The USGS has developed models for HAP distribution on the basis of coal depositional environments and tectonic controls that influence coal-forming basins in these States and, in cooperation with scientists from State and other Federal agencies, is evaluating the viability of these models in anticipation of increased demand for compliant coals over the next two decades. This is an important step because most of the coals in North Dakota, Montana, and Wyoming are publicly owned. These coal resources are being identified and characterized with regard to quantity and quality. Products that result from the National Coal Assessment will be useful to all levels of government, which include regulatory, information, and management agencies, as well as industrial and academic research teams. The distribution, thickness, and chemical, physical, and engineering characteristics of surficial geologic deposits are being mapped as part of the compilation of the Quaternary Atlas of the United States.
Agreements are open to the State Geologic Surveys.
Proposals focus on such issues as ground-water quality, geologic hazards, landfill siting and management, oil and gas assessments, coal quantity, sand and gravel resources, and economic mineral development. For example, statemap funds detailed geologic and paleontologic mapping that is needed to make land-use decisions in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and that is being used to develop visitor programs and interpretive materials on the geology of the area. As part of the national ESIC network, this office provides information on such earth-science topics as cartography, hydrology, geohydrology, aerial photography, and land use. It is supported by the USGS with reference materials, technical assistance, training and outreach activities, and access to USGS data bases. The USGS, in cooperation with about 30 local, State, and Federal agencies, operates an extensive hydrologic data-collection program.