Facelift for U.S. National Geologic Map Database

The U.S. Geological Survey and the Association of American State Geologists (AASG) have collaborated to launch a redesigned database of standardised geoscience information called the National Geologic Map Database (NGMDB).

Together with the inaugural, multi-agency Geologic Map Day, the USGS and AASG are pleased to release a significantly updated infrastructure and a new look to the NGMDB. For example, the MapView features a visually compelling new interface that uses the latest technology to portray the Nation’s geologic maps published by the USGS, the state geological surveys, and many others. These maps, available from the NGMDB in several popular and easy-to-use formats, can be viewed in detail and downloaded from the various publishers.

"Students, resource professionals, government managers, and anyone else who needs easy access to large amounts of geologic information that is authoritative, quality-controlled and accurately georeferenced are going to appreciate the new map viewer for geoscience information," said USGS director Marcia McNutt. She added that everyone at USGI was grateful to the enduring partnership with their colleagues at the many State geological surveys which has enabled coordinated data delivery to the public at large.

This online resource, mandated by Congress as a State-Federal partnership, is the result of a 17-year joint venture. The mandate is to provide rapid access for resource managers, scientists, and the general public to well-documented and standardised geoscience information that can be used to support research, understanding, and decisions on a wide breadth of societal needs. With this redesign, the NGMDB further enhances its ability to fulfil that mission.