Geologic Mapping Standards

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Detail of San Bernardino 30' × 60' quadrangle, California

Detail from Morton, D.M., Miller, F.K., Cossette, P.M., and Bovard, K.R., 2003, Preliminary geologic map of the San Bernardino 30'x60' quadrangle, California, U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report OF-03-293.

To create, manage, and publish natural science data and information effectively, both data producers and users agree that it is essential to adhere to widely-accepted standards.

Three mechanisms promote the development and coordination of widely-accepted standards for geologic maps and mapping data:

National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992: Stipulates that standards be developed to support the National Geologic Map Database (NGMDB);
Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC), through its Geologic Data Subcommittee: Responsible for development of standards to support geologic data management at the Federal level;
Association of American State Geologists (AASG): Formed the Digital Geologic Mapping Committee to work with the NGMDB and the FGDC to develop standards applicable to the State Geological Surveys as well.

The NGMDB Project Chief also serves as Chair of the FGDC Geologic Data Subcommittee and as principal liaison to the AASG Digital Geologic Mapping Committee. Thus, the NGMDB Project Chief coordinates a standards development effort by the Nation's major data producers.

Detailed information relating to geologic mapping-related standards:

Background Information on Standards Development

A summary of current and historical standards development activities.

Standards and Guidelines

Links to standards documents and related topics, including: