard the U.S. Geological Survey 

Research Vessel Growler collected data on the neo- glacial advance and retreats of the glaciers in Icy 

Bay, near Yakutat, in August 1981. Information on 

bathymetry, sub bottom profiles, stratigraphy, and 

botany was obtained . Reconnaissance air photography was continued; this work shows that both the 

Bering and Malaspina Glaciers, the two largest 

glaciers on mainland North America, were surging 

in September 1981. 

Project location is shown in figure 10. 

Project Title: Alaska Glaciology 

Chief: Larry R. Mayo 

Objectives: To analyze long-term climate and 

glaCier data to detect significant changes; to 

discover cause-and-effect relationships and determine response characteristics of glacier-related 
WATER RESOURCES 

EXPLANATION 

tC Barrow 

~ OC£ -~ -4N e Observation well 

~Prudhoe Bay 

... "••· .l ®Multiple observation wells 

The numeral in the circle 

indicates the number of 

wells in the area. The map 

scale does not permit all of 

these wells to be shown. 

' 

I S\.t.11111i 

"'j/1;o~~t.. 

pACIFIC 

• Alaskan communities 

1 7 •••• s t ocEAN 

200 300 MILES I I I 

3bo 400 KILOMETERS 

Figure 9.--Location of ground-water observation wells. 

hydrologic systems; to study regimes of glaciers 

that present specific hazards or benefits and the 

complete cycle of glacier behavior; to advise of 

hazards and assess glaciers as a resource; to 

develop and use methods of predicting glacier 

behavior; and to assess the importance of glaciers 

in the interpretation of climate. 

Status: Ongoing studies of glacier hydrology are 

carried out primarily at Gulkana Glacier in the 

Alaska Range and at Wolverine Glacier in the Kenai 

Mountains. Black Rapids Glacier is the site of a 

study of the dynamics of surging glaciers. Project 

personnel are also assessing predictions of retreat 

of Columbia Glacier. In 1981 the glaciers on Mount 

Spurr were investigated as a source of flood water 

should the volcano erupt. Ice inventory by statewide aerial photography is a continuing part of the 

project. 

The project location is shown in figure 10. 

NORTHERN REGION 

Project Title: Geochemistry of Oilfield Waters, 

National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska 

41 

Chief: Yousif K. Kharaka 

Objectives: To study the chemistry and controls on 

the chemistry of oilfield waters in the National 

Petroleum Reserve, and to provide geochemical data 

and interpretation that will aid in assessing the 

migration and accumulation of petroleum in this 

area. The chemical data are also necessary to 

understand the diagenesis in the reservoir rocks 

and to identify potential pollution, waste disposal, 

and corrosion problems associated with production. 

Status: The project is in its fifth year. Gas and 

water samples have been collected from the Prudhoe 

oilfield and the Barrow gasfield. Sample collection 

will continue from existing NPRA wells and, wherever possible, at other North Slope wells. Detailed 

chemical and isotopic analyses are being made of 

those samples available. However, few wells have 

produced water, and data are thus incomplete. 

Results have been discussed at several conferences. 

A summary paper is being published in the proceedings of a workshop on clathrates in NPRA that was 

held in July 1979. A paper titled "Geochemistry of 

oilfield waters from North Slope, Alaska" is to be 

included in the Survey's forthcoming Professional 

Paper on the geology of the Reserve. 
WATER RESOURCES 

/ MT. McKINLEY 

50 100 IllES 

'I I I I I I 

50 100 150 KILOIETERS 

60° 

oMIDDLETON 1. 

GULF OF 

EXPLANATION 

Water, Ice, and Energy Balance of Snow and Glaciers, and Snow and Ice Physics a. Columbia Glacier 

b. Bering Glacier c. Malaspina Glacier 

d. Icy Bay 

Alaska Glaciology 

e. Black Rapids Glacier 

f. Wolverine Glacier 

g. Gulkana Glacier 

h. Columbia Glacier 

i. Mt. Spurr 

Frequency of Recurrence of Lake George at Knik Glacier 

j. Knik Glacier 

Figure 10.--Water Resources Division glaciology studies in southern Alaska. 

The project location is shown in figure 11. 

Project Title: Arctic Stream Processes 

Chief: Kevin M. Scott 

Objectives: To determine the processes, rates, and 

any unique factors involved in the natural behavior 

of arctic stream channels; to survey the international literature on streams in cold regions; and 

to determine the response of arctic streams to 

engineering alterations, such as the removal of 

large amounts of bed material. 

Status: Research pertaining to the first two goals 

is complete, and the results are published in Professional Paper 1086 and Water-Supply Paper 2056. 

A paper dealing with aspects of the last objective is 

in press. Fieldwork was continued on the Sagavanirktok River and its tributaries in August 1981; 

study results will be prepared for publication in 

1982. 

42 

The project location in shown in figure 11. 

Project Title: Water Resources of the North Slope 

Chief: Charles E. Sloan 

Objectives: To study streams, lakes, springs, and 

aquifer characteristics in order to supply information for planning, design and development of water 

supplies. Snow cover will also be studied as a 

source of water and as a protective layer on the 

tundra. 

Status: Data on lakes, springs, and rivers and 

photographic imagery (from which lake depth and 

spring location can be determil)ed) are being 

acqui:red. FY 1982 field studies include a reconnaissance snow survey and inventory of springs in 

April and a summer trip to measure lake depth, 

water quality, and spring flow. 

The project location is shown in figure 11. 
WATER RESOURCES 

II 

50 IOOMILES I I I 

1~0 1~0 mOtiETERS 

EXPLANATION 

1. Geochemistry of Oilfield Waters, National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska 

2. Arctic Stream Processes 

3. Water Resources of the North Slope 

a. National Petroleum Reserve 

b. Central Arctic Management Area c. Arctic National Wildlife Range Coastal Plain 

Figure 11.--Water Resources Division activities in northern Alaska. 

EAST-CENTRAL REGION 

Project Title: Geohydrology of the Fairbanks North 

Star Borough 

Chief: Dorothy E. Wilcox 

Objectives: To provide basic hydrologic data for 

land-use planning by ( 1) studying the surface- and 

ground-water flow system to define water availability; (2) mapping and describing the water table 

in the uplands and the artesian zone; ( 3) defining 

water quality with special attention to high nitrate 

and arsenic concentrations in ground water; and 

(4) assisting residents, officials, and consultants 

concerning hydrologic problems. 

Status: Long-term projects designed to measure 

low flow from small basins in the uplands and 

monitor ground-water levels in the uplands and 

lowlands near Fairbanks have been set up since this 

program began in 1975. A well-inventory - waterquality survey program has been active since 1975. 

Reports have been published on the arsenic, nitrate 

(plus nitrite as nitrogen) and iron concentrations 

and the hardness of water in wells in the Fairbanks 

area and the Chena Ridge vicinity. A similar 

report for the Chena Hot Springs Road area is in 

review, and one is planned for the Sheep Creek -

Goldstream Road area. Test drilling in 1977 

revealed that arsenic concentrations in ground 

water in different zones of the bedrock aquifer can 

vary widely. 

A report on hydrologic information for land-use 

planning in the Fairbanks area was published in 

1978. A similar, more specific report addressing 

the Badger Road area is in preparation. 

The project location is shown in figure 12. 

Project Title: Sediment Transport in the Tanana 

43 

River in the Vicinity of Fairbanks 

Chief: Robert L. Burrows 

Objectives: In order to facilitate design and operation of engineering structures on the Tanana River 

and quarrying of gravel from the river in the 

vicinity of Fairbanks, the U.S. Army Corps of 

Engineers, Alaska District, requested that the U.S. 

Geological Survey collect and evaluate sedimenttransport and river-hydraulic data during periods 

of principal runoff, beginning in 1977. This part 

of a cooperative effort, the Tanana River Monitoring 

and Research Program, is administered by the Cold 

Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory, 

Alaska Project Office, in Fairbanks. Geological 

Survey objectives are to provide suspended- and 

bedload -sediment, hydraulic, and channel-geometry 
WATER RESOURCES 

50 100 MILES 

l---''•5i0__._

1

.,.1 ~-0 .......__,1 ~r-'0 1 K I LONETERS 

oMIDDLETON I. 

GULF OF 

EXPLANATION 

1. Geohydrology of the Fairbanks North Star Borough 

2. Sediment Transport in the Tanana River near Fairbanks 

3. Trace Metals in Surface Water in Healy and Lignite Creek Basins 

4. Total Sediment Transport Below Devils Canyon Dam Site on Susitna River 

5. Hydrologic Studies of the Point MacKenzie- Horseshoe Flats Area 

6. Evaluation of Hydrologic Hazards from Volcanic Activity at Mt. Spurr 

7. Water-Quality Characteristics of Surface-Water Runoff in Chester Creek, Anchorage 

8. Geohydrology of the Anchorage Area 

9. Chuitna Coal Field Study 

10. Copper River Basin Hydrology 

Figure 12 .--Water Resources Division activities in east-central and southern Alaska. 

data for use of cooperators on an annual basis, to 

determine sediment-transport characteristics and 

related hydraulics, and to evaluate both short- and 

long-term trends. 

Status: Data collection began in 1977. Open-file 

reports containing the data were published in 1978, 

1979, and 1981; the last report contains all data 

from 1977 to 1979. Compilation and analysis of data 

from 1980 and 1981 are under way. An interpretive 

report analyzing sediment-transport characteristics 

shown by the 1977-79 data is nearing completion. 

lnten~ive data collection will continue through 1982, 

and mterpretation and analysis of the expanded 

data base will continue. 

The project location is shown in figure 12. 

44 

SOUTHERN REGION 

Project Title: Trace Metals in Surface Water in 

Healy and Lignite Creek Basins 

Chief: Dorothy E. Wilcox 

Objectives: ( 1) To determine the concentration and 

distribution of selected trace elements in surface 

water in the coal-rich Healy and Lignite Creek 

basins, and (2) to assess the sources of trace 

elements in these waters. 

Status: In 1981 four sets of water-quality and 

streambed material samples were collected at three 

sites in the Healy Creek basin and at four sites in 

the Lignite Creek basin. Water samples were analyzed for concentrations of major ions and sus-
pended sediment, as well as for five dissolved and 

total-recoverable trace elements found in concentrations above trace level in the 1980 samples. The 

water and bed-material samples were also analyzed 

for trace elements (iron, lead, manganese, nickel, 

and zinc) and percent coal. Concentrations of 

trace metals in surface water in the Lignite Creek 

basin are generally higher than those in surface 

water in the Healy Creek basin. One ground-water 

sample and 11 bedrock samples were also obtained 

from the basins for analysis. 

Data collection for this project was completed in 

1981. The final report is in preparation. 

The project location is shown in figure 12. 

Project Title: Total Sediment Transport Below 

Devils Canyon Dam Site on Susitna River 

Chief: James M. Knott 

Objectives: To define total sediment transport by 

the Susitna River below Devils Canyon. Specific 

objectives are to define: (1) suspended-sediment 

transport rate as a function of discharge; (2) size 

distribution of suspended sediment as a function of 

transport rate; (3) bedload transport as a function 

of discharge; ( 4) size distribution of bedload as a 

function of transport rate; ( 5) spatial distribution 

of total sediment transport; and (6) bed-material 

particle-size distribution. 

Status: Sediment sampling will begin in May 1982. 

Plans call for a basic-data release at the close of 

the 1982 field season. 

The project location is shown in figure 12. 

Project Title: Hydrologic Studies of the Point 

MacKenzie - Horseshoe Flats Area 

Chief: Leslie D. Patrick 

Objectives: To evaluate the hydrologic boundaries, 

aquifers, aquifer materials, and quality of ground 

water and lakes in the Point MacKenzie - Horseshoe 

Flats area. The applicability of digital models will 

also be evaluated. 

Status: The study encompasses approximately 120 

square miles. In 1981 two test wells were drilled in 

the study area. A report titled "Results of Exploratory Drilling at Point MacKenzie, Alaska, 1981" 

describes the lithology and water quality. Geophysical logs were run, and a water-level recorder 

was installed on one of the wells. Water-quality, 

water-level, and bathymetric data were collected 

from Horseshoe Lake and Lake Lorraine. Lake 

levels were also measured on Twin Island Lake and 

Lost Lake. Data collection will continue through 

1982. Plans call for a final report in 1983. 

The project location is shown in figure 12. 

Project Title: Evaluation of Hydrologic Hazards 

from Volcanic Activity at Mount Spurr 

WATER RESOURCES 

Chief: Richard P. Emanuel 

Objectives: To assess the hazards posed by possible eruptions of Mount Spurr, particularly iceand snowmelt, floods and mudflows, formation and 

destruction of lakes, stream-channel changes due to 

erosion and deposition of sediment, contamination of 

water resources with ash or other sediment, and 

other hydrologic hazards and impacts in the 

affected area. Specific objectives are to: (I) obtain 

aerial photographs of floodways in the Beluga and 

Chakachatna River systems; (2) obtain adequate 

ground control for photogrammetry and large-scale 

topographic mapping using the above aerial photographs, and to produce such maps; (3) simulate 

catastrophic flooding in the Beluga and Chakachatna 

River systems using a computer model of dam-break 

floods; (4) evaluate and map areas at risk from 

possible mudflows, floods, ashfall, and other 

volcanic and related phenomena; and (5) identify 

facilities that could be affected by volcanic activity 

on Mount Spurr. 

Status: About 90 percent of the aerial photography 

of the Beluga and Chakachatna River systems was 

obtained in 1981, the first year of the project. 

Nearly 25 survey control points were selected using 

a corn bination of satellite receivers, ground electronic instruments, and helicopter-mounted surveying equipment; additional points will be chosen in 

1982 to meet photogrammetric requirements. Preliminary computer simulations of dam-break floods 

have been run with the available data. 

The project location is shown in figure 12. 

Project Title: Water-Quality Characteristics of 

Surface-Water Runoff in Chester Creek, Anchorage 

Chief: Timothy P. Brabets 

Objectives: To describe the chemical, physical, 

and biological characteristics of baseflow, snowmelt, 

and rainfall runoff in Chester Creek. These characteristics will be related to climate and land-use 

characteristics. Data will also be used to calibrate 

and verify two Survey rainfall models·: the Distributed Routing Rainfall Runoff Model, and the Precipitation Runoff Modeling System. 

Status: Gaging stations have been installed on the 

South- Branch of the South Fork Chester Creek in 

the basin headwaters and on Chester Creek at 

Arctic Boulevard. Stage recorders, rainfall and 

snow collectors, and automatic pumping samplers are 

set up to acquire data in areas of commercial and 

high- and low-density residential land uses. Sampling will begin in 1982. 

The project location is shown in figure 12. 

Project Title: Geohydrology of the Anchorage Area 

Chief: Timothy P. Brabets 

Objectives: (1) To maintain a hydrologic data-collection network for streamflow, lake levels, and 

ground-water levels in the Anchorage area; (2) to 

45 
WATER RESOURCES 

50 100 MILES f--...J.'-ri __.._,....,., _..._...,,__., 

50 100 150.KILOMETERS 

EXPLANATION 

1. Water Resources of the Chilkat River Basin near Haines 

Figure 13.--Water Resources Division study in southeastern Alaska. 

maintain and update a two-dimensional digital model 

of the confined aquifer system in the Anchorage 

area to simulate the hydrologic effects of groundwater development; and ( 3) to describe hydrologic 

characteristics of selected areas in Anchorage where 

hydrologic information is required to help make 

land-use planning decisions. 

Status: The general hydrologic character of this 

area was described early in this 14-year-old project. 

Current project activities include: ( 1) operation of 

the basic-data collection network of six streamgages, 52 wells for water-level measurements, and 

lake-level measurements at eight lakes; (2) collection of aquifer test pumping information to update 

and operate the digital model of the confined 

aquifer system; (3) collection and interpretation of 

hydrogeologic data in the Peters Creek - Eklutna 

area and preparation of a report on the results of 

the study; and ( 4) collection and interpretation of 

water-quality information for Campbell Creek. 

The project location is shown in figure 12. 

Project Title: Baseflow Study of the Chuitna Coal 

Field 

Chief: Gordon L. Nelson 

46 

Objectives: To identify aquifers that contribute to 

baseflow of the Chuitna River, a major spawning 

habitat, and predict how mining will affect baseflow; to define the composition of water in springs 

that supply baseflow to the streams. 

Status: This project began in mid-1982. 

The project location is shown in figure 12. 

Project Title: Water Resources of the Copper River 

Basin 

Chief: Philip A. Emery 

Objectives: To present water-resources information 

iri a format understandable by local water users and 

managers. and to provide a guide to future waterresource development so potential water users may 

avoid costly and futile efforts to obtain adequate 

amounts of good quality water. 

Status: The project began in mid -1982. 

The project location is shown in figure 12. 

Project Title: Frequency of Recurrence of Lake 

George at Knik Glacier 
Chief: Larry R. Mayo 

Objectives: To determine the mechanism that 

causes the formation and discharge of Lake George 

and the parameters that can be measured to predict 

that occurrence. 

Status: Lake George was dammed by Knik Glacier 

and burst out annually for many years prior to 

1966, but an ice dam has not formed since that 

date. The glacier has not retreated from the 

ice-dam point, and outburst flooding could resume, 

threatening current and expected economic and 

residential development downstream. The glacier is 

presently growing thicker and steeper. In 1981 

project personnel measured a record 17.0 meters of 

snow in a crevasse in the glacier. Ice radar meas- urements show that part of the lower glacier is 

below sea level. The spacing between surface-point 

altitude measurement sites has been decreased from 

5 to 2 kilometers for greater precision in detecting 

waves in glacier flow. Data are sent annually to 

the State's Division of Geological and Geophysical 

Surveys, and a final report is planned for 1983. 

The project location is shown in figure 10. 

47 

WATER RESOURCES 

SOUTHEASTERN REGION 

Project Title: Water Resources of the Chilkat River 

Basm near Haines 

Chief: Edward F. Bugliosi 

Objectives: To describe the hydrologic system of 

the Chilkat River basin near the Tsirku fan, a 

critical habitat area for bald eagles; to estimate 

streamflow characteristics in ungaged parts of the 

Chilkat River basin; and to determine baseline 

water quality in the basin. 

Status: To date, historic data have been compiled. 

The Survey made miscellaneous measurements, 

sampled the water quality of selected rivers in the 

basin, and established a continuous recorder at a 

site on the Klehini River in 1981. Project personnel 

have also studied the bathymetry and water quality 

of Chilkat Lake. Some of the planned observation 

wells have been drilled on the Tsirku River fan. 

Data from the wells will be used to develop a working model of the fan. 

The project location is shown in figure 13. 
48 
Measuring the dip of the Kanayut Conglomerate in the Brooks Range. 

For further information, contact the offices listed below. 

Anchorage, Alaska 

Thomas P. Miller 

Chief, Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Gould Hall - APU Campus 

University Drive 

Anchorage , AK 99504 

Tel. (907) 278-3571 

W. L. (Doc) Adkison 

Geologist, Alaska Core Library 

132-140 Manor Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

Tel. (907) 274-1345 

Fairbanks, Alaska 

Florence R. Weber 

Geologist-in-Charge 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

P.O. Box 80586 

Fairbanks, AK 99708 

Tel. (907) 479-7245 

John B. Townshend 

Chief, College Observatory 

Branch of Electromagnetism 

and Geomagnetism 

Yukon Drive on West Rfdge 

Fairbanks, AK 99701 

Tel. (907) 479-6146 

49 

Sitka, Alaska 

Willis E. Osbakken 

Chief, Sitka Observatory 

Branch of Electromagnetism 

and Geomagnetism 

P . O. Box 158, Sitka, AK 99835 

Tel. (907) 747-3332 

Menlo Park, California 

Henry C. Berg 

Geologist - in - Charge 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 17 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

Tel. (415) 323-8111 ext. 2231 

Reston, Virginia 

A. Thomas Ovenshine 

Chief, Office of Mineral Resources 

913 National Center 

Reston, VA 22092 

Tel. (703) 860-6561 

Robert 1\1. Hamilton 

Chief Geologist 

911 National Center 

Reston, VA 22092 

Tel. (703) 860-6531 
GEOLOGIC 

ENERGY, MINERALS, GEOLOGIC 

HAZARDS, AND GEOLOGIC RESEARCH 

The current scientific program of the Geologic 

Division in Alaska is primarily related to mineraland energy-resource appraisal, earthquake and 

geologic hazards, and geologic research conducted 

in support of these programs. This work includes 

geologic mapping and mineral-resource evaluation, 

primarily at scales of 1: 250, 000 and 1: 63,360; 

mineral district mapping and evaluation; mineralresource appraisal; geochemical studies and sam- pling, particularly related to mineral deposits; 

petroleum-resource surveys; aeromagnetic and 

gravity surveys and interpretation; engineering 

geology studies in urban areas and along transportation corridors; earthquake studies; isotopic 

age determination and interpretation; heat-flow 

studies; and submarine sampling, sub bottom profiling, and other geologic and geophysical studies of 

the ocean floor. 

Activities in Alaska are the responsibility of 

several working groups within the Geologic Division: 

the Branch of Alaskan Geology with headquarters in 

Anchorage, the Office of Earthquake Studies, the 

Office of Energy Resources, and the Office of 

Marine Geology at the Western Region Headquarters 

in Menlo Park, Calif. ; the Branches of Regional 

Geophysics, Electromagnetism and Geomagnetism, 

Exploration Research, Isotope Geology, and Engineering Geology at the Central Region Headquarters 

in Denver, Colo. ; and the Branch of Paleontology 

and Stratigraphy at the National Museum in Washington, D.C. Several other branches in the 

Geologic Division provide services or conduct 

research in cooperation with these units. 

The Branch of Alaskan Geology is headquartered in Anchorage at Gould Hall on the Alaska 

Pacific University campus; Branch offices are 

located in Fairbanks and at the Western Region 

in Menlo Park, Calif.; the Branch of Regional 

Electromagnetism and Geomagnetism maintains observatories at Fairbanks (College), Barrow, Adak, and 

Sitka. The College and Barrow observatories are 

under the direction of John B . Townshend, whose 

office is in Fairbanks. The Sitka Observatory is 

directed by Willis E. Osbakken, and David Evans is 

in charge of the Adak facility. 

This section on the Geologic Division first 

describes the major mission-oriented programs in 

Alaska and then describes the current projects in 

Alaska by geographic region. Figures 14 through 

23 show the locations of current division activities. 

The major program elements of the Geologic 

Division in Alaska are: 

• The Alaska Mineral Resource Assessment Program (AMRAP) and related projects 

• The North Slope Petroleum Program and related 

Alaska-wide energy studies 

• The Arctic Environmental Studies Program 

• The Marine Geology Program 

• The Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program 

• Volcanic Hazards Program • Climate Change Program 

• Alaska Geothermal Research Program 

• Geologic Framework and Synthesis Program 

• Geologic research in support of these program 

elements 

Most of these programs are interrelated. 

Several Arctic Environmental Studies projects, for 

example, are designed to determine and mitigate the 

environmental effects of oil exploration, production, 

and transportation in the Arctic. The Marine 

Geology Program, similarly, is designed to determine the petroleum potential in the continental shelf 

areas off the coast of Alaska and to determine 

geo-hazards related to placement 1of oil and mining 

facilities on the sea floor. The North Slope 

Petroleum Program is designed to assess petroleum 

and other mineral resources of northern Alaska. 

ALASKA MINERAL RESOURCE 

ASSESSMENT PROGRAM 

The Alaska Mineral Resource Assessment Program (AMRAP), coordinated by Gary R. Winkler in 

Anchorage, began in 1975. The program was developed to provide objective and timely information on Alaska's mineral endowment to public and 

private interests concerned with exploration, classification, and development of Alaska lands. The 

program is evolving to meet the mandates of the 

. Alaska National Interest Lands ·Conservation Act 

( ANILCA), which went into effect in December 

1980. The act calls for mineral resource assessment 

of all public lands in Alaska and enlarges the scope 

of AMRAP to consider mineral fuels as well as 

non-fuels minerals, thereby necessitating more 

cooperative projects with other Federal and State 

agencies. 

50 

The two basic goals of AMRAP continue to be: 

(1) in the near term, to assess on a 1: 1, 000,000-

scale base the State's mineral resources to provide 

input to persons in the Congress and the Department of the Interior who are concerned with 

National Mineral policy; and (2) for long-range 

planning, to conduct systematic interdisciplinary 

studies of 1:250,000-scale quadrangles, giving 

priority to quadrangles that are believed to have 

the most significant potential for mineral resources. 

The first goal has been met for much of Alaska; 

completion of a summary assessment of the southeastern part of the State is scheduled for 1983. 

The second goal is now the main focus of the program and is being addressed at an accelerated pace 

in FY 1982. 

AM RAP consists of four levels of study: Level 

!--statewide summaries (now essentially completed) 

of the State's mineral resources based on past and 

present investigations by the Survey and by other 

agencies; 11--identification of regions of mineral 

potential, including some measures of the favorability for and probable sizes and grades of 

undiscovered deposits in these regions; III--interdisciplinary studies of specific 1: 2 50, 000-scale 

quadrangles, each containing more than 7,000 

square miles, and related topical studies; and 

IV--detailed studies of mineral deposits or districts 

and related technical studies. One project under 

Level II is continuing. In Level III, projects in 

eight quadrangles are ongoing, and four will start 
(11 

... 

L_ 

I 

f 

-!:;;:;/ ~ (> 

Oc f " -- ~ "-. I 

·--_ 

-~ 

A C I F I C 

ALASKA 

EXPLANATION 

D Fieldwork underway 

Fieldwork completed; 

reports published or 

in press 

~ Tentatively scheduled 

0 100 200 MILES I I I I I 

0 100 200 KILOMETERS 

-------

Figure 14. --Status of Level III Alaska Mineral Resource Assessment Program (AMRAP), January 1, 1982. 

Ci) 

m 

0 

r0 

e 

0 
GEOLOGIC 

in FY 1982. Twenty-seven detailed or topical 

studies in Level IV are underway. 

Many of the AMRAP project chiefs are members 

of the Branch of Alaskan Geology. However, the 

program supports projects of the Branches of 

Regional Geochemistry, Regional Geophysics, Field 

Geochemistry and Petrology, Petrophysics and 

Remote Sensing, and the Isotope Geology Branch in 

the Office of Geochemistry and Geophysics; of 

Exploration Research, Resource Analysis, and 

Western Mineral Resources in the Office of Mineral 

Resources; of Coal Resources, Oil and Gas 

Resources, and Uranium-Thorium Resources in the 

Office of Energy Resources; and of Paleontology 

and Stratigraphy in the Office of Regional Geology. 

In addition, AMRAP has supported, and will continue to support, topical studies that range from 

detailed work in small areas to work of statewide 

and international scope. 

Under ANILCA the total program area has 

expanded to encompass more than 280,000 square 

miles. Level III studies have been completed or are 

underway for about 40 percent of the area; figure 14 

indicates the current status of Level III AMRAP 

studies. Geological mapping and geochemical or 

geophysical studies are scheduled for 16 quadrangles in 1982; fieldwork in 23 quadrangles has 

been completed and reports have been published or 

are in press for those quadrangles. 

NORTH SLOPE PETROLEUM PROGRAM 

The North Slope Petroleum Program, directed 

by Kenneth J. Bird of the Branch of Oil and Gas 

Resources in Menlo Park, consists of a number of 

projects whose goals are to assess the petroleum 

potential of the North Slope of Alaska. Specificially, the program's objectives are to determine, 

map, and describe, on the surface and in the 

subsurface, by geologic, geophysical, and geochemical methods: ( 1) the structural framework 

and regional structural trends in the Brooks Range 

and North Slope; ( 2) depositional environments and 

lateral relations of Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic 

facies; ( 3) possible hydrocarbon reservoirs and 

their regional trends; ( 4) paleontologic, lithologic, 

and electric log correlations across the North Slope; 

( 5) the thermal history, hydrocarbon source potential, and relations of extracted hydrocarbons to 

known North Slope oils; and (6) the geologic 

history of the area as it relates to potential reservoirs, source and seal rocks, hydrocarbon formation 

and migration, and present structural trends. 

Currently, five projects comprise the North 

Slope Petroleum Program. All projects are regional 

in extent and can be classified as basin analysis 

studies. The projects include: a basin-framework 

study, primarily of Cretaceous and Tertiary rocks 

of the eastern North Slope; a tectonic-stratigraphic 

study of pre-Cretaceous rocks in the northern part 

of the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska 

( NPR A); petroleum source-rock geochemical studies; 

reservoir and resource assessment studies; and a 

low-level aeromagnetic survey for detection of 

anomalies produced by 'hydrocarbon seepages. 

Funding is from the Office of the National Petroleum 

Reserve in Alaska and the Branch of Alaskan 

Geology. The direction of future Oil and Gas 

Branch work on the North Slope is the extension of 

NPRA studies to adjacent areas. 

ARCTIC ENVIRONMENTAL 

STUDIES PROGRAM 

The Arctic Environmental Studies Program is 

under the direction of Oscar J. Ferrians, Jr. , of 

the Branch of Alaskan Geology in Menlo Park. The 

program objectives are: ( 1) to investigate transportation corridors and other areas of development 

in Alaska in order to obtain baseline geotechnical 

data needed for land-use planning and to aid in 

planning, designing, operating, and maintaining 

engineering structures so that adverse environmental impacts will be minimized; to evaluate feasibility 

of proposed projects; and to prepare comprehensive 

Environmental Impact Statements; and (2) to observe and record geotechnical maintenance and 

environmental problems that arise during the operation of the trans-Alaska oil pipeline in order to 

determine the location, character, and extent of 

these problems and their relation to geologic conditions and processes. These observations will allow 

an evaluation of the adequacy of the technical stipulations in controlling adverse environmental impacts 

and make it possible to improve stipulations for 

future engineering projects that would have a 

significant impact on the environment. 

Continuing projects in the Arctic Environmental 

Studies Program include: Tanana Valley transportation-development corridor studies, eastern 

Arctic Coastal Plain Quaternary studies, surficial 

geology of the Central Brooks Range, western 

Arctic Coastal Plain Quaternary studies, and Copper 

River Basin Quaternary studies. Other major 

activities during 1982 include: (1) continuing 

compilation of a hew permafrost map of Alaska; (2) 

continuing preparation of a major report describing 

the present state of knowledge of permafrost conditions in Alaska; (3) continuing compilation of a 

comprehensive permafrost bibliography; and ( 4) 

special study of Kobuk sand dunes. 

MARINE GEOLOGY PROGRAM 

The Alaskan continental shelf is larger than 

the combined shelves of the rest of the United 

States. The energy and mineral potential of this 

shelf area is and will continue to be a major segment of national resource programs. The primary 

mission of the Survey's Marine Geology Program is 

to provide scientifically interpreted information 

about the (1) resource potential, ( 2) geo-hazards 

setting, and ( 3) overall geologic characteristics of 

the continental margin and adjacent shallow and 

deeper coastal areas of Alaska. The program 

focuses on the investigation of the regional geologic 

framework and on geo-environmental problems that 

typically require the gathering of widely spread and 

publicly available geophysical and geologic data. In 

contrast, the Minerals Management Service's program, described elsewhere in this circular, prepares detailed resource and geo-environmental data 

analysis for evaluations of specific 3-mile-square 

tracts. The combination o( regional geologic 

synthesis compiled by the Geologic Division and the 

detailed assessments by the Minerals Management 

Service provides a comprehensive understanding of 

52 
the oil and gas resource potential of an area and 

the geologic hazards that may affect exploration and 

production activities. 

Although the bulk of the regional resource 

studies of continental margins is directed at energy 

deposits, investigations are also conducted to 

determine mineral resources, both hard-rock and 

placer deposits, and the availability of construction 

materials such as sand and gravel, which may bear on energy resource development. Energy resource 

investigations are concentrated in areas proposed or 

that have potential for leasing activity. 

The hazards program involves seafloor characterization studies, analyses of processes active on the seabed, and geo-hazard assessments. In 

Alaskan areas, the studies are designed first to 

determine the regional relations and then to focus 

on the specific geo-hazards and the processes that 

form them. Ceo-hazards include recent or active 

faulting, seabed erosion or scour, sediment transportation and deposition, slumping and related 

r.lass-sediment movement, gas accumulations in the 

shallow sub surface, and ice-gouging of the seafloor. 

These studies also involve basic or applied 

research needed to improve our ability either (1) to 

collect or interpret scientific data or (2) to understand processes that shape or modify the seabed 

and its underlying rocks. The theoretical and 

technological results of these endeavors bolster our 

resource and geo-hazards programs, as well as 

enrich the Nation's storehouse of scientific knowledge. 

The Marine Geology Program is coordinated by 

Robert W. Rowland of the Office of Marine Geology 

in Menlo Park. The projects are described under 

the regional heading Offshore. 

EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS 

REDUCTION PROGRAM 

Earthquakes pose serious hazards to life and 

property in Alaska. Severity of the hazard was 

amply illustrated by the great Alaska earthquake of 

1964. More earthquakes occur in Alaska than in 

the rest of the United States. Accordingly, the 

State is a fertile natural laboratory for investigations into the cause and geologic effects of earthquakes. On the basis of patterns of historic 

earthquake activity, large earthquakes (magnitude 7 

or greater) are expected to occur in the Shumagin 

Islands and Yakataga region with the next few 

decades. The program in Alaska · is part of a 

national program mandated by the Earthquake 

Hazards Reduction Act of 1977 (Public Law 95-124). 

Under the act, the responsibility for research on earthquake hazards is divided between the Survey 

and the National Science Foundation (NSF). The 

Survey is responsible for research related to prediction, induced seismicity, and hazards assessment. The NSF is responsible for engineering and 

research for utilization of mitigating procedures. 

Much of the funding in the national overall program 

goes to universities, private groups, and other 

government services in addition to the Survey's 

program. As a result, the Survey closely coordinates its program in Alaska with the Geophysical 

Institute of the University of Alaska in Fairbanks 

53 

GEOLOGIC 

and with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 

Administration (NOAA). Observatories are maintained in Adak, Sitka, and Barrow, in addition to 

the Fairbanks facilities. The prograr.1 in Alaska is 

coordinated by Robert D. Brown of the Earthquake 

Studies Branch in Menlo Park. 

In addition to the projects listed by region in 

the pages that follow, the Survey supports several 

projects at institutions or in agencies outside the 

Federal Government. They include those listed 

below: 

Earthquake Hazards Studies 

Geotechnical soils investigations, upP.er Cook 

Inlet area.--This study involves determination 

of sensitive clay failure and sand liquefaction 

susceptibility of Quaternary soils in the study 

area in response to a seismic event. This 

includes the mapping of engineering soils units 

and establishing a geotechnical data bank. 

Collection of subsurface soils data continues, 

and a program for computer storage is being 

devised. The pilot study of Bootlegger Cove 

Clay slope stability and stratigraphy in the 

Government Hill area of· Anchorage, which was 

based on three-dimensional engineering mapping, has resulted in two reports that are in 

review. A similar study of southwest Anchorage is well underway. In addition, geologic 

mapping of the Anchorage B6-NW quadrangle 

(Eklutna Lake area, north of Anchorage) is 

complete; that study recognized active faults 

cutting both bedrock and Holocene glacial 

deposits. Strain history studies of 1964 landslides in the Anchorage area are complete, and 

a report is in review. The project chief is 

Randall Updike of the Alaska Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys in Anchorage. 

Earthquake Prediction Studies 

Crustal deformation measurements in Alaskan 

seismic g@s - Yakataga and the Shumagin 

Islands. --The project chiefs are Roger Bilham 

and John Beavon of the Lamont-Doherty Geological Observatory at Columbia University, 

New York City. To date, three groups of 

strainmeters have been installed, and more 

instrumentation is planned. The project's 

objective is to test whether precursory strain 

changes in an epicentral region can be used to 

predict time of rupture. 

Field study of earthquake P.rediction methods 

in the central Aleutian Islands.--Project chiefs 

are Carl Kisslinger and Selena Billington of the 

University of Colorado in Boulder. A goal of 

the project is to develop the capability to 

predict earthquakes of magnitude 5 or greater. 

Data are provided by a seismograph network 

and by measurements of tilt, gravity, mean sea 

level, vertical line levelling, and long-term 

tectonic stability. 

VOLCANICS HAZARDS PROGRAM 

This nationwide program involves geologists, 

geochemists, geophysicists, and hydrologists in 
GEOLOGIC 

assessing the hazards to life and property 

associated with volcanic eruptions and investigating 

the prediction of eruptions. Examination of 

recently active volcanoes to determine the frequency 

and character of their eruptions and to monitor 

their geophysical and geochemical activities constitute a major part of the program. In Alaska, field 

studies have been completed on Mount Redoubt, a 

volcano on the west side of Cook Inlet, and final 

reports are in preparation. Fieldwork will continue 

on Mount Spurr, another volcano on the west side 

of Cook Inlet, and Mount Edgecumbe, a volcano in 

southeastern Alaska, near Sitka. For information 

about this program, contact Thomas P. Miller, 

Branch of Alaskan Geology, Anchorage. 

CLIMATE CHANGE PROGRAM 

The Geological Survey's Climate Change Program seeks to provide a basic understanding of the 

reasons for and mechanisms of climatic changes. It 

provides information on the natural variability of 

the climate system from a geologic perspective, 

emphasizing independent, coordinated multidisciplinary studies of long and continuous records where 

possible. Investigators are members of nearly a 

dozen branches or divisions of the Survey. Among 

the program's goals are: establishing a long-term 

history of rates, frequencies, and magnitudes of 

climate change; determining the effects of climate 

change on natural resources; and developing and 

improving techniques for delineating climate history. 

The program provides a geologic data base as input 

for, or validation of, numerical models being used 

to predict climate change as a result of manmade or 

natural alterations of climate. Major study topics 

include lakes, Jsotopes, carbon dioxide concentrations, terrestrial-marine correlations, and syntheses 

of findings. 

Two projects in Alaska are funded by the 

Climate Change Program. Both involve analysis of 

lacustrine sediments as the basis for developing 

regional zonation for correlation of late Quaternary 

deposits and for tracing the climatic history of 

southern Alaska. 

For more information about 

contact its coordinator, Richard 

National Center, Reston, Va. 22092. 

the program, 

Z. Poore, 908 

GEOTHERMAL RESEARCH PROGRAM 

The Geothermal Research Program of the U.S. 

Geological Survey is a multidisciplinary program 

with the goal of understanding the nature, distribution, and energy potential of the Nation's geothermal resources. The program is administered by 

the Geologic Division and consists of geologic, geochemical, geophysical, and hydrologic studies that 

are conducted within the Geologic Division and the 

Water Resources Division. Much of the information 

produced by the Geothermal Research Program 

bears directly on those activities of the Minerals 

Management Service that are related to classification, evaluation, and leasing of Federal lands for 

geothermal development. 

Individual projects fall into one of six topical 

categories, which are: (1) general studies of 

geothermal systems and of the transfer and storage 

54 

of geothermal heat; (2) regional geothermal investigations; (3) studies of hydrothermal systems and 

fluid geochemistry; ( 4) stu dies of volcanic systems 

and magma chambers; ( 5) studies of geopressurized 

systems; and (6) development of geophysical and 

geochemical techniques for geothermal exploration 

and assessment. 

Participation by the Branch of Alaskan Geology 

in the Geothermal Research Program is through 

regional geothermal investigations. One geothermal 

project is currently active in the State. James 

Riehle of the Branch of Alaskan Geology in Anchorage is overseeing program activities in Alaska. 

GEOLOGIC FRAMEWORK 

AND SYNTHESIS PROGRAM 

This program is designed to develop and 

synthesize basic information on the geologic framework of the Nation. The program performs the 

dual function of acquiring baseline earth . science 

information for subsequent support of mission 

activities of the U.S. Geological Survey such as resource assessment or mitigation of geologic 

hazards, and synthesizing geologic information 

gathered by other programs to develop new geologic 

concepts or up-to-date syntheses of regional 

geology. Three principal subelements constitute the 

program: (1) Geological, geochemical, and geophysical surveys to determine the distribution and 

properties of rocks and unconsolidated materials; 

( 2) studies to determine the ages of those materials 

in order to determine rates and frequencies of 

particular geologic processes; and (3) studies of 

geologic processes responsible for the formation, 

modification, and distribution of those materials 

within and at the surface of the earth. 

Activities of the Geologic Framework and 

Synthesis Program in Alaska are directed toward 

understanding the tectonic and intrusive igneous 

history of pa_rts of the State. Geologic investigations in south-central and southeastern Alaska are 

studying the distribution and ag~s of "suspect" 

terranes, belts of rocks that may have moved 

thousands of kilometers northward to their present 

sites in Alaska. Geophysical studies in the program 

are measuring the orientations of weak remanent 

m~gnetic fields in rock of these "suspect" terranes 

in order to identify the original position of the 

rocks with respect to known ancient positions of the 

Earth's magnetic poles. Other projects in the 

program are investigating distribution, compositions, ages, and origin of plutonic rocks in the 

Alaska-Aleutian Range batholith, the chronology of 

Quaternary deposits in northern Alaska, and the 

biostratigraphy of Paleozic Radiolaria. Another 

project is devoted to compiling a map of magnetic 

anomalies in North America. These projects will 

contribute to understanding the evolution and 

crustal framework of these areas and the relations 

between igneous intrusions and mineral deposits 

there. Finally, several investigations in the program are providing critical age determinations of 

rocks throughout Alaska, using paleontologic and 

isotopic techniques. 

Further information about this program is 

available from Glen A. lzett, 908 National Center, 

Reston, Va. 22092; Tel. (703) 860-6411. 
PROJECTS OF THE GEOLOGIC DMSION 

STATEWIDE 

Project Title: Alaska Geothermal Project (Alaska 

Geothermal Program) 

Chief: James R. Riehle 

Objectives: To carry out a reconnaissance evaluation of the geothermal resources of the State of 

Alaska. Particular emphasis is now being given to 

volcanic centers of the Alaska Peninsula, eastern 

Aleutian Islands, the Wrangell Mountains, and Mount 

Edgecumbe. Studies of the distribution of rock 

types, chemistry, and eruptive history of selected 

volcanic centers are being conducted in order to 

evaluate the potential for shallow heat sources. 

Status: Much of the reconnaissance study of the 

volcanic rocks of the Aleutian volcanic arc and the 

Wrangell Mountains is now complete and in the 

report-preparation stage. Field studies in FY 1981 

included: ( 1) mapping and sampling of centers 

active during Holocene time on the Alaska Peninsula 

(Ugashik quadrangle), (2) sampling for geochronologic studies of Wrangell lavas, and (3) investigation 

of Holocene activity of the Edgecumbe volcanic 

field. Activities in FY 1982 include laboratory 

analysis and preliminary data reduction of samples 

from the FY 1981 field season. Field studies will 

continue in FY 1982. 

Project locations are shown in figure 15. 

Project Title: Uranium in Alaska 

Chief: Thomas P. Miller 

Objectives: To make a reconnaissance study of the 

uramum and thorium potential of plutonic rock 

terranes in Alaska in terms of their geologic setting, petrologic characteristics, and associated 

uranium-thorium deposits. 

Status: Reconnaissance geologic studies have been 

conducted on uraniferous plutonic rocks in the 

eastern Seward Peninsula, west-central Alaska, and 

the northern Alaska Range. Several reports 

describing uranium-thorium distribution and mineral.:.. 

ization have been published, and several more are 

in the report-preparation stage. 

The project location is shown in figure 15. 

Project Title: Alaska Geologic Earthquake Hazards 

(Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program) 

Chief: George Plafker 

Objectives: To study and evaluate risk in Alaska 

from tectonic displacement, seismic shaking, and 

secondary geologic effects. A more general goal is 

to gain insight into tectonic processes within the 

seismically active zones of Alaska, with special 

emphasis on south-central Alaska. 

Status: 

project 

Fieldwork is 

has included 

essentially complete. The 

reconnaissance studies of 

GEOLOGIC 

known or suspected active faults in Alaska and 

evaluation of marine terrace sequences in the Gulf 

of Alaska region. 

Project Title: Coal Resources of Alaska 

Chief: Gary D. Stricker 

Objectives: (1) To evaluate coal resources in the 

National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska (NPRA) and 

AMRAP study areas in Alaska by geologic mapping, 

drill core data, and geophysical methods; (2) to 

prepare cross sections showing coal bed correlations 

and coal distribution in the NPRA and AMRAP study 

areas; (3) to provide resource estimates by area 

and bed for selected parts of these areas; and (4) 

to assess coal quality by use of Btu values, sulfur 

and ash content, and major-, minor-, and traceelement concentrations. 

Status: In 1980 fieldwork was done in the Broad 

Pass quadrangle where active surface subsidence 

over an abandoned coal mine is of environmental 

concern. A report on the subsidence is in preparation. Reconnaissance studies of the Mystic 

Creek coal basin and of an unnamed basin near 

Newman Creek in the northeast part of the Healy 

quadrangle resulted in collection of samples and 

· measurement of sections for studies of depositional 

environment and coal resources. Other work for 

the Healy AMRAP project and NPRA is continuing. 

The type and location of fieldwork in 1982 will be 

determined by arrangements with other projects. 

55 

The project location is shown in figure 15. 

Project Title: Placers of Alaska 

Chief: Warren E. Yeend 

Objectives: To reassess gold placer resources of 

Alaska by mapping deposits and by compiling 

reports that show and describe: location and 

extent (vertical and lateral) of deposits; history of 

exploration; texture and lithology of gravel and 

heavy minerals; past production and value per 

cubic yard; sources of gravels and gold; resources 

remaining; and age of deposits and geologic history. 

Status: Fieldwork and reports are complete for the 

Mount Hayes quadrangle. (See Open-File Report 

81-0355 and Circular 823-B.) Fieldwork is complete 

in the Circle and Healy quadrangles. Laboratory 

analysis is under way on panned samples, and maps 

and reports are being prepared for these quadrangles. Some information is included in Circular 

844. 

The project location is shown in figure 15. 

Project Title: Alaska Fragments/Tectonic Map of 

Alaska 

Chief: David L. Jones 

Objectives: ( 1) To identify, characterize, and 

interpret the major tectonostratigraphic terranes 

that form the main mass of Alaska, and to show 
.,..I 

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UNITED STATES 

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY ALASKA 

EXPLANATION 

1. Alaska Geothermal 

2. Uranium in Alaska 

3. Geologic Earthquake Hazards 

4. Coal Resources 

5. Placers 

6. Fragments/Tectonic Map 

7. Paleozoic Biostratigraphic Framework 

8. Alaskan Natural Gas Transportation 

System 

0 100 200 MILES I I I I I 0 100 200 KILOMETERS 

0 c 

d2" 

Figure 15. -- Geologic Division activities statewide in Alaska. 

T'" 

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m 

0 

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0 
their distribution on a tectonostratigraphic terrane 

map (scale 1:2,500,000); (2) to compile a tectonic 

map of Alaska (in quadrants at a scale of 

1:1,000, 000) that portrays: (a) the internal 

structural features of each terrane, (b) the structures produced during accretion of allochthonous 

terranes, and (c) structures that post-date the 

accretionary history; and ( 3) to determine by 

paleomagnetic methods the amount of displacement 

that selected terranes have undergone. 

Status: A preliminary terrane map was completed 

during FY 1981 (Open-File Report 81-0792). Field 

studies in the central Alaska Range and in Denali 

National Park and Preserve were completed in FY 

1980, and a map at a scale of 1: 250,000 will be 

released in FY 1982. Compilation of the first sheet 

of a preliminary version of a tectc.nic map of Alaska 

is scheduled for FY 1982. Analysis of paleomagnetic data on lower Cenozoic volcanic rocks of the 

central Alaska Range has been completed. In FY 

1981, field studies in the Rampart area of northcentral Alaska began in order to establish the 

stratigraphy and structure of the Innoko terrane. 

In FY 1982, this study will be extended northward 

in to the Bettles area. 

The project location is shown in figure 15. 

Project Title: Paleozoic Biostratigraphic Framework 

of Alaska 

Chief: J. Thomas Dutro, Jr. 

Objectives: To establish a biostratigraphic framework of Paleozoic sequences in three parts of 

Alaska: (1) Ordovician through Devonian of the 

eastern Medfra quadrangle, west-central Alaska; ( 2) 

Devonian of the central and eastern Brooks Range, 

northern Alaska; and (3) Carboniferous (upper part 

of Ford Lake Shale and Calico Bluff Formation) of 

east-central Alaska. 

Status: This project was initiated in FY 1980. 

Fieldwork has been completed for parts (1) and (3) 

and is continuing for part (2) in the Wiseman 

quadrangle through the summer of 1982. The study 

elements have been summarized in numerous 

reports, and more reports are in progress. Additional field reconnaissance in 1981 was done in the 

McGrath and Circle quadrangles. 

The project location is shown in figure 15. 

Project Title: Alaska Natural Gas Transportation 

System 

Chief: John R. Williams 

Objectives: To provide geologic, hydrologic, and 

geo-techmcal advice to Federal agencies responsible 

for reviewing plans and designs and for granting 

permits for construction of the Alaska Natural Gas 

Transportation System by Alaskan Northwest 

Natural das Transportation Company. This is done 

mainly through membership on the Cold Regions 

57 

GEOLOGIC 

Engineering Technical Committee of the Office of the 

Chief of Engineers, U.S. Army, established to 

advise the Federal Inspector, Alaska Natural Gas 

Transportation System, and also upon direct 

request of the office of the Federal Inspector. 

Status: The Cold Regions Engineering Technical 

Committee meets two or three times per year with 

representatives of the Federal Inspector, the 

Alaskan Northwest Natural Gas Transportation 

Company, the gas producers, and the Trans- Alaska 

Pipeline System owners, as necessary, to discuss 

the company's frost heave research program and the 

field and laboratory tests that produce data necessary to provide input into the frost heave model 

and to verify it. In addition to participating in 

these meetings, project personnel serve on the 

Committee's Field Tests and Investigations Task 

Group which meets four or five times per year, as 

required, for direct communication with the technical staff of Alaskan Northwest Natural Gas Transportation Company and its consulting engineers, 

geologists, and hydrologists. Occasionally, 

requests are received directly from the Office of 

the Federal Inspector for assistance in fields within 

the expertise of the Survey, e.g. location and 

design of crossings of active faults. 

The project location is shown in figure 15. 

Project Title: Geochemical Census of Alaska 

Chief: Larry P. Gough 

Objectives: To establish background values for the 

concentration of about 35 elements in unconsolidated 

surficial materials and selected native plants. Such 

information is valuable in the evaluation of geochemical data for (1) mineral resources, (2) environmental appraisals, and (3) the definition of 

broad-scale geochemical patterns. Analysis of the 

soil sample provides a measure of the total concentration of each element at a site, and analysis of 

the associated plants permits an estimate to be made 

of the concentrations of the elements available to 

biogeochemical cycling and soil enrichment. The 

study will produce a series of maps showing the 

concentration of elements in surficial materials and 

plants. By sampling two sites per 1:250,000-scale 

quadrangle (one site being replicated) in a projected total of about 140 quadrangles, we will obtain 

about 420 surficial material samples distributed so 

that they are separated by 80-160 kilometers. 

Status: For about 5 years this effort progressed 

slowly on a non-funded, time-available basis. Two 

years ago the project chief attained quarter-time 

funding which made possible limited fieldwork in the 

south-central region. The project had depended, 

however, on the volunteer assistance of individuals 

going into areas where samples are needed; more 

than 35 persons from numerous government agencies 

and public and private universities have participated. 

To date, 208 locations in 94 quadrangles have been 

visited. The collection includes about 300 soil and 

180 plant samples. Sample-site coverage is being 

assessed, and regions with particularly low sample-
GEOLOGIC 

site densities will be targeted for sampling by the 

project chief and an assistant. We estimate that 120 

hours of fixed-wing flying in FY 1982 will be necessary to complete the sampling phase of the project. 

Sample preparation and analysis will begin in late 

FY 1982; 2 or 3 months will be needed to catalogue-, 

sort, and process the samples. The analytical 

phase of the project will be accomplished in FY 

1983. 

The areas sampled, as of October 1, 1981, are 

shown in figure 16. 

Project Title: Mineral Resources of Alaska 

Chief: Ed ward H. Cobb 

Objectives: As a continuing project, to keep office 

studies of mineral occurrence data current and to 

prepare special-purpose maps, reports, and reference lists when the need arises. Most data are organized so that they are available for entry into 

computerized storage and retrieval banks. 

Status: As this is a continuing project, percentage-of-completion data are not applicable; records 

are up to date as of December 31, 1981. 

Project Title: Alaska Gravity Surveys 

Chief: David F. Barnes 

Objectives: To provide gravity data that can 

contribute to Alaska mineral assessments, geologic 

mapping, and earthquake studies. A corollary is to 

standardize all government, university, and 

industry gravity surveys in Alaska by maintaining a network of base stations that can be readily reoccupied during local surveys or after earthquakes 

and that are accurately tied to sites of absolute 

measurements. 

Status: A 1:2,500,000-scale simple Bouguer anomaly 

map of Alaska was published in 1977 and is now 

being revised. This map provided a preliminary 

estimate of the variation of crustal thickness, 

approximate boundaries of many small sedimentary 

basins, an indication of isostatic adjustment, and 

information about the regional gradients that are 

used in the interpretation of more detailed surveys. 

Most of the recent surveys have been planned as 

1:250,000-scale maps designed to support mineral 

assessments and wilderness area investigations. 

However, interpretation of such larger scale maps 

usually requires terrain-corrected data, which have 

been prohibitively expensive until the recent availability of digital terrain data and development of 

computer techniques to handle such data. 

The most detailed survey yet attempted consisted of 

closely spaced stations along two perpendicular 

profiles across a barite outcrop near the Nimiuktuk 

River in the western Brooks Range. These data 

suggested that the small outcrop is underlain by 

about 1. 5 million tons of barite. Gravity may also 

prove useful in locating other massive barite 

bodies, which geochemical data suggest may be 

abundant in the Brooks Range. Another very 

58 

detailed new data set includes over 50,000 gravity 

measurements made along seismic lines in the 

National Petroleum Reserve. Analysis of these data 

should improve our understanding of Arctic Alaska's 

gravity and geologic structure. 

The base station network has supplied control for 

many commercial surveys of both land and marine 

sedimentary basins. These stations were originally 

described in two open-file reports based on the old 

Potsdam network, but conversion to the new 

absolute (IGSN71) world net and datum has caused 

some confusion which will, it is hoped, be 

eliminated by a report in preparation. 

Reoccupation of many gravity bases after the 1964 

earthquake suggested mass increases by thrust 

fault movements and local mass decreases by elastic 

expansion. Continuing studies of post-earthquake 

elevation and gravity changes suggest models 

involving elastic compression. 

Project Title: 

(AMRAP) 

Anchorage Geochemical Laboratory 

Chief: Richard M. O'Leary 

Objectives: To make spectrographic and chemical 

analyses of geologic material collected from quadrangles that are part of the AMRAP program. 

Status: The laboratory facilities in Anchorage will 

be primarily serving the Bendeleben, Solomon, 

Wiseman, Killik River, Chandler Lake, and Anchorage AMRAP quadrangles as part of continuing work. 

Additional samples may be received from new projects in the Port Moller, Table Mountain, and 

Juneau quadrangles. 

Project Title: Metamorphic Facies Map of Alaska 

Chief: Cynthia Dusel-Bacon 

Objectives: To compile a 1:2,500,000-scale metamorphic facies map of Alaska, showing the facies, 

facies groups, facies series, selected isograds, and 

intrusive bodies in the style of the metamorphic 

facies map explanation suggested by the International Union of Geological Sciences in 1967. A 

locality map, also at 1: 2, 5 00,000, text, and table 

will accompany the facies map. Uncolored 

1: 1, 000, 000-scale metamorphic facies maps, which 

are regional compilations upon which the final map 

is based, will be published as separate Miscellaneous Field Studies (MF) sheets. The metamorphic 

facies map is planned as a contribution to a Map of 

the Metamorphic Belts of the World, a project sponsored by the Commission for the Geological Map of 

the World (of the International Union of Geological 

Sciences). Current plans call for a joint U.S. 

Geological Survey - State of Alaska, Division of 

Geological and Geophysical Surveys publication. 

Status: Preliminary compilation and review of 

regional metamorphic facies maps at a scale of 

1:1,000,000 for all of Alaska, coding of background 

metamorphic mineral locality information by 

individual contributors, and early compilation of th'e 
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UNITED STATES 

DEPARTMENT OP' THE INTERIOR 

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 

0 (' 

ALASKA 

0 100 200 MILES I I I I I 

0 100 200 KILOMETERS 

Figure 16. --Sample-site coverage for geochemical census of Alaska. 

-l ... 

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5 
GEOLOGIC 

1:2,500,000-scale map through February 1981 were 

carried out under the direction of D. A. Brew. 

Since then, under the present project chief, com- pilation of the 1:2,500,000-scale facies and locality 

maps has been completed, and metamorphic mineral 

assemblage and age data have been put in a tabular 

format so that the information can be easily 

reviewed by all contributors. Because so much 

additional mapping of metamorphic rocks and radiometric dating has been done since the original 

information was requested in 1973, considerable 

updating and revision of the initial information is 

essential. Revision of the maps and table by 

former and new contributors is expected to be 

completed by June 1982. Publication of the 

1: 1, 000, 000-scale regional facies maps is planned for 

1982-83, and publication of the final 1: 2, 500,000-

scale facies and locality maps, text, and table by 

1985. 

Project Title: Precambrian of Alaska 

Chiefs: Marvin A. Lanphere and G. Donald 

Eberlein 

Objectives: In response to the growing public 

demand on Earth resources and in recognition of 

the need for closer examination of the largely 

overlooked mineral resource potential of the Earth's 

Precambrian terranes, the Subcommission on Precambrian Stratigraphy of the International Union of 

Geological Sciences' Commission on Stratigraphy has 

established Working Groups in all parts of the world 

where Precambrian rocks form a significant part of 

the geology of the region. This program activity, 

with particular concern for Alaska, is one of seven 

that constitute the Working Group for the Precambrian of the United States and Mexico. Immediate 

objectives have been designated as (I) assembly and 

evaluation of existing pertinent geologic and geochronologic data relevant to Alaskan Precambrian 

terranes; (2) preparation of a summary geologic 

report and geochronologic chart for Alaska to be 

published in a single volume with similar reports for 

the other regions of the United States and Mexico; 

( 3) formulation of an acceptable time scale for the 

Precambrian of the United States and Mexico; ( 4) 

coordination with the Working Group of Canada in 

an effort to formulate an acceptable Precambrian 

time scale for all of North America; ( 5) identification and designation of reference sections; and (6) 

revision of the American Commission on Stratigraphic Nomenclature (ACSN) code for the Precambrian. 

Status: Objectives (I) and (2) have been fulfilled; 

the manuscript which reviews and summarizes the 

existing knowledge of the Precambrian of Alaska, 

and originally was approved for publication in a 

special issue of Economic Geology, has now been 

submitted for publication as a chapter in a Geological Survey Professional Paper. The content of 

the original manuscript has been revised and 

updated to reflect new information and developments over the past 3 years. Objective (3) likewise has 

been fulfilled, and the Working Group's Precambrian 

time scale proposal for the United States and Mexico 

has been approved for publication by the ACSN. 

Efforts to formulate an acceptable Precambrian time 

60 

scale for all of North America are continuing, but 

progress is being delayed because Canadian workers are having difficulties developing an acceptable 

proposal for that country. 

Program activity is continuing on a part-time basis 

with the indicated Alaskan regional members of the 

United States - Mexico Working Group (a) keeping 

other members informed of developments in the 

understanding of the Precambrian stratigraphy of 

Alaska, (b) maintaining contact with Canadian 

counterparts to facilitate resolution of mutual problems on either side of the International Boundary, 

and (c) working with other members of the Working 

Group to encourage the definition and integration of 

all methods of determining the Precambrian record. 

Project Title: Uranium Potential of Sedimentary 

Basins in Alaska 

Chief: Kendell A. Dickinson 

Objectives: (1) To evaluate the uranium potential 

of selected sedimentary basins and coastal regions; 

(2) to compile data on and locate anomalous radioactivity in sedimentary rocks; (3) to determine the 

environments of sedimentation in each basin and 

coastal region to delineate nearshore and continental 

facies most favorable for roll-type uranium deposits; 

( 4) to determine potential granitic and volcanic ash 

source rocks for uranium near basins and coastal 

plains; ( 5) to delineate areas of alteration favorable 

for uranium deposits and determine hydrology as it 

relates to movement of uranium-bearing ground 

water; (6) to evaluate paleo-geochemical conditions 

suitable for the preservation of potential host 

rocks; and (7) to define target areas for physical 

exploration (drilling). 

Status: Studies of uranium potential in sedimentary 

basins have been expanded; their scope is no 

longer limited to Tertiary basins. Fieldwork in the 

Healy Creek coal basin and in the Death Valley area 

in the southeastern part of the Seward Peninsula 

are about 10 percent complete. Both these areas 

are known to contain potentially commercial uranium 

deposits and will be studied more intensively in FY 

1982 and 1983. Although bad weather drastically 

curtailed work on Tertiary rocks along the coast of 

the Gulf of Alaska in FY 1981, further work there 

is not planned because the rocks types are not 

favorable for uranium deposits. 

Project Title: Geothermal Studies 

Chief: Arthur H. Lachenbruch 

Objectives: To investigate heat flow and the geothermal regime of permafrost and sedimentary basins 

by making thermal observations in holes drilled for 

other purposes. 

Status: Monitoring of post-drilling return to equilibrium of holes drilled in the National Petroleum 

Reserve is continuing. Thermal data of variable 

quality have been obtained from about three dozen 

holes elsewhere in Alaska, and a preliminary 

account of the results was published in 1981 by 
Sass and others in "Physical Properties of Rocks 

and Minerals, Volume II-2", in McGraw-Hill/CINDAS 

Data Series on Material Properties, edited by 

Touloukian and others. 

Project Title: Geochronological and Petrologic 

Studies in Central and Western Alaska 

Chief: Frederic H. Wilson 

Objectives: ( 1) To support geologic mapping proJects and resource studies in Alaska through use of 

potassium-argon dating and topical age studies 

within the framework of the other projects; (2) to 

build an argon extraction lab in Anchorage; and ( 3) 

to maintain a computer-based compilation of Alaskan 

radiometric age dates. 

Status: Potassium-argon (K-Ar) dating of rocks 

from the Ugashik and Circle ( AMRAP) quadrangles 

was initiated in 1979, and the planned work is 

approximately 50 percent complete. The construction of the argon extraction lab may be under way 

in 1982. The radiometric age compilation is a 

continuing project, and percentage-of-completion 

information is not applicable; however, more than 

1,900 dates and 250 references had been entered by 

fall 1981. Mapping and sampling for K-Ar dating in 

the Port Moller, S tepovak Bay, and Simeonof Island 

quadrangles will begin in summer 1982. Similar 

work is also expected to begin in the Mount Katmai 

quadrangle in summer 1982. 

The project quadrangles are shown in figure 14. 

NORTHERN REGION 

Project Title: Northern Alaska Engineering Geology 

Chief: Oscar J. Ferrians, Jr. 

Objectives: To provide regional engineering/ 

surfimal-geologic information to the Minerals Management Service in order to aid personnel in the 

Service in making decisions regarding regulation of 

oil and gas exploration and development activities. 

This will be accomplished by preparing 1:250,000-

scale engineering geology maps and tabular text 

describing pertinent engineering-geologic characteristics of geologic map units. 

Status: This is the first year of project work. 

The study area includes all of Alaska north of 

latitude 6.8°, with emphasis on areas of oil and gas 

exploration. 

Project Title: Engineering Geologic Studies in the 

National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska (NPRA) 

Chief: Reuben Kachadoorian 

Objectives: To make engineering-geologic investigations and to provide geotechnical- analyses needed 

for petroleum exploration of NPRA. Investigations 

include, but are not limited to, determining sources 

of construction materials and evaluating site locations of such facilities as airstrips, roads, drill 

sites, and construction camps. Project personnel 

61 

GEOLOGIC 

consult with participants in the NPRA program on 

engineering geology and permafrost-related engineering problems and on engineering-geologic 

effects of exploration activities in the Reserve. 

Status: Because the project provides engineeringgeologic expertise needed to fulfill responsibilities 

assigned to the Geological Survey through provisions of the Naval Petroleum Reserves Production 

Act of 1976, it will continue until these responsibilities are fulfilled. 

The project location is outlined in figure 17. 

Project Title: Quaternary 

National Petroleum Reserve 

Chief: Robert E. Nelson 

Environments 

in Alaska 

of the 

(NPRA) 

Objectives: To provide a record of past environments and climates in the National Petroleum 

Reserve in Alaska. It is hoped that the record will 

extend back in time at least 40,000 years, if not 

farther. The techniques to be used in reconstructing the record include pollen analysis, studies of 

fossil insects, and studies of plant macrofossils 

such as seeds and fruits. 

Status: The project was initiated in 1979. The 

base camp was on the Titaluk River near the center 

of NPRA. The project chief and Robert D. Norris 

collected approximately 250 kilograms of vertebrate 

remains, pollen samples, and screen-washed concentrates of organic debris to process for recovery of 

fossil insects and seeds. Most vertebrate remains 

were not found in place, but the mammalian fauna 

has a typically late Pleistocene aspect and includes 

mammoth (found in place and carbon-dated at 

28,000-40,000 years) , Bison, horse, musk ox, and 

rare Saiga antelope remains. The analyses of pollen 

samples from several horizons greater than 28, 000 

years old indicate that the climate may have been 

harsher than that of the present. Insect remains 

from a horizon dated at 28,000 years suggest that 

local climatic conditions were very similar to those 

of the present. Increasing percentages of grass 

and sage (Artemisia) pollen in sediments younger 

than 28,000 years old are interpreted as an indication of increasingly arid environments, which 

culminated in the steppe-tundra that characterized 

much of Alaska and Siberia at the height of the last 

glaciation. Sediments of late Wisconsin (Itkillik II 

and Ill) age are apparently absent from the sections studied. 

Sediments dated at about 9, 600 years old contain 

the remains of at least two plant species not found 

so far in the north today: Balsam poplar (Populus 

balsamifera), which is found in the Brooks Range 

foothills to the south, and the chenopod 

Corispermum hyssopifolium, which is not known 

from north of the Yukon drainage. Insect fossils in 

this assemblage seem to indicate a less moist upland 

surface than that which characterizes the tundra at 

the present time. 

The project is scheduled to be completed by June 

1982. 

The project location is shown in figure 17. 
GEOLOGIC 

7 

HUGHES 

EXPLANATION 

1. National Petroleum Reserve boundary 

2. Quaternary Environments of NPRA 

3. Low Altitude Aeromagnetic Surveys 

4. Petroleum Assessment Geology 

5. Surficial Geology of the Central Brooks Range 

6. Southeast Brooks Range Geology 

7. North Slope Cretaceous Studies 

_1~~~ 

I 

EXPLANATION 

8. NPRA Oil and Gas Source Rock Study 

9. Western Arctic Coastal Plain Quaternary 

10. Brooks Range Devonian Clastic Rocks 

50 100 MILES 

1---'''Tj --'1'-,-1 _,_,.,...JI 

50 I 00 150 KILOMETERS 

·, 

50 

50 

I 

I 

100 

Figure 17 .--Geologic Division activities in northern Alaska. 

62 
Project Title: Low Altitude Aeromagnetic Surveys 

(North Slope Petroleum Program) 

Chief: Terrence J. Donovan 

Objectives: To determine whether hydrocarbons 

seepmg from buried reservoirs may have sufficiently reduced iron oxides to form magnetite in 

shallow superincumbent rocks, permitting aeromagnetic detection. 

Status: In 1981 a transverse gradiometer was used 

to obtain data in the petroleum prospective portion 

of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Additional 

surveys were flown to tie this to the Prudhoe Bay area. Results of 1979 surveys will be included in a 

Professional Paper describing the geology of the 

National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska. Sampling 

and preliminary analyses of available core data 

suggest that rocks within anomalous areas have a 

relatively large remanent magnetism, and isotopic 

data from carbonate cement indicate the effects of 

petroleum microseepage. Results of work in 1981 

are being prepared for publication. 

The general area of the project work is shown in 

figure 17. 

Project Title: Petroleum Assessment Geology, North 

Slope ProVInces (North Slope Petroleum Program) 

Chief: Kenneth J. Bird 

Objectives: To provide the data and interpretations 

necessary to assess the petroleum potential of the 

North Slope. Assessment requires the identification 

and quantitative evaluation of reservoir rocks, source rocks, and timing of petroleum generation 

and migration relative to trap formation. Goals 

include a better understanding of the North Slope 

hydrocarbon system(s) resulting in improved 

assessments and stimulation of industry exploration. 

Status: In the past year, results of these regional 

studies have been published in a series of open-file 

reports. These include: 1) the petroleum exploration history of the North Slope; 2) machinegenerated displays, each consisting of six well logs 

and an interpretive lithologic column, for 81 North 

Slope wells; and 3) the stratigraphy and depth of 

penetration for 228 North Slope wells. Nearing 

completion is the geologic documentation of the 

NPRA resource appraisal, the petroleum potential of 

the Philip Smith Mountains quadrangle, Lisburne 

Group reservoir potential, and the characteristics of 

Nanushuk Group reservoir rocks. 

The project location is shown in figure 17. 

Project Title: Surficial Geology of the Central 

Brooks Range (Arctic Environmental Studies Program) 

Chief: Thomas D. Hamilton 

Objectives: To provide data for assessment of 

potential transportation corridors across the central 

Brooks Range and for other studies involving 

63 

GEOLOGIC 

land-use analysis and land classification. This 

objective is being accomplished through preparation 

of 1:250,000-scale surficial geologic maps showing 

( 1) character, age, and genesis of unconsolidated 

deposits and (2) locations of landslides, debris 

flows, and other hazard zones. A general stratigraphic framework, based on measured sections, 

radiocarbon dates, soil analyses, and geomorphic 

relationships, is also being developed for the 

region. This framework has tied together glacial 

and nonglacial deposits of the northern and 

southern Brooks Range and provides a basic structure to which other Quaternary deposits in northern 

and central Alaska can be related. 

Status: Surficial geologic maps have been published for six quadrangles: Philip Smith Mountains 

(Miscellaneous Field Studies MF-878-A), Chandalar 

(MF-879-A), Chandler Lake (MF-1121), Wiseman 

(MF-1122), and Killik River (MF-1234), and Survey 

Pass (MF-1320). Completion of field mapping in the 

Ambler River and Howard Pass quadrangles is 

scheduled for the summer of 1982, and surficial 

geologic maps for those areas will be prepared the 

following year. 

The location of the project is shown in figure 17. 

Project Title: Southeast Brooks Range Geology 

Chief: William P. Brosge' 

Objectives: To complete geologic mapping of the 

Arctic and Table Mountain quadrangles at 1:250,000 

scale, and to revise mapping in adjacent quadrangles. 

Status: The mapping is about 60 percent completed. Fieldwork in the Arctic quadrangle was 

finished in 1979, and about 25 percent of the Table 

Mountain quadrangle has been mapped in the field. 

A map of the Table Mountain quadrangle, based 

largely on interpretation of aerial photographs, was 

placed on open file in 1976. A geologic map of the 

Arctic quadrangle based on the recent fieldwork 

should be completed for publication in 1982. Fieldwork planned for 1982 in the Table Mountain quadrangle will be done as part of the AMRAP project. 

The project location is shown in figure 17. 

Project Title: North Slope Cretaceous Studies 

(North Slope Petroleum Program) 

Chief: Cornelius M. Molenaar 

Objectives: To study the stratigraphy, depositional 

environments, petrography, reservoir properties, 

and paleontology of Cretaceous rocks at the surface 

and in the subsurface of the North Slope in order 

to assess the hydrocarbon potential and other 

economic aspects of these rocks. 

Status: Three seasons of fieldwork and associated 

surface and subsurface studies have been completed 

since 1977. Two seasons' work concentrated on the 

Nanushuk Group. Results of this and subsurface 

work were published in Circulars 794 and 820 in 
GEOLOGIC 

1979, and another final circular is in preparation. 

In addition, summary articles are published in 

Circular 804-B (1979) and in Circular 823-B (1981). 

In 1980 fieldwork was devoted to a study of the 

Fortress Mountain Formation (Lower Cretaceous) and 

the lower part of the Torok Formation (Lower 

Cretaceous), and to the Cretaceous and lower 

Tertiary stratigraphy in northeastern Alaska. 

Preliminary results of the two projects are in 

Circular 844. A more complete report on the 

Cretaceous and lower Tertiary stratigraphy of 

northeastern Alaska is in preparation. 

At least four additional reports on various aspects 

of Cretaceous rocks in the National Petroleum 

Reserve in Alaska (NPRA) will be included in a 

Professional Paper describing the geology of the 

reserve. Three of these reports have been 

released as Open-File Reports 81-0967, 81-1084, and 

81-1222. 

Surface and subsurface studies of Cretaceous 

strata, including 3 weeks of field work in 1982, are 

currently being initiated in the area between NPRA 

and the William 0. Douglas Arctic Wildlife Range. 

The project location is shown in figure 17. 

Project Title: National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska 

Oil and Gas Source Rock Study (North Slope 

Petroleum Program) 

Chief: Leslie B. Magoon 

Objectives: To provide data and interpretations 

necessary to assess oil and gas source potential of 

possible hydrocarbon source horizons in the 

National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska and adjacent areas. 

Status: Analytical data for this study are being 

provided by Geochem Research, Inc. , Houston, 

Texas, and Global Geochemistry, Canoga Park, 

Calif. To date, more than 35,000 analyses have 

been completed. Petroleum Information, of Denver, 

Colo. , is building and maintaining the data file of 

these analyses and implementing graphical displays. 

Publications, co-authored with George Claypool, 

include vitrinite reflectance and C1 -C7 hydrocarbon 

gas data for 13 wells and a study of oil types on 

the North Slope. Numerous additional reports are in various stages of preparation. 

The boundary of the project's study area is shown 

in figure 17. 

Project Title: Petroleum Assessment Geology of the 

National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska (NPRA) 

(North Slope Petroleum Program) 

Chief: Charles E. Kirschner 

Objectives: To compile a synoptic overview of the 

stratigraphy and structure of NPR A based on well 

and seismic data that will highlight significant 

petroleum exploration fairways; and to conduct 

detailed subsurface mapping on the Barrow Arch to 

integrate and interpret all currently availble sub64 

surface well and geophysical data as a basis for 

petroleum assessment. 

Status: The project will be completed by October 

1982. 

The study area is shown in figure 17. 

Project Title: Western Arctic Coastal Plain Quaternary (Arctic Environmental Studies Program) 

Chief: L. David Carter 

Objectives: To determine the Quaternary history of 

the western Arctic Coastal Plain (marine transgressions, episodes of eolian activity, fluvial 

terrace development, paleoclimate, tectonic history, 

and the like) through stratigraphic and geomorphic 

studies, and to def"me relations between modern 

landscape attributes (topography, thaw-lake characteristics, and ground -ice distribution, among 

others) and Quaternary history, in order to predict 

the effects of natural or man-induced environmental 

changes. 

Status: Detailed sampling of key exposures and 

geomorphic analyses of the terrain will be continued 

in 1982. Reports describing pingos, fossil insects, 

Pleistocene shorelines, Holocene eolian deposits, and 

marine and alluvial terraces of the Colville River 

delta region were published in Circulars 804-B, 

823-B, and 844. Preliminary results of studies of 

amino-acid geochronology of Quaternary marine 

deposits were presented at the Ninth Annual Arctic 

Workshop in April 1980, and an analysis of middle 

Wisconsin through Holocene climatic change was 

presented at the Tenth Annual Arctic Workshop in 

March 1981. The abstracts volumes for the workshops, published by the Institute of Arctic and 

Alpine Research, University of Colorado, contain 

three abstracts describing these studies. A report 

describing a Pleistocene sand sea has been published in "Science" (v. 211), and papers concerning 

marine transgressions and Wisconsin and Holocene 

eolian sand movement are in preparation. 

The project location is shown in figure 17. 

Project Title: Brooks Range Devonian Clastic Rocks 

Chief: William P. Brosg6 

Objectives: To determine from surface exposures 

the environments of deposition, the directions of 

sediment transport, and the present facies trends 

of the Upper Devonian and Lower Mississippian 

Kanayut Conglomerate and the Lower Mississippian 

Kekiktuk Conglomerate, and to relate the present 

trends of these directional features in the rocks 

exposed in the Brooks Range to those in the less 

disturbed rocks beneath the North Slope by means 

of paleomagnetic studies and by regional interpretation of Late Devonian and Early Mississippian paleogeography. 

Status: The project is more than three-quarters 

completed, and all the originally planned fieldwork 

has been done. In 1978 and 1979 the Kanayut 
Conglomerate was mapped from the Canadian border 

near Arctic Village to the Howard Pass area, about 

600 kilometers to the west, and was examined in 

detail at many localities. In addition, the Kekiktuk 

Conglomerate was examined north of Arctic Village 

and southeast of Howard Pass, and about 500 cores 

of Devonian and Mississippian rocks were collected 

from the outcrops for paleomagnetic study. In 1980 

the Kanayut was examined in detail around its type 

area east of Anaktuvuk Pass, and in 1981 the 

Kanayut was examined briefly in its westernmost 

outcrops near Kivalina. The regional study has 

demonstrated that the three fluvial members of the 

Kanayut Conglomerate are persistent from east to 

west; that there were at least two major sites of 

sediment influx, one near the Canadian border, the 

other near Anaktuvuk Pass; that the direction of 

transport of sediment was consistently to the 

southwest and west; and that the Kanayut is consistently rich in chert. On the other hand, 

variation in the composition and direction of transport of the sediments in the Kekiktuk Conglomerate 

from place to place suggests many local sources. 

Pole positions have been determined for all the 

surface cores in the paleomagnetic study. These 

indicate that the observed magnetic orientation was 

reset by a Cretaceous event. One of the two 

oriented cores from National Petroleum Reserve wells 

near Point Barrow that were studied for comparison 

shows a similar post-Triassic remagnetization. 

However, hematite of probable Mississippian age in 

the other core has a stable magnetic component and 

gives a pole position consistent with counterclockwise rotation of northern Alaska. An Early 

Mississippian paleogeologic map of northern Alaska 

based on surface mapping and on a separate geophysical study of basement rocks in the reserve is 

in preparation. Plans for 1982 call for examination 

of the basal Mississippian clastic rocks exposed near 

Point Hope in order to compare them with the 

Kekiktuk Conglomerate. 

A geologic map of the members of the Kanayut 

Conglomerate in the central Brooks Range, regional 

paleocurrent maps for the Kanayut and Kekiktuk 

Conglomerates, and reports on data from the 1978 

and 1979 fieldwork have been placed on open file. 

Reports on the 1980 fieldwork and on revision of 

the stratigraphy of the Kanayut have been written. 

Final reports on the stratigraphic and paleomagnetic 

studies will appear as chapters in the Professional 

Paper summarizing recent geologic work in the 

petroleum reserve. 

The project location is shown in figure 17. 

Project Title: Eastern Arctic Coastal Plain (Arctic 

Environmental Studies Program) 

Chief: Oscar J. Ferrians, Jr. 

Objectives: To complete reconnaissance engineering-geologic investigations that will provide baseline geotechnical data needed for land-use planning 

and engineering purposes. Planned fieldwork 

includes engineering-geologic mapping at a scale of 

1:125,000. Studies of permafrost conditions and 

geomorphic features and other permafrost-related 

geologic processes important to arctic engineering 

65 

GEOLOGIC 

will be emphasized. Potential geotechnical problems 

that require special consideration include: slope 

stability, drainage conditions, frost action, thawing 

of permafrost, availability of natural construction 

materials, swelling soils, earthquake effects, 

erosion, flooding, and icings. 

Status: The project has been recessed in FY 1982. 

Project Title: Geology and Resource Potential of 

the Killik River and Chandler Lake (1:250,000) 

Quadrangles ( AMRAP) 

Chief: John Kelley 

Objectives: To assess potential oil, gas, phosphate, and other mineral resources of Federal lands 

in these quadrangles, which cover a significant part 

of the overthrust belt of the Central Brooks Range. 

Status: Assessment of the resource potential of 

Federal lands is mandated in the Alaska National 

Interest Lands Conservation Act (Public Law 

96-487), enacted on December 2, 1980. This is the 

first full year of project activity. Two seasons of 

fieldwork are planned. Fieldwork will include 

detailed geologic mapping and stratigraphic studies 

of key areas to determine the structural style and 

distribution of potential hydrocarbon reservoir 

rocks in this part of the Brooks Range and North 

Slope. Maps will be compiled at a scale of 

1:250,000, incorporating details from key areas. In 

addition, sedimentological studies will assess 

regional environments of deposition that may have 

influenced accumulation of potential hydrocarbon, 

coal, and phosphate deposits. Stream-sediment and 

bedrock sampling for geochemical assessment of 

mineral potential in the area is also under way. 

The quadrangles' location is shown in figure 14. 

Project Title: AMRAP Geochemistry, Killik River 

and Chandler Lake (1:250,000) quadrangles, Brooks 

Range 

Chief: Stanley E. Church 

Objectives: To appraise the metallic mineral 

resource potential of the Killik River and Chandler 

Lake quadrangles. Regional geochemical sampling 

will be conducted using stream sediments and heavymineral concentrates of stream sediments. Interpretive geochemical maps and statistical treatment of 

data along with geologic and geophysical studies will 

aid in outlining mineralized areas of possible 

economic value. These areas will be studied in more detail by closer spaced sampling using other 

modes of sample media in addition to the above. 

Status: Regional stream-sediment and heavyr.tineral-concentrate sampling of the mountainous 

area of the Killik River quadrangle and for about 60 

percent of the Chandler Lake quadrangle was com- pleted in the 1981 field season. However, the 

heavy-mineral-concentrate samples for the latter 

area were lost in shipment. Substitution of 

additional types of analysis of stream sediments as 

an alternative to resampling is being investigated. 

The project location is shown in figure 14. 
GEOLOGIC 

WEST- CENTRAL REGION 

Project Title: Yukon-Koyukuk Transect (AMRAP) 

Chief: William W. Patton , Jr. 

Objectives: To determine the composition and 

structure of the crust beneath the Yukon-Koyukuk 

basin and to gain an understanding of the tectonic 

history of the basin. Specific objectives include: 

1) comparison of trace element and isotope 

chemistry of Cretaceous and Tertiary volcanic and 

plutonic bodies emplaced in the basin with those 

emplaced in the borderlands in order to identify 

differences in crustal composition; 2) mapping and 

~ochemical study of the ophiolite assemblages that 

I'lm the basin in order to characterize their composition and affinities; 3) geophysical modelling of the 

large gravity and magnetic anomalies known to exist 

along the margins of the basin; and 4) detailed 

structural studies to compare and contrast 

structural styles of the basin and borderlands. 

Status: Fieldwork in 1982 will focus on the southeastern margin of the Yukon-Koyukuk basin in the 

Kanuti River drainage. It will include detailed 

geologic mapping and geophysical investigations of 

the ophiolites and metamorphic terrane exposed 

along the basin margin. 

Project location is shown in figure 18. 

Project Title: Geology and Resources of Norton 

Sound - Yukon Region 

Chief: William W. Patton, Jr. 

Objectives: To complete regional geologic framework Investigations and selected detailed topical 

studies in order to provide basic data for appraising the mineral potential of the project area and the 

petroleum potential and environmental hazards of 

contiguous parts of Norton Sound. Project elements 

include: {1) completion of the regional (1:250,000-

scale) geologic maps of Unalakleet, Norton Bay, and 

Nulato quadrangles; (2) petrologic study and geochemical sampling of the igneous and metamorphic 

terranes of the Unalakleet quadrangle and Kaiyuh 

Mountains; ( 3) paleoenvironmental and sedimentological studies of Cretaceous sediments at selected 

localities in the Norton Bay and Nulato quadrangles; 

and (4) examinations of Holocene features along the 

Kaltag fault and the Norton Sound coastline. 

Status: Fieldwork is complete in the igneous and 

metamorphic terranes of the Kaiyuh Mountains and 

in the central part of the Unalakleet quadrangle. 

Compilation of geologic maps of the Nulato and 

Unalakleet quadrangles is under way. In 1982 

fieldwork will focus on sedimentological studies of 

Cretaceous rocks at selected localities in the Norton 

Bay quadrangle and on petrologic studies of Late 

Cretaceous and Tertiary volcanic assemblages in the 

eastern part of the Unalakleet quadrangle. 

The project location is shown in figure 18. 

Project Title: Quaternary History of Climate and 

Regional Palynostratigraphy, West-Central and 

66 

Southwestern Alaska (Climate Change Program) 

Chief: Thomas A. Ager 

Objectives: To reconstruct the history of vegetation, limnological conditions, and climate of the 

Yukon Delta-Norton Sound area during the late 

Pleistocene and Holocene. Techniques used in this 

study include pollen and diatom analysis, sediment 

geochemistry, and radiocarbon dating of samples 

from lacustrine sediment cores. 

Status: Fieldwork was completed in 1980. Several 

reports. are in press, and a final report is in 

preparation. 

The project location is shown in figure 18. 

Project Title: Arctic Mineral Resources (Ophir and 

Tanana Quadrangles) 

Chief: Robert M. Chapman 

Objectives: To map, describe, and interpret the 

bedrock units, surficial deposits, and structural 

features in a large part of the Ruby province, and 

to make regional correlations and tectonic interpretations in order to provide an adequate geologic 

map and a base for mineral-resource and land-use 

evaluations of this region. Immediate objectives are 

( 1) completion of field research and mapping in the 

Ophir quadrangle, and (2) research on problems 

pertinent to regional geologic interpretations that 

have been highlighted by previous work in the 

Ruby, Tanana, Kantishna River, and Livengood 

quadrangles. 

Status: Results ?f geologic studies prior to 1980 

are summarized m two open-file 1:250,000-scale 

geologic maps (the Tanana and northeastern part of 

the Kantishna River quadrangles, and the west half 

of the Kantishna River quadrangle) and in eleven 

reports, including small-scale geologic maps, on the 

Tanana, Kantishna River, and Ruby quadrangles 

published in Circulars 683, 700, 733, 751-B, 772-B, 

804-B, and 823-B. The work was coordinated with 

similar studies by others in the adjacent Livengood, 

Beaver, Bettles, Melozitna, Nulato, and Medfra 

quadrangles. Ophir, Ruby, and Kantishna River -

northern Mount McKinley (1: 250, 000-scale) geologic 

maps are being prepared, and a revised geologic 

map of the Tanana quadrangle has been completed. 

Mapping of the Ophir quadrangle, initiated in 1980, 

continued in 1981 but was curtailed by inclement 

weather. A progress report on the 1980 work is 

included in Circular 844. Completion of geologic 

studies in the Ophir quadrangle is planned, 

dependent on level of funding for 1982. 

Geologic problems and key areas, critical to regional 

interpretations and the evaluation of mineral potential in central Alaska, have been recognized as a 

result of the recent mapping in the Ruby province. 

Several topical studies in selected areas are proposed to obtain additional pertinent data. In 1981, 

tectonostratigraphic studies in the Tanana and 

Livengood quadrangles and a mineral-potential study 

in the Kantishna River quadrangle were begun in 

collaboration with studies directed by D. L. Jones 

and B. L. Reed respectively. Similar research is 

planned for 1982, dependent on funding. 

The project locations are shown in figure 18. 
EXPLANATION 

1. Yukon-Koyukuk Transect 

2. Geology and Resources of 

Norton Sound-Yukon Region 

3. Arctic Mineral Resources 

EXPLANATION 

150° 

McGRATH 

LIME HILLS 

4. Quaternary History of Climate and Regional 

Palynostratigraphy 

5. Mafic-Ultramafic Igneous Complexes 

6. College Observatory 

GEOLOGIC 

McC~to.RTHY 

100 MILES 1----l...,' _........___._. --r-'1 

s

1

o 1~0 ~1 LOMETERS 

7. Tanana Valley Transportation-Development Corridor 10. Glacial Geology of Yukon-Tanana Upland 

8. Yukon-Tanana Upland and Circle Quadrangle Studies 11. Metamorphic Terranes of Central Alaska 

9. Petrographic Studies, Yukon-Tanana Upland 

Figure 18 .--Geologic Division activities in west-central and east-central Alaska. 

67 
GEOLOGIC 

Project Title: Mafic-ultramafic Igneous Complexes 

of Alaska (AMRAP) 

Chief: Robert A. Loney 

Objectives: To study mafic-ultramafic igneous 

bodies in Alaska, with special emphasis on those 

that are part of or fragments of ophiolite com- plexes. The chemistry, structure, and petrography 

of the rocks are studied in order to evaluate their 

economic potential (chrome, nickel, platinum, and 

copper) and tectonic significance. Work involves 

both reconnaissance mapping and sampling of bodies 

and adjacent terranes and detailed studies of 

critical areas. 

Status: Initial and incomplete reconnaissance mapping of ultramafic ophiolite bodies in the Yuki River 

area (Nulato quadrangle) and the Mount Hurst body 

(Ophir quadrangle) was done in the summer of 

1981. Petrographic studies of specimens is under 

way, and a preliminary report on mapping is in 

review. In 1982, the field reconnaissance of the 

areas will be completed, and work will begin of 

mafic-ultramafic rocks in the Kanuti River area 

(Bettles quadrangle). This new work will involve 

1-inch-to-1-mile-scale mapping, as well as reconnaissance. Reports will be prepared as the work 

progresses. The project work interfaces with 

projects directed by W. W. Patton, Jr. , and R. M. 

Chapman. 

The quadrangles being studied and the areas of 

related work are shown in figure 18. 

Project Title: Bendeleben and Solomon Quadrangles 

(AMRAP) 

Chief: Alison Till 

Objectives: ( 1) To assess the mineral potential of 

the central Seward Peninsula by means of geologic 

mapping, geochemical sampling, geophysical 

sampling, and geophysical reconnaissance; mapping 

and related studies on a scale of 1: 250,000 will be 

supplemented by larger scale detailed mapping of 

areas critical to understanding the mineralization, 

geologic relationships, and regional geologic 

history. (2) To decipher the metamorphic and 

tectohic history of the region in order to establish 

the basis for assessment. ( 3) To interpret data 

pertinent to regional correlation and tectonic interpretation in order to relate the geology and mineral 

potential of the Seward Peninsula to adjacent 

terranes in the Brooks Range and the Chukotsk 

Peninsula of Siberia. 

Status: Project work was initiated in 1981 with 

detailed mapping of selected orthogneiss bodies and 

sampling for geochemical analysis and radiometric 

dating. Geochemical reconnaissance of the Solomon 

quadrangle was completed in 1981. The 1982 field 

season will be the first full season dedicated to the 

project. Initial work will focus on deciphering and 

documenting the metamorphic stratigraphy and 

determining the relationship of some types of 

mineral deposits to that stratigraphy. Also in 1982, 

studies to determine the age of placer gold deposits 

68 

and the processes responsible for their formation 

will be started . 

The project location is shown in figure 14. 

Project Title: AMRAP Geochemistry, Solomon and 

Bendeleben Quadrangles, Seward Peninsula 

Chief: Harley D. King 

Objective: To contribute to the mineral-resource 

assessment of the Solomon and Bendeleben quadrangles. Information and interpretation will be 

based on results of reconnaissance geochemical 

sampling of streams, with sample media consisting 

primarily of stream sediment and heavy-mineral 

concentrates of stream sediment. Resulting interpretive geochemical maps will aid in outlining both 

known and previously unknown mineralized areas of 

possible economic potential. 

Status: Project fieldwork was begun in 1981 and 

will continue in 1982; completion is planned for the 

summer of 1983. During the 1981 field season, 

reconnaissance geochemical sampling was done 

throughout the Kigluaik, Bendeleben, and Darby 

Mountains and in the area between the Darby 

Mountains and the Casadepaga River. 

The quadrangles' location is shown in figure 14. 

EAST- CENTRAL REGION 

Project Title: College Observatory, Fairbanks 

Chief: John B. Townshend 

Objectives: To produce accurate and comprehensive 

data in the fields of geomagnetism and seismology 

and to cooperate with other scientists and organizations in making studies within the capabilities of the 

personnel and facilities. 

Status: The College Observatory has been in 

continuous operation since January 1948 and under 

USGS authority since September 16, 1973. Its 

present functions include recording of all com- ponents of the Earth's magnetic field by means of 

various types of magnetographs, magnetometers, 

and other scientific instruments including: Normal 

Magnetograph ( D, H, Z) , Storm Magnetograph ( D, 

H, Z), Rapid Run Magnetograph (D, H, Z), Digital 

and Analog Flux gate Magnetometer ( D, H, Z), and 

Digital and Analog Proton Magnetometer (F). The 

observatory also makes absolute and scale value 

observations that serve as baseline control for 

recording equipment and quality control for data. 

It operates the Barrow Observatory at the Naval 

Arctic Research Laboratory at Barrow and publishes a monthly "Preliminary Geomagnetic Data" Geological 

Survey open-file report for use by scientists in 

Europe, Canada, Japan, and the United States. 

The observatory also operates and maintains various 

types of seismographs for recording earth motion as 

follows: Short Period World Wide Standardized 

Seismograph (N, E, V), Long Period World Wide 

Standardized Seismograph (N, E, V), and Benioff 

Moving Coil Seismograph. It analyzes records and 

makes investigations and studies associated with 
geomagnetism and seismology; performs experimental 

work on improvement and development of magnetic 

and seismic instrumentation; cooperates with organizations in making studies and observations; provides information and data to the public concerning 

Alaska earthquakes and geomagnetic events; and 

operates a local climatological station in cooperation 

with the National Weather Service. 

The observatory's location, Fairbanks, is shown in 

figure 18. 

Project Title: Tanana Valley TransportationDevelopment Corridor: Fairbanks to the Canadian 

Border (Arctic Environmental Studies Program) 

Chief: L. David Carter 

Objectives: To compile a map showing the distribution of unconsolidated surficial deposits in the 

transportation-development corridor that extends 

southeastward up the Tanana River valley from 

Fairbanks to the Canadian border. Tables accompanying the map will include a description of lithology, topography, and geologic hazards in terms of 

the map units. Fieldwork includes geologic mapping 

at a scale of 1: 125, 000 in parts of Fairbanks, Big 

Delta, Mount Hayes, Tanacross, and Nabesna quadrangles. 

Status: Existing geologic mapping has been com- piled at a scale of 1:125,000. A description and 

interpretation of Tertiary tillites(?) on Granite 

Mountain was published in Alaska Division of 

Geological and Geophysical Surveys Geologic Report 

63, and a map of the surficial deposits of the 

project area is in preparation. 

The project location is shown in figure 18. 

Project Title: Yukon-Tanana Upland and Circle 

Quadrangle (AMRAP) 

Chief: Helen L. Foster 

Objectives: To carry on geologic reconnaissance 

mappmg of the complex metamorphic and igneous 

terrane of the Yukon-Tanana Upland primarily at a 

scale of 1:250,000, and to decipher and interpret 

the geologic history of the area and relate it to the 

structural history of other parts of Alaska and 

Canada. This information, along with geophysical, 

geochemical, and other data, will be used in 

evaluating the area's mineral-resource potential. 

Major geologic problems of the area will be 

identified and worked on as time and funding 

permit. Areas of special interest will be mapped at 

a scale of 1:63,360. 

Status: Reconnaissance geologic maps ( 1: 2 50, 000-

scale) have been published for the Tanacross 

(1970), Eagle (1976), and Big Delta (1978) quadrangles of the Yukon-Tanana Upland, and geochemical and mineral-resource information has been 

made available for these quadrangles. Reconnaissance geologic mapping of the Circle quadrangle has 

been completed, and a geologic map 1:250,000-scale 

will be put on open file in 1982. Geochemical, 

GEOLOGIC 

geophysical, and mineral resource data are also 

being prepared for publication. Additional radiometric dating of both igneous and metamorphic 

rocks by potassium-argon and lead-uranium methods 

is being carried out and reported upon as completed. Study of the petrology of the metamorphic 

rocks continues. Limited field study of the metamorphic rocks of the southern part of the Charley 

River quadrangle is planned for the 1982 field 

season. Richard B. Tripp has carried out geochemical studies in the Circle quadrangle as part of 

AMRAP. 

69 

The project quadrangles are shown in figure 18. 

Project Title: Petrographic Studies--Yukon -Tanana 

Upland 

Chief: Cynthia Dusel-Bacon 

Objectives: To obtain information about the origin, 

age, and metamorphic history of selected rock types 

in the crystalline terrane of the Yukon -Tanana 

Upland. Mineral parageneses, metamorphic and 

relict textures, mineral and bulk chemistry, isotopic 

data, and field relations will be used to formulate 

conclusions about the geologic history of these 

rocks. Chosen for study thus far are a large body 

of augen gneiss, a sillimanite gneiss dome (both 

approximately 700 square kilometers), and 

amphibolite layers in the Big Delta quadrangle. 

Status: Preliminary reconnaissance mapping on 

which these studies largely are based was completed 

under AMRAP. Additional sampling of rocks (for 

chemical analysis and radiometric dating) and field 

checking was done during a total of about 2 weeks 

in 1979-81. Petrographic description of these 

rocks, as well as of all the samples collected during 

mapping of the Big Delta quadrangle for AMRAP, 

has been completed. A manuscript describing the 

petrology and garnet-biotite geothermometry of the 

sillimanite gneiss dome has been submitted for 

publication as a Survey Professional Paper. Some 

of the results of the augen gneiss study and 

related uranium-thorium-lead ( U-Th-Pb) geochronologic investigations of zircons from the augen gneiss 

and related rocks have been published. Papers 

discussing the geochemistry of the augen gneiss, 

late-stage sills, and ortho-amphibolite, and a paper 

giving additional U-Th-Pb and rubidium-strontium 

data and a more comprehensive geochronologic 

discussion of the Yukon-Tanana Upland are in progress. Further work will focus on similar study of 

amphibolites and other areas of augen gneiss in 

other parts of the upland. 

The project location is shown in figure 18. 

Project Title: Glacial Geology of the Yukon-Tanana 

Upland (Geologic Framework and Synthesis Program) 

Chief: Florence R. Weber 

Objectives: To obtain information in order to 

compile: (1) a map of glacial deposits of the 

Yukon-Tanana Upland; (2) correlated stratigraphic 

sections of the glacial deposits; and, (3) interpretations of glacial history of the upland as it relates 
GEOLOGIC 

to glacial deposits in the Brooks and Alaska Ranges. 

An understanding of the glacial history bears on 

the origin of gold placer deposits and the development of cropland or transportation corridors. 

Status: Photogeologic assessment has been partly 

completed for the Eagle, Big Delta, Circle, Livengood, and Charley River quadrangles. Field checking continued during the summer of 1981, and 

samples were collected for pollen analysis. Carbon14 dates were obtained from samples collected 

previously. 

A Pleistocene fossil vertebrate locality has been 

described in an article by Weber and others in the 

Journal of Quaternary Research (v. 16), and a 

paper on the glacial geology of the Mount Prindle 

area is under way. 

The project location is shown in figure 18. 

Project Title: Metamorphic Terranes of Central 

Alaska Applied to Regional Tectonic Reconstruction 

Chief: James H. Dover 

Objectives: To compare and contrast the YukonTanana, Ruby-Rampart, and South Flank Brooks 

Range metamorphic belts with one another in a 

regional tectonic and paleogragraphic context. To 

be considered in the evaluation of each terrane are: (1) stratigraphic character and age of protolith; (2) 

internal structural configuration, style, and 

sequence; (3) metamorphic character, history, and 

origin, and interaction of metamorphic crystallization 

with structural development; and (4) structural 

character of terrane boundaries. 

Status: Initial reconnaissance begun in 1981 will 

continue in the Yukon-Tanana belt for purposes of 

rock sampling and of identifying representative 

areas for detailed follow-up mapping at intermediate 

scales. Representative areas will be those identified from existing or new reconnaissance mapping to 

contain: (1) critical geologic relations, (2) possibilities for stratigraphic subdivision or dating of 

petrologic units, (3) potential for identifying and 

relating major and minor structures, and ( 4) adequate exposure. Mapping at a scale of 1:63,360 will 

be started in a traverse across the Ray Mountain 

part of the Ruby-Rampart metamorphic belt, with 

emphasis on comparing internal metamorphic and 

structural development with that in the ophiolite 

sheets and zones of major structural dislocation 

bounding the belt. 

The project location is shown in figure 18. The 

western margin of the Yukon-Tanana part of the 

study area is idefinite at this time. 

Project Title: Wiseman Quadrangle (AMRAP) 

Chief: William P. Brosg~ 

Objectives: To produce a new reconnaissance 

geologiC map for a mineral-resource assessment of 

the Wiseman quadrangle. The project is in informal 

cooperation with the Alaska Division of Geological 

70 

and Geophysical Surveys (DGGS) and will draw 

upon previous geologic and geochemical studies 

made in the area by the DGGS and the Geological 

Survey and upon continuing detailed geologic mapping by John T. Dillon (DGGS) and geochemical 

investigations directed by John B . Cathrall ( U . S. 

Geological Survey). 

Status: Open-File Report 71-56 (map) is being 

revised from new mapping by the DG GS at a scale 

of 1:63,360 in the southern part of the quadrangle 

and by the Survey at a scale of 1:250,000 in the 

northern part. Almost all of the. new mapping in 

the western two-thirds of the quadrangle has been 

completed, mostly by the DGGS in 1977-1979, the 

rest by joint effort of the Geological Survey and 

DGGS in 1980. Geologic maps of the A-3 and A-4 

quadrangles have been published as DGGS OpenFile Reports AOF 119 and 124, and ten r.:aore are in 

preparation. In addition, the DGGS has published 

geochemical maps of the southwestern third of the 

quadrangle (AOF 133A and 133B). Joint fieldwork 

by the Geological Survey and DGGS in 1982 should 

complete the mapping in the eastern part of the 

quadrangle. 

The quadrangle location is shown in figure 14. 

Project Title: Mineral Resources of the Wiseman 

Quadrangle, Brooks Range (AMRAP) 

Chief: John B. Cathrall 

Objectives: To assess and appraise the mineralresource potential of the Wiseman (1:250,000-scale) 

quadrangle. To accomplish this, drainage systems, 

geologic rock units, fault zones, altered and/or 

mineralized zones, and favorable host rock will be 

sampled, and the geochemical results will be used in 

geostatistical programs and integrated with the 

results of the studies of geologic, geochemical, and 

economic geologic environments of the area, as well 

as of Landsat imagery. Maps will be prepared and 

interpreted, and the integrated conclusions will be 

prepared for publication as a series of maps and 

short reports. 

Status: The 1981 field season was the first for this 

project. A bout 600 panned-concentrate samples, 

600 stream-sediment samples, and 250 stream pebble 

samples have been collected. The analytical results 

from these sample media will be merged with the 

data collected by various State and Federal agencies 

over the past several years. 

The quadrangle location is shown in figure 14. 

SOUTHERN REGION 

Project Title: Chugach National Forest Wilderness 

Study (RARE II) 

Chief: Steven W. Nelson 

Objectives: (1) To complete a multidisciplinary 

mineral appraisal of land in the Chugach National 

Forest that has been allocated for further planning 

under RARE II, and (2) to integrate detailed and 
GEOLOGIC 

.,MIDDLETON I. 

GULF OF ALASKA 

50 100 MILES 

1----''-.-i ___.,,1 ---'---,lr-'1 

50 100 150KILOMETERS 

EXPLANATION 

1. Chugach National Forest (RARE II) 

2. Alaska Coastal Environments, Turnagain and Knik Arms 

3. Element Availability, Plants and Soils 

4. Alaska Range Coal Resources 

5. Earthquake Hazards Mapping 

6. Regional Engineering Geology of Cook Inlet Coal Lands 

7. Nelchina Area Stratigraphic Studies 

8. Southwestern Copper River Basin Surficial Geology Studies 

9. Petroleum Geology, Cook Inlet-Shelikof Strait 

10. Volcanic Hazards of Cook Inlet 

11. Alaska-Aleutian Range Batholith 

12. Quaternary Climate History and Tephrochronology 

Figure 19 .--Geologic Division activities in southern Alaska. 

reconnaissance geologic field mapping with regional 

and topical investigations of geochemistry, geophysics, economic geology, and mineral economics to 

produce a mineral-resource assessment of the study 

area. 

Interest Lands Conservation Act in December 1980. 

Much of the FY 1981 fieldwork was concentrated in 

these new areas. Fieldwork will continue in FY 

1982. 

Status: Reconnaissance geologic mapping was started in FY 1980 and is about 60 percent complete. Geochemical sampling is about 60 percent 

complete. Microfossil collections from five areas 

within the study area confirm the Tertiary age of 

the Orca Group sedimentary rocks. Previously 

unknown molybdenite occurrences were examined in 

the Seward and Cordova quadrangles. Their economic significance is presently being evaluated. 

Approximately 2 million acres were added to the 

project area with the passage of the Alaska National 

71 

The project location is shown in figure 19. 

. Project Title: Alaska Coastal Environments 

Chief: Susan Bartsch-Winkler 

Objectives: To provide needed baseline information 

on the sediment characteristics in the intertidal 

zones surrounding Anchorage, and to determine the 

factors which control sediment transport and deposition in these areas. 
GEOLOGIC 

Status: The following field studies are complete: 

1) Reconnaissance sampling and mapping of Turnagain and Knik Arms for texture. mineralogy. 

bedform. and internal sedimentary structures; 2) 

monitoring of the intertidal sediments at the head of 

Turnagain Arm, a deposit resulting from lowering of 

the land after the 1964 Alaska earthquake; 3) 

detailed process-response studies of a small plot 

near Girdwood; and 4) obtaining and analyzing 

approximately 100 meters of core from the Portage area. 

No fieldwork will be conducted in 1982. 

reports are in preparation. 

The project location is shown in figure 19. 

Final 

Project Title: Element Availability - Plants; Element 

A va1labihty - Soils 

Chiefs: Larry P. Gough (plants) and Ronald C. 

Severson (soils) 

Objectives: To establish principles for predicting 

element concentrations in plants from the element 

concentrations of extracts of native and disturbed 

soils. The Capps coal field of the Beluga coal area is one of several sites covered by the cooperative 

efforts of these two projects. For this study area, 

background geochemical information on native plants 

and soils will be obtained prior to mining in order 

to provide geochemical data on the natural, undisturbed landscape. These data will be used as 

geochemical base lines to which changes reflecting 

surface mining (and the activities associated with 

coal extraction in general) can be compared. 

Information about the natural landscape will also be 

beneficial to those concerned with the rehabilitation 

potential of native soils and plants. 

Status: The study area consists of sections 22. 23. 

26. and 27 of T. 14 N. R. 14 W in the Tyonek B-5 

quadrangle. where several of the proposed coal 

strip mine sites are located. Nine study sites in 

each section were randomly selected according to an 

analysis-of-variance study design. At each site, 

channel samples of the soil most likely to be used in 

land rehabilitation were taken. along with specimens 

of diamondleaf willow (Salix pulchra) • bluejoint grass 

(Calamogrostis canadensis) • and fescue (Festuca altiaca) • 

The study design will make it possible to map the 

concentration of elements in the materials sampled. 

Because the design is balanced through the 0. 25-

kilometer level, maps of individual elements in 

samples on a 250-meter grid may be possible. 

Future alterations in landscape geochemistry can. 

therefore, be relatively easily monitored. At the 

end of the 1981 field season all 108 of the randomly 

located sites had been sampled. Labratory analytical data should be received and report writing 

begun by the end of FY 1982. 

The project location is shown in figure 19. 

Project Title: Alaska Range Coal Resources 

Chief: Clyde Wahrhaftig 

Objectives: ( 1) To evaluate late Cenozoic con72 

tinental formations in and on the flanks of the 

Alaska Range. specificially the Nenana coal area in 

the Healy quadrangle. the Jarvis Creek coal area in 

the Mount Hayes quadrangle. and the Peters Hills 

field west of Talkeetna. (2) To study the Cenozoic 

history of the central Alaska Range. 

Status: Two reports are in preparation. The 

topics are: Geology of the coal deposits in the 

Nenana coal field. the illustrations for which have 

been released as Open-File Report 73-355; and a late Cenozoic orogeny in the Alaska Range and the 

history of the Nenana Gravel. 

The project location is shown in figure 19. 

Project Title: Earthquake 

Anchorage-Susitna Lowlands 

Reduction Program) 

Chief: 0 scar J. Ferrians. Jr. 

Hazards Mapping, 

(Earthquake Hazards 

Objectives: To complete mapping of earthquake 

hazards in the region. with emphasis on assessing 

the response of surficial materials to earthquakes. 

The Anchorage-Susitna Lowlands, which is in an 

extremely active seismic zone. will experience the 

greatest development and population growth of any 

region in Alaska. As a means of providing the 

information needed for planning and development. 

an investigation of this earthquake-prone region is 

being undertaken to obtain the critical data necessary for indentification and evaluation of earthquake 

hazards. 

Status: This project will be completed by the end 

of calendar year 1982. 

The project location is shown in figure 19. 

Project Title: Regional Engineering Geology of 

Cook Inlet Coal Lands 

Chiefs: Henry R. Schmoll and Lynn A. Yehle 

Objectives: To investigate the nature. location. 

and extent of general environmental concerns and 

potential problems caused by response of geologic 

materials (surficial deposits and bedrock) to surface 

mining of coal, facility siting, and accompanying 

land utilization for associated development (including transportation routes and urban development) in 

the Cook Inlet region. 

Status: To date. most effort has been devoted to a 

study of the Capps Glacier-Tyonek area about 100 

kilometers west of Anchorage. where strip mining of 

coal is anticipated within the next several years. 

Field investigations. comprising helicopter. fixedwing aircraft, land vehicle, and foot traverses, are presently in progress within the area of about five 

1:63. 360-scale quadrangles and will continue into 

adjacent quadrangles covering potential transportation corridors. Maps of surficial geology are 

compiled chiefly from aerial photographs and 

checked in the field. Physical properties of 

Tertiary sedimentary rocks and Quaternary surficial 

deposits are being determined in the laboratory 
from samples collected from outcrops and from three 

test holes in the proposed Capps and Chui tna West 

coal mining areas. Stratigraphic work in progress 

includes studies of late Tertiary to early Quaternary volcanic and glacial diamictite and of Holocene 

tephra. 

The project location is shown in figure 19. 

Project Title: Nelchina Area Stratigraphic Studies 

Chiefs: Arthur Grantz 

Objectives: To study the structure, stratigraphy, 

and tectonic development of the Mesozoic and 

Tertiary rocks of the Nelchina area, Matanuska 

Valley, and upper Cook Inlet regions. 

Status: Geologic mapping at a scale of 1: 63, 360 of 

the Nelchina area is complete, and preliminary 

geologic maps have been published. Final maps are 

in preparation. Field stratigraphic studies of the 

bedded rocks and potassium-argon dating of the 

igneous rocks of the Nelchina area, Matanuska 

Valley, and upper Cook Inlet are underway. A 

report on the Arkose Ridge Formation is in preparation. 

The project location is shown in figure 19. 

Project Title: Southwestern Copper River Basin 

(Surficial Deposits) (Arctic Environmental Studies 

Program) 

Chief: John R. Williams 

Objectives: To provide a map at a scale of 

1: 125,000 of the surficial deposits of the Copper 

River basin and bordering parts of the Talkeetna 

and Chugach Mountains between the Matanuska 

Glacier at Mile 100, Glenn Highway, and Tolsona 

Creek at Mile 170, northward to the latitude of the 

north end of Susitna Lake. Discussions of the 

glacial history, relation between late Wisconsinan 

glaciation and glacial lakes, and radiocarbon dating 

of the deposits will be included or prepared as 

separate reports. 

Status: The project was begun with fieldwork in 

1952-57 in cooperation with the Office of the Chief 

of Engineers, U.S. Army, and has resulted in 

reports of special interest to the cooperator. It 

was continued in 1978-80 as part of AMRAP and the 

Arctic Environmental Studies Program with work in 

the Va~dez quadrangle, in the Talkeetna Mountains, 

and adjacent parts of the basin. The final map 

report, at a scale of 1: 125, 000, is approximately 35 

percent complete, and office work will continue in 

1982 on a time-available basis. 

The project location is shown in figure 19. 

Project Title: Petroleum Geology, Cook InletShelikof Strait 

Chief: Leslie B . Magoon 

Objectives: (1) To study and report on the upper 

73 

GEOLOGIC 

Mesozoic, Tertiary, and reservoir rocks penetrated 

in the lower Cook Inlet COST well 1, and ( 2) to 

study and report . on key stratigraphic sections 

adjacent to the Shelikof Strait from Puale Bay to 

Kamishak Bay. The long-range objective is to 

provide data and interpretations necessary to assess 

the oil and gas potential of possible hydrocarbon 

sources and reservoir horizons in the Cook InletShelikof Strait area. 

Status: During FY 1982 a report on the COST well 

will be completed, as will petrographic analyses of 

sandstones from the Alaska Peninsula. A preTertiary subcrop map and a present-day geothermal 

gradient map are in preparation. 

The project location is shown in figure 19. 

Project Title: Volcanic Hazards of Cook Inlet 

(Volcanic Hazards Program) 

Chief: James R. Riehle 

Objectives: To determine the eruptive history of 

the four historically active volcanoes of Cook Inlet 

(Augustine, Iliamna, Redoubt, and Spurr) and 

evaluate the hazards to life that eruptions would 

produce. Geologic mapping, geochemistry and 

geochronology, and regional tephra studies will be 

used to establish past volcanic activity; hazard 

assessments will be based in part on this information. 

Status: Mapping of Mount Redoubt and adjacent 

rrver- valleys was completed in 1981; hazards 

assessment and geochemical and petrographic 

studies are under way. Reconnaissance mapping of 

Mount Spurr was initiated in 1981 and will continue. 

Samples taken for a regional tephra study are being 

processed and will continue to be collected. A 

seismograph recording data telemetered from 

stations near Mount Iliamna, Mount Redoubt, and 

Mount Spurr has been installed at the Branch of 

Alaskan Geology offices at Gould Hall, Alaska 

Pacific University, in Anchorage; it is monitored 

daily for volcano-related seismic events. 

The project location is shown in figure 19. 

Project Title: Alaska- Aleutian Range Batholith 

(Geologic Framework and Synthesis Program) 

Chief: Bruce L. Reed 

Objectives: ( 1) To produce a geologic map of the 

central portion of the batholith. ( 2) To define the 

age, geochemistry, tectonic setting, and the spatial 

and temporal relations of the magmatic events and 

their relation to plate-tectonic theories of arc formation and generation of ore deposits. ( 3) To determine the chronology of emplacement, chemical 

character, polarity, and tectonic framework of an 

ancient, deeply dissected magmatic arc of Jurassic 

age on the eastern margin of the batholith. Examination of the deeper part of an ancient arc can 

provide chemical and physical data th~t are not 

available in the exposed upper parts of modern 

island arcs. 
GEOLOGIC 

Status: Geologic mapping, sampling, and geochronologic studies on the eastern margin of the batholith between Tuxedni Bay and Chakachamna Lake 

were completed in 1981. Compilation of a geologic 

transect for this part of the batholith is in preparation. A topical paper on the geochronologic, 

chemical, and isotopic character of a trondhjemitetonalite suite of rocks of Jurassic age is in preparation. In 1982 geologic mapping, sampling, and 

geochronologic studies of the northeasternmost part 

of the batholith (the Tordrillo Mountains, north of 

Chakachamna Lake and east of the Skwentna River, 

about 1, 600 square miles) will be initated. 

The project location is shown in figure 19. 

Project Title: Quaternary Climate History and 

Tephrochronology, South-Central Alaska (Climate 

Change Program) 

Chief: Thomas A. Ager 

Objectives: To reconstruct the history of vegetation, hmnological conditions, and climate of the 

Cook Inlet region since the onset of deglaciation 

about 14,000 years ago by means of pollen, 

ostracode, and diatom analysis of lacustrine 

sediments. A secondary objective is to define the 

regional tephrochronology by means of radiocarbon 

dated tephras obtained from sediment cores. 

Status: The main fieldwork for this project will be 

carried out in June and July 1982. Data analysis 

will follow . 

The project location is shown in figure 19. 

Project Title: Healy Quadrangle (AMRAP) 

Chief: Bela Csejtey, Jr. 

Objectives: To assess the mineral potential of the 

Healy quadrangle through reconnaissance geologic, 

geochemical, and geophysical investigations, and to 

collect basic geologic data to help decipher the 

complex tectonic and igneous history of southern 

Alaska. 

Status: Geologic and geochemical investigations in 

the quadrangle are about 90 percent complete. 

Only a few days of fieldwork are planned for the 

summer of 1982. The compilation and evaluation of 

geologic and geochemical data collected is presently 

under way. 

The quadrangle location is shown in figure 14. 

Project Title: 

rangle 

AMRAP Geochemistry, Healy QuadChief: Harley D. King 

Objectives: To produce geochemical maps useful in 

the assessment of the mineral potential of the Healy 

quadrangle. The objectives are to be accomplished 

by reconnaissance geochemical sampling of stream 

sediments and heavy-mineral (panned) concentrates 

74 

of stream sediments. The geochemical maps will 

show the distribution and concentration of selected 

metallic elements in the sample media. 

Status: Geochemical sampling was begun in 1980, 

continued in 1981, and is planned for completion 

with about 2 weeks fieldwork in 1982. Publication 

of results will be coordinated with those of geologic 

studies directed by Bela Csejtey, Jr. 

The quadrangle location is shown in figure 14. 

Project Title: Mount Hayes Quadrangle (AMRAP) 

Chief: Warren J. Nokleberg 

Objectives: To conduct reconnaissance and detailed 

geologic mapping and geochemical and geophysical 

surveys to provide data for a mineral-resource 

assessment of the Mount Hayes quadrangle. Fieldwork includes: ( 1) geologic mapping at scales of 

1:250,000 to 1: 1,200; (2) detailed studies and 

sampling of mineralized areas; ( 3) isotopic studies 

of bedrock and mineralized rocks; ( 4) interpretation 

of aeromagnetic surveys; ( 5) mapping and sampling 

of placer deposits; and (6) studies of surficial 

deposits. 

Status: Geologic mapping, bedrock sampling, and 

sampling of stream sediments and heavy-mineral 

concentrates are complete for the entire quadrangle. 

Various reports for the quadrangle folio are in 

preparation. A 21-day field season is planned for 

1982 with a team of about six people. Fieldwork 

will concentrate on specific mineral deposits 

throughout the quadrangle. 

Related geochemical studies are being conducted by 

Richard B . Tripp. 

The quadrangle location is shown in figure 14. 

Project Title: Anchorage Quadrangle (AMRAP) 

Chief: Gary R. Winkler 

Objectives: ( 1) To assess the mineral potential of 

the Anchorage quadrangle through integration of 

existing information and through new reconnaissance 

and detailed geologic, geochemical, geophysical, and 

geochronological investigations; (2) to continue 

detailed geologic and radiometric studies of the 

Willow Creek mining district; and (3) to continue 

detailed stratigraphic, paleontologic, or petrologic 

studies of Mesozoic bedded rocks in the Talkeetna 

and Chugach Mountains. 

Status: Considerable published and unpublished 

geologic information has been generated through 

previous Federal, State, and academic studies in 

parts of the quadrangle. A 30-day field season is 

planned for the summer of 1982 in order to complete 

field investigations for the entire quadrangle. 

The quadrangle location is shown in figure 14. 

Project Title: Geochemical Studies for the Peters-
burg and Anchorage AMRAP Quadrangles and 

Chugach (RARE II) Project). 

Chief: James D. Hoffman 

Objectives: To provide geochemical analyses and 

support for the Petersburg, Anchorage AMRAP, and 

wilderness-area studies. 

Status: Sampling and analysis in support of the 

AMRAP Anchorage quadrangle project began during 

the summer of 1981. This work is also being done 

in conjunction with the Chugach (RARE II) wilderness study, which involves an area immediately to 

the east. Stream-sediment and heavy-mineralconcentrate sampling for the Petersburg project is 

complete; analysis of these samples was concluded 

by late 1981. Some additional bedrock samples from 

this quadrangle may be collected in FY 1982. (See 

D. A. Brew, Petersburg 1: 250, 000-scale quadrangle 

project, southeastern region). 

The areas in which project work takes place are 

shown in figures 14 and 19. 

Project Title: Alaska Seismic Studies (Earthquake 

Hazards Reduction Program) 

Chief: John C. Lahr 

Objectives: To understand those tectonic processes 

that generate Alaskan earthquakes, and thereby to 

evaluate the earthquake hazards that threaten present and future development. Of particular importance is the search for premonitory phenomena and 

physical conditions prior to moderate and large 

earthquakes. 

Status: Seismic data are collected and analyzed 

from a network of 54 high-gain telemetered stations 

and 25 strong-motion instruments located at sites 

extending across southern Alaska from the western 

shore of Cook Inlet to Juneau and north to the 

Talkeetna Mountains. Five stations around the 

proposed Bradley Lake Hydroelectric Project site 

are operated in a cooperative study with the Corps 

of Engineers. Three stations near Spurr, Redoubt, 

and Iliamna volcanoes west of Cook Inlet are supported by the Geological Survey's Volcano Hazards 

Program. Study emphasis is being placed on monitoring the seismicity in the Yakataga seismic gap, a 

region that is thought to be a likely site for a 

future major earthquake. The possible significance 

of elevated levels of seismicity in this region 

between October 1980 and May 1981 is being 

weighed. 

Locations 

Yakataga 

of high-gain seismic instruments and 

seismic gap are shown in figure 20. 

Project Title: 

Seismic Gap 

gram) 

Tilt Operations in the Yakataga 

(Earthquake Hazards Reduction ProChief: Carl E. Mortensen 

Objective: To monitor crustal deformation asso- Ciated With strain accumulation prior to earthquakes 

75 

GEOLOGIC 

in the Yakataga seismic gap. 

Status: The project investigators continued to 

operate a tiltmeter array in Alaska that consists of 

doubly instrumented sites at Cape Yakataga, 

Yakutat, and Icy Bay. Data analysis continues. 

Data are transmitted to Menlo Park, Calif. , via the 

GOES satellite. 

Some results of the project's work at Cape Yaktaga 

area have been published in the Bulletin of the 

Seismological Society of America ( v. 7 0, no. 5, 

October 1980). 

The project area is shown in figure 20. 

Project Title: Crustal Strain in the Yakataga and 

Shumagin Island Seismic Gaps 

Chiefs: 

Objective: 

Yakataga 

James C. Savage and Will H. Prescott 

To measure strain accumulation in the 

and Shumagin Islands seismic gaps. 

Status: A trilateration network of 38 lines located 

on the Shumagin Islands was measured in 1980 and 

1981. The network spans an area 30 kilometers 

wide along the Pacific plate boundary and covers 

the region between 150 and 250 kilometers northwest 

of the Aleutian trench along which subduction of 

the plate occurs. The network has 18 angles in 

common with a 1913 third-order triangulation 

survey. Twenty-two of the length measurements 

made in 1980 were repeated in 1981. Comparison of 

observations over the 1913-80 time period gave 

shear strain rates with a standard deviation of 0.10 

pstrain/year (engineering). The 1954-80 comparison had a standard deviation of 0.10 pstrain/ 

year, and the 1980-81 comparison 0. 20 pstrain/year. 

The increased precision of the newer observations 

is offset by the shorter time periods. The only 

significant strain rate observed was for the period 

1954-80. Over this time period, T1 (which 

measures left-lateral shear parallel to the northeaststriking plate boundary) changed at a rate -0.25 ± 

0.10 pstrain/year, indicating a right-lateral component of slip on the thrust fault. Compression or 

extension normal to the plate boundary would be 

reflected in T2 which had a rate of 0.10 ± 0.13 

pstrain/year during the period 1954-80, not significantly different from zero. Comparisons for other 

time periods indicated that the strain rates are 

below the noise 'level in the observations. 

Portions of a trilateration network of 25 lines, 

located near Cape Yakataga, were surveyed in 1979 

and 1980. Results of this work were reported in 

the 1981 Alaska Program Circular. Another survey 

of this network is planned for the 1982 field 

season. 

The project location is shown in figure 20. 

Project Title: Seismicity and Earthquake Source 

Properties in the Yakataga Seismic Gap (Earthquake 

Hazards Reduction Program) 

Chief: Robert A. Page 
GEOLOGIC 

MEDFRA 

EXPLANATION 

1. Seismic Studies 

MT. McKINLEY 

Sensitive Seismographs 

• USGS Vertical Component 

""' USGS 3 Component 

ONOAA 

a university of Alaska 

2. Tilt Operations 

Strong Motion Instruments 

0 OCSEAP Support 

6. USGS Support 

50 100 MILES 

1----''-rj ___.~.•,,----'-,,_.. 

50 100 150 KILOMETERS 

~ Active Volcanoes 

3. Crustal Strain Study (Shumagin Islands study area not shown) 

4. Yakataga Seismic Gap 

Figure 20 .--Geologic Division earthquake and seismic studies in southern Alaska. 

Objectives: ( 1) To construct a reliable earthquake 

history of the study area; (2) to refine the seismotectonic model and define the rupture surface(s) for 

a gap-filling earthquake; ( 3) to examine patterns of 

seismicity through time to reassess forecasts for a gap-filling 'earthquake; and ( 4) to search for 

changes in the seismic characteristics of the region 

that might aid in predicting a major earthquake. 

Status: The project is in its second year. Effort 

is continuing to complete the routine location of 

earthquakes recorded by the .survey's southern 

Alaska seismograph network smce 197 4 and to 

precisely relocate large historic earthquakes using 

special analysis techniques. A generalized threedimensional model of the P-wave velocity of the 

crust and upper mantle beneath the study area is 

being determined from the arrival times of P-waves 

recorded from distant large earthquakes. The first 

reports from this project are expected in 1982. 

The project location is shown in figure 20. 

76 

Project Title: Tectonic Tilt 

Lake Levels, Intermountain 

Southern Alaska (Earthquake 

Program) 

Chief: Spencer H. Wood 

Measurements Using 

Seismic Belt and 

Hazards Reduction 

Objective: To monitor tectonic tilt in areas that 

have a potential for large to moderate earthquakes. 

Status: Water levels in Iliamna, Naknek, 

Kontrashibuna, Kenai, Skilak, Tustumena, Tazlina, 

Klutina, Eyak, and Bering Lakes in Alaska and 

Kluane Lake in Yukon Territory were measured in 

1964, 1966, and 1979. Harlequin Lake in southeastern Alaska was added to the study in 1980. 

Results of the study indicate that records of lake 

levels will not easily detect small land-surface tilt 

that develops over periods of several months to a 

year, but that small tilt rates over several years 

may be resolved. No measurements were made in 

1981, but the array will be remeasured in 1982. 
0 50 100 MILES 

I .• 1" I l 

0 50 100 150 KILOMETERS 

EXPLANATION 

1. Naknek Lake 

2. Diamna Lake 

3. Kontrashibuna Lake 

4. Tustumena Lake 

5. Skilak Lake 

6. Kenai Lake 

7. 

8. 

9. 

10. 

11. 

12. 

Tazlina Lake 

Klutina Lake 

Eyak Lake 

Bering Lake 

Kluane Lake 

Harlequin Lake 

GEOLOGIC 

Gulf of Alaska 

Figure 21.--Large lakes in southern Alaska and Yukon Territory used to monitor tectonic tilt. 

Significant tilt on Kenai Lake has been determined; 

results are reported in abstract in "Earthquake 

News", v. 52, no. 1, p. 26. 

The project location is shown in figure 21. 

SOUTHWESTERN REGION 

Project Title: Mineral Resource Assessment of the 

Ugashik-Karluk Quadrangles (AMRAP) 

Chief: Robert L. Detterman 

Objectives: To appraise the mineral and energy 

potential of the northern part of the Alaska 

Peninsula, and to provide reliable geologic estimates 

of these resources based on geologic, geochemical, 

geophysical, and telegeologic mapping. Project 

activities include mapping the entire area at a scale 

of 1:250,000 and selected and critical areas at a 

scale of 1:63,360; obtaining stream-sediment and 

pan-concentrate samples from all major streams; to 

determine the age of mineralization of mineralized 

and altered areas by potassium-argon methods; a 

regional aeromagnetic and gravity study; and a 

geothermal study of the Quaternary volcanic 

centers. 

Status: Field investigations in the quadrangles 

were completed in 1981. Sample analysis and map 

compilations are in progress and will result in a 

folio of geologic, geochemical, geochronologic, 

aeromagnetic, and mineral and energy resource 

maps with an accompanying circular. Project 

results to date include finding: several areas of 

anomalously high gold, silver, lead, zinc, and 

molybdenum mineralization by geochemical sampling; 

a previously unknown late Quaternary volcano; and 

Early Cretaceous (Albian) clastic rocks and Silurian 

and Devonian carbonate rocks on the northern 

Alaska Peninsula. Geochemical studies that complement this work have been directed by David E. 

Detra, and publication of geochemical data is being 

coordinated with publications for this project. 

The project quadrangles are shown in figure 14. 

SOUTHEASTERN REGION 

Project Title: Geotectonics, Metallogenesis, and 

Resource Appraisal of Southeastern Alaska 

Chief: Henry C. Berg 

Objectives: To furnish information on southeastern 

Alaska's regional mineral endowment and to provide 

reliable geologic estimates of its undiscovered 

mineral-resources. The project is a multidisciplinary mineral resource assessment of the southeastern 

panhandle that will integrate geology, geotectonics, 

geophysics, geochemistry, and economic geology. A 

new metallogenic province map incorporating current 

concepts of tectonostratigraphic (accreted) terranes 

will delineate areas that are geologically favorable 

for the occurrence of specific types of mineral 

deposits, will list the criteria used to establish 

these areas, and, when data permit, will include 

probabilistic numerical estimates of undiscovered 

deposits of specific types and of their contained 

tonnages and grades. The assessment will be published as a folio of 1: 1, 000, 000-scale maps and 

accompanying tables. 

Status: This project started in FY 1979. Since 

then, investigations and results have included: (1) 

compiling 1:1,000, 000-scale geologic maps of the 

study area; (2) publishing preliminary aeromagnetic 

77 
GEOLOGIC 

50 100 MILES 

t---''-.-1 ____._! "'Tj_.._....,,_.l 

50 I 00 150 KILOMETERS 

58" 

56" 

PACIFIC 

OCEAN 54" 

EXPLANATION 

1. Geotectonics, Metallogenesis, and Resource Appraisal of Southeastern Alaska 

2. Mineral Resources of Glacier Bay National Monument Wilderness Study Area 

3. The Coast Plutonic Complex and Surroundings near Juneau 

4. Mineral Resources and Geology of the Petersburg Quadrangle 

5. Sitka Observatory 

Figure 22 . -- Geologic Division activities in southeastern Alaska. 

contour and profile maps of southeastern Alaska 

(Open-File Reports 79-1694 and 81-0505); (3) publishing a description of Upper Triassic massive 

sulfide deposits near Petersburg (Open-File Report 

80-527 and an article in Circular 823-B); ( 4) publishing a map and table describing mineral deposits 

in the Petersburg and eastern Port Alexander 

quadrangles (Open-File Report 80-793); ( 5) publishing a map and table describing metallic mineral 

deposits in southeastern Alaska (Open-File Report 

81-0122); and (6) mapping and sampling selected 

types of mineral deposits and analyzing their tectonostratigraphic settings. 

In addition, the following findings of economic 

interest have resulted from studies of mines and 

prospects in selected tectonostratigraphic terranes 

in southeastern Alaska: ( 1) discovery of stratiform, massive zinc( -lead) sulfide deposits on 

Zarem bo and Kupreanof Islands (Admiralty terrane) ; 

( 2) discovery of Late Triassic fossils in the stratiform, massive zinc sulfide deposit on Kupreanof 

Island; (3) discovery of probable Late Triassic 

fossils in metamorphic strata, previously considered 

to be Paleozoic, that host a barite deposit now 

being mined at Duncan Canal; and ( 4) preliminary 

78 

identification of a 300-kilometer-long Triassic metallogenic province in the study area containing 

volcanogenic massive zinc, lead, silver, copper, and 

gold deposits in metamorphosed Upper Triassic 

strata. This newly recognized province appears to 

be restricted to the Admiralty and Annette tectonostratigraphic terranes and is the first metallogenic 

province to be identified in southeastern Alaska by 

integrating mineral deposit data, biostratigraphy, 

and regional tectonostratigraphic concepts. 

The project location is shown in figure 22. 

Project Title: Mineral Resources of Glacier Bay 

National Monument Wilderness Study Area 

Chief: David A. Brew 

Objectives: To appraise the mineral-resource 

potential of a large area of complex geology just 

northwest of the Alexander Archipelago, using (1) 

reconnaissance geologic, geochemical, and detailed 

mineral-occurrence information gathered in the 1966 

Geological Survey study of the monument (Professional Paper 632); (2) reconnaissance geologic 
mapping of previously unmapped areas; (3) reconnaissance bedrock geochemical sampling; ( 4) reconnaissance stream-sediment geochemical sampling of 

previously unsampled areas; (5) aeromagnetic 

surveying; (6) gravity surveying; and (7) detailed 

examination and sampling of selected known mineral 

occurrences and of areas containing anomalous 

concentrations of selected metallic elements. The 

appraisal is part of the National Park Service study 

of the suitability of the areas for inclusion in the 

National Wilderness Preservation System established 

by the Wilderness Act of 1964. 

Status: The reconnaissance geologic mapping is not 

satisfactorily complete. A bulletin report is in 

review; a map and a report on the intrusive rocks 

are in progress; and an analysis of the streamsediment geochemistry of the southeastern part of 

the monument and contiguous areas is under way. 

The project is unfunded in FY 1982. 

The project location is shown in figure 22. 

Project Title: The Coast Plutonic Complex and 

Surroundings near Juneau (AMRAP) 

Chief: David A. Brew 

Objectives: To conduct reconnaissance and detailed 

geologic and geochemical mapping and a mineralresource appraisal of a broad transect across the 

Coast plutonic complex. The transect extends from 

metavolcanic and metaclastic rocks of a low-grade, 

intermediate-pressure and -temperature facies series 

on the southwest through higher grade schists, 

gneisses, and spatially associated metavolcanic and 

metaclastic rocks of a low-pressure, hightemperature facies series near the United StatesCanada boundary. This information will provide the 

regional framework for the Juneau gold belt and for 

mineral occurrences near the international border. 

Status: Geologic mapping at 1:63,360 or larger 

scale has been completed for all but the easternmost 

and northwesternmost parts of the project area. Three 1:31,680-scale maps have been published, 

and four more are in progress. Several topical 

papers describing metamorphism, geochemistry of 

Mesozoic metavolcanic rocks, mineral resources, and 

structure have been published, and more are in 

progress. Samples for a detailed geochemical study 

and isotopic age-dating from representative units 

accross the transect are being analyzed. 

The project location is shown in figure 22. 

Project Title: Geology and Mineral Resources of the 

Petersburg 1:250, 000-scale Quadrangle and Some 

Contiguous Areas (AMRAP and Geologic Framework 

and Synthesis Program) 

Chief: David A. Brew 

Objectives: To carry out reconnaissance geologic 

and geochemical mapping and mineral-resource 

assessment of the project area where diverse structural, stratigraphic, and tectonic units come 

together. The project will include geophysical 

79 

GEOLOGIC 

surveys and will draw upon previous geologic 

studies to the west and northwest by L. J. P. 

Muffler, to the northwest by R. A. Loney, to the 

south and west by A. T . Ovenshine, to the south 

by G. D. Eberlein and Michael Churkin, Jr. , to the 

southeast by H. C. Berg and D. L. Jones, and to 

the north and east by D. A. Brew , A. L. Clark , 

and D. G. Grybeck. 

Status: The 1981 field season was the fourth for 

this project. Geologic mapping of the southern, 

western, and northeastern parts of the project 

area, comprising Etolin, Zarembo, northern Prince 

of Wales, Kuiu Islands, and parts of the mainland, 

is now largely complete. In addition, parts of 

Kupreanof Island and other parts of the mainland 

have also been mapped. Stream-sediment sampling 

has been completed by the related geochemistry 

project (J. B. Cathrall, Chief). Compilation of 

data from previous mapping in the area is under 

way, as are a major-element study of the granitic 

rocks and other topical studies. The results of 

aeromagnetic surveys and a review of known mineral 

deposits, as well as occurrences discovered during 

current fieldwork, and pertinent geochemical data 

have been placed on open file . An aeroradiometric 

survey of areas geologically favorable for uranium 

has been flown, and the results are being compiled. 

Bedrock g~chemical data are being prepared for 

statistical analysis on a map-unit by map-unit basis. 

The projected location is shown in figure 22. 

Project Title: Mineral Resources of Petersburg 

(1:250,000-scale) Quadrangle (AMRAP) 

Chief: John B. Cathrall 

Objectives: The major objectives are: To appraise 

the mineral-resource potential and to complete 

reconnaissance geochemical mapping of the Petersburg (1:250,000-scale) quadrangle where diverse 

stratigraphic and tectonic units or terranes come 

together. The secondary objectives include 

geostatistical-geochemical studies for single 

elements, ratios of elements, and vector enrichments 

using the results of analysis of stream sediments, 

heavy-mineral panned concentrates from stream 

sediments, and rock units. To accomplish these 

objectives, drainage systems, rock units, fault 

zones, altered and (or) mineralized zones, and 

favorable host rock will be sampled and the geochemical results integrated with the results of 

studies of the geologic and geophysical environments of the area; maps will be prepared and 

interpreted; and the integrated conclusions will be 

prepared for publication as a series of maps and 

short reports. 

Status: To date, about 1, 600 panned-concentrate 

samples, 1,600 stream-sediment samples, and 800 

stream pebble samples have been collected. Areas 

identified as anomalous on the basis of 1978-80 

results were revisited in 1981. Approximately 600 

stream-sediment samples have been analyzed for 

uranium and thorium. It is possible to identify a 

belt of rocks located in the Etolin-Kuiu Island 

complex in which uranium is enriched relative to 

thorium. A pattern of copper-zinc-lead zoning is 
GEOLOGIC 

becoming defineable in the Duncan Canal-Zarembo 

Island area, Saginaw and Kadak Bay area, southwestern Kupreanof Island area, and Stevenson 

Island area. 

The project location is shown in figure 22. 

Project Title: Sitka Observatory 

Chief: Willis E. Osbakken 

Objectives: To operate seismic instruments for 

acquiring information on the global occurrence of 

earthquakes; to transmit seismic and tidal data to 

the Alaska Tsunami Warning Center at Palmer; and 

to record and measure, on a continuous basis, the 

various elements of the Earth's magnetic field and 

distribute these data either directly or through the 

Branch of Electromagnetism and Geomagnetism to 

domestic and foreign data users. 

Status: With continuous magnetograph recordings 

since 1902, the Sitka Observatory is among the 

oldest recording magnetic observatories in 

existence, which makes it one of the more valuable 

magnetic observatories in the world. The data 

recorded at Sitka constitute important input to the 

base data file used to compile magnetic and navigation charts. The data from Sitka and other 

observatories are used internationally to support 

magnetic research studies in solid earth, upper 

atmospheric, and space research. Sitka is one of 

the 13 stations used in the derivation of KP, the 

planetary geomagnetic activity index. The 

observatory has functioned as a seismograph station 

since 1904. Besides telemetering seismic data to 

Palmer, the station furnishes seismic recordings to 

the National Earthquake Information Service for 

epicenter studies. The observatory also operates a 

tide station for the National Oceanographic and 

Atmospheric Administration Pacific Tide Party and is 

a cooperative observer for the National Weather 

Service. 

The observatory location is shown in figure 22. 

OFFSHORE 

Project Title: Arctic Marine Sedimentary Processes 

(Manne Geology Program) 

Chiefs: Peter W. Barnes, Erk Reimnitz, Ralph E. 

Hunter, and R. Larry Phillips 

Objectives: To define the sedimentary processes of 

the continental shelf off northern Alaska. Studies 

will concentrate on: (1) defining the source, mode 

of emplacement, and physical and chemical composition of seabed materials; (2) studying the 

present sediment-transport regime (including ice 

rafting, currents, ice grounding, barrier islands, 

and shoals); and (3) examining the historical record 

to provide information concerning the stability of 

the present regime and its behavior in the past. 

In all studies, processes involving sea ice will be 

emphasized. 

Status: The character 

character and source of the seabed and the 

of seabed materials are 

80 

reasonably well known for the Beaufort Sea from 

earlier work on this project. The studies in the 

Beaufort Sea are now focusing on interrelated 

processes and rates of processes. The topic of sea ice as a geologic agent has been little studied, and 

unraveling the relationships between ice and geologic processes is a continuing effort and a source 

of questions and challenges. For instance, a submarine bench or shoal commonly marks the boundary 

between the smooth inshore ice and the stamukhi 

(zone of grounded ice ridges) and appears to be 

related to the ice zonation; however, the relationships between this bench and the associated ridges 

are not understood. When storms occur during ice 

formation in the fall, vast quantities of fine-grained 

sediment are entrained in the ice, yet the 

mechanisms of sediment entrainment and signficance 

to the sediment-transport regime remain to be 

studied. 

Work has started on characterizing the nearshore 

seabed environment of the Chukchi Sea. Ice effects 

arc important here, as in the Beaufort Sea, but the 

effects of currents and waves are also important, 

more so than in the Beaufort Sea. The major capes 

are sites of especially intense sediment transport by 

currents. 

The location of the project is shown in figure 23. 

Project Title: Geologic Framework and Resource 

Assessment, Beaufort and Chukchi Seas (Marine 

Geology Program) 

Chief: Arthur Grantz 

Objectives: To determine the geologic framework 

and petroleum potential of the continental shelf and 

slope in the Beaufort and Chukchi Seas. 

Status: The reconnaissance phase of the project, 

which- depended heavily on single-channel seismic 

data, has generally defined the major geologic 

provinces and gross structure of the BeaufortChukchi shelf and continental slope. The project is 

now acquiring, processing, and interpreting multichannel seismic-reflection data for a more detailed 

determination of the geologic framework and 

petroleum potential of the region. Gravity anomaly 

and seismic-refraction (sonobuoy) data have also 

been gathered. All planned data releases and 

reports covering the reconnaissance phase of the 

project have been published, and the first of a 

series of reports and maps based on the multichannel data is in press. A number of ancillary 

maps and reports showing the bathymetry and 

selected Quaternary geologic features of environmental concern have also been released. 

The project location is shown in figure 23. 

Project Title: Geology and Resource Assessment of 

the Northern Bering Sea (Marine Geology Program) 

Chief: Michael A. Fisher 

Objectives: To study the geologic history and 

structure and the petroleum geology of the northern 

Bering Sea, including Norton Basin. 
01) 

.... 

I F I C 

!e\r 

UN'ITEOSTATBS 

DEPARTMENT Or THE INTERIOR 

GF.OLOOICALSURVJ:Y ALASKA 

EXPLANATION 

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

5. 

6. 

7. 

8. 

Arctic Marine Sedimentary Processes 

Geologic Framework and Resource Assessment, Beaufort and Chukchi Seas 

Geology and Resource Assessment on the 

Northern Bering Sea 

Geologic Hazards in the Navarin Basin 

Province, Western Bering Sea 

Geologic Framework and Resource Assessment of the Aleutian-Bering Sea Region 

Resource and Geo-environmental Assessment of the Aleutian Ridge and Shelf 

Geologic Framework and Resource Assessment of the Western Gulf of Alaska 

Eastern Gulf of Alaska Resource Assessment 

0 100 200 MILES I I I I I 

0 100 200 KILOMETERS 

0 c 

I 

\ 

,;,. \ 

Figure 23 .--Offshore geologic activities in Alaska, Marine Geology Program. m 

0 

r0 

e 

0 
GEOLOGIC 

Status: Gravity data collected in 1978 and 1980 are 

being published in final map form, and 24-channel 

seismic data collected in 1978 have been interpreted. The resulting map of basin structure is 

being modified on the basis of information collected 

during a cruise in 1980. Also during that year, 

data were collected from 35 sonobuoys. No fieldwork was done in 1981, but seismic-reflection and 

gravity data were processed. Modelling of gravity 

data has begun, using basin structures derived 

from the seismic data. In FY 1982 this project may 

coordinate its activities with those of a consortium 

of industrial associates. COST well data will be 

made available to the public late in 1982. 

The project location is shown in figure 23. 

Project Title: Geologic Hazards in Navarin Basin 

Province, Western Bering Sea (Marine Geology 

Program) 

Chiefs: Paul R. Carlson and Herman A. Karl 

Objectives: To determine the type, areal extent, 

age, degree of activity, and potential problems of 

seafloor geologic hazards in the Navarin Basin 

province. Types of hazards being studied include 

faults, submarine slides, gas-charged sediments, 

and active bedforms. 

Status: The 1981 6-week cruise on the National 

Oceamc and Atmospheric Administration ship 

Discoverer completed a reconnaissance-level regional 

grid of the Navarin Basin province, where an Outer 

Continental Shelf lease is planned for early 1984. 

Data being processed for analyses include 3. 5 

kiloHertz , minisparker, and airgun reflection profiles, suspended -sediment samples, and gravity 

cores. No cruise is scheduled for 1982. A report 

on large sand waves on the floor of the Navarin 

Basin is in review, and other reports are in preparation. 

The project location is shown in figure 23. 

Project Title: Geologic Framework and Resource 

Assessment of the Aleutian-Bering Sea Region 

(Marine Geology Program) 

Chief: Michael S. Marlow 

Objectives: To evaluate the resource potential, 

mcluding possible oil and gas deposits, of the 

Bering Sea region, and to ascertain the regional 

tectonic and geologic framework of the Bering Sea 

in relation to Alaska, Siberia, and the North 

Pacific. 

Status: Since 1975, ·approximately 6,200 miles of 

24-channel seismic-reflection data has been collected 

over the eastern Bering Sea shelf and the adjacent 

abyssal Aleutian Basin. Copies of the records are 

available from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 

Administration. Preliminary descriptions and ages 

for dredge samples collected in 1978 have been 

published as Open-File Report 81-1297. During 

1980, we collected about 1, 700 miles of multichannel 

seismic-reflection data in the north end of the 

Navarin Basin, but no fieldwork was done in 1981. 

Data from the 1980 cruise are in reports that are 

now in review. Resource reports for the Bureau of 

Land Management and the Department of State on 

Bristol Bay and the Navarin Basin have been published as Open-File Reports 80-653 and 81-0252, 

respectively. In FY 1982 project personnel plan to 

coordinate geophysical surveying from two ships 

working in all major basins and in some deep water 

areas in the study region with a consortium of 

industrial associates. In addition, two COST wells 

are being planned; data resulting from work on 

these wells will, however, be proprietary until a 

lease sale in the area is scheduled. 

82 

The project area is shown in figu,re 23. 

Project Title: Resource and Geo-environmental 

Assessment of the Aleutian Ridge and Shelf (Marine 

Geology Program) 

Chiefs: David W. Scholl and Tracy L. Vallier 

Objectives: To gather -and interpret geophysical 

and geologic data and to study seafloor processes. 

These investigations are needed to assess the 

regional petroleum and mineral resources and geohazards of the frontier areas of the Aleutian Ridge 

and Shelf. Marine geophysical data (including 

reflection- and refraction-seismic data), as well as 

gravity and magnetics data, are used in conjunction 

with geologic information obtained by investigating 

the insular geology, submerged bedrock outcrops, 

sediment samples, and cores from test wells in 

order to prepare resource and hazard assessments. 

The same data base is used to determine the 

tectonic and geologic histories of the Aleutian 

Ridge, which is a complex magmatic arc that in 

many places includes thick masses of Cenozoic sedimentary deposits. 

Status: During the project's first two years, data 

collection was done during short field seasons. In 

1979, single-channel seismic-reflection profiles and 

dredge hauls were collected from the R/V 

Sea Sounder in the Amlia area of the Aleutian 

Ridge. Geologic reconnaissance mapping and rock 

sampling were completed on Amlia and Atka Islands. 

In 1980, about 450 miles of multichannel seismic 

profiles was collected over the Aleutian Ridge in the 

Amlia corridor. These seismic profiles are now 

partly processed and analyzed. In 1981 the first 

phase of multichannel reflection profiling in the 

Amlia corridor was completed by the collection of 

about 1,000 miles of new data, and reconnaissance 

work was begun in the Agattu corridor. Initial 

processing of the seismic data and analyses of 

offshore dredge samples from Amatignak, Agattu, 

and Koniuji Islands have begun. A report on the 

initial implications of data from the Amlia area of 

the Aleutian Ridge will appear in a memoir of the 

American Association of Petroleum Geologists. 

The project location is shown in figure 23. 

Project Title: Geologic Framework and Resource 

Assessment of the Western Gulf of Alaska (Marine 

Geology Program) 
Chief: Roland von Huene 

Objectives: To map the Neogene tectonic framework 

of the Outer Continental Shelf between Middleton 

and Chirikof Islands. An understanding of the 

geologic history will be developed to predict where 

geologic events have been conducive to the formation of hydrocarbon resources. The neotectonics 

associated with the 1964 and earlier earthquakes will 

be documented and modelled. A regional synthesis 

will be the end product. 

In the lower Cook Inlet-Shelikof Strait area, new 

reflection-seismic data will be correlated with 

lithologic and biostratigraphic data from the COST 

well to allow mapping of major units of Mesozoic and 

Cenozoic rocks. Gravity and magnetic data will be 

modelled in conjunction with reflection-seismic data 

to infer the characteristics of basement rocks. 

Status: Approximately two-thirds of the geophysical fieldwork and one-third of the sampling 

have been accomplished. Preliminary reports and 

maps have been prepared showing the first half of 

these data, and the results of studies of the data 

have appeared in open-file reports and scientific 

journals. A cruise to accomplish about half the 

GEOLOGIC 

remaining work is being planned for the summer of 

1982. 

The project location is shown in figure 23. 

Project Title: Eastern Gulf of Alaska Resource 

Assessment (Marine Geology Program) 

Chief: George Plafker 

Objectives: To evaluate the tectonic framework, 

petroleum potential, and geologic hazards of the 

eastern Gulf of Alaska Outer Continental Shelf and 

contiguous areas. 

Status: Acquisition of marine geophysical data is 

complete. Maps and reports on the structure, 

magnetics, stratigraphy, gravity, and bathymetry 

of the region are in various stages of preparation 

or have been published. During 1982 a detailed 

field study is planned for the Samovar Hills area of 

the Mount Saint Elias quadrangle to compare the 

petroliferous Paleogene sequence in outcrop with 

coeval rocks dredged from the Yakutat continental 

slope. 

The project location is shown in figure 23. 

Gould Hall on the Alaska Pacific University· campus in Anchorage is the new headquarters for the Branch of Alaskan Geology in Alaska. 

The scientists and support staff moved into the building in late 1981. 

83 
84 
Alaska Distribution Section office, Fairbanks. 

PUBLIC INQUIRIES OFFICE 

The Public Inquiries Office (PIO) in Anchorage 

serves as a contact for obtaining information about 

the activities and products of the Survey and 

provides referral services for individuals seeking 

technical information about the Survey's programs 

and work. The office keeps a stock of Alaska maps 

for over-the-counter sales and, as an agent of the 

Superintendent of Documents, sells Geological 

Survey books relating to Alaska. (Information 

about publications is given in the introductory 

pages of this Circular.) The PIO in Anchorage also 

contains a microfilm browse file where customers can 

view Landsat (satellite) photography, which can be 

ordered from the EROS Data Center, Sioux Falls, 

S. D. 

The PI 0 is part of the National Mapping 

Division and is under the direction of the Office of 

Public Inquiries headquartered at the National 

Center in Reston, Va. The PIO in Anchorage is 

supervised by Elizabeth C. Behrendt and is located 

at Room 108 of the Skyline Building at 508 Second 

Avenue. 

The Alaska Distribution Section in Fairbanks 

distributes Survey maps, indexes, and leaflets over 

the counter and by mail to the public and to 

Federal and State agencies, and it supplies maps to 

35 commercial dealers in the State. The Alaska 

Distribution Section is under the direction of the 

Distribution Branch in Denver, which, in turn, is 

part of the National Mapping Division. The Alaska 

office is supervised by Natalie A. Cornforth and is 

located in Room 126 of the Federal Building at 101 

Twelfth Avenue, Fairbanks, Alaska 99701. 

85 

ADMINISTRATIVE DMSION 

The Alaska Field Office of the Administrative 

Division provides service and supply support to the 

Survey offices and personnel in Alaska. The office 

is supervised by: 

Betty J. Mcintire 

204 Skyline Building 

218 E Street 

Anchorage, Alaska 99501 

Tel. (907) 271-4145 

A warehouse for Survey equipment is located 

just inside the ELmendorf Air Force Base to the east 

of Anchorage. The warehouse is under the immediate supervision of: 

Harvey Haynes 

5500 Oilwell Road 

Elmendorf Air Force Base 

Anchorage, Alaska 99506 

Tel. (907) 752-3834 

A warehouse for the Fairbanks area is located 

at Fort Wainwright but is not staffed. The telephone number at Fort Wainwright is (907) 353-6111. 

A radio network is operated during the field 

season for communication among the field camps and 

with Anchorage or Fairbanks. The official Survey 

frequencies are 5380 (USB 5381.5) and 3211 (USB 

3212. 5) kiloHertz. The Anchorage base station 

(KWA 351) is located at 218 E Street and monitors 

5380 during office hours. Commercial stations WK D 

22 in Anchorage and KGA 85 ("Broadmoor") in 

Fairbanks, both of which monitor 5167.5 (USB 
PIO AND OTHER SERVICES 

5168.9), handle non-routine Survey messages. For 

further information about the Survey's radio operations, contact: 

Florence R. Weber 

P.O. Box 80586 

Fairbanks, Alaska 99708 

Tel. (907) 479-7245 

The Administrative Division office also handles 

emergency messages to or from Survey offices or 

families of employees. During regular hours, the 

Anchorage office can be contacted; at other times 

Betty Mcintire can be contacted at (907) 272-5398. 

ALASKA CORE LIBRARY 

The Core Library preserves and makes available for study the Survey's large collection of 

Alaskan well cores. Most of these cores are from 

the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska (NPRA), 

formerly known as the Naval Petroleum Reserve No. 

4 (NPR-4); the nucleus of the library is about 

25, 000 feet of cores taken during exploration of the 

Reserve in the 1940's and 1950's. The library also 

includes some cores and a large amount of ditch 

cuttings from wells drilled on Federal lands in other 

parts of Alaska. 

The Alaska Core Library is currently housed 

in three buildings at the corner of Boyd and Manor 

Streets on Government Hill in Anchorage. The 

library is managed by the Branch of Alaskan 

Geology. 

The director of the library's activities is: 

W. L. Adkison 

2525 C Street, Suite 400 

Anchorage, Alaska 99503 

Tel. (907) 276-7422 

Library: (907) 274-1345 

86 

TECHNICAL DATA UNIT 

The Alaska Technical Data Unit (Tech. Data) 

provides information to Survey personnel and ~he 

public on earth science literature about Alaska With 

emphasis on U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska 

Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys, and 

U.s. Bureau of Mines publications. In addition to 

serving as depository for Branch of Alaskan 

Geology project files and related materials, Tech. 

Data maintains a small reference library, prepares a 

monthly list of Alaskan publications, and performs 

various procurement and publication services for 

Branch of Alaskan Geology personnel. For further 

information contac~: 

Ellen R. White 

Technical Data Unit 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

U.S. Geological Survey 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 48 

Menlo Park, California 94025 

Tel. (415) 323-8111 ext. 2342 or 2684 

In preparation for the unit's move to a new 

headquarters in Anchorage, Tech. Data _has 

recently undertaken compilation of a computerized 

index. The index will provide rapid identification 

of and access to published Alaskan earth science 

literature and various types of unpublished 

materials in Tech. Data files (currently totalling an 

estimated 15,600 items and growing at the rate of 

more than 600 items annually). 

To date, development of the data definition 

and data base schema by Bruce B. Salem has been 

completed. Indexing of the files has been temporarily suspended. 

The Core Library's storage and research facilities. 
Q) 

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Project Chief 

Ager, T. A. 

Ager, T. A. 

Barnes, D. F. 

Barnes, P. w., 

Reimnitz, Erk, 

Hunter, R. E. and 

Phillips, R. L. 

Bartsch-Winkler, 

Susan 

Bender, Lee 

Berg, H. C. 

Bird, K. J. 

Blanchard, D. C. 

Table 3. --Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work 

Associated Personnel 

Bradbury, J. P. 

Forester, R. M. 

Bryant, W. A. 

Morin, R. L. 

Burns, L. E. 

Kempema, E. W. 

Minkler, P. W. 

Rearic, D. M. 

Reiss, T. E. 

Decker, J. E. 

(State of AK) 

Coney, P. J. 

( Univ. of AZ) 

Saleeby, Jason 

(Cal. Tech.) 

Organizational 

Designation 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

National. 

Mapping 

Geologic 

Geologic 

ONPRA 

Region of 

Operation Type of Work 

Southwestern Quaternary climate and palyrostratigraphical studies 

Southern Climate and tephrochronology studies 

Statewide Gravity studies and standardization 

of gravity surveys 

Offshore Studies of Arctic marine sedimentary 

processes and hazards, Beaufort and 

Chukchi Seas 

Southern Determining sediment transport and 

deposition in the coastal region 

near Anchorage 

Southwestern Development of radar image maps of 

Ugashik 

Southeastern Studies of geotectonics, metallogenesis, and resource appraisal 

Northern 

Northern 

Petroleum resource studies 

Maintaining paleontological data 

files for NPRA 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

Paleontology and Stratigraphy 

Branch 

970 National Center 

Reston, VA 22092 

(703) 860-7745 

Paleontology and Stratigraphy 

Branch 

970 National Center 

Reston, VA 22092 

(703) 860-7745 

Branch of Regional Geophysics 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 18 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2457 

Branch of Pacific-Arctic Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 99 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 856-7008 (Barnes) 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Gould Hall, APU Campus 

University Drive 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 278-3571 

Eastern Mapping Center 

522 National Center 

Reston, VA 22092 

(703) 860-6273 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 17 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2234 

Branch of Oil & Gas Resources 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 99 

Menlo Park; CA 94025 

( 415) 856-8034 

ONPRA 

Casa Mills 

200 Middlefield Road, MS 87 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2137 
Q) 

Q) 

Table 3. --Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work- Continued 

Project Chief 

Bolm, J. G., 

Larson, J. A., and 

Turner, R. F. 

Bolm, J. G., 

and Lyle, w. M. 

(State of Alaska) 

Brabets, T. P. 

Brabets, T. P. 

Brew, D. A. 

Brew, D. A. 

Brew, D. A. 

Associated Personnel 

Emanuel, R. P. 

Lee, M. G. 

Wittenberg, L. A. 

Wittenberg, L. A. 

Lee, M. G. 

Berg, H. C. 

Barnes, D. F. 

Barrell, P. D. 

Ford, A. B. 

Grybeck, Donald 

Himmelberg, G. R. 

Hunt, S. J. 

Karl, S. M. 

Koch, R. D. 

Lanphere, M. A. 

Loney, R. A . ; 

Sonnevil, R. A. 

(Nat. Park Service) 

Ford, A. B. 

Karl, s. M. 

Organizational 

Designation 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Water 

Resources 

Water 

Resources 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Region of 

Operation 

Southern 

Southern 

Southern 

Southern 

Type of Work 

Integration of well, outcrop and 

seismic data, lower Cook Inlet 

Integration of onshore and offshore geologic data, lower Cook 

Inlet 

Geohydrologic studies, Municipality 

of Anchorage 

Water-quality characteristics of 

surface-water runoff in Chester 

Creek, Anchorage 

Southeastern Glacier Bay National Monument 

Wildernsss study area mapping and 

mineral-resource appraisal 

Southeastern Mineral-resource appraisal near 

Juneau (AMRAP) 

Southeastern Mapping and mineral-resource 

appraisal in Petersburg quadrangles and some contiguous areas (AMRAP) 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

Alaska Regional Office 

800 A Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4583 

800 A Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-538 (Bolm) 

Division of Geological 

and Geophysical Surveys 

3001 Porcupine Drive 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 277-6615 (Lyle) 

Anchorage Subdistrict Office 

1209 Orca Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4153 

Anchorage Subdistrict Office 

1209 Orca Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4153 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4127 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4127 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4127 
C» 

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Table 3. --Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work- Continued 

Project Chief 

Brosge', W. P, 

I 

Brosge, W. P. 

Bros~, W. P. 

Bugliosi, E. F. 

Burrows, R. L. 

Callahan, J. E: 

Carlson, P. R., 

and Karl, H. A. 

Carneggie, D. M. 

Carneggie, D. M. , 

and Fleming, M. D . 

Carneggie, D. M., 

Shasby, M. B., 

and Fleming, M. D . 

Associated Personnel 

Dutro, J. T. , Jr. 

Moore, T. E. 

Nilsen, T. H. 

Dutro, J. T . , Jr. 

Moore, T. E. 

Reiser, H. N. 

Dutro, J. T., Jr. 

Detterman, R. L. 

Emmett, W. W. 

Wilcox, D. E. 

Fisher, J. M. 

Staff members 

Organizational 

Designation 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Water 

Resources 

Water 

Resources 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Geologic 

EROS Field 

Office 

Krebs, P. V. (BLM) EROS Field 

Spencer, Page (BLM) Office 

LaBau, V. J. (USFS) 

Wibbenmeyer, M. (ADNR) 

Grunblatt, J. (ADNR) 

Winterberger, K. (USFS) 

Talbot, Steven 

(USFWS) 

EROS Field 

Office 

Region of 

Operation 

East-central 

Northern, 

East-central 

Northern 

Type of Work 

Mineral-resource assessment of 

Wiseman quadrangle 

Direction of sediment transport, 

facies trends, Devonian clastic 

rocks, Brooks Range 

Geologic mapping, southeast Brooks 

Range 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4121 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4121 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4121 

Southeastern Water resources of the Chilkat River Juneau Subdistrict Office 

East-central 

Northern 

Offshore 

Statewide 

Statewide 

basin near Haines P. 0. Box 1568 

Juneau, A K 99802 

(907) 586-7216 

Sediment transport in the Tanana 

River near Fairbanks 

Determination of coal resources, 

NPRA 

Fairbanks Subdistrict Office 

101 12th Avenue, Box 11 

Fairbanks, A K 99701 

(907) 456-0214 

Alaska Regional Office 

411 W. 4th Avenue 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4581 

Studies of geologic hazards, Navarin Branch of Pacific-Arctic Geology 

Basin 345 Middlefield Road, MS 99 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

( 415) 856-7021 (Carlson) 

-7053 (Karl) 

Remote-sensing training program EROS Field Office 

218 E Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4065 

Operation of ID IMS for vegetation 

classification 

EROS Field Office 

218 E Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4065 

Southwestern Land-cover and terrain mapping, 

Togiak National Wildlife Refuge 

EROS Field Office 

218 E Street 

Anchorage, A K 99501 

(907) 271-4065 
co 

0 

Table 3. -- Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work - Continued 

Project Chief 

Carter, L. D. 

Carter, L. D. 

Cathrall, J. B. 

Cathrall, J. B. 

Chapman, R. M. 

Church, S. E. 

Cobb, E. H. 

Comer, C. D. 

Craig, J. D. 

Csejtey, B:la, 

Jr. 

Associated Personnel 

Galloway, J. P. 

Galloway, J. P. 

Day, G. W. 

Hoffman, J. D. 

Hoffman, J. D. 

Day, G. W. 

O'Leary, R. M. 

Patton, W. W., Jr. 

Moll, E. J. 

(See Thrasher, G. P.) 

Cox, D. P. 

Stricker, G . D . 

Organizational 

Designation 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Geologic 

Region of 

Operation Type of Work 

East-central Mapping surficial geology in 

Tanana Valley corridor 

Northern Studies of Quaternary history, 

western Arctic Coastal Plain 

Southeastern Mineral-resource appraisal and geochemical mapping of the Pete.rsburg 

quadrangle 

East-central Mineral-resource appraisal and geochemical mapping of the Wiseman 

quadrangle 

West-central Mineral-resource evaluation and 

mapping, Ophir, Kantishna River, 

and Tanana quadrangles 

Northern Geochemical studies, Killik River and 

Chandler Lake quadrangles (AMRAP) 

Statewide Compilation of data on mineral 

resources 

Southwestern Mapping shallow geologic features, 

southern Bering Sea 

Southern Mineral-resource appraisal, Healy 

quadrangle (AMRAP) 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Gould Hall, APU Campus 

University Drive 

Anchorage, AK 99504 

(907) 278-3571 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Gould Hall, APU Campus 

University Drive 

Anchorage, AK 99504 

(907) 278-3571 

Branch of Exploration Research 

Denver Federal Center, Box 25046 

Lakewood, CO 80225 

(303) 234-4813 

Branch of Exploration Research 

Denver Federal Center, Box 25046 

Lakewood, CO 80225 

(303) 234-4813 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4131 

Branch of Exploration Research 

Box 25046, Federal Center, MS 955 

Lakewood, CO 80225 

(303) 234-3665 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 48 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2483 

Alaska Regional Office 

800 A Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4549 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 17 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2613 
co 

.... 

Table 3. --Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work-- Continued 

Project Chief 

Detterman , R. L. 

Dickinson , K . A . 

Donovan, T. L. 

Dover, J. H. 

Dusel-Bacon, 

Cynthia 

Dusel-Bacon, 

Cynthia 

Dutro, J • T. , Jr. 

Eberlein, G. D. 

Emanuel, R. P. 

Associated Personnel 

Miller, T. P. 

Yount, M. E. 

Wilson, F. H. 

Case, J. E. 

Allaway, W. H. 

Cox, D. P. 

Detra, D. E. 

Shew, ·Nora 

Miller, J. W. 

Campbell, J. A. 

(Ft. Lewis College) 

Forgey, R. L. 

Hendricks, J. D. 

Roberts, A. A. 

Spence, B. A. 

Thompson, C. R. 

Organizational 

Designation 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Aleinikoff, J. N . Geologic 

Reading, K. E. 

Mamay , S . H. Geologic 

Sohn, I. G. 

Palmer, A. R. (GSA, 

Boulder); Repatski, J. 

(See Lanphere, M. A.) 

Water 

Resources 

Region of 

Operation Type of Work 

Southwestern Mineral-resource appraisal, UgashikKarluk quadrangles 

Statewide Evaluation of uranium potential 

in selected sedimentary basins in 

Alaska 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4132 

Branch of Uranium and Thorium 

Resources 

Denver Federal Center, Box 25046 

Lakewood, CO 80225 

(303) 234-5667 

Northern Study of hydrocarbon seepage relative Branch of Oil and Gas Resources 

to magnetite formation, North Slope 2555 North Gemini Drive 

area Flagstaff, A Z 86001 

(502) 779-3311 X 1350 

East-central, Studies of stratigraphy, structure, 

West-central and metamorphic history of terranes 

in central Alaska 

Statewide 

East-central 

Statewide 

Southern 

Compilation of metamorphic facies 

map 

Petrographic studies, Yukon-Tanana 

Upland 

Studies of Paleozoic fossils and 

stratigraphy 

Evaluation of hydrologic hazards 

from volcanic activity at Mt. Spurr 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Gould Hall, AP U Campus 

University Drive 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 278-3571 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4115 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4115 

U.S. National Museum of Natural 

History 

Room E 316 

Washington, I>-. C. 20560 

(202) 343-3222 

Anchorage Subdistrict Office 

1209 Orca Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4153 
co 

1\) 

Table 3. --Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work-- Continued 

Project Chief 

Emery, P. A. 

Ferrians, 0. J., 

Jr. 

Ferrians, 0. J. , 

Jr. 

Ferrians, 0. J., 

Jr. 

Fisher, M. A. 

Fleming, M. D. 

Fleming, M. D. 

Fordham, R. E. 

Fordham, R. E. 

Fordham, R. E. 

Fordham, R. E., 

McLaurin, J. D. 

Associated Personnel 

Jones, S. H. 

--

--

Schmoll, H. R. 

Updike, R. G. 

(State of AK) 

Holmes, M. L. 

Patton, W. W., Jr. 

McClellan, P . H • 

(See Carneggie, D. M. ) 

(See Shasby, M. B.) 

(See McLaurin, J. D.) 

McLaurin, J. D. 

Organizational 

Designation 

Water 

Resources 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

National 

Mapping 

National 

Mapping 

National 

Mapping 

Region of 

Operation 

Southern 

Northern 

Northern 

Southern 

Offshore 

Statewide 

Northern 

Northern 

Mailing Address and 

Type of Work Telephone Number 

Study of water resources, Copper Alaska District Office 

River basin 733 W. 4th Avenue, Suite 400 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4138 

Engineering geology investigations, Branch of Alaskan Geology 

eastern Arctic Coastal Plain 345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4108 

Northern Alaska engineering geology Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4108 

Investigation of geologic hazards, Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Anchorage-Susitna lowlands 345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4108 

Assessment of resources and study of Branch of Pacific-Arctic Geology 

geologic history, northern Bering 

Sea, including Norton Basin 

ANILCA boundary map series 

Orthophoto map production 

Coal resources 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 99 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

( 415) 856-7108 

Eastern Mapping Center 

567 National Center 

Reston, VA 22092 

(703) 860-6352 

Eastern Mapping Center 

567 National Center 

Reston, VA 22092 

(703) 860-6352 

Eastern Mapping Center 

567 National Center 

Reston, VA 22092 

(703) 860-6352 
CD 

~ 

Table 3. - Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work -- Continued 

Project Chief 

Foster, H. L. 

Associated Personnel 

Weber, F. R. 

Laird, Jo 

Cushing, G. W. 

Menzie, W. D. 

Crim, W. D. 

Cady, J. W. 

Kieth, T. E. C. 

Wilson, F. H. 

Aleinikoff, J. N. 

Tripp, R. B. 

Dusel-Bacon, C. 

Yeend, W. E. 

Gaydos, Leonard Acevedo, W. ( Technicolor Graphic Svcs.) 

Benjamin, Susan 

Walker, D. A. (Univ. 

of CO) 

Gough, L. P. 

and Severson, R. C. 

Gough, L. P. 

Grantz , Arthur 

Grantz., Arthur 

Gryc, George 

Spencer, Page, (BLM) 

May, S. D. 

Dinter, D. A. 

Wolfe, J. A. 

Organizational 

Designation 

Geologic 

National 

Mapping 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

ONPRA 

Region of 

Operation 

East-central 

Northern 

Southern 

Statewide 

Offshore 

Southern 

Northern 

Type of Work 

Geologic mapping and studies in 

Yukon-Tanana Upland 

Production of land cover maps from 

Landsat data 

Establishing principles for predicting element concentrations in plants 

in the Capps coal field 

Geochemical census of Alaska 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4106 

Geographic Investigations Office 

Ames Research Center 240-8 

Moffett Field, CA 94035 

(415) 965-6368 

Branch of Regional Geochemistry 

Box 25045, MS 925 

Denver Federal Center 

Denver, CO 80225 

(303) 234-5241 

Branch of Regional Geochemistry 

Box 25046, MS 925 

Denver Federal Center 

Lakewood, CO 80225 

(303) 234-5241 

Resource appraisal and study of Branch of Alaskan Geology 

geologic framework, Beaufort-Chukchi 345 Middlefield Road, MS 17 

Seas Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2259 

Stratigraphic and structural studies 

of the Nelchina area 

Maintaining open-file data for NPRA 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 17 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2259 

ONPRA 

Casa Mills 

200 Middlefield Road, MS 87 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2917 
co 

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Table 3. --Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work- Continued 

Project Chief 

Hamilton, T. D. 

Hoffman, J. D. 

Hoose, P. J. 

Hunter, R. E. 

Jones, D. L. 

Kachadoorian, 

Reuben 

Karl, H. A. 

Kelley, John 

Kharaka, Y. K. 

King, H. D. 

King, H. D. 

Associated Personnel 

Obi, Curtis 

van Etten, D. P. 

Sutley, S. J. 

Day, G. W. 

(See Barnes, P. W.) 

Organizational 

Designation 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Silberling, N. J. Geologic 

Hillhouse, J. H. 

Coney, P. (Univ. of AZ) 

(See Carlson, P. R.) 

Carothers, W. W. 

Ge-ologic 

Geologic 

Water 

Resources 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Region of 

Operation 

Northern 

Southern 

Type of Work 

Studies of surficial geology, Brooks 

Range 

Geochemical work in support of 

AMRAP and RARE II studies 

Southwestern Mapping shallow geologic features, 

northern Aleutian Shelf 

Statewide Compilation of tectonostratigraphic 

map of Alaska 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Gould Hall, APU Campus 

University Drive 

Anchorage, AK 99504 

(907) 278-3571 

Branch of Exploration Research 

5946 Mcintyre Street 

Golden, CO 80401 

(303) 234-3552 

Alaska Regional Office 

800 A Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4573 

Branch of Paleontology and 

Stratigraphy 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 99 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2269 

Northern Engineering geology studies in NPRA Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

Northern 

Northern 

Resource mapping, Killik River 

and Chandler Lake quadrangles 

Geochemical studies of oilfield 

waters, NPRA 

Southern Geochemical mapping, Healy quadrangle (AMRAP) 

West-central Geochemical mapping, Solomon and 

Bendeleben quadrangles (AMRAP) 

(415) 323-8111 X 4129 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 9o-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4116 

Office of Regional Research 

Hydrologist 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 27 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2144 

Branch of Exploration Research 

5946 Mcintyre Street 

Golden, CO 80401 

(303) 234-6186 

Branch of Exploration Research 

5946 Mcintyre Street 

Golden, CO 80401 

(303) 234-6186 
Table 3. --Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work-- Continued 

Organizational Region of Mailing Address and 

Project Chief Associated Personnel Designation Operation Type of Work Telephone Number 

Kirschner, C. E. -- Geologic Northern Study of stratigraphy and structure, Branch of Oil and Gas Resources 

NPRA 345 Middlefield Road, MS 87 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2135 

Knott, J. M. Lamke, R. D. Water Statewide Collection of stream-sediment data Alaska District Office 

Madison, R. J. Resources 733 W. 4th Avenue, Suite 400 

Brunett, J. 0. Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4138 

Knott, J. M. Lipscomb, S. W. Water Southern Study of sediment transport by the Anchorage Subdistrict Office 

Resources Susitna River below Devils Canyon 1209 Orca Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4153 

Lachenbruch, A. H. -- Geologic Statewide Heat-flow studies Branch of Tectonophysics 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 18 

co Menlo Park, CA 94025 

0'1 (415) 323-8111 X 2272 

Lahr, J. C. Page, R. A. Geologic Southern Studies of current tectonic processes Branch of Ground Motion and 

Stephens, C. D. generating earthquakes in Alaska to Faulting 

Rogers, J. A. evaluate hazards and document 345 Middlefield Road, MS 77 

Fogleman, K. A. changes premonitory to large earth- Menlo· Park, C A 94025 

Tam, Roy quakes (415) 323-8111 X 2510 

Melnick, J. P. 

Freiberg, J. A . 

Brown, P. G. 

Romes, B. 

Lamke, R. D. -- Water Statewide Collection of surface-water data Alaska District Office 

Resources 733 W. 4th A venue, Suite 400 

Anchorage, A K 99501 

(907) 271-4138 

Lanphere, M. A., -- Geologic Statewide Compiling map of Precambrian rocks Office of Geochemistry and 

and Eberlein, G • D . of Alaska and formulation of a time Geophysics 

scale as part of an international Branch of Isotope Geology 

study 345 Middlefield- Road, MS 18 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2649 

Lantz, R. J. -- ONPRA Northern Development, and operation of gas District Bldg. , Suite 110 

fields near Barrow "U" 1109 NE 45th Street 

Seattle, WA 98105 

(206) 442-1995 
co 

0) 

Table 3. -- Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work -- Continued 

Project Chief Associated Personnel 

Larson, J. A. 

Larson, J. A. 

Lauer, D. T. (EROS), 

and Miller, John 

(Univ. of AK) 

Loney, R. A. 

Madison, R. J. 

Madison, R. J. , 

and Parks, Bruce 

Magoon, L. B. 

Magoon, L. B. 

Marlow, M. S. 

Mayo, L. R. 

Claypool, G. E. 

Claypool, G. E. 

Cooper, A. K. 

Dadisman, S . V. 

Trabant, D. C. 

March, R. S. 

Organizational 

Designation 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

EROS Field 

Office 

Geologic 

Water 

Resources 

Water 

Resources 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Water 

Resources 

Region of 

Operation 

Northern, 

West-central, 

Southern, 

Southwestern 

West-central 

East-central 

West-central 

Statewide 

Statewide 

Northern 

Southern 

Offshore 

Southern 

Type of Work 

Conodont biostratigraphy and 

thermal maturity of rocks 

Condont biostratigraphy and thermal 

maturity, Minchumina basin 

Effect of timing of data collection 

on vegetation classification 

techniques 

Studies of mafic-ultramafic igneous 

complexes of Alaska (AMRAP) 

Basic-data collection, quality of 

water 

Study of techniques of hydrologic 

assessment for water planning and 

management 

NPRA oil and gas source rock study 

Petroleum resource assessment, 

Cook Inlet, Shelikof Strait 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

Alaska Regional Office 

800 A Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4442 

Alaska Regional Office 

800 A Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4442 

EROS Field Office 

218 E Street 

Anchorage, A K 99501 

(907) 271-4065 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4146 

733 W. 4th A venue, Suite 400 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4138 

Alaska District Office 

733 W. 4th Avenue, Suite 400 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4138 

Branch of Oil and Gas Resources 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 99 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 856-7028 

Branch of Oil and Gas Resources 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 99 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 856-7028 

Evaluation of resource potential and Branch of Pacific-Arctic Geology 

studies of tectonic framework, Bering 345 Middlefield Road, MS 99 

Sea region Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 856-7092 

Studies of lake formation at Knik 

Glacier 

,6.rctic Research Group 

101 12th Avenue, Box 11 

Fairbanks, AK 99701 

(907) 456-0214 
U) 

...,. 

Table 3. -- Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work - Continued 

Project Chief 

Mayo, L. R. 

McLaurin, J. D. 

McLaurin, J. D., 

and Fordham, R. E. 

McLaurin, J. D. , 

Fordham, R. E., and 

Swinnerton, J. R . 

Meier, M. F. 

Miller, John 

Miller, T . P. 

Molenaar, C. M. 

Associated Personnel 

Trabant, D. C. 

March, R. S. 

Post, A. S. 

Hodge, S. M. 

Rasmussen, L. A. 

Taylor, P. L. 

Driedger, C. L. 

Krimmel, R. M. 

Brown, C. S. 

Juul-Fountain, A. G. 

(See Lauer, D. T.) 

Grauch, R. I. 

Huffman, A. C. 

Bartsch-Winkler, 

Susan 

Organizational 

Designation 

Water 

Resources 

National 

Mapping 

National 

Mapping 

National 

Mapping 

Water 

Resources 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Region of 

Operation 

Statewide 

Type of Work 

Analysis of long-term climate and 

glacier data 

Northern, Production of maps (23 projects) 

West-central, 

Southern 

Statewide, Production of orthophoto maps 

Northern 

Statewide 

Statewide 

Statewide 

Northern 

Pilot program, orthophoto map production 

Studies of snow accumulation, melt 

and runoff on glaciers, water flow 

through and under glaciers, glacier 

surges, and stability of calving 

glaciers 

Reconnaissance study of uraniferous 

plutonic rocks 

Stratigraphic, petrographic, and 

paleontologic studies of Cretaceous 

rocks, North Slope 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

Arctic Research Group 

101 12th Avenue, Box 11 

Fairbanks, AK 99701 

(907) 456-0214 

Rocky Mountain Mapping Center 

Building 25, Box 25046 

510 Denver Federal Center 

Lakewood, CO 80225 

(303) 234-2351 

Rocky Mountain Mapping Center 

Building 25, Box 25046 

510 Denver Federal Center 

Lakewood, CO 80225 

(303) 234-2351 

Rocky Mountain Mapping Center 

Building 25, Box 25046 

510 Denver Federal Center 

Lakewood, CO 80225 

(303) 234-2351 (McLaurin) 

Western Mapping Center 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 31 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2411 

(Swinnerton) 

Project Office - Glaciology 

1201 Pacific Avenue, Suite 850 

Tacoma, WA 98402 

(206) 593-6502 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Gould Hall, AP U Campus 

University Drive 

Anchorage, AK 99504 

( 907) 278-3571 

Branch of Oil and Gas Resources 

Box 25046, MS 940 

Denver Federal Center 

Lakewood, CO 80225 

(303) 234-4642 
Q) 

C» 

Table 3. -- Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work -- Continued 

Project Chief 

Mortensen, C . E. 

Nelson, G. L. 

Nelson, G. L. 

Nelson, R. E. 

Nelson, S. W. 

Nokleberg, W. J. 

O'Leary, R. M. 

Osbakken, W. E. 

Associated Personnel 

Liechti, R. P. 

Myren, G. D. 

Dumoulin, J. A. 

Winkler, G. R. 

Barnes, D. F. 

Goldfarb , Richard 

Miller-Hoare, Martha; 

Hoekzema, R. B., 

Kurtak, J. , and 

Flecher, S. (Bureau 

of Mines) 

Lange, I. M. 

Zehner, R. E. 

Aleinikoff, J. N . 

Tripp, R. B. 

Curtin, G. C. 

Schwab, C. E. 

Campbell, J. 

Buhrmaster, C. L. 

O'Leary, R. M. 

Domenico, J. A . 

Lewis, J. A. 

Day, G. W. 

Organiza tiona! 

Designation 

Geologic 

Water 

Resources 

Water 

Resources 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Region of 

Operation 

Southern 

Statewide 

Southern 

Northern 

Southern 

Southern 

Statewide 

Type of Work 

Monitoring crustal deformation 

associated with strain accumulation 

prior to earthquakes 

Maintaining ground-water station 

network 

Baseflow study of the Chuitna coal 

field 

Study of pollen, insects, and plant 

macrofossils in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska 

Mineral-resource appraisal of 

Chugach (RARE II) area 

Mineral-resource appraisal, 

Mount Hayes quadrangle 

Spectrographic and chemical analyses 

in support of AMRAP 

Southeastern Operation of Sitka Observatory 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

Branch of Tectonophysics 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 77 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2583 

Alaska District Office 

733 W. 4th Avenue, Suite 400 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4138 

Alaska District Office 

733 W. 4th Avenue, Suite 400 

Anchorage, A K 99501 

(907) 271-4138 

Quaternary Research Center 

University of Washington 

Seattle, WA 98195 

(206) 543-2871 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Gould Hall, APU Campus 

University Drive 

Anchorage, AK 99504 

(907) 278-3571 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

( 415) 323-8111 X 4139 

Branch of Exploration Research 

5946 Mcintyre Street 

Golden, CO 80401 

(303) 234-6151 

Branch of Electromagnetism 

and Geomagnetism 

Sitka Observatory, Box 158 

Sitka, AK 99835 

(907) 747-3332 
co 

co 

Table 3. -- Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work -- Continued 

Project Chief 

Page, R. A. 

Parks, Bruce 

Patrick, L. D. 

Patrick, L. D. 

Patton, W. W., Jr. 

Patton, W. W., Jr. 

Petering, G. W . 

Phillips, R. L. 

Plafker, George 

Plafker, George 

Prescott, W. H. 

Reed, B. L. 

Associated Personnel 

(See Madison, R. J.) 

Moll, E. J. 

(See Smith, T. N.) 

(See Barnes, P. W.) 

Bruns, T. R. 

Winkler, G. R. 

Fisher, Dorothy 

Hunt, S. J. 

(See Savage, J. C.) 

Lanphere, M. A. 

Organizational 

Designation 

Geologic 

Water 

Resources 

Water 

Resources 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Region of 

Operation 

Southern 

Statewide 

Southern 

Type of Work 

Earthquake source properties in the 

Yaktaga seismic gap 

Collection of data on water use 

Hydrologic studies of the Point 

MacKenzie-Horseshoe Flats area 

West-central Tectonic history of the YukonKoyukuk basin 

West-central Investigations of geology and 

resources, Norton Sound - Yukon 

region 

Offshore Evaluation of tectonic framework, 

petroleum potential and geo-hazards, 

eastern Gulf of Alaska OCS 

Statewide Evaluation of earthquake hazards; 

studies of tectonic processes 

Southern, Studies of chronology, chemistry, 

Southwestern and tectonics of the Alaska Aleutian 

Range batholith 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

Branch of Ground Motion and 

Faulting 

345 Miodlefield Road, MS 77 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2567 

Anchorage Subdistrict Office 

1209 Orca Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4153 

Anchorage Subdistrict Office 

1209 Orca Street 

Anchorage, A K 99501 

( 907) 271-4153 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

M5 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4105 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4103 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4103 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Gould Hall, AP U Campus 

University Drive 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

( 907) 278-3571 
Table 3. --Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work- Continued 

Organizational Region of Mailing Address and 

Project Chief Associated Personnel Designation Operation Type of Work Telephone Number 

Reimni tz , Erk (See Barnes, P. W.) 

Riehle, J. R. Smith, R. L. Geologic Statewide Reconnaissance study of geothermal Branch of Alaskan Geology 

resources, mapping, and petrologic Gould Hall, APU Campus 

studies of young volcanic rocks University Drive 

Anchorage, AK 99504 

(907) 278-3571 

Riehle, J. R. Till, A. B. Geologic Southern Volcanic hazards studies, Cook Inlet Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Yount, M. E. Gould Hall, APU Campus 

University Drive 

Anchorage, A K 99501 

(907) 278-3571 

Savage, J. C., King, N. E. Geologic Southern Measurement of crustal strain, Branch of Tectonophysics 

and Prescott, Lisowski , Michael Yakataga and Shumagin areas 345 Middlefield Road, MS 77 

W. H. Stevenson, E. !VIenlo Park, CA 94025 

Hamilton, G. D. (415) 323-8111 X 2701 

Wendt, K. J. 

... Stiffler, C. A . 

0 Sutton, J. 

0 

Schmoll, H. R., Chleborad , A . F. Geologic Southern Regional engineering geology of Branch of Engineering Geology 

and Yehle, L. A. Gardner, C. A. Cook Inlet coal lands, Alaska Box 25046, MS 903 

Pasch, A. D. Denver Federal Center 

Odum, J. K. Lakewood, CO 80225 

(303) 234-3290, -2999, -3721 

Scholl, D. W., Stevenson, A. J. Geologic Offshore Assessment of geologic hazards and Branch of Pacific-Arctic Geology 

and Vallier, T. L. resources of the Aleutian Ridge 345 Middlefield Road, MS 99 

and Shelf Menlo Park, CA 94025 

( 415) 856-7089 (Scholl) 

-7048 (Vallier) 

Scott, K. M. -- Water Northern Arctic stream processes Laguna Niguel Field Office 

Resources 5391 Kenosha Lane 

Irvine, CA 92715 

(415) 323-8111 X 2337 

Severson, R. C. (See Gough, L. P.) 

Shasby, M. B. (See Carneggie, D. M. ) 

Shasby, M. B. Talbot, Steven EROS Field Southern Land-cover - terrain mapping in EROS Field Office 

(USFWS) Office the Kenai National Wildlife Range 218 E Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4065 
... 

0 

... 

Table 3. --Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work-- Continued 

Project Chief 

Shasby, M. B. 

Shasby, M. B., 

and Fleming, 

M. D. 

Sloan, C. E. 

Smith, T. N., 

and Petering, 

G. W. 

Smith, T. N. , 

and Petering, 

G. W. 

Steffy, David, 

and Hoose, P. J. 

Stricker, G . D. 

Swinnerton, J. R. 

Thrasher, G . P. 

Thrasher, G. P., 

and Craig, J. D. 

Till, Alison 

Associated Personnel 

Organizational 

Designation 

Wibbenmeyer, Merlin EROS Field 

Grunblatt, Jess (ADNR) Office 

LaBau, V. J., 

Winterberger, Ken 

( USFS) 

Bolm, J. G. 

Lybeck, L. 

(See McLaurin, J. D.) 

(See Turner, B. W.) 

(See York, J. E.) 

EROS Field 

Office 

Water 

Resources 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Geologic 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Region of 

Operation Type of Work 

Southwestern Land-cover and terrain mapping, 

Bristol Bay region 

East-central 

Northern 

Vegetation classification using 

Landsat data for renewable resource 

evaluation research 

Collection of hydrologic information, 

North Slope 

Southwestern Source-rock potential, Pribilof 

Islands 

Southwestern Investigation of geology adjacent to 

OCS sale areas 

West-central Mapping shallow geologic features, 

Norton basin 

Statewide 

Northern 

Evaluation of coal resources and 

assessment of Btu values and other 

coal characteristics 

Mapping shallow geologic features, 

Beaufort Shelf 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

EROS Field Office 

218 E Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4065 

EROS Field Office 

218 E Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4065 

Alaska District Office 

733 W. 4th Avenue, Suite 400 

Anchorage, A K 99501 

(907) 271-4138 

Alaska Regional Office 

800 A Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4406 

Alaska Regional Office 

800 A Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4406 

Alaska Regional Office 

800 A Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4572 

Branch of Coal Resources 

Denver Federal Center, Box 25046 

Lakewood, CO 80225 

(303) 234-3560 

Alaska Regional Office 

800 A Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4547 
~ 

0 

~ 

Table 3. -- Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work -- Continued 

Project Chief 

Till, Alison 

Townshend, J. B. 

Turner, B. W., 

and Thrasher, G. P. 

Turner, R. F. 

Turner, R. F., 

and Larson, J. A. 

Vallier, T. L. 

von Heune, Roland 

Wahrhaftig, Clyde 

Weber, F. R. 

Associated Personnel 

King, H. D. 

Dumoulin , J. A . 

Papp, J. E. 

Sauter, E. A. 

Nelson, M. N. 

Cunningham, Teri 

Cuffy, R. J. (Penn. 

St. Univ.) 

Thrasher, G . P . 

Turner, B. W. 

Ariey, Catherine 

Larson, J. A. 

Olson, D. W. 

Olson, D. W. 

Flett, T. 0. 

(See Scholl, D. W .) 

Fisher, M. A. 

Foster, H. L. 

Hamilton, T. D. 

Organizational 

Designation 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Region of 

Operation 

West-central 

East-central 

(location of 

observatory) 

Southern 

Southern 

Southern 

Offshore 

Southern 

East-central 

Type of Work 

Mineral resource appraisal, Solomon 

and Bendeleben quadrangles (AMRAP) 

Operation of College Observatory to 

produce geomagnetic and seismic data 

for national and international use 

Mapping shallow geologic features, 

eastern Gulf of Alaska 

Taxonomy and ecology of fossil and 

modern Bryozoa, Gulf of Alaska 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Gould Hall, APU Campus 

University Drive 

Anchorage, AK 99504 

(907) 278-3571 

Branch of Electromagnetism 

and Geomagnetism 

College Observatory 

800 Yukon Drive 

Fairbanks, AK 99701 

(907) 479-6146 

Alaska Regional Office 

800 A Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4414 

Alaska Regional Office 

800 A Street 

Anchorage, A K 99501 

(907) 271-4443 

Biostratigraphy and paleoenvironment Alaska Regional Office 

studies, Gulf of Alaska 800 A Street 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-4443 

Studies of geologic framework and 

resource assessment, western Gulf 

of Alaska 

Evaluation of coal in central Alaska 

Range 

Studies of glacial history, 

Yukon-Tanana Upland 

Branch of Pacific-Arctic Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 99 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

( 415) 856-7105 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 17 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2664 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Box 80568 

Fairbanks, AK 99708 

(907) 474-7245 
.... 

0 

~ 

Table 3.- Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel, and brief description of project work-- Continued 

Project Chief 

White, E. R. 

White, E. R. 

Wilcox, D. E. 

Wilcox, D. E. 

Williams, J. R. 

Williams, J. R. 

Wilson, F. H. 

Winkler, G . R. 

Associated Personnel 

Coonrad, W. L. 

Salem, B. B. 

Hopkins, G. C. 

Krumhardt, A. P. 

Kachadoorian, Reuben 

Ferrians, 0. J., Jr. 

Ovenshine, A • T . 

Sloan, C. E. 

Shew, Nora 

Barker, Fred 

Burns, L. E. 

Grantz, Arthur 

Karl, s. M. 

Miyaoka, R. M. 

Bruhn, R. L. (Univ. 

of Utah) 

Pessel, G • H . (State 

of AK, DGGS) 

Organizational 

Designation 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Water 

Resources 

Water 

Resources 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Region of 

Operation 

Statewide 

Statewide 

Southern 

East-central 

Southern 

Statewide 

(corridor) 

Statewide 

Southern 

Type of Work 

Information, procurement, and 

publication services 

Design and implementation of 

bibliographic computer data base 

for materials available from Tech. 

Data and for earth science literature 

on Alaska 

Study of trace metals in surface 

water, Healy and Lignite Creek 

basins 

Geohydrologic studies, Fairbanks 

North Star Borough 

Mapping surficial deposits of southwestern Copper River basin 

Provides advice to agencies responsible for plan and design review, 

natural gas pipeline 

Geochronological and petrologic 

studies (AMRAP) 

Mineral-resource assessment, 

Anchorage quadrangle (AMRAP) 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

Technical Data Unit 

Alaskan Geology Branch 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 48 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 x 2342 or 2684 

Technical Data Unit 

Alaskan Geology Branch 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 48 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 x 2342 or 2684 

Fairbanks Subdistrict Office 

101 12th Avenue, Box 11 

Fairbanks, A K 99701 

(907) 456-0214 

Fairbanks Subdistrict Office 

101 12th Avenue, Box 11 

Fairbanks, A K 99701 

(907) 456-0214 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4130 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 90-B 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 4130 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Gould Hall, APU Campus 

University Drive 

Anchorage, A K 99504 

(907) 278-3571 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

Gould Hall, APU Campus 

University Drive 

Anchorage, A K 99504 

(907) 278-3571 
~ 

0 

• 

Table 3. --Listing of project chiefs, associated personnel~ and brief description of project work-- Continued 

Project Chief 

Wood, S. H. 

Yeend, W. E. 

Yehle, L. A. 

York, J. E., 

(EROS) and Till, 

A. B. (Geol. . 

Division) 

Associated Personnel 

(See Schmoll, H. R.) 

Orr, D. 

Trautwein, C. 

Organiza tiona! 

Designation 

Geologic 

Geologic 

EROS Field 

Office 

Region of 

Operation 

Southern 

Statewide 

Type of Work 

Tectonic tilt measurements in 

southern Alaska 

Investigations of placers 

West-central Development of geologic data base 

for Bendeleben and Solomon quadrangles 

Mailing Address and 

Telephone Number 

Branch of Earthquake Tectonics 

and Risk 

Boise State University 

Boise, ID 83702 

( 208) 385-1631 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

345 Middlefield Road, MS 17 

Menlo Park, CA 94025 

(415) 323-8111 X 2541 

EROS Field Office 

218 E Street 

Anchorage, AK 99401 

(907) 271-4065 
... 

0 

(JI 

Many of the Survey's programs and projects in Alaska are planned with and funded by other Federal, State, and local agencies. The Survey 

enters into these formal cooperative agreements to improve information-gathering abilities and when such cooperation is advantageous to the 

agencies and to the public. In many situations, the cost of the project is shared equally by the Survey and the cooperator. These cooperative 

programs are reviewed annually to assure that they continue to be responsive to current needs of the agencies and the public. The table 

below lists FY 1982 cooperators in Alaska. 

Table 4. -- Cooperating Agencies 

[Federal cooperators within the same division as the project are not listed.] 

Federal 

Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service; 

U.S. Army Corps 

of Engineers, Cold 

Regions Research 

and Engineering 

Laboratory ( CRREL) 

Bureau of Land 

Management (BLM); 

Minerals Management 

Service; U . S. Fish 

and Wildlife Service; 

U.S. Army Corps of 

Engineers, CRREL 

Forest Service; 

BLM 

State 

Depts. of Natural 

Resources (ADNR), 

Div. of Geol. and 

Geophys. Surveys 

(DGGS); Fish and 

Game; Transportations and Public 

Facilities; Environmental Conservation; 

Alaska Power 

Authority (APA) 

U niv. of Colorado, 

Institute of Arctic 

and Alpine Research 

U niv . of Alaska ; 

_ ADNR 

U • S. Army, Chief of 

Engineers; Dept. 

of Interior (DOl) 

National Oceanic and Univ. of Alaska 

Atmospheric Administration (NOAA); 

U.S. Army Corps of 

Engineers, CRREL 

BLM Outer Continental 

Shelf Environmental 

Assessment Program; 

NOAA 

U . S. Fish and Wildlife 

Service 

Local Project Title 

Municipality of Collection of Basic Records Program (surface 

Anchorage; Kenai water, ground water, water quality) 

Peninsula Borough ; 

Fairbanks North 

Star Borough; City 

and Borough of 

Juneau 

Arctic Alaska Landsat Land-Cover Mapping 

Project Chief 

Division 

personnel 

Gaydos, L. J. 

Organizational 

Designation 

Water Resources 

National Mapping 

Operation of IDIMS in Vegetation Classification Carneggie, D. M. EROS Field 

Office 

Alaska Natural Gas Transportation System 

Alaska Seismic Studies 

Marine Geology Program 

Land-Cover Mapping of Kenai and Togiak 

National Wildlife Refuges 

Williams, J. R. Geologic 

Lahr, J. C. Geologic 

Rowland, R. W. Geologic 

Carneggie, D. M., EROS Field 

Shasby, M. B . Office 
.. 

0 

0) 

Table 4.-- Cooperating Agencies-- Continued 

[Federal cooperators within the same division as the project are not listed]. 

Federal 

DOl 

DOl, Office of the 

Secretary 

BLM 

Office of National 

Petroleum Reserve 

in Alaska (ONPRA) 

Minerals' Management 

Service 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 

NOAA, National 

Oceanic Survey 

NOAA 

ONPRA 

ONPRA; Minerals 

Management Service 

Minerals Management 

Service 

U.S. Army Corps of 

Engineers, CRREL, AK 

District 

Bureau of Mines 

State 

ADNR, DGGS 

DGGS 

Local 

Kenai Peninsula 

Borough; Municipality of 

Anchorage 

Project Title Project Chief 

Water Resources of the North Slope Sloan, C. E. 

ANILCA Maps, Boundary Series Fordham, R. E. 

Alaska Orthophoto Products McLaurin, J. D. , 

Fordham, R. E. 

North Slope Petroleum Program Bird, K. J. 

Geologic Framework and Resource Assessment Marlow, M. S. 

of the Aleutian-Bering Sea Region 

Hydrologic Studies Related to Coal Mining Wilcox, D. E. 

Alaskan Bathymetric and Topographic Maps 

National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska 

Data Open File 

Geochemistry of Oilfield Waters, National 

Petroleum Reserve in Alaska 

Brooks Range Devonian Clastic Rocks 

Northern Alaska Engineering Geology 

Sediment Transport in the Tanana River 

in the Vicinity of Fairbanks 

Chugach National Forest (RARE II) 

Lower Cook lnlet-Shelikof Strait Field 

Program, 1980 

Ground-water Stations 

McLaurin, J. D. 

G rye, George 

Kharaka, Y. K. 

Brosge, W. P. 

Ferrians, 0. J., 

Jr. 

Burrows, R. L. 

Nelson, S. W. 

Smith, T. N. , 

Petering, G. W. 

Nelson, G. L. 

Organizational 

Designation 

Water Resources 

National Mapping 

National Mapping 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Water Resources 

National Mapping 

ONPRA 

Water Resources 

Geologic 

Geologic 

Water Resources 

Geologic 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Water Resources 
-' 

0 

...,. 

Federal 

Table 4. --Cooperating Agencies-- Continued 

[Federal cooperators within the same division as the project are not listed]. 

State 

Univ. of Alaska, 

Geophysical Inst. 

DGGS 

DGGS 

DGGS 

DGGS 

DGGS 

Pennsylvania State 

Univ. 

DGGS 

DGGS 

DGGS 

DGGS 

DGGS 

APA 

Local 

Municipality of 

Anchorage 

Fairbanks North 

Star Borough 

Project Title 

Effects of Date and Phenology on Classification of Alaska Vegetation Using Landsat Data 

Techniques of Hydrologic Assessment 

for Planning and Management in Alaska 

Earthquake Hazards Mapping, AnchorageSusitna Lowlands 

Lower Cook Inlet Stratigraphic Study 

Alaska Mineral Resource Appraisal (AMRAP) 

K nik Glacier Study 

Taxonomy, Ecology, and Bathymetric 

Distribution of Fossil and Recent 

Bryozoa, Kodiak Shelf, Gulf of Alaska 

Chilkat Basin Hydrology 

Copper River Basin Hydrology 

Chuitna Coal Area Study 

Ground-Water Observation Well Network 

Mount Spurr Hydrologic Hazards Study 

Total Sediment Transport below Devils 

Canyon Dam Site on Susitna River 

Geohydrology of the Anchorage Area and 

Chester Creek Study 

Geohydrology of the Fairbanks Area 

Project Chief 

Lauer, D. T. 

Madison, R. J. , 

Parks, Bruce 

Ferrians, 0. J. , 

Jr. 

Bolm, J. G., 

Lyle, W. M. 

Winkler, G. R. 

Mayo, L. R. 

Turner, R. F. 

Bugliosi, E. F. 

Emery, P. A. 

Nelson, G. L. 

Nelson, G. L. 

Emanuel, R. P. 

Knott, J. M. 

Brabets, T. P. 

Wilcox, D. E . 

Matanuska-Susitna Ground-Water Investigation, Point MacKenzie Patrick, L. D. 

Borough 

0 rganizational 

Designation 

EROS Field 

Office 

Water Resources 

Geologic 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Geologic 

Water Resources 

Minerals 

Management 

Service 

Water Resources 

Water Resources 

Water Resources 

Water Resources 

Water Resources 

Water Resources 

Water Resources 

Water Resources 

Water Resources 


U. 5. 5. R. 

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