These studies also improve our understanding of the Nation's energy and mineral resources, and document the past record of climate change. The long-range goals of the research and mapping efforts are to provide a comprehensive body of knowledge of the geology, history, and processes of the continental margins, and to develop a predictive capability to guide and assess the consequences of the use of these margins. Geologic Mapping Projects Geologists and hydrologist of the USGS have worked cooperatively with geologists from the Connecticut Geological and Natural History Survey for many years to map Connecticut's geologic features and natural resources. A key result of this cooperation is a series of bedrock and surficial geology maps for the State. Surficial geology maps give information about the character, distribution, and thickness of the unconsolidated materials located between the soil layer and the bedrock surface.
Maps are available on a statewide basis or, in most cases, by individual quadrangles.
These maps depict basic natural and cultural features of the landscape, such as lakes and streams, highways and railroads, boundaries, and geographic names. Contour lines are used to depict the elevation and shape of terrain. These maps have long been favorites with the general public for outdoor uses, including hiking, camping, exploring, and back-country fishing expeditions. Contamination of Sediments in Long Island Sound Long Island Sound is a major urbanized estuary that lies near the most densely populated region of the United States. Sewage, wastes, and chemicals enter the Sound from direct waste discharges, river runoff, and the atmosphere.