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Geologic Resources
of the National Parks range from the world–renowned
sculptured depths of Grand Canyon to the ancient fossils of Dinosaur
National Monument. Geologic resources and the dynamic processes
that affect them are inspiring to behold, form the foundation
of park ecosystems, and are essential to understanding
the natural world.
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Learn about opportunities in geologic research, education, and resource management in the National Parks. |
The National Cave and Karst Research Institute facilitates speleological research, enhances public education, and promotes environmentally sound cave and karst management. |
A site for educational resources and links for teaching geology with National Park examples. |
Minerals Management
A variety of rights to explore and extract minerals exist in and near park units. Management of mineral
development to prevent or mitigate adverse effects on park resources and values presents complex challenges to the NPS.
Mining »
Oil and Gas »
Padre Island National Seashore, TX
Adjacent Mineral and Energy Development
The National Park Service has aggressively pursued protection of its resources from adjacent mineral development by attempting to coordinate mineral planning and permitting by adjacent land managers. more »
EarthScope
Exploring the Structure and Evolution of the North American Continent
- a 21st Century Corps of Discovery.
more » |
Disturbed Lands Restoration
Many park sites have been disturbed by mining or other human activities.
Parks work aggressively to restore natural function to these sites.
Disturbed Lands »
Abandoned Mineral Lands »
Geologic Resources Inventory
The Geologic Resources Inventory is an on-going inventory that provides parks with a
digital geologic map, a geologic evaluation report, and a geologic bibliography.
Maps »
Geologic Inventory »
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DID YOU KNOW?
Each of the three basic rock types was used in the construction of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC; igneous granite is found in the base and lower steps of the memorial, the floor and statue of President Lincoln are made of metamorphic marble, and the interior columns and walls are composed of sedimentary limestone.
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