Mineral resource potential of the Granite Chief Wilderness Study Area, Placer County, California

Miscellaneous Field Studies Map 1273-C
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Abstract

A mineral resource survey of the Granite Chief Wilderness Study Area in the Tahoe National Forest and Lake Tahoe Management Area was conducted between 1979 and 1981. The mineral resource potential of the area was evaluated from geologic and geochemical studies by the U.S. Geological Survey, and from the examination of existing published and unpublished records of mining prospects and field examination of prospects, mineralized rocks, and placer deposits by the U.S. Bureau of Mines.

These investigations indicate that the study area has a low potential for mineral resources. Analyses of samples taken from prospect pits, altered outcrops, and stream-sediment samples indicate no minable quantities of precious or base metals. Placer deposits are too small and too low in grade to be considered a resource.

Substantial deposits of sand, gravel, and glacial till suitable for construction materials occur within the area, but their inaccessibility and remoteness from major markets preclude their being classified as a resource. No potential for oil, gas, coal, or geothermal resources was identified.

Study Area

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Mineral resource potential of the Granite Chief Wilderness Study Area, Placer County, California
Series title Miscellaneous Field Studies Map
Series number 1273
Chapter C
DOI 10.3133/mf1273C
Year Published 1982
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Description Report: 4 p.; 1 Plate: 28.49 x 23.75 inches
Country United States
State California
County Placer County
Scale 62500
Online Only (Y/N) N
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
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