Location shown in figure 2. Development of rural areas creates the need to install new septic systems. The ability to predict the highest elevation that the water table will attain is needed for ensuring that septic-system leach fields will not be flooded. The data have been entered into the GIS along with surficial geology information and data from a new bedrock geology map of Rhode Island published by the Office of the Rhode Island State Geologist. These maps depict natural and cultural features of the landscape, such as lakes and streams, highways and railroads, boundaries, and geographic names.
Contour lines depict the elevation and shape of terrain.
These maps also are favorites with the general public for outdoor uses, including hiking, camping, exploring, and back-country fishing expeditions. The USGS works in cooperation with Federal, State, and local agencies to ensure that data collection and scientific investigations are relevant to public needs. The USGS provides support to the Rhode Island Water Resources Center, which conducts a program of research, education, and information and technology transfer. Construction sand, gravel, and crushed stone accounted for most of the nonfuel mineral production in the State. Crushed stone was mostly produced for various construction purposes, although some agricultural limestone was produced.