3D Geologic Framework for Use with the U.S. Geological Survey National Crustal Model, Phase 1—Western United States
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- Document: Report (pdf)
- Data Releases:
- USGS data release— 3D Geologic Framework for use with the U.S. Geological Survey National Crustal Model, Phase 1: Western United States
- USGS data release
- Version History: Version History (txt)
- NGMDB Index Page: National Geologic Map Database Index Page
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Abstract
A 3D geologic framework is presented here as part of the U.S. Geological Survey National Crustal Model for the western United States, which will be used to improve seismic hazard assessment. The framework is based on 1:250,000 to 1:1,000,000-scale state geologic maps and depths of multiple subsurface unit boundaries. The geology at or near the Earth’s surface is based on published maps with modifications to remove discontinuities across state borders. Extrapolation of rock type and age in the subsurface is achieved by iterative stripping of units of a given age, nearest neighbor interpolation of the remaining units, and constraints on basement geology. The subsurface depth of the interfaces between units is determined by a range of models with varying quantity and quality of constraints. Bedrock depth is derived primarily from a proxy model with added geophysical constraint in some areas. The depths to the base of Cenozoic and Phanerozoic sedimentary and extrusive volcanic rocks are constrained by geophysical methods in many areas. Elsewhere, a simple method is used to estimate their subsurface depth based on the distance to the edge of the geologic units. The remaining continental units are evenly distributed above, below, and between depending on age. The oceanic crust is treated as a simple four-layer model with the added complexity of subduction beneath the North American plate along the Cascadia subduction zone.
Refinements to this technique may be accomplished in future versions of the model with more specific information including the location of faults to produce discontinuities in geologic structure and additional information obtained from boreholes and geophysical studies. Further improvements to the geologic framework may be made by incorporating information from more local studies, for example, hydrogeologic studies.
Suggested Citation
Boyd, O.S., 2019, 3D Geologic framework for use with the U.S. Geological Survey National Crustal Model, Phase 1—Western United States: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 2019–1081, 36 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr20191081.
ISSN: 2331-1258 (online)
Study Area
Table of Contents
- Acknowledgments
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Geology and Age of Rocks at or Near the Earth’s Surface
- Lithology and Age of Subsurface Layers
- Subsurface Layer Depth and Elevation
- Model Cross Sections
- Discussion
- Conclusions
- References Cited
- Appendix 1. Age Dictionary and Mapping
- Appendix 2. Lithology Dictionary and Mapping
- Appendix 3. Exceptions to Geologic Map Modification Rules
| Publication type | Report |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | USGS Numbered Series |
| Title | 3D geologic framework for use with the U.S. Geological Survey National Crustal Model, Phase 1—Western United States |
| Series title | Open-File Report |
| Series number | 2019-1081 |
| DOI | 10.3133/ofr20191081 |
| Year Published | 2019 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | U.S. Geological Survey |
| Publisher location | Reston, VA |
| Contributing office(s) | Geologic Hazards Science Center |
| Description | Report: vii, 36 p.; Data Release |
| Other Geospatial | Western United States |
| Online Only (Y/N) | Y |
| Google Analytic Metrics | Metrics page |