Mineral Resource Information Sources 

in the Western United States 

Prepared in cooperation with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, 

the U.S. Bureau of Mines, and the States of Alaska, Arizona, 

California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, 

Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming 

U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY CIRCULAR 1063 
AVAILABILITY OF BOOKS AND MAPS OF THE U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 

Instructions on ordering publications of the U.S. Geological Survey, along with prices of the last offerings, are given in the cmrrent-year issues of the monthly catalog "New Publications of the U.S. Geological Survey." Prices of available U.S. Geological Survey publications released prior to the current year are listed in the most recent annual "Price and Availability List" Publications 

that are listed in various U.S. Geological Survey catalogs (see back inside cover) but not listed in the most recent annual "Price and 

Availability List" are no longer available. 

Prices of reports released to the open files are given in the listing "U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Reports," updated monthly, which is for sale in microfiche from the U.S. Geological Survey, Books and Open-File Reports Section, Federal Center, Box 

25425, Denver, CO 80225. Reports released through the NTIS may be obtained by writing to the National Technical Information 

Service, U.S. Department of Commerce, Springfield, VA 22161; please include NTIS report number with inquiry. 

Order U.S. Geological Survey publications by mail or over the counter from the offices given below. 

BY MAIL 

Books 

Professional Papers, Bulletins, Water-Supply Papers, Techniques 

of Water-Resources Investigations, Circulars, publications of general interest (such as leaflets, pamphlets, booklets), single copies of Earthquakes 

& Volcanoes, Preliminary Determination of Epicenters, and some miscellaneous reports, including some of the foregoing series that have gone 

out of print at the Superintendent of Documents, are obtainable by mail 

from 

U.S. Geological Survey, Books and Open-File Reports 

Federal Center, Box 25425 

Denver, CO 80225 

Subscriptions to periodicals (Earthquakes & Volcanoes and 

Preliminary Determination of Epicenters) can be obtained ONLY from 

the 

Superintendent of Documents 

Government Printing Office 

Washington, D.C. 20402 

(Check or money order must be payable to Superintendent of Documents.) 

Maps 

For maps, address mail orders to 

U.S. Geological Survey, Map Distribution 

Federal Center, Box 25286 

Denver, CO 80225 

Residents of Alaska may order maps from 

AlllSka Distribution Section, U.S. Geological Survey, 

New Federal Building - Box 12 

101 Twelfth Ave., Fairbanks, AK 99701 

OVER THE COUNTER 

Books 

Books of the U.S. Geological Survey are available over the 

counter at the following Geological Survey Public Inquiries Offices, all 

of which are authorized agents of the Superintendent of Documents: 

• WASHINGTON, D.C.--Main Interior Bldg., 2600 corridor, 

18th and C Sts., NW. 

• DENVER, Colorado--Federal Bldg., Rm. 169 1961 Stout St. 

• LOS ANGELES, California--Federal Bldg., Rm. 7638, 300 N. 

Los Angeles St. 

• MENLO PARK, California--Bldg. 3 (Stop 533), Rm. 3128, 

345 Middlefield Rd. 

• RESTON, Virginia--503 National Center, Rm. 1C402, 12201 

Sunrise Valley Dr. 

• SALT LAKE CITY, Utah--Federal Bldg., Rm. 8105, 125 

South State St. 

• SAN FRANCISCO, California--Customhouse, Rm. 504, 555 

Battery St. 

• SPOKANE, Washington--U.S. Courthouse, Rm. 678, West 

920 Riverside Ave .. 

• ANCHORAGE, Alaska--Rm. 101, 4230 University Dr. 

• ANCHORAGE, Alaska--Federal Bldg, Rm. E-146, 701 C St. 

Maps 

Maps may be purchased over the counter at the U.S. Geological Survey offices where books are sold (all addresses in above list) and 

at the following Geological Survey offices: 

• ROLLA, Mlssouri--1400 Independence Rd. 

• DENVER, Colorado--Map Distribution, Bldg. 810, Federal 

Center 

• FAIRBANKS, Alaska--New Federal Bldg., 101 Twelfth Ave. 
ERRATA SHEET 

U.S. Geological Survey Circular 1063 ("Mineral Resource 

Information Sources in the Western United States") 

GPO Jacket 585-048/Print Order 30029 

Pages 13 and 14: 

The address and telephone number for the U.S. Geological Survey's 

Minerals Information Office in Tucson, Arizona, are incorrect. The 

correct address and telephone number are: 

Minerals Information Office 

U.S. Geological Survey 

Corbett Building 

340 N. 6th Ave. 

Tucson, AZ 85705 

602-670-5544 

The location of this office should be on the southeast comer of 6th 

Avenue and 7th Street, not as shown on the map on page 14. 

Mineral Resource Information Sources 

in the Western United States 

Edited by SUSAN M. MARCUS 

Prepared in cooperation with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, 

the U.S. Bureau of Mines, and the States of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, 

Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming 

U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY CIRCULAR 1063 
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 

MANUEL LUJAN, JR., Secretary 

U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 

Dallas L. Peck, Director 

Any use of trade, product, or firm names 

in this publication is for descriptive purposes only 

and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government 

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE, WASHINGTON: 1991 

Free on application to 

Books and Open-File Reports Section 

U.S. Geological Survey 

Federal Center, Box 25425 

Denver, CO 80225 
Preface and Acknowledgments 

This report is the result of concerted efforts of people from 11 Western State 

agencies and 3 Federal agencies in order to improve public access to the facilities, 

data, and technical personnel in their organizations. No two agencies are the same, so 

the format of the information provided here varies slightly from one chapter to 

another. This report is simply an introduction to the services of the agencies; the 

reader is encouraged to use the telephone numbers and addresses provided here to 

obtain more specific information. 

The U.S. Geological Survey wishes to acknowledge the cooperation of the State 

and Federal participants who made this report possible and who are dedicated to the 

belief that mineral resource information should be readily available to the public. 

Their flexibility and patience have made this compilation proceed smoothly. 

Specifically, chapters were written or assistance was provided by: 

James Barker, New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral Resources 

Earl Bennett, Idaho Geological Survey 

Richard Berg, Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology 

Mark Davis, Colorado Geological Survey 

Robert Gloyn, Utah Geological and Mineral Survey 

Jerry Gray, Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries 

Dan Hansel, Geological Survey of Wyoming 

Jean Juilland, U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

Ralph Loyd, Division of Mines and Geology, California 

Michael McKinley, U.S. Bureau of Mines 

William Phillips, Washington Geology and Earth Resources Division 

Becky Weimer Purkey, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology 

John Rapp, Division of Mines and Geology, California 

Bryce Tripp, Utah Geological and Mineral Survey 

Patti Tuholski, U.S. Geological Survey 

John W. Welty, Arizona Geological Survey 

Milton Wiltse, Alaska Division Geological and Geophysical Surveys 

Ill 

CONTENTS -

Preface and acknowledgments lll 

Minerals information sources in Federal agencies 1 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 1 

U.S. Bureau of Mines 4 

U.S. Geological Survey 11 

Minerals information sources in State agen~ies 15 

Alaska 15 

Arizona 18 

California 22 

Colorado 25 

Hawaii 27 

Idaho 28 

Montana 30 

Nevada 33 

NewMexico 36 

Oregon 40 

Utah 42 

Washington 46 

Wyoming 49 

Additional sources of minerals information 51 

Geologic time chart 52 

FIGURES 

1. Role of the U.S. Bureau of Mines in the minerals cycle 4 

2. Role of the U.S. Bureau of Mines in the collection and distribution of minerals 

information 5 

3. Location of the U.S. Bureau of Mines Research and Field Operations Centers 6 

4. Locations of U.S. Bureau of Mines, Offices of State Activities 9 

5. Locations of U.S. Geological Survey Minerals Information Offices 14 

6. Index map of Alaska, with sites referred to in text 15 

7. Location of Arizona Geological Survey, Tucson, Arizona 21 

8. Locations of Division of Mines and Geology offices in California 24 

9. Location of Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, Butte, Montana 31 

10. Location of Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, and related offices, Reno, 

Nevada 35 

11. Location of New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral Resources and selected 

public facilities, Socorro, New Mexico 38 

12. State and Federal minerals agencies in Salt Lake City, Utah 44 

13. Index map of Washington, with sites referred to in text 46 

14. Location of Geological Survey of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming 50 

Contents V 

Mineral Resource Information Sources 

in the Western United States 

Edited by Susan M. Marcus 

MINERALS INFORMATION SOURCES IN 

FEDERAL AGENCIES 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

By jean juilland 

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is part of 

the U.S. Department of the Interior, and its purview is 

the public domain lands and their respective resources. It 

manages the surface and subsurface (energy and minerals) estate of 272 million acres (about one-eighth of the 

Nation) and another 300 million acres of subsurface estate only, the surface of which is owned and (or) administered by private interests, State, or other Federal 

agencies (for example, U.S. Forest Service). Most of the 

lands managed by the BLM are located in 11 Western 

States, including Alaska, but small parcels are scattered 

across the Eastern United States. 

The public lands managed by the BLM contain diverse and substantial amounts of energy and mineral resources, including coal, oil and gas, mineral materials, 

metallic minerals, and many others. In accordance with 

the laws of the United States, the BLM supports and facilitates the exploration, development, and extraction of 

energy and mineral resources in an environmentally 

sound manner. It has both regulatory and management 

responsibilities. To accomplish its multiple-use/multipleresources mandate, it needs to know what and where the 

present energy and mineral activities are, and also what 

the potential for occurrence of yet undiscovered mineral 

deposits on public lands might be. 

For these purposes, the BLM gathers geology, energy, and mineral (GEM) resources data. Most of these 

data exist already in published and unpublished reports 

and data bases. Occasionally, and for relatively small arManuscript approved for publication, January 18, 1991. 

eas (for example, mining claims evaluated for patent), 

the BLM generates new data. 

The BLM has considerable derived (thematic) information which helps in its multiple-use management of 

the public lands. For example, there may be maps showing the potential for the occurrence of energy and mineral resources for a given Resource Area. The land is 

classified as having high, moderate, and (or) low potential, and each of these classes is assigned a level of certainty depending on the quantity and quality of the data 

on which the classification was made. 

All these data are not nationally centralized within 

one BLM office, but some are centralized within a State, 

and (or) District. Some of these data are in computer 

data bases, and others are in different types of manual 

files and (or) plats and maps. Currently, the Bureau of 

Land Management is developing a Land Information 

System (LIS) which will consist of three key parts: 

1. The automated Geographic Coordinate Data 

Base (GCDB) is based on data from the National Public 

Land Survey System. The GCDB system provides the 

ability to link records and resources data to legal descriptions of land parcels. 

2. The Automated Land and Minerals Records System (ALMRS) provides information about ownership 

status, special designation (for example, wilderness description), and use authorization such as mineral leases, 

mining claims, and road and pipeline rights-of-way. 

These data are typically represented on master title plats. 

3. The Automated Resource Data (ARD) represents 

information about resources, for example, wildlife habitat, soil classification, vegetation, and so forth, and GEM 

resources. 

At this time (1991) only portions of this system are 

functional. It is expected that the LIS will be fully 

implemented early in the 1990's. 

All of the data which the BLM has, whether in 

manual files or computer data bases, can be accessed in 

the appropriate BLM State offices and (or) District or 

Resource Area offices. A list of BLM State offices 

follows. 

Minerals Information Sources in Federal Agencies 
Mineral Information Facts at a GlanceU.S. Bureau of Land Management 

The following information materials are available 

free, unless otherwise noted, from the Bureau of Land 

Management offices: 

•"Minerals for America."-A brochure of general 

information about solid leasable minerals, fluid leasable 

minerals, locatable minerals and mineral materials. 

• Mining Claims.-Brochures/pamphlets on how to 

stake and patent a mining claim on Federal lands. 

•Federal Regulations.-Statutes for recording, 

maintaining, and operating mining claims on onshore 

public lands (that is, Federal lands administered by the 

Bureau of Land Management). 

•"Onshore Oil and Gas Leasing System."-A brochure providing general information on leasing onshore 

Federal lands for oil and gas; what Federal lands are 

available; who qualifies; types of leases; lease terms and 

conditions; bonding, rentals, and royalties, and so forth. 

•Resource Management Plans (RMPs) and Environmental Impact Statements (EIS 's).-At respective 

State offices, District offices, or Resource Area offices, 

one can find the RMP and EIS for the management of 

the public lands and resources within the respective 

areas. 

•Listings of Mining Claims.-At respective BLM 

State offices, District offices, or Resource Area offices, 

one can examine a microfiche listing of mining claims 

within the respective area. Mining claims are listed by: 

geographic location (in other words, township, and 

range); claim owner's name; name of claim; and serial 

number (the latter is the most complete). The microfiche 

listing is updated quarterly, and it can also be purchased 

from the Service Center in Denver, Colorado. 

•Energy and Mineral Resources Data.-At respective BLM State offices, District offices, or Resource 

Area offices, one can find many kinds of resource data, 

including energy and mineral resources data which were 

used in preparation of Resource Management Plans 

(RMPs), Environmental Impact Statements (EIS's), land 

exchanges, and so forth. These data may be examined in 

the respective BLM office; depending on quantity and 

format, a nominal charge might apply for obtaining a 

copy of these data. Proprietary data .am..!!Q1 available to 

the public. 

•MaM.,-Surface and mineral estate management 

maps are available for purchase at BLM State, District, 

or Resource Area offices (except for Alaska). These 

maps show federally administered surface by agency, by 

State and private party, and by States, Federal and private subsurface (mineral) ownership. Scale 1:100,000, or 

approximately 1 in. = 4,167 ft. These maps can be purchased also from some U.S. Geological Survey offices. 

•Master Title Plats.-At respective BLM State, 

District, or Resource Area offices, one can examine microfiche which show the official Federal agency that 

manages the respective land, the mineral leases, rightsof-way, and other surface and subsurface (mineral) 

rights, and land-use designation. These Master Title 

Plats cover one township of land and may be copied for 

a nominal fee. 

•Mineral Survey Maps.-Land and mineral survey 

maps and the respective survey field notes can be examined in the respective BLM office. They can be viewed 

on microfiche and copies may be purchased for a nominal fee. 

U.S. Department of the Interior 

Bureau of lAnd Management 

State Offices 

Headquarters 

Alaska 

U.S. Department of the Interior 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

18th & C Streets, NW. 

Washington, D.C. 20240 

(202) 343-5717 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

Federal Building 

222 West 7th Avenue, #13 

Anchorage, AK 99513-7599 

(907) 271-5555 

Arizona 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

3707 North 7th Street 

P.O. Box 16563 

Phoenix, AZ 85011 

(602) 241-5504 

California 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

Federal Building 

2800 Cottage Way, E-2841 

Sacramento, CA 95825-1889 

(916) 978-4746 

Colorado 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

2850 Y oungfield Street 

Lakewood, CO 80215 

(303) 236-1700 

Eastern States1 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

350 South Pickett Street 

Alexandria, VA 22304 

(703) 461-1369 

1

Jurisdiction over all States bordering the west bank of the Mississippi River and also those States east of the river. 

2 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
Idaho 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

3380 Americana Terrace 

Boise, ID 83706 

(208) 334-1771 

Montana2 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

222 North 32nd Street 

P.O. Box 36800 

Billings, MT 59107 

(406) 255-2913 

Nevada 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

850 Harvard Way 

P.O. Box 12000 

Reno, NV 89520 

(702) 785-6590 

New Mexico3 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

Joseph M. Montoya Federal Bldg. 

South Federal Place 

P.O. Box 1449 

Santa Fe, NM 87504-1449 

(505) 988-6316 

2

Jurisdiction over North and South Dakota as well as Montana. 3

Jurisdiction over Oklahoma and Texas as well as New Mexico. 

Oregon4 

Utah 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

825 NE. Multnomah Street 

P.O. Box 2965 

Portland, OR 97208 

(503) 231-6277 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

324 South State Street, Suite 301 

Salt Lake City, UT 84111-2303 

(801) 539-4019 

Wyoming' 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

2515 Warren Avenue 

P.O. Box 1828 

Cheyenne, WY 82003 

(307) 772-2111 

Service Center - Denver, Colorado 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

Denver Federal Center, Bldg. 50 

Denver, CO 80225 

(303) 236-8583 

4Jurisdiction over the State of Washington as well as Oregon. 

'Jurisdiction over Kansas and Nebraska as well as Wyoming. 

Minerals Information Sources in Federal Agencies 3 
U.S. Bureau of Mines 

By Michael McKinley 

The U.S. Bureau of Mines, as mandated by a series 

of Public Laws commencing with the Organic Act of 

1910, is charged with the collection, analysis, and dissemination of minerals information. This effort is done 

in close coordination with industry, academia, and Federal and State agencies. The U.S. Bureau of Mines and 

the U.S. Geological Survey have especially enjoyed a 

close working relationship over the years. The Bureau's 

information responsibilities with respect to the mineral 

cycle are portrayed in figure 1. 

Experts at the U.S. Bureau of Mines Information 

and Analysis Directorate collect and interpret data concerning mineral production, consumption, and trade both 

in the United States and worldwide. These Bureau experts also perform assessments on the worldwide availability of minerals and assess identified minerals on 

Federal lands. Comprehensive analyses are also made on 

the impact of government policies, economic conditions, 

and political events on the health and competitiveness of 

the U.S. mineral industry in general and on the Nation's 

mineral supplies. Of particular concern are the competitiveness of the domestic minerals industries and the 

availability of strategic and critical materials essential to 

national security. It is important to remember that minerals create the wealth upon which economic prosperity 

and defense preparedness rest. 

The U.S. Bureau of Mines collects data on over 

100 mineral commodities from 168 countries. Bureau 

mineral commodity specialists are assigned to handle 

specific minerals and mineral materials according 

to their individual areas of expertise. State activity specialists collect information about minerals from U.S. 

companies operating mines and mineral processing 

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 

plants. Country specialists obtain data from foreign 

governments, U.S. embassies, and international publications and visit mines overseas to monitor worldwide 

mineral production and consumption and the economic 

and political events that affect mining. The Bureau's 

worldwide mineral information network is delineated in 

figure 2. 

Besides the wealth of information produced by the 

Information and Analysis Program, there is another entire spectrum of interests served by the Bureau's Research Program. This program produces, for example, 

information concerning the Bureau's quest for technology that will help the U.S. minerals industry develop 

necessary new and more efficient mining and mineral 

processing methods. Parts of the research program concentrate on developing new te€hnology to improve 

health and safety of miners and to protect the environment against adverse effects of mining. Another aspect 

of this program is focused on materials research. Materials researchers strive to increase conservation of resources by developing longer lasting materials; to utilize our 

domestic resources more effectively in producing new, 

high-technology materials; and to reduce our dependency 

on imported raw materials. For further information on 

the Bureau Research Program, contact the Minerals Information Office in Washington, D.C., or the Office of 

Public Information, U.S. Bureau of Mines, 2401 E 

Street, NW., Washington, D.C. 20241, telephone: (202) 

634-1001 (also see figure 3). 

A brief synopsis of principal Bureau publications 

and data bases follows: 

•"Minerals Yearbook."-The "Minerals Yearbook" 

provides the definitive historical record for mineral statistics used by government and industry in assessing 

U.S. mineral supply and the characteristics of U.S. mineral demand. It also provides worldwide information on 

the production and consumption of minerals. Beginning 

Figure 1. Role of the U.S. Bureau of Mines in the minerals cycle. 

4 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
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SOURCES SYNTHESIS 

U.S. FEDERAL-STATE ACTIVITIES 

• 11 BUMINES STATE MINERAL SPECIALISTS 

• COOPERATIVE DATA COLLECTION 

AGREEMENTS WITH STATES 

• 3 REGIONAL BUMINES FIELD OFFICES 

• 9 BUMINES RESEARCH LABORATORIES 

OVER 180 FOREIGN 

COUNTRIES 

• AFGHANISTAN 

• ALBANIA 

. ························ •........................ 

OF 

MINES 

INFORMATION 

& 

ANALYSIS 

DAILY AND PERIODIC FROM 

U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

COMMERCIAL COUNSELORS 

--... ~~ AND 10 REGIONAL RESOURCE 1 OFFICERS 

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......................... 

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• ZIMBABWE 

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•......................... 

• COPPER 

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•........................ 

• PHOSPHATE 

•........................ 

•ZINC 

• ZIRCONIUM 

Figure 2. Role of the U.S. Bureau of Mines in the collection and distribution of minerals information. 

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BUREAU OF MINES FIELD FACILITIES 

(The Bureau of Mines also maintains staff expertise for mineral 

activities in all 50 states in the U.S. and 168 foreign countries 

~-~~a'!"a1r--- and for some 600 minerals and mineral • related materials). 

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Figure 3. Location of the U.S. Bureau of Mines Research and Field Operations Centers. 

BUREAU OF MINES 

• Research Center 

e Field Operations Center 
with the 1988 edition, the "Minerals Yearbook" format 

has been enlarged to an 8 y; X 11 in. size with emphasis 

on the individual chapters rather than the bound volume. 

Each chapter is published as an individual report with its 

own cover. 

•"Minerals Yearbook Volume I (Metals and Miner-

~"-Starting with the 1989 edition, the content of 

Volume I of the Yearbook will be expanded to include 

information on industry structure, technology, supply/demand analysis, economic factors, and forecasts of U.S. 

and world demand for individual commodities. Much of 

this information had previously been published only every 5 years in "Mineral Facts and Problems," which will 

be eliminated as a separate publication. Information is 

available commencing in July of the following year with 

final softback reports available in December. The 

hardbound volume is not available until the following 

January, or about 13 months after year end. Individual 

softback commodity chapters are free. The hardbound 

volume is a for-sale publication. 

•"Minerals Yearbook Volume II (Area Reports: 

Domestic)."-This information is organized by State. Information initially available commencing in November 

of the following year with final softback reports available next January. The hardbound volume is not available until the following May, or about 17 months after 

year end. Individual softback State chapters are free. The 

hardbound volume is a for-sale publication. 

•"Minerals Yearbook-International Review."-

This information is organized by country and region. Beginning with the 1989 edition, the content of Volume III 

will be expanded to provide more comprehensive information. This expansion will include the mineral supply 

and trade position of each country, details ori mineral development and foreign investment policies, structure of 

the mining industry, infrastructure, and industry outlook, 

and a map locating major mines and facilities. Much of 

this information had previously been published on a 5-

year cycle in the "Minerals Perspectives" regional reference book series. The expanded yearbook format will be 

presented in six bound sections: Europe and the USSR; 

Africa; the Middle East; Latin America and Canada; Far 

East and Australia; and Minerals in the World Economy. 

The hardbound sections for the 1989 edition will be published next March or about 15 months after year end. 

Subsequent editions will be published the following December or within 12 months of year end. The hardbound 

sections will be for-sale publications. 

•"Mineral Industry Surveys."-The surveys provide 

periodic data designed to give timely statistical information on production, distribution, stocks, and consumption 

of significant mineral commodities. A total of about 400 

surveys are issued throughout the year, on a monthly, 

quarterly, and annual basis. Electronic publication methods are also being initiated on an experimental basis for 

selected commodities. Starting in 1989, sample quarterly 

surveys of crushed stone and of sand and gravel production were conducted by telephone and reports were published within 45 days after the close of the quarter. 

"Mineral Industry Surveys" are free publications. 

•"Mineral Commodity Summaries."-This annual 

report published each January provides estimates on production, consumption, trade, recycling, substitution, reserves, resources, and other relevant information on 

mineral commodities. More definitive data are published 

later in the "Minerals Yearbook." The report published 

in 1990 included, for the first time, a section on International Events and also a Minerals Outlook section for 

major industry sectors. "Mineral Commodity Summaries" is a free publication. 

•"State Mineral Summaries."-This is a companion 

publication to "Mineral Commodity Summaries." It contains reports for the 50 States and Puerto Rico. It is published each February for the preceding year. "State 

Mineral Summaries" is a free publication. 

•"Mineral Perspective Series."-This series focuses 

on in-depth studies of selected countries, analyzing the 

technical, policy, and economic factors affecting their 

mineral industries. As mentioned previously, a prior 

format used in the series was a regional reference book 

with information that will· now be included in Volume 

III of the "Minerals Yearbook." Studies on Namibia, 

Zaire, and Zimbabwe have been published and will be 

followed by studies on Guinea and Mexico. Reports are 

produced intermittently and are for-sale publications. 

•"Mineral Issues Series."-These are detail reports on selected commodities that involve extensive native language research and analysis of key industrial 

sectors of major mineral producing countries. Detailed 

assessments of the chromium, manganese, tungsten, and 

copper industries of the USSR have been published. Additional studies on the nickel-cobalt and lead-zinc industries of the USSR and on the Chinese iron and steel 

industry are underway. Reports are produced intermittently and are for-sale publications. 

•"Compendium of Historical Statistics."-In response to requests by users of Bureau statistics, a new 

publication will be prepared in 1992 to provide historical 

data for some of the statistical series published in the 

"Minerals Yearbook." Previously, a historical series 

could be compiled by the user only by having access to 

a complete set of yearbooks. Each yearbook carried data 

for only 3 to 5 years. The new publication contains longterm data for such series as production and consumption 

of individual commodities, and value of mineral production by State. 

•"Minerals Today" (formerly known as "Minerals 

and Materials").-This is a bimonthly magazine that provides a snapshot of major activities within the mineral 

industry and the Bureau of Mines. It is currently being 

Minerals Information Sources in Federal Agencies 7 
revised and serves as focal point for analysis and debate 

on mineral/material policy issues. This is a for-sale publication. 

•Automated Minerals Information System 

CAMIS).-This large data base contains information , about specific mineral commodities. It supports the 

Bureau's publication efforts previously described. The 

·computerized portion of AMIS runs on the U.S. Geological Survey's mainframe computer in Reston, Va., and 

currently uses the Model 204 data base language; incorporates integration of microcomputers to enable some 

commodity surveys to be processed on micros and uploaded to the mainframe. Information can also be downloaded to micros to facilitate analyses by Bureau 

specialists. The AMIS is not currently available for public access due to its proprietary nature. However, the Bureau has initiated an electronic bulletin board for limited 

access to nonproprietary data and has plans for expanding this function in the future. 

•Minerals Availability System CMAS}.-MAS is 

part of the Minerals Availability program which assesses 

supplies of minerals considered essential to the U.S. industrial base. Major program activities include identifying the most important mineral operations in the world; 

evaluating their mineral reserves, resources, and production costs; and estimating the availability of these minerals to the United States. Basic elements of the Minerals 

Availability program include the Minerals Availability 

System (MAS), a computerized system of site-specific 

geological and engineering-cost information, economic 

analyses of individual mineral operations, and commodity availability and supply appraisals. Data on over 3,000 

of the world's principal mines and mineral processing 

plants are contained in the MAS data base. While data 

and analytic results from commodity and policy studies 

are published in aggregate form, certain individual property information, for example, reserve and cost information, is not available to the public for economic 

competitiveness reasons. A fully publicly accessible data 

base, the Mineral Industry Location System (MILS), 

contains location, commodity, geology, reference information, and so forth, on over 200,000 U.S. mineral deposits and occurrences. This information is made 

available to the public via map overlays and computer 

printouts at cost. 

•Mineral Land Assessments CMLA).-MLA is part 

of the Bureau of Mines' Land Assessment program that 

provides comprehensive mineral resource information 

used in land management decisions by the Congress and 

Federal land management agencies. It is also the basis 

for decisions which would expand the domestic supply 

of important mineral resources, primarily strategic and 

critical minerals. Much of this work is done in cooperation with the U.S. Geological Survey and includes mineral studies of lands administered by U.S. Forest 

Service, U.S. Bureau of fndian Affairs, and U.S. Bureau 

of Land Management; mining district studies in Alaska; 

various site-specific studies; and environment-related 

studies. Data are published as either U.S. Geological 

Survey bulletins, and miscellaneous field studies, or 

U.S. Bureau of Mines open-file reports. 

•"Research Cyear)."-This publication is an annual 

summary of U.S. Bureau of Mines programs with 

emphasis on recent research accomplishments. Published 

in January of the following year. This is a for-sale 

publication. 

•"Mineral Position of the United States - (year)."-

This is the annual report of the Secretary of the Interior 

under the Mining and Minerals Policy Act of 1970. Published in July of the following year. Free publication. 

Mineral Information Facts at a GlanceU.S. Bureau of Mines 

General inquiries: 

Office of Public Information 

U.S. Bureau of Mines 

2401 E Street, NW. MS-1040 

Washington, D.C. 20241-0001 

(202) 634-1001 

Office hours: 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

Inquiries concerning specific commodities: 

Chief, Division of Mineral Commodities 

U.S. Bureau of Mines 

2401 E Street, NW. MS-5206 

Washington, D.C. 20241-0001 

(202) 634-1187 

Office hours: 7:45a.m. to 4:15 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

Inquiries concerning State activities: 

Chief, Office of State Activities 

U.S. Bureau of Mines 

2401 E Street, NW. MS-9700 

Washington, D.C. 20241-0001 

(202) 634-1107 

Office hours: 7:45a.m. to 4:15 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

See figure 4 for regional locations 

Inquiries concerning international minerals: 

Chief, Division of International Minerals 

U.S. Bureau of Mines 

2401 E Street, NW. MS-5205 

Washington, D.C. 20241-0001 

(202) 632-8970 

Office hours: 7:45a.m. to 4:15 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

Inquiries concerning minerals availability: 

Chief, Branch of Minerals Availability 

U.S. Bureau of Mines 

2401 E Street, NW. MS-5202 

8 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
~ 

:;· 

rD 

;;:: 

.... 

:;-

0' 

3 

~ 

iS' 

"' g> 

c 

~ :;· 

~ 

~ > "" rD 

"' ..., 

~-

"' 

-

(10 

~~ 

() 

Figure 4. Locations of U.S. Bureau of Mines, Offices of State Activities. 

REGIONAL OFFICES 

[·."·."·."· . .'··.! Denver 

1::;::1 Pittsburgh 

I / I Tuscaloosa 

k/HJ Twin Cities 

1:<:<1 Spokane 

[%t'101] Reno 

I<!H\\1 Tucson 

IEMM Alaska 

• Wash. DC HQS 

BUREAU OF MINES 
Washington, D.C. 20241-0001 

(202) 634-1144 

Office hours: 7:45a.m. to 4:15 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

Inquiries concerning mineral land assessments: 

Chief, Branch of Mineral Land Assessment 

U.S. Bureau of Mines 

2401 E Street, NW. MS-5202 

Washington, D.C. 20241-0001 

(202) 634-4744 

Office hours: 7:45a.m. to 4:15 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

Publications and sales: 

Sales Publications: 

Sales publication purchases may be made by check or money 

order payable to the Superintendent, charged to a deposit account at 

the Government Printing Office, or charged on a VISA or 

MasterCard credit card. Address: 

Superintendent of Documents 

U.S. Government Printing Office 

Washington, D.C. 20402 

or call (202)783-3238. 

An additional one-fourth of the current selling price of 

publication(s) ordered should be added on orders going to countries 

other than the United States or its possessions. Postage stamps and 

foreign money are not acceptable. When ordering publications by 

mail, please be sure to include your zip code. There is a minimum 

charge of $1 for each mail order. 

Sales publications include hard bound volumes of the "Minerals 

Yearbook," "Mineral Perspectives," "Research (year)," "Minerals 

Issues," and "Minerals Today." 

Free Publications: 

Requests for free publications should be made to: 

Publication Distribution 

Bureau of Mines 

Cochrans Mill Rd., P.O. Box 18070 

Pittsburgh, PA 15236 

or call (412)892-4338 

Because of the limited editions, only 1 copy of any publication 

can be sent to the person applying and a maximum of 10 titles to 

any applicant. Applicants should request only those publications actually needed. Please enclose a self-addressed label. 

Free publications include individual "Minerals Yearbook" chapters, "Mineral Industry Surveys," "Mineral Commodity Summaries," "State Mineral Summaries," monthly announcements of 

"New Publications-Bureau of Mines, Mineral Position of the 

United States-(year)". Many "Reports of Investigation" and "Information Circulars" are also free. 

The following referenced publication is scheduled to be printed 

in 1992 - "Compendium of Historical Statistics." Address inquiries to the Bureau's Publication Distribution address previously 

mentioned. 

()_pen File Reports-NTIS: 

An open file report is an unpublished Bureau of Mines report 

that has been made available as reference material. Any open file 

report may be inspected during working hours at various Bureau 

locations but may not be removed. The Natural Resources Library, 

U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240, can usually supply copies on interlibrary loan. For further information, 

contact the library, (202)208-5815. 

If a report number is prefixed with PB, the report may be purchased, by check or money order, payable to the National Technical Information Service, charged to a deposit account at NTIS, or 

charged on a VISA, MasterCard, or American Express credit card, 

from: 

National Technical Information Service 

U.S. Department of Commerce 

Springfield, VA 22161 

or call (703)487-4650. Please order by numbers given. 

Microfiche copies are $6.95 (domestic order) and $13.90 (foreign order). Paper copies are available at the prices indicated; 

double the price for foreign orders except those going to Canada or 

Mexico. To each domestic order, add $3 per order (not per item) 

for handling; for foreign orders, including those to Canada and 

Mexico, add $4 per order. Note that additional addresses on orders 

are each charged the handling charge. Rush and express services 

are available at an additional charge. 

10 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
U.S. Geological Survey 

By Susan M. Marcus 

The U.S. Geological Survey is the Federal agency 

that is responsible for a national perspective on geologic 

aspects of mineral resources. Mineral resource studies, 

both domestic and foreign, are managed through three 

major programs within the U.S. Geological Survey's Office of Mineral Resources. The three programs are: the 

National Mineral Resource Assessment Program, the 

Strategic and Critical Minerals Program, and the Development of Assessment Techniques Program. 

National Mineral Resources Assessment Program 

CNAMRAP).-This program oversees mineral resource 

studies of national forests, and areas that may become 

wilderness, as well as other studies on public lands. 

These studies include geochemical and geophysical 

surveys, geologic mapping, and investigations of mineralized areas and conclude with evaluations of the likelihood of undiscovered mineral resources. The scope of 

the work is regional, rather than specific to mineralized 

sites. Results are made available to the public as U.S. 

Geological Survey bulletins, open-file reports, and maps. 

The Conterminous United States Mineral Assessment 

Program (CUSMAP) and the Alaska Mineral Resource 

Assessment Program (AMRAP) are components of 

NAMRAP that involve interdisciplinary studies of the 

potential for undiscovered mineral resources on areas 

throughout the country. Data and mineral resource assessments from CUSMAP and AMRAP are often published at 1:250,000. 

Strategic and Critical Minerals Program CSCM).-

This program seeks to enhance the understanding of the 

geologic distribution of deposits of strategic and critical 

mineral resources. Although the emphasis of the program is on strategic and critical minerals, deposits of 

other mineral commodities are studied as well. By conducting research to determine how deposits form and 

why they occur in specific locations, geologists improve 

their ability to predict the occurrence of undiscovered 

mineral resources.· The scope of the work in this program is usually specific to mineralized sites, with extrapolation carried to areas where mineralization is not 

known. Research conclusions are usually published as 

U.S. Geological Survey professional papers, bulletins, 

maps, and journal articles. 

Development of Assessment Techniques Program 

CDAT).-This program investigates new geochemical, 

geophysical, and geologic methods that have the potential to improve the ability to predict the formation and 

existence of undiscovered mineral resources. New equipment and analytical methods are developed, and existing 

data are reinterpreted. The scope of the studies in this 

program varies from laboratory research to testing techniques or ideas in the field. Results are usually published 

as U.S. Geological Survey professional papers, bulletins, 

and journal articles. 

The U.S. Geological Survey has established four 

Minerals Information Offices to help the public gain 

access to the large volume of the agency's mineral resource data. The offices, listed below, provide information from several digital data bases, as well as from 

published and unpublished reference materials. Responses are tailored to the needs of the client and may 

consist, for example, of lists of sites where specific mineral commodities are found, or information about the 

geologic setting for a particular commodity, or a referral 

to a U.S. Geological Survey scientist working on a mineral resource issue. The Minerals Information Office in 

Washington, D.C., is a cooperative endeavor with the 

U.S. Bureau of Mines. The offices in Tucson, Ariz., and 

Reno, Nev., operate in close cooperation with the Arizona Geological Survey and the Nevada Bureau of 

Mines and Geology, respectively. The office in Spokane, 

Wa., is operated independently by the U.S. Geological 

Survey. 

There are several U.S. Geological Survey computerized data bases of interest to mineral resource data 

users: 

•Mineral Resources Data System.-The Mineral 

Resources Data System (MRDS), formerly known as 

CRIB, is the major repository of digital mineral resource 

information in the U.S. Geological Survey. The Mineral 

Resource Data System consists of over 90,000 records of 

mineralized sites throughout the world. The records contain information on the location and commodities present 

at the sites along with a variety of geologic information, 

including host rock, age of mineralization, and type of 

mineralization. Plots and listings of the sites can be 

printed, based on primary commodity, location, or a 

wide choice of variables, depending on the user's needs. 

This data base is available for interactive use at the Minerals Information Offices. 

• Mineral Resource Specialists.-This data base includes the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of 

the U.S. Geological Survey researchers who have particular knowledge about the genesis, characteristics, and 

distribution of specific mineral resources (for example, 

tin, gold, or chromium). The file also contains major 

bibliographic references for each mineral resource. This 

data base is available for interactive use at the Minerals 

Information Offices. 

•National Mineral Resources Assessment Progn!!lL.-The status and results of projects under the Conterminous United States Mineral Assessment Program 

and the Alaska Mineral Resource Assessment Program 

are given in this file. It is linked to graphic displays 

showing the location of each project. This data base is 

available for interactive use at the Minerals Information 

Offices. 

Minerals Information Sources in Federal Agencies 11 
•National Geochemical Data Base.-This data base 

contains information about the location, site geology, 

and analytical results of samples analyzed by the geochemical laboratories of the U.S. Geological Survey. It 

consists of two parts-the Rock Analysis Storage System (RASS) and Pluto, which will be merged in the future. Access to geochemical data is available, by referral, 

from the Minerals Information Offices. There may be 

fees for some data sets. 

•Geophysical Data.-A variety of gravity, aeromagnetic, satellite, and other digital data sets are available from the U.S. Geological Survey and, by referral, 

from other Federal agencies. Costs of data depend on the 

data source, format required, and other specifications. 

Contact the Minerals Information Offices for more information about access to and the availability of geophysical data. 

• National Uranium Reconnaissance Evaluation.-

The National Uranium Reconnaissance Evaluation 

(NURE) was a program conducted by the U.S. Department of Energy from 1974 to 1983. Stream sediment and 

heavy mineral concentrate geochemical samples were 

taken throughout the United States, along with other 

types of samples in selected areas. Reconnaissance magnetic and radiometric surveys were also made. Digital 

and hard copy data are available through the U.S. Geological Survey. Contact the Minerals Information Offices 

for more information. There are fees for most data. 

•Earth Science Data Directory.-The Earth Science 

Data Directory is a digital data base that contains listings 

of about 1,500 digital and non digital data bases related to 

geology, energy, minerals, water, land, plant, and other 

resources. It is accessible from other computers via a 

modem. Users and contributors may contact: ESDD 

Project Manager, U.S. Geological Survey, 801 National 

Center, Reston, Virginia 22092 or telephone (703)648-

7112. 

Selected publications of the U.S. Geological Survey useful to those interested in minerals and mineral 

resources include: 

•"Mineral Deposit Models" (Bulletin 1693).-This 

book explains the geologic and geochemical characteristics of the occurrence of more than 39 different types 

of mineral deposits It also includes tonnage and grade 

models for most deposit types. Cost: $19.00 

•Mineral Resource Assessments.-These products 

of the National Mineral Resource Assessment Program 

describe the potential for undiscovered mineral resources 

in various tracts of lands in the United States and certain 

foreign countries. Most assessments are published as 

bulletins, sometimes with a summary published as a circular and supporting data available as open-file reports. 

Many reports contain contributions on identified 

(known) mineral resources by the U.S. Bureau of Mines. 

Contact the Minerals Information Offices for information 

about specific areas or reports. Cost: approximately $2 

to $10. 

•"Data Bases and Systems of the U.S. Geological 

Survey. 1983" (Circular 817).-This free publication 

lists digital data bases maintained by the U.S. Geological 

Survey and certain data bases maintained by the U.S. 

Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Minerals 

Management Service. Brief descriptions of the data 

bases are given along with addresses and phone numbers 

of people to contact. The circular is available from the 

Books and Open-File Reports Section (see following address). 

•General Interest Publications.-Free pamphlets 

are available on a variety of topics, including gold and 

lithium, and general geologic subjects such as geologic 

time and earthquakes. Individual copies are available 

upon request from the Books and Open-File Reports 

Section (see following address). 

•"Guide to Obtaining USGS Information" (Circular 

900l.-This free booklet is available from the Books and 

Open-File Reports Section (see following address). It 

gives national and regional sources for various types of 

U.S. Geological Survey data. 

•List of Publications--The U.S. Geological Survey 

prints a monthly list of its publications. Subscription to 

this list is free, and is available from: U.S. Geological 

Survey, 582 National Center, Reston, Virginia 22092. 

The U.S. Geological Survey also provides the following opportunity for sharing mineral resource information: 

•McKelvey Forum.-The U.S. Geological Survey 

sponsors an annual public symposium on the agency's 

energy and minerals research. The meeting, known as 

the McKelvey Forum, focuses on energy or mineral resources in alternate years. Papers and poster displays 

present the latest work of the U.S. Geological Survey on 

these topics. Contact the Minerals Information Offices 

for more information. 

In addition to the Minerals Information Offices, 

there are sources for other information within the U.S. 

Geological Survey. These sources, specifically the Earth 

Science Information Centers and the Geologic Inquiries 

Group, can be accessed directly or by referral from the 

Minerals Information Offices. 

Mineral Information Facts at a GlanceU.S. Geological Survey 

General mineral resource inquiries: 

Main Office 

Minerals Information Office 

Main Interior Bldg., Room 2647 

18th & C Streets, NW. 

Washington, D.C. 20240 

12 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
(202) 343-5512 

Office hours: 8:15a.m. to 3:45 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

Branch Offices 

Minerals Information Office 

U.S. Geological Survey 

845 North Park Avenue 

Tucson, AZ 85719 

(602) 882-4795, ext. 21 

Office hours: 8:00a.m. to 4:00 p.m.-Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 

Minerals Information Office 

U.S. Geological Survey 

c/o Mackay School of Mines 

Scrogham Engineering Mines Bldg., Rm. 313A 

University of Nevada, Reno 

Reno, NV 89557-0047 

(702) 784-5552 

Office hours: 9:00a.m. to 4:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

Minerals Information Office 

U.S. Geological Survey 

Room 651, U.S. Courthouse Bldg. 

West 920 Riverside A venue 

Spokane, WA 99201 

(509) 353-2649 

Office hours: 9:00a.m. to 4:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

(see fig. 5 for location) 

Formats Available: 

Digital and nondigital. Most digital data are on Macintosh hardware. Plots, graphs, lists, and so forth constructed to respond 

to individual requests. 

Cost: 

No charge for most information. At-cost charges for complex 

computer searches or complex plots. 

How to Order Information: 

Telephone, write, or visit the offices listed above. 

Information Available: 

•Textual and locational data on mineralized sites throughout the 

world 

•Data on results of and references to U.S. Geological Survey 

mineral resource assessments 

•Access to U.S. Geological Survey mineral resource commodity 

specialists and other technical specialists 

•Referrals to State and Federal minerals and leasing personnel 

Publications List: 

U.S. Geological Survey 

582 National Center 

Reston, Virginia 22092 

Publications Sales: 

Books and Open-File Reports Section 

U.S. Geological Survey 

Federal Center, Box 25425 

Denver, CO 80225 

(303) 236-7476 

Method of Payment: 

Prepayment by check or money order, payable in United States 

funds to the Department of the Interior/USGS. 

Minerals Information Sources in Federal Agencies 13 
SPOKANE OFFICE 

U.S. COURTHOUSE .... 851 WEST 920 RIVERSIDE 

SPOKANE-.. 99201 509-353-2849 

USGS 

MINERALS INFORMATION 

OFFICE LOCATIONS 

TUCSON OFFICE 

CORBETT BtaD1NG 210 E.7th St. 

TUCSON AZ.85705 602-67G-5508 

RENO OFFICE 

c/o IUCKM SCHOOL OF~ UNIVERSITY OF NE\tU)A,. RENO 

IENO.NE'ADA 89557-G047 702-784-5552 

WAS .. NGlON D.C. OFFICE 

MAIN lfrENOR ~.M1.2647 18thaC St NW 

Figure 5. Locations of U.S. Geological Survey Minerals Information Offices. 

14 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
MINERALS INFORMATION SOURCES 

IN STATE AGENCIES 

Alaska 

By Milton Wiltse 

Alaska's mineral resources are probably the least 

quantified and least developed of any of the Western 

States. Historically, Alaska has been a significant 

domestic source for copper, platinum, and gold. Alaska 

also has important reserves of lead, zinc, silver, molybdenum, zeolites, sand, gravel, and strategic and critical 

minerals, including tin, tungsten, mercury, antimony, 

chromium, asbestos, and rare earths. Currently, petroleum from the Prudhoe Bay field surpasses all other 

Alaskan resources i~ terms of dollar value of production. 

The presence of other known petroleum and natural gas 

reservoirs above and in the vicinity of the Prudhoe Bay 

reservoir, as well as offshore potential in the Bering Sea, 

indicates that oil and gas will continue to contribute a 

major share to the State's resource base even as production from Prudhoe Bay declines. 

Alaska has become a major exporter of zinc, lead, 

and silver since the Red Dog mine in northwestern 

Alaska began production in 1990. The Red Dog deposit 

(85 million tons, 17.1 percent Zn, 5 percent Pb, 2.4 oz/ 

ton Ag) is one of several related deposits in that area. In 

southwestern Alaska, the Greens Creek mine on Admi-

\ 

ralty Island has begun producing silver, gold, zinc, and 

lead from indicated reserves of 3 .5 million tons of 

ore having a grade of 23.8 oz/ton Ag, 0.18 oz/ton Au, 

9.7 percent Zn, and 3.9 percent Pb. World-class deposits 

of polymetallic copper ores remain undeveloped in 

the Ambler region, southwestern Brooks Range. See figure 6 for locations of world-class mineral deposits in 

Alaska. 

Alaska gold production is currently dominated by 

placer operations, but excellent lode-gold potential is being actively tested at several locations throughout the 

State. Notable areas of interest are the historic Juneau, 

Nome, and Fairbanks districts. 

Only a small fraction of Alaska's coal resources 

(170,800 million tons indicated resources; 5,600,000 

million tons hypothetical resources) has been developed. 

Current annual production is about 1.5 million tons. 

These coals are shipped about equally to in-state and 

foreign markets. 

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources' Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys and Division of Mines are the primary State sources of 

information pertinent to the mineral resources of Alaska. 

The Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys' 

activities are focused on scientific and technical aspects 

of mineral occurrences and their geologic framework. 

The Division of Mines concentrates on regulatory issues 

associated with mining in the State. The U.S. Geological 

Survey, the U.S. Bureau of Mines, and the U.S. Bureau 

• 

Fairbanks 

Figure 6. Index map of Alaska, with sites referred to in text. 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 15 
of Land Management are Federal sources of Alaska minerals-related information. 

The Division of Geological and Geophysical 

Surveys has primary responsibility for generating geologic information concerning Alaska's mineral resources. 

Data are acquired through field studies, cooperative programs with other State and Federal agencies, and contracts. The results of agency studies are made available 

to the public through the following series of publications 

for sale at the Fairbanks Office of the Geological and 

Geophysical Surveys: Public Data Files, Reports of Investigation, Special Reports, Geologic Reports, Information Circulars, Outside Publications, and Contract 

Reports. 

Interested persons would find Information Circular 

11 ("Reports and Maps Issued by the Alaska Division of 

Geological and Geophysical Surveys, revised June 

1985'') and Information Circular 23 ("Map of Division 

of Geological and Geophysical Surveys' Publications 

with Author and Quadrangle Indexes, revised July 

1985") of particular help in ordering pertinent Surveys' 

publications. These and other Information Circulars are 

available free of charge from the Division's Fairbanks 

Office. 

In cooperation with the Alaska Division of Business Development and the Alaska Division of Mines, the 

Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys publishes an annual summary of Alaska's mineral industry 

as part of its Special Report series. This document provides a comprehensive overview of yearly mining activities and bears the title "Alaska's Mineral Industryyear." 

The Division of Geological and Geophysical 

Surveys' archives include unpublished Prospect Examination Reports that date from Alaska Territorial days and 

the complete data set from the federally sponsored, statewide National Uranium Resource Evaluation (NURE) 

program. The NURE data base includes stream- and 

lake-sediment geochemical analyses of over 60,000 data 

points distributed across 100 of Alaska's 153 quadrangles. These data are available in hard copy format for 

use on-site at the Division's Fairbanks Office. Air-radiometric profiles compiled for quadrangles evaluated 

during the NURE program also are available for on-site 

use. 

The Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys maintains a core storage facility at Eagle River, 

Alaska, about 20 miles north of Anchorage. The facility 

is open to the public and contains drill cuttings from oil 

wells and complete or skeletonized core donated by various mining companies. 

The agency is a repository for U.S. Geological 

Survey and U.S. Bureau of Mines publications. The public can use these documents on-site at the Fairbanks 

Office. 

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources' Division of Mines maintains records of State and Federal 

mining claims, and State mining permits and leases in 

Alaska. The Division of Mines records are available for 

public use at the Mining Information Office in Fairbanks. The Mining Information Office has microfiche 

records of all Federal claims in Alaska. A microcomputer-based claims record system has been developed 

that includes all active State mining claims. An on-site 

terminal provides a data link with the State's central 

Land Action System (LAS) located in Juneau, Alaska. 

The LAS data base contains the current land status information for Alaska State lands and State mining claims. 

Historic State and Federal mining claim information can 

be accessed via the Division's Cardex file of inactive 

claims. Clear mylar overlay maps depicting approximate 

claim boundaries at a scale of 1:250,000 are available 

for active and inactive State and Federal claims. No distinction of claim status is made on these maps. Mining 

information staff will provide out-of-town customers 

with claims status information for specific areas on a 

time-available basis. Arrangements can be made to copy 

pertinent documents and land status maps. Charges depend on costs of reproduction. 

The University of Alaska, Fairbanks, has several 

departments that provide information pertinent to mineral resources. The Department of Geology and Geophysics offers B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. programs that result in 

the publication of dissertations pertinent to the mineral 

resources of Alaska. These publications are available 

through the campus library. The School of Mineral Engineering also offers advanced degrees in mineral-related 

subjects. The Mineral Industry Research Laboratory conducts field and laboratory studies focused on the mineral 

resources of the State. The results of their research are 

published in reports available through the Mineral Industry Research Laboratory office on the university campus. 

The University of Alaska Geophysical Institute, Fairbanks, maintains a library of aerial photography and satellite imagery at their Geo-data Center. Imagery can be 

viewed and copies ordered at their facility. 

Mineral Information Facts at a Glance-Alaska 

General mineral resource inquiries and publication sales: 

Division of Geological and Geophysical SurveysInformation available on (in Fairbanks, unless otherwise noted) annual summary on the mineral 

industry in Alaska; indexes of Alaska Geological 

and Geophysical Surveys reports and maps; unpublished prospect evaluations; drill core/cuttings in 

Eagle River; National Uranium Resource Evaluation data for Alaska; repository of U.S. Geological 

16 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
Survey and U.S. Bureau of Mines publications in 

Fairbanks: 

3700 Airport Way 

Fairbanks, AK 99510 

(907) 451-2760 

State Geologist, Robert Forbes 

Deputy State Geologist, Tom Smith 

Publication Sales, Joyce Outten 

Anchorage Office 

3601 C Street, Suite 1236 

P.O. Box 107005 

Anchorage, AK 99510 

(907) 762-2356 

Regional Geologist, Wyatt Gilbert 

Eagle River Office 

18225 Fish Hatchery Road 

P.O. Box 772116 

Eagle River, AK 99577 

(907) 696-0070 

Storage Facility, John Reeder 

Juneau Office 

400 Willoughby Ave., 3rd Floor 

Juneau, AK 99801 

(907) 465-2533 

Division of Mines-Information available on 

(costs are based on copying charges) State 

and Federal mining claims and leases; historic 

and current data; microfiche and hard copy; 

digital data base; 1:250,000 maps showing claim 

boundaries: 

3601 C Street 

P.O. Box 107016 

Anchorage, AK 99510 

(907) 762-2163 

Director, Gerald L. Gallagher 

(907) 762-2518 

Mining Information Office, Robert Stuvek 

Fairbanks Office 

3700 Airport Way 

Fairbanks, AK 99709 

(907) 451-2709 

Regional Manager, Judd Peterson 

Mining Information Office, Eric Hanson 

Information available on degree programs, theses, 

dissertations: 

University of Alaska 

Department of Geology and Geophysics 

Brooks Bldg., Room 408 

Fairbanks, AK 99775 

(907) 474-7565 

Department Head, Samuel Swanson 

Information available on degree programs, theses, 

dissertations: 

University of Alaska 

School of Mineral Engineering 

Brooks Bldg., Room 209 

Fairbanks, AK 99775 

(907) 474-7366 

Dean, Russell D. Ostermann 

Information available on reports of field and laboratory 

studies in Alaska: 

University of Alaska 

Mineral Industry Research Laboratory 

210 O'Neill Resources Bldg. 

Fairbanks, AK 99775 

(907) 474-7135 

Associate Director, P.D. Rao 

Information available on remotely sensed images (aerial 

photography, satellite imagery): 

University of Alaska 

Geophysical Institute Geo-Data Center 

Elvy Bldg., Rm. 501 

Fairbanks, AK 99775 

(907) 474-7487 

Supervisor, Katherine K. Martz 

For information about U.S. Geological Survey research 

programs in Alaska, contact: 

U.S. Geological Survey 

Branch of Alaskan Geology 

4230 University Drive 

Anchorage, AK 99508 

(907) 271-4138 

For information about U.S. Bureau of Mines research 

programs in Alaska, contact: 

U.S. Bureau of Mines 

Alaska Field Operations Center 

201 East 9th Avenue, Suite 101 

Anchorage, AK 99501 

(907) 271-2455 

For information about Federal land status in Alaska, 

contact: 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

Alaska State Office 

701 C. Street 

P.O. Box 13 

Anchorage, AK 99513 

(907) 278-3343 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 17 
Arizona 

By John W. Welty 

The State of Arizona historically has been one of 

this country's leading nonfuel mineral producers. The 

rich diversity of geologic settings present in Arizona has 

allowed the economic exploitation of a wide variety of 

metallic and nonmetallic commodities. Over the last 30 

years, Arizona has been among the Nation's top five 

nonfuel mineral producers. Arizona's copper production 

and reserves are internationally known; less well known 

is Arizona's importance to the Nation with regard to production of molybdenum, zinc, silver, and gold, which are 

all derived largely as by-products of copper mining. Numerous other strategic and critical mineral commodities 

including lead, manganese, mercury, tungsten, uranium, 

and vanadium are currently or have been previously 

mined in Arizona. Arizona has been and continues to be 

an important regional and national source of industrial 

minerals and rock products including bentonite, cement, 

chrysotile (asbestos), gypsum, halite, lime, perlite, pumice, sand and gravel, and zeolites. 

The geologic history of Arizona is complex, resulting in a diversity of rock types and earth materials, including those of commercial interest. Regional variations 

in geologic history gave rise to three geologic provinces-the Colorado Plateau, Transition zone, and Basin 

and Range province-and an inequitable distribution of 

both metallic and nonmetallic mineral wealth. 

The Colorado Plateau is largely composed of flatlying Paleozoic and Mesozoic sedimentary rocks and late 

Cenozoic volcanic fields and sedimentary deposits (see 

"Geologic Time Chart" at end of report). Metallic mineral resources are primarily (1) uranium-vanadium deposits 

and occurrences in the Mesozoic Chinle and Morrison 

Formations; (2) solution-collapse breccia-pipe uranium 

deposits with significant concentrations of base and precious metals and rare-earth elements; (3) stratabound 

manganese replacement deposits in Paleozoic rocks; and 

( 4) minor stratabound copper deposits in Paleozoic and 

Mesozoic rocks. Nonmetallic occurrences include 

bentonite, gypsum, halite, sylvite, clay minerals, specialty sands, flagstone, volcanic rock products, and 

aggregate. 

The adjacent Transition zone features areally extensive exposures of Proterozoic rocks, economically important Devonian and Mississippian carbonate rocks, and 

Tertiary volcanic and sedimentary materials. Metallic 

mineral resources are predominantly base ~nd precious 

metals. This geologic province contains Proterozoic massive sulfide deposits, Proterozoic through Tertiary baseand precious-metal vein deposits, uranium deposits in 

Proterozoic and Pennsylvanian to Permian rocks, and 

less important tungsten and manganese resources. Nonmetallic resources in this province include facing and dimension stone, aggregate, decomposed granite, chrysotile (asbestos), gypsum, clay minerals, barite, fluorspar, 

zeolites, and several grades of limestone. 

The Basin and Range province has the most complex geologic history which resulted in the most diverse 

mineral resources. The geologic evolution of the Basin 

and Range province was comparable to that of the other 

two provinces during Proterozoic and Paleozoic time, 

but diverged by early Mesozoic time when the region 

underwent multiple episodes of Mesozoic to early Cenozoic plutonism, metamorphism, and regional deformation. A middle Tertiary episode of crustal extension, 

accommodated by regional detachment faulting and commonly younger high-angle normal faulting, is primarily 

responsible for the present physiography of the province. 

The majority of Arizona's nonfuel mineral production 

has come from this province. The metallogeny of the 

Basin and Range province is dominated by the presence 

of large tonnage, low-grade porphyry copper deposits of 

both Jurassic and late Cretaceous to early Tertiary age. 

Subordinate to the porphyry copper deposits, but still 

important to mineral resource development in Arizona, 

are the Tertiary volcanic-rock-related, precious-metaldominant vein deposits. Base- and precious-metal, and 

locally significant tungsten, vein deposits of Proterozoic 

to Tertiary age have also been historically meaningful 

metal producers. The recent recognition of the significance of middle Tertiary detachment faults and associated structures in western Arizona has led to the 

most recent major gold discovery in Arizona, the 

Copperstone mi(,le. Miocene strata in the Artillery Mountains area of the Basin and Range province host North 

America's largest manganese resource. Minor uranium 

resources also exist in middle and late Tertiary lake-bed 

sequences. Industrial mineral occurrences are likewise 

diverse, including halite, gypsum, clay minerals, aggregate, decomposed granite, diatomite, zeolites, perlite, 

pumice, kyanite, limestone, marble, dimension stone, 

and semi-precious stones. In addition, young stream 

deposits yield vast quantities of sand and gravel, 

Arizona's economically most important nonmetallic mineral commodity. 

The Arizona Geological Survey is the primary 

State agency responsible for mineral resource studies 

and geologic mapping within the State. The Arizona 

Geological Survey has been mandated by the State legislature to (1) inform the public in matters concerning the 

geological environment and the development of mineral 

resources in Arizona; (2) encourage the wise use of the 

lands and mineral resources of Arizona; (3) provide 

technical advice and assistance concerning geology to 

other State and local governmental agencies engaged in 

projects i~ which the geologic setting or the mineral resources of Arizona are involved; and ( 4) provide techni18 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
cal advice and assistance concerning geology to the 

mineral industry and other members of the public to 

encourage the wise development and use of the mineral 

and land resources of Arizona. The Arizona Geological 

Survey investigates, describes, and interprets the geologic setting of Arizona, including its natural hazards 

and limitations, its natural attributes, and its mineral 

resources. 

The results of the agency's research are reported 

annually in the "Arizona Geological Survey Annual Report, [year]." As part of a continuing program to better 

understand the mineral endowment of Arizona, the Arizona Geological Survey staff pursues a vigorous program of geologic mapping within and around areas of 

known mineralization. Where appropriate, the field studies are supplemented by geochemical, geochronological, 

and laboratory studies to provide a greater understanding 

of the genesis of Arizona mineral deposits. The Arizona 

Geological Survey also maintains data bases and data 

collections as a resource for the mineral explorationist. 

These collections include: (1) a compilation of mineral 

production data, bibliographic citations, ore deposit 

model classifications, and assorted file data for all 456 

metallic mineral deposits in Arizona (a similar compilation is being prepared for the known industrial mineral 

and rock product localities in Arizona); (2) a compilation 

of radiometric age determinations in Arizona (1,699 KAr, Ar-Ar, Rb-Sr, fission-track, isotopic lead, and leadalpha age determinations that have been indexed by 

ascending age order, geographic area, formation or rock 

unit name, and original sample number); (3) a collection 

of drill core, largely donated by the mineral exploration 

industry, and well cuttings from oil and gas borings with 

drill logs and some geophysical logs; and (4) a collection of unpublished reports and maps, theses, dissertations, geologists field notes, and obscure U.S. Atomic 

Energy Commission reports pertinent to the geologic setting of Arizona (maintained by the Arizona Geological 

Survey library). 

Two other State agencies, the Arizona Department 

of Mines and Mineral Resources and the Arizona State 

Land Department, also provide information relevant to 

mineral resources in Arizona. The primary objective of 

the Department of Mines and Mineral Resources is to 

promote the development of Arizona's mineral resources 

by sponsoring technical and educational activities and by 

providing mining, metallurgical, and other technical information and assistance to prospectors, small-mine operators, the mineral industry, and others interested in 

Arizona's mineral resources. The Arizona Department of 

Mines and Mineral Resources maintains the following 

collections: (1) an information bank and library of mineral and mining information, including books, periodicals, films, videotapes, and individual mine files; (2) a 

repository of underground mine maps and mine data; (3) 

a mineral museum, as the State depository of ores, gemstones, lapidary material, and other valuable mineral 

specimens. The Arizona State Land Department administers some 9.5 million acres of land held in trust for the 

State's public schools and 13 other beneficiaries. The 

Nonrenewable Resources and Minerals Section of the 

State Land Department manages subsurface leasing activities and nonrenewable resources to generate revenue 

for the 14 State Trust beneficiaries. In addition to overseeing mineral-material sales, the Nonrenewable Resources and Minerals Section issues: prospecting permits; 

mineral, oil and gas, and geothermal leases; and permits 

for geophysical prospecting. Ancillary programs include 

research on proposed land sales and exchanges, environmental impact studies, reviews of mining and reclamation plans, and contracting of archeological surveys and 

excavations. 

In April of 1988, the U.S. Department of the Interior announced the establishment of an office in Tucson, 

Ariz.,· to facilitate coordination of U.S. Geological Survey and U.S. Bureau of Mines mineral resource research, 

assessment, and informational activities with other Federal, State, and local agencies in the southwestern United 

States. The purpose of the U.S. Geological Survey's Tucson Field Office is to (1) establish closer communication 

with State and local governments, industry, and other 

Federal agencies with interests in the resources of the 

southwestern United States and Latin America; (2) develop and maintain a digital mineral resource information base for this region; and (3) improve the areal 

expertise of the U.S. Geological Survey in mineral resources through detailed studies of the region's mineral 

deposits and mining districts. Also, the U.S. Geological 

Survey has opened a Minerals Information Office in cooperation with the Arizona Geological Survey at the 

State Survey Office. The Minerals Information Office, a 

new endeavor of the U.S. Geological Survey, complements the services available from the Arizona Geological 

Survey and makes the location a "one-stop shopping 

place" for mineral resource informatio~. The Minerals 

Information Office staff provides information about and 

access to U.S. Geological Survey minerals data bases, 

commodity specialists, and publications for the benefit 

of the public, industry, and State and Federal officials. 

The office also seeks to improve the exchange of information among Federal agencies and other mineral information users. The Tucson office of the U.S. Bureau of 

Mines provides regional and local representation and 

contact with the mineral-producing industries, government agencies, and mineral-consuming public in Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. Specific duties of U.S. 

Bureau of Mines staff, in Tucson, include the following: 

(1) providing a liaison between the U.S. Bureau of 

Mines and top industry and State officials; (2) interfacing with State and local mineral-related agencies, private 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 19 
companies, educational and research institutions, the 

media, and the public; (3) authoring analytical assessments of various aspects of the mineral industry; (4) 

monitoring mineral-related activities of interest to the 

U.S. Bureau of Mines and U.S. Department of the Interior; (5) determining issues or concerns that impact the 

mineral industry and suggest means for their resolution; 

(6) analyzing and interpreting data on mineral deposits 

and assessing identified mineral resources; (7) describing 

and delimiting mineralized zones and developing probabilistic reserve and resource evaluations; and (8) estimating capital and operating costs for mining and 

metallurgical systems. 

Mineral Information Facts at a Glance-Arizona 

General mineral resource inquiries and publications 

sales: 

Arizona Geological Survey 

845 North Park Avenue, #100 

Tucson, AZ 85719 

(602) 882-4795 

Office hours: 8:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

(see fig. 7 for location) 

This office offers the following services, at no 

charge unless otherwise noted: 

•Specimen/sample identification 

•Core library (available by appointment) 

•Well cuttings repository 

•Newsletter; "Arizona Geology," published quarterly, free to 

U.S. residents 

•List of publications, over 300 publications pertaining to the 

geology of Arizona updated annually 

•Most popular publications (contact the above address for 

postage and handling charges): 

Geologic Map of Arizona, Map 26, $5.00 

Arizona Lode Gold Mines and Gold Mining, 

Bulletin 137, $7.50 

Metallic Mineral Districts and Production in Arizona, 

Bulletin 194, $7.00 

•Data bases: 

Digital 

Metallic mineral districts 

Bibliography for metallic mineral districts 

Radiometric age composition 

Oil and gas well locations, logs, and cuttings library 

Thesis/dissertation index on Arizona geology 

Conodont color alteration index 

Geologic mapping in Arizona 

Nondigital 

Industrial mineral and rock occurrences 

Metallic mine site files 

For information on mine development in Arizona, 

contact: 

Arizona Department of Mines and Mineral Resources 

Mineral Bldg., State Fairgrounds 

Phoenix, AZ 85007 

(602) 255-3791 

Office hours: 8:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

Directories of Earth Science Clubs, Exploration Offices, Active 

Mines, Arizona Mining Consultants, and "The Primary Copper 

Industry of Arizona in [year]" are published annually, and 

copies of the laws and regulations governing mineral rights in 

Arizona are available from this agency. 

For information on mineral exploration on State Trust 

lands, contact: 

Arizona State Land Department 

Nonrenewable Resources and Minerals Section 

1616 West Adams Street 

Phoenix, AZ 85007 

(602) 255-4628 

Office hours: 8:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

For information about U.S. Geological Survey research 

programs in Arizona and other southwestern region 

states, contact: 

U.S. Geological Survey 

Tucson Field Office 

University of Arizona 

Gould-Simpson Bldg., #77 

Tucson, AZ 85721 

(602) 670..5500 

Office hours: 8:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

For information about U.S. Bureau of Mines research 

programs in Arizona and other southwestern region 

states, contact: 

U.S. Bureau of Mines 

Corbett Building 

210 East 7th Street 

Tucson, AZ 85705 

(602) 670-5110 

Office hours: 8:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

20 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
our 

location ... 

-N

~ -

1 

---, 

I 

L----

UNIVERSITY 

OF 

ARIZONA 

Campus 

ARIZONA 

GEOLOGICAL 

SURVEY 

845 N. Park Avenue 

Suite 100 

Tucson, Arizona 85719 

(602) 882-4795 

Figure 7. Location of Arizona Geological Survey, Tucson, Arizona. 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 21 
California 

By Ralph Loyd and john Rapp 

The State of California is well known for its great 

wealth and diversity of mineral resources. There are 78 

nonfuel minerals known to be mined within the State, 

about half of which are being mined at the present time. 

California is the sole producer of borate minerals in the 

Nation, is the source of over half the total world rareearth minerals production, and leads the Nation in the 

production of portland cement, diatomite, calcined gypsum, asbestos, construction sand and gravel, and tungsten. California also ranks high among the States in the 

production of gold, natural calcium chloride, magnesium 

compounds, and sodium compounds. There are about 

1,000 producing mines in California, the largest group 

being construction aggregate, with other industrial minerals and metal mines ranking second and third respectively. The State's mineral production for 1988 is 

estimated to be valued at over $2.7 billion. 

Producing mines are located in 57 of the 58 counties and in all of the 11 geomorphic provinces of the 

State. A five-county area in the desert region of southeastern California is considered to be one of the most 

important mineral repositories in the world. Over 25 different types of minerals valued at $1.3 billion were 

mined in the desert region during 1987. 

The California Department of Conservation, 

Division of Mines and Geology is the State agency 

responsible for mineral resource studies and geologic 

mapping within the State. Mineral resource' studies are 

carried out by personnel in the Division's Mineral 

Resources Development Program. This program provides 

government decision makers, industry, and the public 

with current information regarding mineral potential and 

mining activity in California. Emphasis is placed on 

providing information which can be used to make 

prudent decisions in areas of the State where development 

of mineral resources is threatened by proposed 

land uses that are incompatible with mining. The 

Division also provides technical assistance to local government agencies concerning reclamation of mined lands. 

Products generated by the Mineral Resource Development Program include (1) maps and reports classifying land according to the presence, absence, or likely 

occurrence of economically significant mineral deposits; 

(2) computerized data bases related to mining activities, 

mineral resources, and specific mineral commodities; 

and (3) topical economic geology studies. This information is available through the Division's Public Information and Sales Office. Program accomplishments are 

summarized and published annually in the "Report of the 

State Geologist" and in the "Annual Report of the State 

Mining and Geology Board." 

Mineral resource related publications of the Division are: 

•Geologic Data Maps.-Small-scale (1:750,000) 

statewide maps showing geology, gravity data, active 

faults, earthquake epicenters, geothermal sites, and other 

geologic features. 

•Regional Geological and Geophysical Maps.-A 

map series published at 1:250,000 and 1:100,000 scale 

which shows regional geology, active faults, magnetic 

data, gravity data, and other geologic features. This series includes maps of offshore areas. 

•Map Sheets.-Large-scale (1:62,500 and 

1:24,000) geologic maps related to mineral resource or 

geologic-hazards studies. These maps are commonly released with explanatory Special Reports or Special Publications. 

• Mineral Land Classification Reports.-A series of 

reports which includes large-scale maps (1:48,000 and 

1 :62,500) showing mineral resource potential and local 

geology in certain areas of the State. 

•Special Reports and Special Publications.-Publications used to disseminate the results of many of the 

Division's project studies, selected topical geologic studies, and newly generated data such as the "List of Mineral Producers Active in California." 

•"California Geology. "-A monthly magazine published by the Division of Mines and Geology which includes articles that have broad appeal to readers who 

have interest in the geology, mineral resources, and geologic hazards of California. 

•Open-File Reports.-Open-file reports generally 

include preliminary reports and large-scale maps showing geologic, geophysical, mineral resource, or geologic 

hazard data. 

•"DMG Notes."-The Division of Mines and Geology distributes a series of informational notes and pamphlets covering various geologic topics. 

Mineral resource related services of the Division 

are: 

•Computerized Mineral Property Data Base.-The 

Division of Mines and Geology is currently developing a 

computerized index system and files on mineral properties located in California. Named MINEFILE.DBF, this 

system will provide rapid access to existing mineral 

property reports and information related to active 

and idle mines and mineral properties throughout the 

State. 

•Public Information Service.-Public information 

staff are located at each of the Division's regional 

offices listed below to assist in finding pertinent publications and answering general questions. The staff commonly arranges direct public contact with the Division 

geologist who has expertise in the areas of the inquirer's 

interest. 

22 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
•Research Library Service.-The Division of 

Mines and Geology maintains a central and branch library system which is accessible to the public for research purposes. Book lending is possible through 

interlibrary loan service. 

Mineral Information Facts at a Glance-California 

General mineral resource publications sales and inquiries: 

Division of Mines and Geology publications are 

distributed through the regional offices located in 

Los Angeles, Pleasant Hill, and Sacramento, or 

they can be ordered through the mail. For list of 

the available publications and ordering information 

write: 

Department of Conservation 

Division of Mines and Geology 

P.O. Box 2980 

Sacramento, California 95812 

(916) 445-5716 

Division of Mines and Geology Office locations 

(see fig. 8): 

Office of the State Geologist 

1416 9th Street, Room 1341 

Sacramento, CA 95814 

(916) 445-1923 

Public Information, Sales, and Library Services 

660 Bercut Drive 

Sacramento, CA 95814 

(916) 445-5716 

Bay Area Regional Office, and Branch Library 

380 Civic Drive 

Pleasant Hill, CA 94523-1997 

(415) 671-4920 

Southern California Regional Office 

107 South Broadway, Room 1065 

Los Angeles, CA 90012 

(213) 620-3560 

Office hours: 8:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 23 
BAY AREA REGIONAL OFFICE c 

CAliFORNIA 

DEPARTMENT 

Of CONSERVATION 

Division of Mines and Geology 

SACRAMENTO OFFICES 

Figure 8. Locations of Division of Mines and Geology offices in California. 

24 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Westem United States 
Colorado 

By Mark Davis 

The State of Colorado contains diverse mineral resources. Colorado is a leading producer of molybdenum 

and an important producer of gold, silver, lead, and zinc. 

During the early 1980's the price of gold increased to 

over $800/oz, a level which encouraged many companies 

to explore the gold-producing states. Old mines were reopened and their waste rock was analyzed and in many 

cases reprocessed. Cripple Creek, Colorado, was of great 

interest because it is a historic gold-producing area. 

Cripple Creek had produced over 20 million ounces of 

gold. Much gold remained in the mine dumps and was 

amenable to modem extraction methods, such as heap 

leaching. This historic mining district is once again producing gold. 

Uranium and vanadium have been produced from 

the Colorado Plateau in southwestern Colorado and from 

the vanadium deposits at Rifle and Placerville. At one 

time, radium and thorium were also produced; radium 

from plateau sediments and thorium from veins in the 

metamorphic rocks of the Wet Mountains. Thorium demand is relatively low now, but greater reliance on 

nuclear power generation and conversion to high-temperature gas reactors could greatly increase demand. 

Industrial minerals form a major part of Colorado's 

mineral resources. Alluvial sand and gravel and quarried 

aggregate have been very important to the growth of 

Colorado. There is constant demand for these materials. 

Colorado has excellent deposits of both chemical- and 

cement-grade limestone that are currently under production. The State contains many deposits of both brick 

quality and refractory clays. The wall board industry is 

currently expanding in Colorado as excellent deposits of 

gypsum are developed on the western slope. Also on the 

western slope are large resources of oil shale that may 

become economic if refining technology improves and 

oil prices increase. Occurring with the oil shale, and also 

separately, are substantial reserves of nahcolite which 

have sparked recent industry interest. 

Colorado has huge undeveloped resources of certain strategic minerals that could supply significant percentages, if not all, of the national requirements for 

those commodities. Columbium, titanium, and aluminum 

mineral resources fall into this category. Their development, however, is dependent on one or more of several 

economic factors including a decrease in the availability 

of relatively cheap imports, technological breakthroughs 

in improved beneficiation and recovery, government subsidies, availability of large amounts of venture capital, 

and, in the case of aluminum from dawsonite, on largescale development of oil shale in areas containing saline 

minerals. 

Other strategic mineral commodities have been 

produced in Colorado in the past. Deposits of these minerals have the potential to supply lower but still significant percentages of the Nation's strategic mineral 

requirements. These deposits include tungsten, titanium, 

tin, and, fluorspar. Future production of tungsten and 

fluorspar is more dependent on favorable price structure 

than on any other factor. Tin, produced as a by-product 

of molybdenum, is dependent on production at Climax, 

Colo. Current research conducted by the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bureau of Mines Salt Lake City 

Research Center points to a technologic breakthrough in 

recovery of titanium from perovskite. Preliminary results 

of research indicate an almost twofold increase in the 

extraction of titanium from perovskite concentrate. Previous methods recovered only about 50 percent of the 

titanium; however, the new process recovers more than 

95 percent. This new improved process of recovering titanium from concentrate is an example of technologic 

breakthroughs needed to allow economic recovery and 

production of domestic strategic minerals. 

Colorado has an extremely varied dimension stone 

industry. Many years of production of sandstone have 

provided sidewalks and facing stone on many buildings, 

including most buildings on the campus of the University of Colorado. 

White marble has been produced from the famous 

Yule Marble Quarry in western Colorado. The mine is 

currently being evaluated for resumption of production. 

The Yule marble has been used at the Lincoln Memorial 

and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington, 

D.C., as well as many buildings in Denver and other major cities. Alabaster has also been mined in Colorado 

from quarries near Livermore and at Owl Canyon northwest of Fort Collins. 

Rock hounds and collectors are always interested 

in minerals and gems. Colorado offers some excellent 

opportunities for prospecting for these materials. Popular 

sites include amethyst near La Garita, topaz near Taryall, 

Apache tears at Los Pinos, smoky quartz near Devil' s 

Head Mountain, and many others. Diamonds associated 

with kimberlite pipes near the Wyoming border form the 

most noteworthy gem occurrence in Colorado. 

Mineral Information Facts at a Glance-Colorado 

General mineral resource inquiries and publication sales: 

Colorado Geological Survey 

1313 Shennan Street, Suite 715 

Denver, Colorado 80,703 

(303) 866-2611 

Office hours: 8:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

This office offers the following services at no cost, 

unless otherwise noted: 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 25 
•Specimen/sample identification 

•Building stone and quarry identification 

•Newsletter published annually 

•Selected U.S. Geological Survey maps available for sale 

•Free brochures on a variety of topics of general interest including mineral collecting, fossil collecting, and gold panning 

This office maintains a geologic library, geologic hazards 

library, microfiche and reader, printouts from Federal mineral 

resource data bases, and many U.S. Geological Survey publications. 

The following State resource agencies are located at the 

same address as the Colorado Geological Survey: 

Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Division (303-866-3567), 

which oversees mine permitting and includes the Colorado 

Division of Mines 

Colorado Land Board (303-866-3454), which is responsible for 

leasing State land 

Colorado Water Resources Division (303-866-3581) 

26 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
Hawaii 

The geology of Hawaii is one of the State's most 

interesting features. Information and referrals concerning 

the geology, and volcanoes, as well as limited minerals 

data, can be obtained from: 

Chairperson 

State of Hawaii 

Department of Land and Natural Resources 

P.O. Box 621 

Honolulu, HI 96809 

(808) 548-6550 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 27 
Idaho 

By Earl Bennett 

Idaho leads the nation in the production of silver, 

garnet, and vanadium. In addition, Idaho claims about 10 

percent of the Nation's phosphate production. The 

State's mines also produce considerable gold and nonmetallic materials including pumice, zeolites, perlite, 

limestone, building stone, silica, and sand and gravel. 

The mining industry has the highest-paid industrial work 

force in the State and is the fourth major contributor to 

the State's economy, following agriculture, timber, and 

electronics. 

Idaho's mineral wealth is a direct result of its geology. The largest silver-producing district in the world is 

located in Precambrian rocks of the Belt Supergroup in 

Shoshone County in the northern panhandle of the State, 

while large resources of phosphate are mined from the 

Phosphoria Formation of Permian age in the southeastern 

corner of Idaho (see "Geologic Time Chart" at end of 

report). A gold rush of historical proportion is underway 

throughout the old gold mining districts of central and 

southern Idaho. Many of these deposits are hosted by 

plutonic and volcanic rocks ranging from Cretaceous to 

Tertiary in age. Other deposits include a major molybdenum mine in Custer County and massive sulfides in the 

accreted terrane of Permian to Triassic age in western 

Idaho. Industrial minerals are actively mined throughout 

the State and exist as large undeveloped resources. 

These resources include perlite, pumice, diatomite, 

silica, limestone, zeolite, and garnet. 

The Idaho Geological Survey is the lead State 

agency for the collection, interpretation, and dissemination of all geologic and minerals data for the State. The 

results of the agency's research are released through several series of publications, including bulletins, information circulars, pamphlets, county reports, various kinds 

of maps, and technical reports. There are over 435 of 

these publications listed in the annually updated "List of 

Publications," available at no cost. Especially useful for 

minerals information is the Mines and Prospects map series (scale 1 :250,000) that lists information for about 

8,000 mines and prospects in the State, and the companion Geologic Map Series, that shows the State's geology. 

The Idaho Geological Survey also publishes an annual 

report of its activities and research efforts and a report 

of all mining activity and development in the State. 

The Survey maintains an electron microprobe laboratory and has access to other laboratory equipment 

shared with the College of Mines and Earth Resources at 

the University of Idaho. A limited number of free 

semiquantitative analyses are available to the State's citizens and the lab does most routine rock and mineral 

identifications at no cost. 

Mineral Information Facts at a Glance-Idaho 

General mineral resource inquiries and publication sales: 

Main Office 

Idaho Geological Survey 

332 Morrill Hall 

University of Idaho 

Moscow, ID 83843 

(208) 885-7991 

Branches 

Boise Branch Office 

Idaho Geological Survey 

1910 University Drive 

Math-Geology, Room 104 

Boise State University 

Boise, ID 83705 

(208) 385-4002 

Pocatello Branch Office 

Idaho Geological Survey 

P.O. Box 8071 

Idaho State University 

Pocatello, ID 83205 

(208) 236-3235 

Office hours: Winter-8:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through 

Friday. Summer-7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.-Monday through 

Friday 

These offices offer the following services at no 

cost, unless otherwise noted: 

•Free literature concerning the mineral industry and other aspects of the State's geology and mineral resources are available in the Survey's offices. Most important is the annually 

updated "List of Publications," listing all Survey publications and containing forms and information for mail orders. 

•Copies of all Idaho Geological Survey publications may be 

purchased at the main office or ordered by mail from the 

branch offices. Customers can mail orders to the main office 

using forms provided in the free "List of Publications." 

•The Idaho Geological Survey is an authorized sales outlet for 

all U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps for Idaho. 

These include 1:24,000-, 1:62,500-, 1:100,000-, 1:250,000-, 

and 1 :500,000-scale maps. 

•The Idaho Geological Survey library contains information 

about the geology and ore deposits of Idaho and is available 

to the public during normal working hours. Microfiche and 

copying equipment is available in the library area. 

•The Survey will provide a limited number of free 

semiquantitative analyses of minerals and rocks to Idaho 

citizens. The Survey will also identify a limited number of 

rocks and minerals at no cosL Contact: Charles R. Knowles, 

Idaho Geological Survey, 332 Morrill Hall, University of 

Idaho, Moscow, ID 83843. (208) 885-6785. 

•For information concerning mining operations, regulations or 

other minerals information contact: Earl H. Bennett, State 

Geologist, 332 Morrill Hall, University of Idaho, Moscow, 

ID 83843. (208) 885-6860. 

28 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
Data bases availabl~ to library users (Note: Currently 

none of the following data bases are in a digital format. However, the Idaho Geological Survey is presently building digital data bases for the Geologic Map 

Series, Mines and Prospects Series, and a new State 

bibliography based on the 1 :250,000-scale format): 

•Copies of all Idaho Geological Survey publications 

•Mines and Prospects Map Series---Information on 8,000 mines 

and prospects in the State. Most references are available in 

the library 

•Individual files on most industrial mineral and rock commodities for the State 

•The U.S. Geological Survey Mineral Resource Data System 

(MRDS) for Idaho 

•The U.S. Bureau of Mines Mineral Industry Location System 

(MILS) for Idaho 

•All National Uranium Resource Evaluation reports and data for 

Idaho 

•A listing of all of the Federal Defense Minerals Exploration 

Administration and Office of Minerals Exploration studies 

done in Idaho. Very few of the reports are available in the 

library. The U.S. Geological Survey in Spokane, Washington, does have many of the Defense Minerals Exploration 

Administration and Office of Minerals Exploration study reports on file 

•Annual reports for about 500 of the leading mining companies 

in the world 

• Annual reports on all Idaho mining companies 

•An extensive newspaper clippings file covering about 10 years 

of mining and related activity in Idaho 

•Geologic Map Series-Compilations of State geology at a 

scale of 1 :250,000. An ongoing index keeps track of new 

additions. Most references are available in the library 

•All U.S. Geological Survey open-file reports for Idaho 

•All U.S. Bureau of Mines open-file reports for Idaho 

•Indexes to all U.S. Geological Survey and U.S. Bureau of 

Mines publications 

•Files on all industrial mineral and rock localities and operations in Idaho 

•Copies of most U.S. Bureau of Mines and U.S. Geological Survey publications that deal with the geology and mineral 

resources of Idaho 

•State Mine Inspector's Reports (1899-1979) and indexes. Many 

of the original reports filed with the State Mine Inspector are 

available in the IGS library 

•U.S. Bureau of Mines Yearbook chapters for Idaho (1893-

present) 

•U.S. Bureau of Land Management mining claim location microfiche. Updated every three months 

•Copies of many M.S. and Ph.D. theses on the geology and ore 

deposits of Idaho 

•Oil and gas logs for all holes drilled to date 

•Earthquake and seismic records for the State 

•Selected aerial photography (various formats and scales) and 

Landsat imagery covering Idaho 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 29 
,\ttontana 

By Richard Berg 

Montana produces a variety of mineral commodities, both metallic and nonmetallic, as well as coal, petroleum, and natural gas. Major metals produced in the 

State are copper and silver from metasedimentary rocks 

of the Proterozoic Belt Supergroup, palladium and platinum from the Archean Stillwater Complex, copper and 

molybdenum from the Cretaceous Boulder batholith, and 

gold, silver, lead and zinc from vein deposits related to 

Tertiary igneous rocks, both intrusive and extrusive (see 

"Geologic Time Chart" at end of report). Twelve industrial mineral commodities as diverse as vermiculite and 

sapphire are also mined. In recent years, Montana has 

been the leading State in value of talc produced. Eight 

additional industrial mineral commodities have been 

mined in the past. Montana is a substantial producer of 

subbituminous and lignite coal with estimated strippable 

reserves of 50 billion tons. The diverse geologic environments, particularly in the western part of the State, 

provide opportunities for the discovery of additional 

mineral resources. 

The Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, a department of the Montana College of Mineral Science and 

Technology, is the primary source of information on the 

State's mineral resources. The active geologic mapping 

program includes areas with significant mineral potential. Publications specifically dealing with mineral resources include the results of investigations of individual 

mining districts and reports on industrial mineral commodities. Information on mineral deposits gleaned both 

from published and unpublished sources is entered into 

the Montana Mine and Mineral Data System. Information entered into this system has been released in hard 

copy format for two counties with plans to release more 

as it becomes available. A similar program for the 

State's coal resources is the National Coal Resource 

Data System (NCRDS), a cooperative program between 

the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology and the U.S. 

Geological Survey. Information entered· into this system 

is used in publishing reports on the coal resources of 

specific areas. 

An annual directory of mining enterprises lists active mines and many mines in the development stage. 

Another annual report concentrates on new developments in the mining industry and includes information 

on exploration activities. An annual list of geologic research activities includes studies on mineral resources by 

faculty, students, and State and Federal agencies. 

Files of unpublished information on mines, including some mine maps, are available for inspection and 

photocopying. The Anaconda Research Collection, containing over 12,000 vein and wall rock specimens from 

the Butte ore body, many with accompanying thin sections and mineralogical information, is available for detailed study. The Mineral Museum situated on the 

Montana Tech campus has over 1,200 specimens on display, many from famous mining districts. Three short 

courses offered annually by the Montana Bureau of 

Mines and Geology cover placer mining, prospecting, 

and important aspects of development, mining and milling. The Montana Tech Library has substantial holdings 

dealing with mineral resources and more than 700 theses 

dealing with Montana geology. 

Although all staff members are available to provide assistance in their areas of expertise, Robin 

McCulloch, the Staff Field Agent, is the main source of 

information on mineral deposits and the mineral industry 

in general. His phone number is (406) 496-4171. The 

Staff Field Agent visits mining properties, offering helpful advice to the operators of small mines at their request. In those instances where more extensive 

assistance is required, the individual is encouraged to 

employ qualified consultants. Rock and mineral specimens are identified on a routine basis and the individual 

submitting the material is advised about further testing if 

the samples are indicative of possible economic deposits. 

Mineral Information Facts at a Glance-Montana 

General mineral resource inquiries and publication sales: 

Majn Office 

Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology 

Montana Tech 

Main Hall, Room 200 

Butte, MT 59701 

(406) 496-4174 or 496-4167 

Office hours: 8:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

(see fig. 9 for location) 

Billings Office 

Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology 

Eastern Montana College 

1500 North 30th Street 

Petro Hall, Room 321 

Billings, MT 59101 

(406) 657-2938 

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to noon and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.-

Monday through Friday 

Available in Butte office (Note: All publications orders 

must be paid for in advance by cash, check, or money 

order): 

•Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology publications (out of 

print publications available on loan) 

30 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
MONTANA 

TECH 

CAMPUS 

\.! 

ISSouJ a- Dillon 

I I 

Montana 

~Bureau of 

; Mines and 

, i Geology 

A.. Mineral /??\???? Museum 

Street Berkeley 

Pit 

Figure 9. Location of Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, Butte, Montana. 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 31 
•Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Open-File Reports and 

Maps 6 

•U.S. Geological Survey geologic maps and some bulletins and 

professional papers on Montana geology 

•U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps for Montana 

• Various publications of other organizations, including geologic 

guidebooks, are available for sale 

•Free catalog of publications distributed by the Montana Bureau 

of Mines and Geology 

•Bibliography on metallic mineral deposits 

•Index of theses on Montana geology 

•Popular publication: "Montana in the Geologic Past" by Perry 

•Pamphlet Series (new series, first pamphlet on Butte) 

•This office is an Earth Science Information Center and as such 

provides ordering information for aerial photos and maps 

from a variety of sources 

Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology is not engaged 

in any regulatory activities. For information on regulations governing exploration and mining activities any6

U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Reports and Maps are available in the Montana Tech Library as are more than 700 theses dealing 

with Montana geology. 

where in Montana and leasing minerals on State lands 

contact: 

Department of State Lands 

1625 Eleventh Avenue 

Helena, MT 59601 

(406) 444-2074 

Office hours: 8:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m.--Monday through Friday 

The Department of State Lands is the lead agency 

in obtaining permits for mining. The State Historic Preservation Office, the Air Quality Bureau and Water Quality Bureau of the Department of Health and 

Environmental Sciences, and the Department of Natural 

Resources are also frequently involved in the permitting 

process. The Hard Rock Mining Impact Board is responsible for negotiations between local government units 

and large-scale mineral developers. 

32 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
·Nevada 

By Becky Weimer Purkey 

Nevada is well endowed with mineral wealth and 

ranked third in the U.S. in total nonfuel mineral production in 1989 (U.S. Bureau of Mines data). Nevada is the 

leading domestic producer of gold, silver, and barite and 

is the sole U.S. producer of mined magnesite and mercury. Other mineral commodities mined in Nevada are 

sand and gravel, crushed stone, petroleum, clay, gemstones, gypsum, copper, diatomite, fluorspar, iron ore, 

lime, lithium minerals, molybdenum, portland cement, 

and salt. 

The Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology is aresearch and public service unit of the Mackay School of 

Mines at the University of Nevada, Reno and is the State 

geological survey. Other units of the Mackay School of 

Mines, specifically the academic-teaching departments of 

chemical and metallurgical engineering, mining engineering, and geological sciences, conduct research in 

mining, exploration, and mineral processing technologies. The Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology 

conducts research in three broad categories: mineral resources, environmental studies, and geologic mapping. 

Current studies of mineral resources include mineral resource assessments of military land withdrawals, 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management resource areas, the 

Reno 30- by 60-minute quadrangle, Elko County, and 

the entire State; epithermal gold-silver deposits; metallic 

mineral deposits associated with porphyritic igneous 

rocks; bulk-mineable mineral deposits in Nevada; 

borates, copper, mercury, and hydrothermal platinum 

group metal deposits in Nevada; ultra-potassic igneous 

rocks; bastnaesite stability studies; solubility of platinum 

group metals in hydrothermal solutions; trace-element 

geochemical signatures in advanced argillic alteration 

zones of the Reno-Virginia City area; assay standards for 

precious metals; distribution of anions in soils around an 

epithermal gold deposit in eastern Nevada; economic impacts of mining in Nevada; and applications of geographic information systems (GIS) to mineral resources 

and other aspects of geology. 

Current environmental studies include neotectonics 

of Nevada; Quaternary faulting and neotectonics of the 

Yucca Mountain area; preliminary investigation of radon 

hazards; Quaternary geology of southern Nevada; earthquake hazards; debris flows and landslides; and land 

subsidence due to ground-water withdrawal. 

Geologic mapping is progressing on various quadrangles, primarily at 1:24,000 and 1:100,000 scales. 

The information gained in geologic and mineral 

resource studies is published in scientific journals and 

in Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology bulletins, 

reports, maps, open-file reports, special publications, 

data bases, and newsletters. In addition, Nevada Bureau 

of Mines and Geology staff members present papers 

at professional meetings, give lectures, lead field trips 

at State and National geological symposia, conduct tours 

of Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology facilities, 

and answer questions in person and by letter and telephone. 

Publications by the Nevada Bureau of Mines and 

Geology and other agencies and individuals are on display and available for purchase in the publications sales 

office. A publications list and order form will be sent 

free upon request. This office also carries a complete 

collection of U.S. Geological Survey topographic and 

geologic maps of Nevada. 

The Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology also 

maintains an open-file information office. Inquiries are 

handled in person or by letter or telephone. General categories of information located and maintained in this office include oil, gas, and geothermal and production 

statistics, engineering geology reports; mining district. 

records and maps; mineral resources and reserves; mineral resource assessments; wilderness study areas; general geologic studies; indexes and ordering information 

for maps, air photos and remote sensing imagery; a core 

and cuttings library; mining claim data; and the Nevada 

Bureau of Mines and Geology, U.S. Geological Survey, 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Bureau of 

Mines, and U.S. Department of Energy open-file reports 

concerning the geology and mineral resources of Nevada. The various information banks are accompanied by 

1:1,000,000-scale index maps, and some of the information in the office is available through our computer data 

base search and retrieval system in computer data base 

listings. Selected bibliographies are maintained on some 

subjects, and all files are being updated on a continuous 

basis. Pamphlets on various geological and cartographic 

subjects and rock/mineral samples are provided free to 

the public through this office. This office is the Nevada 

State affiliate for the U.S. Geological Survey's Earth 

Science Information Center, and the U.S. Geological 

Survey established a regional Minerals Information Office here in 1989. 

The Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology runs a 

geochemical laboratory for its research projects and for 

serving the citizens of Nevada. Rocks are analyzed for 

many elements. The fee is $5 per element per sample. 

Gold and silver fire assays are $10 per sample. X-ray 

fluorescence and x-ray diffraction analyses are also 

available. 

The Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology has no 

regulatory functions but cooperates fully with State and 

Federal agencies that regulate mining, petroleum and 

geothermal production, and engineering activities. Mining and oil, gas, and geothermal drilling operations are 

regulated on the State level by several offices including 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 33 
the State Mining Inspector, the Nevada Department of 

Minerals, the Department of Conservation and Natural 

Resources (Division of Environmental Protection), all of 

which are located in Carson City, and the Department of 

Wildlife, which is located in Reno. 

Currently, approximately 86 percent of Nevada is 

public land. The U.S. Bureau of Land Management operates offices around the State to regulate mining and oil, 

gas, and geothermal drilling operations on Federal land. 

The Nevada State Office of the U.S. Bureau of Land 

Management is located in Reno and includes mining 

claim recordation, mineral resources, biological resources, planning and environmental coordination, engineering, cadastral survey, lands and minerals operations, 

mapping and photogrammetry, and public information 

divisions. 

Mineral Information Facts at a Glance-Nevada 

General mineral resource inquiries: 

Information Office 

Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology 

University of Nevada, Reno 

Reno, NV 89557-0088 

(702) 784-6691 

FAX: (702) 784-1709 

Office hours: 8:00a.m. to 4:30 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

(see fig. 10 for location) 

Publications and map sales office (method of payment of 

publications: cash, check, MasterCard, Visa, or money 

order; all mail orders must be prepaid): 

•Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology publications list (free) 

•Annual list of active mines (published as Special Publications, 

or contact the Geologic Computer Specialist for an updated 

list) 

•Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology publications 

•U.S. Geological Survey topographic and geologic maps of Nevada 

... Nevada Geology .. quarterly newsletter (free) 

•Books, articles, and maps on Nevada geology, rock and mineral collecting, and mining history by publishers other than 

Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology (not listed in the Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology publications list) 

•Assays ($5.00 per element per sample, and $10.00 per sample 

for gold and silver by fire assay). For more information, 

contact the Chief Chemist/Geochemist 

•Data bases (see publications list). For more information contact 

the Geologic Computer Specialist 

•Out-of-print, open-file, and unpublished reports and maps 

available for inspection and copying 

For information on State mining and oil, gas, and 

geothermal drilling, leasing, and regulation, contact: 

Nevada Department of Minerals 

400 West King Street, Suite 106 

Carson City, NV 89710 

(702) 687-5050 

Nevada Division of Mine Inspection 

1380 South Curry Street 

Carson City. NV 89710 

(702) 687-5243 

Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources 

201 S. Fall Street 

Carson City. NV 89710 

(702) 687-4360 

Division of Environmental Protection 

123 West Nye Lane 

Carson City. NV 89710 

(702) 687-4670 

Nevada Department of Wildlife 

1100 Valley Road 

Reno, NV 89512 

(702) 789-0500 

Office hours for the above State agencies: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 

p.m.-Monday through Friday 

For information on Federal mining and oil, gas, and geothermal drilling, leasing, and regulation, contact: 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

850 Harvard Way 

P.O. Box 12000 

Reno, NV 89520-0006 

(702) 785-6500 (Public Room) 

Mineral Resources Division-(702) 785-6576 

Mining Claim Recordation-(702) 785-6510 

Lands and Renewable Resources Division-(702) 785-6464 

Office hours: 7:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

For additional information on mineral commodities and 

production statistics in Nevada, contact: 

Fred Carrillo, State Mineral Officer 

Reno Regional Office of State Activities 

U.S. Bureau of Mines 

1605 Evans Avenue 

Reno, NV 89512 

(702) 784-5215 

Office hours: 8:00a.m. to 4:30 p.m.-Monday through Friday. 

For information on mineral resources and access to U.S. 

Geological Survey data bases, contact: 

Susan M. Marcus 

U.S. Geological Survey-Minerals Information Office 

c/o Mackay School of Mines 

Scrogham Engineering Mines, Room 313A 

University of Nevada, Reno 

Reno, NV 89557-0047 

(702) 784-5590 

34 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
~ Parking, w~h pass 

The Quad level is the third floor of the 

Scrugham and Laxalt buildings. 

1. Minerals lnfonnation Office, SEM 313A 

NEVADA BUREAU OF MINES AND GEOLOGY 

2. NBMG Information Office, SEM 311 

3. NBMG Publication Sales Office, SEM 310 

4. State Geologist, SEM 307 

5. Cooperatiw Institute for Aerospace Science and 

Terrestrial Applications, LME 326 

6. Seismological Laboratory, LME 322 

7. Geological Sciences Dept., LME 401 

8. Chemical & Metallurgical Engineering Dept., LME 312 

9. Mining Engineering Dept., LME 412 

10. Electric Power Research Institute/Sierra Pacific Power 

Co., LMR 205 

11. Center for Neotectonic Studies, LMR 321 

12. Geological Society of Nevada, LMR 216 

13. Dean's Office, LMR 215 

14. Mackay Mineral Resources Research Institute, LMR 421 

15. USGS Field Office, LMR 316 

16. Center for Strategic Materials Research & Policy 

Study, LMR 218 

Figure 10. Location of Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, and related offices, Reno, Nevada. 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 35 
New Mexico 

By james Barker 

New Mexico is a major producer of minerals, materials, and energy. The value of nonfuel mineral production slightly exceeded $1 billion in 1988, with metals 

accounting for more than 70 percent of the total. Petroleum and natural gas accounted for $1.041 and $1.359 billion, respectively, in 1988. The value of natural gas 

liquids production was about $700 million. The value of 

coal production for 1988 was $498 million; uranium production was $50 million. Total value of New Mexico 

fuel and mineral production in 1988 was approximately 

$4.6 billion 

The wealth and diversity of its mineral, material, 

and fuel resources make New Mexico a national force in 

mineral production. New Mexico ranks first in production of potash and perlite and second in carbon dioxide, 

copper, pumice, and mica. Other resources include sand 

and gravel, crushed stone, scoria, travertine, humate, 

portland cement, gypsum, and gold. New Mexico ranked 

seventh in the production of petroleum, fourth in the 

production of natural gas, third in the production of 

uranium, and thirteenth in the production of coal (fourth 

among Western States). The reserve base is equally robust. For example, New Mexico's reserves rank seventh 

nationally for petroleum, fifth for natural gas and coal, 

and first for uranium and carbon dioxide. 

The potential for mineral resource occurrences is 

enhanced by the diverse geology of New Mexico. Rocks 

range from Paleozoic marine sediments to modern gypsum sand dunes and from Precambrian metamorphic 

rocks to extensive Tertiary volcanic fields and calderas 

(see "Geologic Time Chart" at end of report). Geologic 

provinces and features juxtaposed in New Mexico include the Southern Rocky Mountains, Colorado Plateau, 

Southern Basin and Range, Rio Grande rift, Delaware 

Basin, Datil-Mogollon volcanic field, and the Great 

Plains. Considerable mineral and fuel resources lie undiscovered within these terranes. 

The New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral 

Resources is a division of the New Mexico Institute of 

Mining and Technology and, by statute, functions as the 

State geological survey for New Mexico. The director of 

the Bureau is the State Geologist. The Bureau is the primary source of information on New Mexico's geology 

and most natural resources. The Bureau conducts ongoing applied and basic research in a number of areas, 

including environmental geology, geophysics, hydrogeology, geothermal resources, industrial minerals and coal, 

metallic ores, metallurgy and geochemistry, mineralogy 

and x-ray analysis, oil and gas, and paleontology. The 

service activities of Bureau staff members are wide 

ranging. Many staff members teach classes in their 

respective areas of expertise. A primary function of the 

Bureau staff is to interact with the public in person, over 

the telephone, and by mail. Assistance provided by the 

Bureau includes meetings in the field, if appropriate. The 

Bureau also performs assays and analyses of natural 

resource and water samples using modern techniques and 

instruments. Staff members present results of their 

research at national and local professional meetings, give 

lectures, and lead field trips. 

The results of the many endeavors of the Bureau 

are published in scientific journals, guidebooks, and 

in Bureau bulletins, circulars, memoirs, open-file reports, 

resource maps, hydrologic reports, computer data bases, 

"New Mexico Geology," and other formats. These 

publications are available for inspection and purchase 

through the Publication Sales Office. Also available are 

U.S. Geological Survey and U.S. Bureau of Land 

Management topographic, land status, and geologic 

maps of New Mexico, as well as New Mexico Geological Society publications and maps. Publications lists 

for the New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral Resources, New Mexico Geological Society, U.S. Geological Survey, and open-file reports are available upon 

request. 

The New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral 

Resources maintains in its Geotechnical Information 

Center a repository of data relative to the mines, minerals, fossils, and geology of New Mexico. More than 

4,000 maps, published and unpublished, are available at 

the Geotechnical Information Center including the following categories: 

mine 

claim 

district 

assay 

geology 

geochemistry 

geophysics 

hydrology 

resource 

soils 

structure 

topography 

More than 5,000 books, reports, and graduate theses from the U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Bureau of 

Mines, New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral Resources, universities, mining companies, and consultants 

have been collected, encompassing topics such as: 

coal 

industrial minerals 

metals 

stone 

uranium 

geology 

geochemistry 

ground water 

earthquakes 

flooding 

hazardous waste 

landslides 

geothermal energy 

mineralogy 

abandoned mines 

mine safety 

mine reclamation 

mine subsidence 

mining engineering 

mining history 

mining law 

mineral processing 

heap leaching 

solution mining 

36 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
A photo collection containing both historic and recent photographs, with many of the images available for 

use in publications, is accessible through the 

Geotechnical Information Center. Subjects include: 

mine excavations 

mine buildings 

mill buildings 

milling equipment 

mining equipment 

mining towns 

mineral specimens 

geologic features 

New Mexico geotechnical and mineral resource information is also available from a variety of computer 

data bases such as the U.S. Bureau of Mines' Mineral 

Industry Location System, U.S. Geological Survey's National Coal Resources Data System, and U.S. Geological 

Survey's Mineral Resources Data System. The 

Geotechnical Information Center is currently cataloging 

thousands of mining records in the collection so that 

rapid computerized searches may be conducted. 

A major collection of minerals is housed at the New 

Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral Resources. The 

Mineral Museum emphasizes New Mexico minerals and 

fossils but also contains fine specimens from other States 

and Nations. The collection contains over 10,000 specimens acquired through donations, purchases, trades, and 

field collecting. The museum holdings are composed of 

the display, reserve, reference, and sale collections. 

The display collection consists of all minerals and 

fossils currently on display in the museum. This extensive collection is subdivided into six sections. The New 

Mexico section contains minerals collected within the 

State. Other sections are devoted to minerals from other 

States, minerals from foreign countries, fluorescent minerals, fossils, and the Dana collection. 

The reserve collection is housed in the museum 

storage area. Specimens that will eventually be used in 

the display collection or for the preparation of special 

displays in the museum or elsewhere are kept here. The 

reserve collection may be used for nondestructive studies 

upon request. 

The reference collection consists of specimens for 

study including destructive procedures. These specimens 

exhibit the characteristics of the various mineral species 

and illustrate variation within mineral species. The reference collection is open to all by appointment and is used 

by students, prospectors, and geologists for familiarization with minerals that they may find in the field and for 

comparison with unidentified specimens. 

Minerals offered for sale are on display in the museum. Personnel from the museum and New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral Resources actively collect, 

buy, and trade mineral specimens to add to the collection. 

The New Mexico Library of Subsurface Data is a 

collection of well records, geophysical logs, well samples (cuttings), fusulinid determinations, sample logs, 

driller's logs, oil-and-gas-pool data, pool-boundary 

maps, and well spot maps. These are available for 

inspection, free of charge, in the Petroleum Records section of the New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral 

Resources. There is a charge for copying. Also housed 

here are selected production data, government publications, journals, magazines, and books pertaining to the 

petroleum industry. The library contains completion 

cards for 85,000 wells, geophysical logs for 37,000 

wells, 43,500 boxes of drill cuttings from 12,900 wells, 

descriptions of cuttings and cores from 4,300 wells, and 

driller's logs from 12,100 wells. The collection continuously increases in volume. 

The New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral 

Resources Core Library contains numerous drill cores 

from throughout the State. Most are derived from mineral exploration ventures and some from petroleum exploration. Cores are available for inspection by 

appointment. 

Mineral Information Facts at a GlanceNew Mexico 

General mineral resource inquiries and publication sales: 

New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral Resources 

A Division of New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology 

Socorro, NM 87801 

(505) 835-5420 

F AX:(505)835-6333 

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

(all services) 

(see fig. 11 for location) 

Services and products available at Socorro: 

•New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral Resources publications and maps (free catalog available) 

•U.S. Geological Survey topographic and geologic maps for 

New Mexico 

•U.S. Bureau of Land Management metric topographic and 

other maps 

•New Mexico Geological Society guidebooks, special papers, 

and maps (free catalog available) 

•Geotechnical Information Center (free pamphlet available) 

•New Mexico Library of Subsurface Data 

•Drill core library 

•Mineral museum (free pamphlet available) 

•Aerial photography collection 

•General photo collection (historic and recent views) 

•National Coal Resources Data System 

•Clay mineral laboratory 

•X-ray laboratory 

•Perlite laboratory 

•Metallurgy laboratory 

•Soils laboratory 

• Analytical laboratory 

•Specialized data bases and files maintained by staff 

Annual events hosted by the New Mexico Bureau of 

Mines and Mineral Resources: 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 37 
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Figure 11. location of New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral Resources and selected public facilities, Socorro, New Mexico. 
•New Mexico Mineral Symposium (November) 

•New Mexico Geological Society Annual Spring Meeting 

(April) 

The New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral Resources has no regulatory functions. Exploration and development activities on State lands are handled by: 

New Mexico State Land Office 

Box 1148 

Santa Fe, NM 87501 

(505) 827-5774 

All mining activities must be registered annually with: 

Mining and Minerals Division 

New Mexico Energy. Minerals, and Natural Resources Dept. 

2040 S. Pacheco 

Santa Fe, NM 87505 

(505) 827-5923 

Drill holes penetrating a ground-water aquifer must be 

coordinated with: 

State Engineer 

101 Bataan Memorial Building 

Santa Fe, NM 87503 

(505) 827-6175 

Mining claims must be filed, within time limits, both 

with the county in which they are located and with: 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management 

Mining Claim Recordation 

Box 1449 

Santa Fe, NM 87504 

(505) 988-6000 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 39 
Oregon 

By Jerry Gray 

Mineral Resources Overview 

Minerals, which include metals, industrial minerals, and fuels, are a continuing source of new wealth and 

raw materials in Oregon. During 1988, the value of the 

output from Oregon's mines was $170 million. Bright 

spots in Oregon's mineral resources are natural gas production, continuing high level of oil and gas exploration, 

expansion of industrial minerals production, and new 

precious metal discoveries. New mines and processing 

plants can offer year-round employment and stable tax 

bases in rural portions of Oregon that historically have 

depended on seasonal and cyclical industries such as agriculture, tourism, and forestry. 

The varied geologic environments in Oregon contain many potentially valuable deposits of industrial minerals, including bentonite clay, limestone, diatomite, talc, 

pumice, and perlite. Changing market patterns in the 

Western United States and other Pacific Rim nations 

suggest major opportunities for Oregon's economic diversification and development. 

The development of local sources of industrial 

minerals can assist existing businesses and give Oregon 

operators a competitive advantage. Some Oregon industries are dependent on industrial minerals that are currently produced in other States. As rail shipping rates 

rise, it will be important to locate mineral raw materials 

closer to plant sites. The production of industrial minerals can also stimulate port activity as Oregon products 

are shipped to foreign markets. 

Every community in the State benefits directly . 

from the mineral industry, which provides indispensable 

supplies of sand and gravel, crushed rock, and other 

building materials. 

Continuing concerns over energy supplies have 

prompted efforts to identify and develop traditional resources such as natural gas. Numerous private concerns 

continue to lease lands and explore extensively for gas 

and oil. In 1988, various companies drilled 14 oil and 

gas wells in the State, drilling a total of 61,523 feet. 

Seven wells were completed in the Mist Gas Field in 

northwest Oregon, where 1988 production was 4 billion 

cubic feet of natural gas. 

Oregon appears to have excellent potential for the 

development of geothermal energy, and thousands 

of acres of public domain and State land have already 

been leased for exploration purposes. In relatively recent 

geologic time, volcanoes spewed many cubic miles 

of lava across much of Oregon, and the earth is still 

very hot in many places at depth. Geothermal fluids 

and steam can provide energy for electrical generation 

and natural hot water for domestic and commercial 

uses; deep drilling will be required to locate such 

reservoirs. 

The State of Oregon is home to a variety of mineral and metallurgical industries that refine exotic metals 

for high technology applications. Production from the 

State's metallurgical plants is worth approximately $1 

billion annually. 

Oregon's metallic mineral resources are found both 

onshore, in mining districts that have been historically 

important to the State, and in offshore deposits. As exploration methods improve, future onshore and offshore 

discoveries can be expected. These resources include important amounts of strategic metals, such as chromium, 

cobalt, nickel, and titanium. During times of international crisis, local sources can be expected to supply 

important amounts of these critical commodities. Recently, the search for gold deposits has become more active, 

with emphasis on the southeastern quadrant of the State, 

where recently discovered deposits are being tested by 

drilling and sampling. Cominco Resources International, 

Ltd. of Vancouver, British Columbia, through a subsidiary (Cominco American Resources, Inc.) restarted the 

former M.A. Hanna Company ferro-nickel plant at 

Riddle. The smelter is being operated under the name 

Glenbrook Nickel. 

Role of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral 

Industries 

The Department of Geology and Mineral Industries 

was formed July 1, 1937. It is the only agency of State 

government that is responsible solely for subsurface resources. Department staff is also responsible for chairing 

the interagency State Map Advisory Committee, which 

coordinates preparation of various types of onshore and 

offshore digital and topographic maps. They participate 

in the State-Federal Technical Task Force, which evaluates the economic and environmental impacts of offshore 

mineral development. 

The Department's responsibility is to develop, 

store, and disseminate geologic information about the 

State to serve as a basis for prudent decisionmaking in 

resource development and land management. The Department generates geologic maps that are invaluable 

tools in planning for the wise use of land and water, in 

the search for mineral and energy mineral resources, in 

the evaluation of geologic hazards, and in the assessment 

of environmental impacts. The Department is recognized 

as the State's major source of geologic, mining, oil, gas, 

geothermal, and geological hazard data. This information 

is made available to the public through the Department's 

publications and technical library. 

The Department administers the Mined Land Reclamation Act that went into effect on July 1, 1972. The 

40 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
·Act requires that any excavation from which more than 

5,000 cubic yards of material is removed annually must 

be reclaimed for subsequent beneficial use. Thus, mineral production becomes an interim use of lands that later 

are returned to prior or higher use following careful reclamation. Although the Department is charged with enforcing the Act, many other State agencies and local 

governments cooperate through the Department's onestop permit system. The Department also regulates drilling for oil, gas, and geothermal energy under State law. 

Exploration and production of these resources must 

be properly regulated from a geologic standpoint. Geology is a significant factor in the formation of the resource 

and it must be considered in the design and operation of 

wells for efficient recovery. Therefore, geologic expertise 

should be an integral part of the regulatory procedure. 

Records and samples from deep wells are stored 

and reanalyzed by the Department to facilitate future exploration and enhance our understanding of the geologic 

framework of the State. 

The responsible development of Oregon's mineral 

fuels can add stability to the State's economy by creating new capital investment and by helping the State attain the goal of energy self-sufficiency while protecting 

the environment, conserving resources, and recognizing 

the correlative rights of mineral owners. 

Mineral Information Facts at a Glance--()regon 

Department of Geology and Mineral Industries 

Main Office 

910 State Office Building 

1400 S.W. 5th Avenue 

Portland, OR 97201 

Phone (503) 229-5580 

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

(other times by appointment) 

Function and Services Provided: 

•Department headquarters (general geology and mineral inquiries) State Geologist, Donald A. Hull 

•Northwest Oregon Geology 

Regional Geologist, George R. Priest 

• Department Library 

Librarian, Klaus K. Neuendorf 

•Economic mineral inquiries 

Northwest Oregon mine map depository 

Economic Geologist, Jerry J. Gray 

• Industrial mineral inquiries 

Industrial minerals geologist, Ronald P. Geitgey 

•Publications and map sales (minimum mail order $1.00. All 

sales final. Publications are sent post paid. Payment must 

accompany orders of less than $50.00). 

•Oil, gas, and geothermal regulations 

Petroleum Engineer, Dennis L. Olmstead 

•Publications production 

Geologist/Publication Manager, Beverly F. Vogt 

•Data bases (computerized and statewide data available only in 

Portland; regional, noncomputerized data available in 

regional offices): 

•Computerized 

Geochemical data 

Mines and prospects 

• Non computerized 

Bibliographies 

Mine maps and mine files 

Oil, gas, and geothermal well records 

Publications 

Mined Land Reclamation Plans 

Baker Field Office 

1831 First Street 

Baker, OR 97814 

Phone (503) 523-3133 

Hours: 8:00a.m. to 12:00 noon-Monday through Friday (other 

times by appointment) 

Function and Services Provided: 

•Eastern Oregon Geology 

Regional Geologist, Howard C. Brooks 

•Eastern Oregon mine map depository 

•Minor publication sales 

Grants Pass Field Office 

312 S.E. "H" 

Grants Pass, OR 97526 

Phone (503) 476-2496 

Hours: 8:00a.m. to 12:00 noon-Monday through Friday (other 

times by appointment) 

Function and Services Provided: 

•Southwestern Oregon geology 

Regional Geologist, Thomas J. Wiley 

•Southwestern Oregon mine map depository 

•Some publication sales 

Albany Fjeld Office 

1534 S.E. Queen Street 

Albany, OR 97321 

Phone (503) 967-2039 

Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

Function and Services Provided: 

•Regulation of the reclamation of Surface Mined Land 

Supervisor, Gary W. Lynch 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 41 
Utah 

By Robert Gloyn and Bryce Tripp 

Utah contains a wealth of mineral resources. It 

contains the largest beryllium mine in the world at Topaz Mountain, the deepest open-pit copper mine in the 

world at Bingham Canyon, and the only primary gallium/germanium mine in the United States at the 

Tutsagubet mining district of southwest Utah. In addition, Utah has several operating disseminated gold 

mines; several world-class carbonate-hosted replacement 

deposits; seven operating brine plants producing sodium, 

potassium, and magnesium salts; three cement plants; 

two producers of heavy clay products; and producers of 

phosphate, gypsum, lime, fuller's earth, crushed stone, 

dimension stone, rock salt, perlite, industrial sand, and 

uranium. In 1989, Utah ranked ninth in the value of total 

nonfuel mineral production in the United States. It 

ranked first nationally in production of beryllium, third 

nationally in production of copper and gold, and fourth 

in production of silver. In addition to known resources, 

Utah has good potential for undiscovered deposits of 

base and precious metals, particularly along defined mineral trends in the western part of the State. These areas 

are currently being explored and drilled by a number of 

mining companies. 

The Utah Geologic and Mineral Survey is the primary source and repository for geologic information in 

the State. It is a nonregulatory agency responsible for 

gathering, interpreting, and disseminating information regarding Utah's geology, geologic hazards, and geologic 

resources. It is divided into four sections: Mapping, Applied (Hazards), Economic, and Information. 

The Economic, Mapping, and Information sections 

of the Utah Geologic and Mineral Survey maintain hardcopy and digital data files, as well as produce numerous 

publications, maps, and brochures relating to mineral resources in Utah. Specific information on nonfuel resources obtainable at the Survey includes: 

•A 7.5-minute geologic map series authored by the 

Utah Geologic and Mineral Survey, U.S. Geological Survey, and independent geologists. 

•A 1- x 2-degree quadrangle-based mineral occurrence publication series, which includes sitespecific data on metallic and nonmetallic 

mines, prospects, and properties. 

•A series of public education brochures, some of 

which discuss the mineral resources of Utah 

and the history of mining in Utah. 

•Bulletins, special studies, circulars, reports of investigation, and open-file reports on mining 

districts, mineral commodities, areal geology, 

and so forth. 

•A computerized data base containing detailed information on the economic geology of all the 

known mines, prospects, quarries, pits, and so 

forth, in Utah. 

•Knowledgeable technical personnel with expertise 

in metallic minerals, industrial minerals, saline 

minerals, geothermal resources, uranium, coal, 

oil/gas, and tar sands/oil shale. 

In addition, the Utah Geologic and Mineral Survey 

publishes a free quarterly newsletter "Survey 'Notes," 

which coQtains information on the State's mineral 

resources. 

Current mineral investigations at the Utah Geologic 

and Mineral Survey include a series of 1- x 2-degree 

quadrangle mineral occurrence maps (Tooele sheet completed; Delta sheet in progress); an industrial mineral series ("Zeolites in Utah," completed; "High Calcium 

Limestone in Utah," in progress); a series of reports of 

mining district studies ("Antelope District," completed; 

"Keg Mountain District," in progress); and a saline resources study ("Great Salt Lake Brines," completed; "Oil 

Well Brines, Sevier Lake Brines," in progress). For information on these, or other studies, contact the Utah 

Geological and Mineral Survey and request a free listing 

of available publications. 

The Utah Division of Oil, Gas and Mining 

regulates exploration, development, and reclamation 

related to metallic, industrial rock and mineral, and fuel 

resources of Utah. For nonfuel resources, the Division of 

Oil, Gas and Mining maintains technical information on 

mineral operations from the exploration phase to 

the reclamation phase. The Division has data pertaining 

to the safe, environmentally sound extraction of mineral 

resources, and subsequent site reclamation. The Division 

produces few formal publications concerning the mineral 

industry, but much of the company-submitted data is 

available to the public. Specific examples include: 

•A current list of producing companies, intermittent producers, and companies planning property developments. 

• A list of exploration permits granted-includes 

companies planning exploration drilling and 

seismic surveys. Specific details regarding 

company name, location of exploration, and 

nature of deposit are kept confidential, but 

general information on the status of exploration in Utah is available to the public. 

• An agency annual report. This report includes a 

brief summary of seismic surveys and drilling 

permitted. 

•Public information brochures. Information is 

available describing mining in Utah, its history, 

and the dangers of abandoned mines. 

The Utah Division of State Lands and Forestry 

(801-538-5508) administers the leasing of State lands for 

mineral development. It maintains a listing of past and 

42 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
present holders of State leases and a record of royalties 

paid. It also has on file some geologic information on 

selected mineral deposits. 

In addition to the above agencies, a number of 

other State agencies and private organizations collect 

specific information on the mineral resources of Utah. 

These organizations and the types of information they 

collect are listed below. 

The Utah Energy Office (801-538-5428) compiles 

information on production, prices, and consumption of 

various energy resources (oil/gas, coal, uranium, and so 

forth). This information is in a computerized Energy 

Data Information System and is also published biannually as an Energy Data Source publication. Both are 

available to the public. 

The Utah Historical Society (801-833-5808) collects historical information on mining in Utah. They 

maintain a library of Utah history, which includes some 

mine and mining district maps, photos of historic mining 

operations, and old mining newspapers and reviews. 

The Utah Mining Association (801-364-1874) is a 

trade association which represents the interests of the 

mining industry in Utah. It is a good source of information concerning the current activities of Utah mining 

companies. The association publishes a monthly newsletter, "Management Digest," which reports current mining 

activity. 

Utah's universities and colleges conduct geologic 

investigations and possess a diverse body of data pertaining to mineral resources of Utah. The geology departments and the libraries at these institutions are listed 

below. 

University of Utah 

Dept. of Geology & Geophysics 

719 Wm. Browning Building 

Salt Lake City, UT 84112 

(80 1 )581-6553 

University of Utah 

Marriott Library 

Science and Engineering, Room 158 

Salt Lake City, UT 84112 

(801)581-7533 

Brigham Young University 

Department of Geology 

Eyring Science Center, Room 258 

Provo, UT 84604 

(801)378-3918 

Brigham Young University 

Harold B. Lee Library 

Provo, UT 84604 

(801)378-6179 

Utah State University 

Department of Geology 

UMC 0705 

Logan, UT 84322 

(801)750-1273 

Utah State University 

Merrill Library 

UMC 3000 

Logan, UT 84322 

(801)750-2633 

Weber State College 

Geology Department 

Ogden, UT 84408-2507 

(801)626-7139 

Weber State College 

Stewart Library 

Ogden, UT 84408-2901 

(801)626-6415 

Southern Utah State College 

Department of Geology 

Cedar City, UT 84 720 

(801)586-7911 

Southern State College 

Library 

Cedar City, UT 84720 

(801)586-7933 

Mineral Information Facts at a Glance-Utah 

General mineral resource inquiries and publications: 

Before June 1, 1991 

Utah Geological and Mineral Survey 

606 Black Hawk Way 

Salt Lake City, UT 84108 

(801)581-6831 

After June 1, 1991 

Utah Geological and Mineral Survey 

2363 South Foothill Boulevard 

Salt Lake City, UT 84109 

Office hours: 8:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

(see fig. 12 for location) 

This office provides the following services and information: 

•All Utah Geologic and Mineral Survey maps and publications 

and Utah Geological Association Guidebooks are available 

for purchase or copying, if out of print. 

•The Utah Geologic and Mineral Survey Library contains numerous publications on the geology of Utah, including published and opeq-file reports of the U.S. Geological Survey, 

university theses, U.S. Bureau of Mines, and U.S. Department of Energy publications, various technical journals, and 

general reference geology books. 

•Map library contains geologic, geochemical, and geophysical 

maps (including many unpublished thesis maps), and all 

topographic quadrangle maps for Utah. 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 43 
1-UTAB GBOLOOICAL AND IONBRAL SVRVBY (808 BLA.CX 

BAH YAY "NOTE" LOCATION UNTIL JUNE. 19tU) 

2-UTAB GBOLO~ICAL AND liiNDAL SURVBY (2383 SO. 

FOOTHILL BLVD. "NOTE" LOCA'l'ION An'D JUNE. 1991) 

3-UTAH DIV. OJ' OIL. GAS, AND IDNINO AND THB UTAH DIV. 

OJ' STATE LANDS AND FORE'I'RY (255 Y. NORTH TBMPLB) 

4--U.S. GBOLOGIW. SURVBY, BB'l"JJ SCIENCB INFOlUIATION 

CENTD (FBDBRAL BLOO., 125 SO. STATE ST.) 

5-U.S. BURIAU OP LAND IIANAODIBN'l', UTAH STATE OPI'ICB 

(324- SO. STATB ST.) 

Figure 12. State and Federal minerals agencies in Salt Lake City, Utah. 

44 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
•Sample library contains core or cuttings from oil, gas, and 

mineral exploration drill holes, and some surface samples. 

Located at: 4060 South 500 West, #4, Salt Lake City, Utah 

84123, (801)266-3512 

•Computerized and (or) hard copy data bases covering: 

Mineral occurrences-all known mines and prospects 

Surface/underground mine maps-microfiche 

Coal quality-over 1,000 analyzed samples 

Coal resources--over 12,000 logs and measured sections 

Geologic maps-over 1,700 maps 

Stratigraphic sections--over 1,800 measured sections 

Radiometric ages--over 700 dates 

Tar sands/oil shale 

• Information service-geologist and technical staff available to 

answer questions on all aspects of Utah geology for industry 

and the public. 

Regulations, permits, mine development, oil/gas development: 

Utah Division of Oil, Gas and Mining 

3 Triad Center, Suite 350 

355 West North Temple 

Salt Lake City, UT 84108 

(801)538-5340 

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

(see fig. 12 for location) 

This office maintains the following information, 

most of which is available for public inspection: 

•Well information and geophysical logs for all oil/gas wells 

drilled (may be confidential for up to 15 months after 

completion) 

•Listing of oil/gas drilling permiis and completed wells 

(monthly) 

•Individual well production and disposition for all active wells 

•Monthly and summary oiVgas production report 

•Seismic Exploration Applications/Seismic Exploration Completion Reports 

•Listing of mining operations in State (updated twice a year) 

•Mine permits-Environmental Impact Statement Reports 

•Exploration (reclamation) Permits (confidential) 

State leases and exploration: 

Utah Division of State Lands and Forestry, Jerry Mansfield 

3 Triad Center, Suite 400 

355 West North Temple 

Salt Lake City, UT 84108 

(801)-538-5508 

This office provides the following information: 

•Listing of areas available for lease 

•Listing of past and present holders of State leases and a record 

of royalties paid 

•Copies of some geologic information from past exploration on 

State leases 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 45 
Washington 

By William Phillips 

The nonfuel mineral industry of Washington State 

produces gold, silver, small amounts of lead and zinc, 

and diverse industrial materials such as sand and gravel, 

dolomite, limestone, silica, olivine, clay, and diatomite. 

Most of the value derived from mineral commodities in 

Washington comes from the production of magnesium 

metal from dolomite, precious metals, and sand and 

gravel. 

Many gold deposits in Washington are hosted in or 

associated with nonmarine volcanic and sedimentary 

rocks of Eocene age (see "Geologic Time Chart, at end 

of report) in the northeast and central portions of the 

State near Republic and Wenatchee (see fig. 13). Exploration for new gold deposits in similar environments 

is being conducted by numerous companies. The origin, 

stratigraphic, and structural setting of these epithermal 

gold deposits are also the subjects of intensive studies. 

Geoscientists from the U.S. Geological Survey, Washington Department of Natural Resources, University of 

Washington, and Washington State University have 

produced many reports and maps documenting aspects of 

gold mineralization in the Eocene basin setting. 

The populous Puget Lowlands on the west side of 

Washington State contain abundant sand and gravel resources of glacial origin that are widely mined. Similar 

resources in the mostly rural northeast portion of the 

State have not been extensively mined because of the 

distance between deposits and urban markets. 

Dolomite is produced from Paleozoic metasedimentary rocks in northeast Washington near Addy. The 

dolomite is used to manufacture ferrosilicon as well as 

magnesium metal. 

The Division of Geology and Earth Resources of 

the Washington Department of Natural Resources serves 

as a central repository of mineral and related geological 

information for Washington State. The Division maintains a research (nonlending) library containing virtually 

all published reports, maps, theses, dissertations, and abstracts pertaining to the geology of Washington State. In 

addition, the Division library has an excellent collection 

of unpublished, nonproprietary reports produced by consultants, and industry workers. The library is staffed by a 

reference librarian and supported by a computerized bibliographic information system. This system permits rapid 

Repub t· i c 

• 

Wenatchee 

Addy 

• 

Spokane • 

Puget 

Lowlands 

• 

Figure 13. Index map of Washington, with sites referred to in text. 

46 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
and accurate searching of the thousands of references related to Washington geology. Comprehensive geological 

bibliographies are published on a regular basis by the 

Division and should be on the bookshelf of every geologist interested in Washington mineral resources. 

A summary report describing the Washington 

mineral industry is published annually in the "Washington Geologic Newsletter." The report, which is based 

upon a questionnaire mailed to companies and individuals 

active in mineral exploration and development, briefly 

outlines production and exploration activity for metallic 

and many industrial mineral commodities. Sand and gravel deposits are not described in this annual report. 

The Division of Geology and Earth Resources, the 

State's geological survey, is producing an updated 

1:250,000-scale geologic map of the State in four quadrants. Each quadrant map is accompanied by supplemental information: map unit descriptions, correlation 

diagrams, source-of-data maps, and references cited are 

included on plates or in a pamphlet. Publication dates for 

the four quadrangles are: Southwest, 1987; Northeast, 

1991; Southeast, 1993; Northwest, 1995. 

Mineral assays and other analytical services are not 

provided by the Division of Geology and Earth Resources for the public. However, a free mineral identification 

service is available. The service consists of a simple 

megascopic examination of the sample by a geologist 

and does not include any chemical or x-ray analyses. 

Nonfuel surface mines in Washington State are 

regulated by the Division. Free information on the surface 

mine reclamation program is available at the Division's 

Olympia office. Exploration for nonfuel minerals is not 

regulated by State agencies in Washington. Companies 

are not required to submit copies of exploratory drill-hole 

logs or other data unless the work is performed on State 

land. Leases for prospecting or mining on State land are 

issued by the Division of Land and Minerals of the Washington Department of Natural Resources. 

Professional registration is not required to practice 

geology in Washington. No professional geological registration or certification program is offered by the State 

of Washington. 

Mineral Information Facts at a GlanceWashington 

General mineral resource inquiries and publication sale~: 

Main Office 

Division of Geology and Earth Resources 

Department of Natural Resources 

Mail Stop PY-12, Olympia, WA 98504 

(206) 459-6372 

FAX (206)459-6380 

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

Field Office 

Division of Geology and Earth Resources 

Department of Natural Resources 

Spokane County Agricultural Center 

N. 222 Havana 

Spokane, WA 99202 

(509) 456-3255 

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

(due to the small staff size, it is advisable to make an appointment before visiting the field office.) 

Important mineral-related publications of the Washington Division of Geology (Note: Publications available 

from Olympia office only; cash and check or money 

order payable to Department of Natural Resources. 

Mail orders must be prepaid; add $1 for shipping and 

handling of each mail order.): 

•"Inventory of Washington Minerals, Part I. Nonmetallic Minerals," by G.M. Valentine. 1949. ($3.00) 

•"Inventory of Washington Minerals, Part II. Metallic Minerals," by M.T. Huntting. 1956. (out of print) 

•"Metal mines of Washington-preliminary report," by N.L. 

Joseph and Raymond Lasmanis. 1990. ($15.00) 

•"Bibliography and Index of the Geology and Mineral Resources of Washington, 1963-1980," by C. J. Manson and 

Debbie Bumetti. 1983. ($4.75) 

•"Preliminary Bibliography and Index of Geology and Mineral 

Resources of Washington, 1981-May 1, 1986," by C. J. 

Manson, 1986. ($13.50) 

•"Directory of Washington Mining Operations," compiled by 

U.S. Department of Labor, Mine Safety and Health Administration. 1987. ($1.00) 

Services provided by the Olympia office of the Division 

of Geology and Earth Resources: 

•Free mineral or rock identification (no ore assays) 

•Free quarterly newsletter ("Washington Geologic Newsletter") 

•Free mineral samples to students (limit 1 per student) 

•Free brochures on gems and minerals, gold mining, and other 

popular subjects 

•Comprehensive reference library (library materials are not lent) 

•Free publication list 

•Sale of numerous publications produced by the Division of 

Geology and Earth Resources. U.S. Geological Survey geologic maps, reports, or topographic maps are JlQ1 for sale, although they may be viewed in the reference library. 

•Consultation with staff geologists 

•Regulation of nonfuel surface mines 

Services provided by other divisions of the Department 

of Natural Resources: 

•Prospecting/mining permits for State land 

Division of Lands and Minerals 

Mail Stop LB-13 

Olympia, W A 98504 

(206) 586-6382 

•Aerial photos, orthophoto quadrangles, and U.S. Geological 

Survey topographic quadrangles 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 47 
Photo and Map Sales Unit 

Division of Engineering 

Mail Stop AW-11 

1065 Capitol Way 

Olympia, W A 98504 

(206) 753-5338 

Related information and regulation provided by other 

State and Federal agencies: 

•Ground water, surface water, air quality, and shoreline 

management 

Department of Ecology 

Mail Stop PV -11 

Olympia, W A 98504 

(206) 459-6000 

• Hydraulic project permits (for example, placer mining) 

Department of Fisheries 

Division of Habitat Management 

115 General Administration Building 

Olympia, W A 98504 

(206) 753-6650 

Department of Wildlife 

Division of Habitat Management 

600 Capitol Way North 

Olympia, WA 98501-1091 

(206) 753-5897 

•Regulation of coal mining 

U.S. Department of the Interior 

Office of Surface Mining 

Olympia Office 

3773-C Martin Way, Suite 104 

Olympia, WA 98506 

(206) 753-9538 

Industry and trade associations: 

Northwest Mining Association 

414 Peyton Building 

Spokane, Washington 99201 

(509) 624-1158 

~: The Northwest Mining Association sponsors an 

important mining convention the first week of December 

in Spokane, Wash., and also publishes a membership directory. 

Washington Aggregate and Concrete Association 

18000 Andover Park West, Suite 204 

Tukwila, W A 98188 

(206) 575-3665 

48 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 
Wyoming 

By Dan Hausel 

Few States have the variety of mineral resources 

that are available in Wyoming. It is the world's largest 

producer of trona (sodium bicarbonate), used to manufacture glass, baking soda, and a variety of speciality 

chemicals. Its coal rasources are estimated at nearly a 

trillion tons, and other major commodities include oil, 

gas, iron, uranium, and bentonite. Wyoming also has significant resources of rare and strategic metals and minerals such as gem and industrial diamonds, gold, copper, 

platinum, palladium, titanium, tungsten, manganese, 

chromium, vanadium, and one of the largest low-grade 

rare earth and thorium deposits in the United States. 

Rock hounds find Wyoming a paradise. The State 

mineral is jade and is as high in quality as any jade in 

the world. Some other lapidary and gemstone materials 

include agate, jasper, agatized fossils, petrified wood, 

onyx, garnet, terrazo, sapphire, aquamarine, and ruby. 

The Geological Survey of Wyoming, located in 

Laramie on the University of Wyoming campus, is the· 

State agency charged with mapping, sampling, identifying, and providing information on these resources and 

their geology. The Survey has seven divisions: Coal, 

Geologic Hazards, Industrial Minerals and Uranium, 

Metals and Precious Stones, Oil and Gas, Publications, 

and Stratigraphy. 

The Survey maintains a Publications Sales Office 

which handles the Survey's own publications and openfile reports on the geology and mineral resources of 

Wyoming, U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps of 

Wyoming, and thesis maps. Information on minerals is 

also available from both of the two minerals divisions. 

These divisions maintain a library of archives, unpublished mineral and field reports, mine maps, geologic 

maps, assays and geochemical data, published reports, 

and theses on the State's geology and mineral resources. 

These files are available for examination during normal 

working hours. 

Mineral Information Facts at a Glance-Wyoming 

General mineral resource inquiries and publication sales: 

Geological Survey of Wyoming 

Box 3008, University Station 

Laramie, WY 82071 

(307) 766-2286 

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.-Monday through Friday 

(see fig. 14 for location) 

Formats Available: 

Hard copies (nondigital). Free publication lists of formal and 

open-file reports available on request. Information contained 

in the Division's mineral files, that is, reports, theses, assays, mine maps, company reports, and so forth is available 

for free examination at the Survey offices. These files are 

available for photocopying by interested individuals. 

Cost: 

Formal publications, maps, and open files are available at minimal costs. Photocopies of most unpublished mineral reports 

can be provided at cost. Free pamphlets on (1) "Available 

Publications," (2) "Prospecting and Rock Hunting," (3) 

"Geologic History of Wyoming," and (4) "Minerals and 

Rocks of Wyoming" are available upon request. 

Other Services: 

The Geological Survey of Wyoming also offers a free rock and 

mineral identification service. 

How to Order Information: 

Telephone, write, or visit. 

Minerals Information Sources in State Agencies 49 
J L..--1 -----' 

J 

J

t; 

~ 0) 

l 

t-=t-= t-= CI)CI) Cl) 

.c .c .c 

m= ~ 

0 

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 

OF WYOMING 

+Hospital 

t-= 

Cl) 

Laramie 

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 

WYOMING BUILDING 

Figure 14. Location of Geological Survey of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming. 

50 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 

N 

1 

2 

MILES 
ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF Ml NERALS 

INFORMATION 

Mining Associations and Geological Societies 

National, regional, and statewide nongovernmental 

organizations are sources of information about mineral 

resources. Mineral industry associations and geological 

societies hold lectures, workshops, field trips, and conferences. Some of these organizations also sell publications. Contact U.S. Geological Survey Minerals 

Information Offices, or the Minerals Information Institute discussed below, for more information about these 

groups. 

Educational Materials 

The Mineral Information Institute is a nonprofit organization that compiles and disseminates earth science 

information and helps educators develop geologic curricula. Most of the Institute's work is focused on 

elementary and secondary education. The Institute publishes a directory titled "Mineral Information Sources," 

that lists Federal and State agencies, as well as mineral 

industry associations, films, and popular publications 

about mineral resources. For more information, contact 

Mineral Information Institute, 1125 17th Street, Suite 

1800, Denver, CO 80202, (303) 297-3226 

Additional Sources of Minerals Information 51 
GEOLOGIC TIME CHART 

Terms and boundary ages used by the U.S. Geological Survey in this report 

EON ERA PERIOD EPOCH 

Holocene 

Quaternary Pleistocene 

Neogene Pliocene 

Cenozoic Subperiod Miocene 

Tertiary Paleogene Oligocene 

Subperiod Eocene 

Paleocene 

Cretaceous Late 

Early 

Late 

Mesozoic Jurassic Middle 

Early 

Late 

Triassic Middle 

Early 

Permian late 

Phanerozoic Early 

Late 

Pennsylvanian Middle 

Carboniferous Early 

Periods 

Mississippian Late 

Early 

Late 

Devonian Middle 

Paleozoic Early 

Late 

Silurian Middle 

Early 

Late 

Ordovician Middle 

Early 

Late 

Cambrian Middle 

Early 

Late Proterozoic 

Proterozoic Middle Proterozoic 

Early Proterozoic 

Late Archean 

Archean Middle Archean 

Early Archean 

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - (3800?)- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

pre-Archean2 

'Rocks older than 570 Ma also called Precambrian, a time term without specific rank. 2 lnformal time term without specific rank. 

52 Mineral Resource Information Sources in the Western United States 

AGE ESTIMATES OF 

BOUNDARIES IN 

MILLION YEARS (Ma) 

0.010 

1.7 

5 

24 

38 

55 

66 

f..--- 96 

138 

205 

-240 

290 

-330 

360 

410 

435 

500 

1

-570 

900 

1600 

2500 

3000 

3400 

4550 
• 

SELECTED SERIES OF U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY PUBLICATIONS 

Periodicals 

Earthquakes & Volcanoes (issued bimonthly). 

Preliminary Determination of Epicenters (issued monthly). 

Technical Books and Reports 

Professional Papers are mainly comprehensive scientific reports of 

wide and lasting interest and importance to professional scientists and engineers. Included are reports on the results of resource studies and of 

topographic, hydrologic, and geologic investigations. They also include 

collections of related papers addressing different aspects of a single sci entific topic. 

Bulletins contain significant data and interpretations that are of lasting scientific interest but are generally more limited in scope or 

geographic coverage than Professional Papers. They include the results 

of resource studies and of geologic and topographic investigations; as well 

as collections of short papers related to a specific topic. 

Water-Supply Papers are comprehensive reports that present significant interpretive results of hydrologic investigations of wide interest 

to professional geologists, hydrologists, and engineers. The series covers 

investigations in all phases of hydrology, including hydrogeology, 

availability of water, quality of water, and use of water. 

Circulars present administrative information or important scientific 

information of wide popular interest in a format designed for distribution 

at no cost to the public. Information is usually of short-term interest. 

Water-Resources Investigations Reports are papers of an interpretive nature made available to the public outside the formal USGS publications series. Copies are reproduced on request unlike formal USGS 

publications, and they are also available for public inspection at 

depositories indicated in USGS catalogs. 

Open-File Reports include unpublished manuscript reports, maps, 

and other material that are made available for public consultation at 

depositories. They are a nonpermanent form of publication that may be 

cited in other publications as sources of information. 

Maps 

Geologic Quadrangle Maps are multicolor geologic maps on 

topographic bases in 7 1/2- or 15-minute quadrangle formats (scales mainly 1:24,000 or 1 :62,500) showing bedrock, surficial, or engineering geology. Maps generally include brief texts; some maps include structure 

and columnar sections only. 

Geophysical Investigations Maps are on topographic or planimetric 

bases at various scales; they show results of surveys using geophysical 

techniques, such as gravity, magnetic, seismic, or radioactivity, which 

reflect subsurface structures that are of economic or geologic significance. 

Many maps include correlations with the geology. 

Miscellaneous Investigations Series Maps are on planimetric or 

topographic bases of regular and irregular areas at various scales; they 

present a wide variety of format and subject matter. The series also includes 7 1/2-minute quadrangle photo geologic maps on planimetric bases 

which show geology as interpreted from aerial photographs. Series also 

includes maps of Mars and the Moon. 

Coal Investigations Maps are geologic maps on topographic or 

planimetric bases at various scales showing bedrock or surficial geology, stratigraphy, and structural relations in certain coal-resource areas. 

Oil and Gas Investigations Charts show stratigraphic information 

for certain oil and gas fields and other areas having petroleum potential. 

Miscellaneous Field Studies Maps are multicolor or black-andwhite maps on topographic or planimetric bases on quadrangle or irregular areas at various scales. Pre-1971 maps show bedrock geology 

in relation to specific mining or mineral-deposit problems; post-1971 

maps are primarily black-and-white maps on various subjects such as 

environmental studies or wilderness mineral investigations. 

Hydrologic Investigations Atlases are multicolored or black-andwhite maps on topographic or planimetril- bases presenting a wide range 

of geohydrologic data of both regular and irregular areas; principal scale 

is 1:24,000 and regional studies are at 1:250,000 scale or smaller. 

Catalogs 

Permanent catalogs, as well as some others, giving comprehensive listings of U.S. Geological Survey publications are available under 

the conditions indicated below from the U.S. Geological Survey, Books 

and Open-File Reports Section, Federal Center, Box 25425, Denver, 

CO 80225. (See latest Price and Availability List.) 

"Publications of the Geological Survey, 1879-1961" may be purchased by mail and over the counter in paperback book form and as a 

set of microfiche. 

"Publications of the Geological Survey, 1962-1970" may be purchased by mail and over the counter in paperback book form and as a 

set of microfiche. 

"Publications of the U.S. Geological Survey, 1971-1981" may be 

purchased by mail and over the counter in paperback book form (two 

volumes, publications listing and index) and as a set of microfiche. 

Supplements for 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985,1986, and for subsequent 

years since the last permanent catalog may be purchased by mail and 

over the counter in paperback book form. 

State catalogs, "List of U.S. Geological Survey Geologic and 

Water-Supply Reports and Maps For (State)," may be purchased by mail 

and over the counter in paperback booklet form only. 

"Price and A vallablllty List of U.S. Geological Survey Publications," issued annually, is available free of charge in paperback booklet form only. 

Selected copies of a monthly catalog "New Publications of the U.S. 

Geological Survey" available free of charge by mail or may be obtained 

over the counter in paperback booklet form only. Those wishing a free 

subscription to the monthly catalog "New Publications of the U.S. 

Geological Survey" should write to the U.S. Geological Survey, 582 

National Center, Reston, VA 22092. 

Note.--Prices of Government publications listed in older catalogs, 

announcements, and publications may be incorrect. Therefore, the 

prices charged may differ from the prices in catalogs, announcements, 

and publications.