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PURPOSE OF MAPPING: To provide geologic information in support of
better-informed decisionmaking on groundwater resources, and to develop
new methods for geologic mapping in three dimensions. Geologic maps can
support long-term planning for land-use and resource management,
especially if they contain information about the subsurface distribution
of geologic materials (in the "third dimension"). In the map area in
east-central Illinois, extensive sands and gravels are buried within the
thick sequence of glacial deposits. These sands and gravels constitute a
highly productive regional aquifer, supplying water to numerous cities
and communities. Through a collaborative effort between the Illinois
State Geological Survey (ISGS) and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the
surficial, glacial deposits have been mapped using newly-developed 3-D
mapping methods.
GOALS:
- create a database of key stratigraphic information;
- develop new methods for computer-aided mapping and presentation of
data,
- produce an integrated set of geologic maps and 3-D views for each
glacial unit, and
- use the geologic maps to help build a regional groundwater management
tool.
RESULTS: The first three goals have been completed. The
computer-aided mapping methods are published.
The maps and 3-D views are published as USGS Investigations Map I-2669
(see
http://pubs.usgs.gov/i-maps/i-2669 and "view maps", to left). The
final goal, to use the newly-developed geologic maps for regional
groundwater management, is being addressed now. In early 1999, the ISGS
and USGS helped form the "Mahomet Aquifer Consortium" -- this
group of local, state, and Federal organizations, both private and
public, intends to build a better scientific and public understanding of
this valuable regional groundwater resource and, among the various
stakeholders in the region, develop a plan to manage it. For Consortium
information, please contact Mark Johnson (mjohnson@niwater.com), Northern
Illinois Water Corporation.
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