USGS Banner with Coachella Valley as seen from Keyes View in Joshua Tree National Park

Western Earth Surface Processes Team

Southern California Geology and Geologic Maps

This website provides access to selected geologic mapping in Southern California. Mapping products presented here include digital geologic databases of 1:100,000-scale maps that can be powerfully adapted to multiple tasks. They can be used to conduct geologic inquiries, to help evaluate of geologic hazards, and help agencies manage their natural resources. The digital map databases were produced by the USGS Western Earth Surface Processes team. The maps and information presented here is current to the summer of 2006.

Click on the map to see mapping project areas and link to descriptions of the maps.

Geologic mapping in the region is ongoing. However, much of the field mapping presented here was conducted in the 1980's and 1990's as part of an effort to provide a digital geologic database across Southern California at a scale of 1:100,000. Field mapping was compiled into digital database format. This comprehensive geologic dataset will provide geologists in federal, state, and local agencies the ability to evaluate and interpret the physical characteristics of forest and rangeland ecosystems to make sound land management decisions, such as timber harvest practices, watershed restoration opportunities, and minerals/materials inventories. The database will also be useful in preparing geomorphic analyses of drainage basins, interpretive displays and brochures for the public, and a number of other purposes on both public and private lands.

Information on geologic maps
U.S. Geological Survey mapping in Southern California
(Selected 30 x 60 degree quadrangle regions)

Please note! This website does not include all published map information about Southern California! There are many publications and maps also produced about Southern California by the USGS and other organizations including:

The USGS National Geologic Map Database
provides access to geologic maps and other kinds of maps on many scales. A search on the Internet may also lead you to other resources not shown here. Many libraries have older, printed publications that are not yet available online.

USGS National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program

Geology of Southern California
This website provides a comprehesive overview of regional geology, natural hazards, and natural resources.

Selected SoCal geology resource websites

Selected Bibliography of Southern California Geology

For educational resources about California, see the USGS Educational Resources website for California.

For USGS technical published reports and information search the USGS Publications Warehouse.

US Geologial Survey contacts
This is a selected list of USGS personnel involved in Southern California regional geology, geophysics, and geologic mapping.

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U.S. Department of the Interior \| U.S. Geological Survey URL: /socal/ Page Contact Information: WESP Team Webmasters Page Last Modified: August 18, 2006