Geologic Mapping Programs and Services Geologic Mapping Geologic mapping is central to the Idaho Geological Survey's research.
Geologic maps are interpretations by scientists of the earth's surface and subsurface.
Geologists use various analytical techniques to discover what lies out of sight and too deep to dig up. They know first of all that much can be revealed by an experienced scientist walking the ground and kicking rocks. To strengthen their judgment, they'll probably compare the chemical and structural composition of rocks from one place to another. They may also analyze samples of rock from drill cores or data from seismic profiles taken from deep in the subsurface. Their approach to defining the rocks may furthermore be influenced by what they are looking for.