Geology and Minerals
The geology of the National Forests and Grasslands in the Southwestern
Region is one of the main attractions for the multitude of recreational
visitors who come to enjoy the unique natural beauty of the southwestern
landscapes. The back-drop of red sandstone mesas, black volcanic
buttes, glaciated mountain ranges, dramatic canyon lands, remote
caves, and historic mining ghost towns make the Southwestern
National Forests an exciting place to study geology and minerals.
Many Forest hiking trails and recreation sites are located in
areas that exhibit spectacular geology, and in some instances,
the geology itself is the main attraction. Whether it is the
volcanic setting of the Valles Caldera National Preserve in the
Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico, the red rock country
of Sedona, or the “ Sky Island” ranges composed of
billion-year old granites in southern Arizona, the geology of
the region is ever present and ultimately shapes our experiences
while visiting these areas.
The Forests and Grasslands of the Southwestern Region host a variety
of mineral resources which provide needed commodity products to
our society and the local economy. Some of these include oil and
gas, geothermal energy, copper, gold, limestone, pumice, sand,
gravel, and building stone. Taking care of the land during and
following the mining process is a key element of the Forest Service’s
policy with regard to mineral resource extraction activities.
| NATIONAL FORESTS
Information on the geology of the National Forests in
Arizona and New Mexico. more >> |
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GEOLOGY BASICS
Information about rock and minerals, plate tectonics, and
geologic time. more >> |
| REGIONAL GEOLOGY
Information on the different geologic provinces in the
Southwest Region. more >> |
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MINERAL PROGRAM
Information on policy, regulations and abandoned mines. more >> |
| PUBLIC SAFETY
Links to other Web sites specific to public safety on
National Forests. Be safe while exploring the Southwest. more >>
RECREATIONAL & HOBBY COLLECTING
Limited collection of petrified wood
and common invertebrate or plant fossils such
as shells, leaf imprints, corals, etc., rocks, and minerals for personal use is allowed
on most National Forest System lands. more >> |
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