Giesche, Alena (ORCID: 0000-0003-3673-7269)
Rawlinson, Stuart E.
Labay, Keith A. (ORCID: 0000-0002-6763-3190)
Shew, Nora (ORCID: 0000-0003-0025-7220)
Pongratz, Alan L. (ORCID: 0000-0002-1174-7711)
Wilson, Fredric H. (ORCID: 0000-0003-1761-6437)
20240930
Digitized Legacy Maps of Surficial Geology and Morphology of the Central Arctic Coastal Plain, Alaska
vector digital data
Anchorage, Alaska
U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center
Suggested Citation: Giesche, A., Rawlinson, S.E., Labay, K.A., Shew, N., Pongratz, A.L., Wilson, F.H., 2024, Digitized legacy maps of surficial geology and morphology of central Arctic Coastal Plain, Alaska: U.S. Geological Survey data release, https://doi.org/10.5066/P13VDAPA
https://doi.org/10.5066/P13VDAPA
This dataset represents a digitized version of the Rawlinson 1993 surficial geologic map of the Flaxman Island and Beechey Point quadrangles, and portions of the Mount Michelson and Harrison Bay quadrangles at 1:63,360 scale. In this newly digitized version of the map, the original maps were scanned, georeferenced, and projected into GIS. Approximately 100-200 typographic and labelling errors from the paper version were corrected with inputs from the original author (corrections completed in 2024). However, this digitized product still adheres to the 1993 interpretation of the surficial geology. Original descriptions of the map units can be found with the 1993 publication (https://doi.org/10.14509/2484). The original 1993 map was generated via photointerpretation done manually on acetate sheets overlain on color infrared aerial photographs, aided by a stereoscope, and then manually transferred to a map base using a zoom-transfer scope. Only low-resolution 1:250,000-scale black-and-white Landsat imagery was available for reference in the 1980s when the mapping was completed. After photointerpretation, the surficial geology units and morphology information was field spot-checked, with extensive fieldwork occurring between 1981 and 1985. As part of the fieldwork, locations with exposure along coasts, rivers, and gravel pits were prioritized, with 464 stratigraphic sections measured and described, and 678 samples collected for analyses that included grain size, radiocarbon and thermoluminescence dating, amino acid analysis in mollusk shells and wood, identification of wood types, and microfossil and pollen contents. An important note of caution to users is that this digitized product represents the 1993 interpretation of surficial geology. Modifications to the 1993 product address typographic errors and do not consider re-interpretations of the surficial geological units since then, and more recent information about the regional surficial geology is available.
Digital representation of geologic mapping facilitates the presentation and analysis of earth science data. Digital maps may be displayed at any scale or projection, however the geologic data in this dataset is not intended for use at a scale larger than 1:63,360. This digitized map allows users to accurately view the original (1993) map product along with any other geospatial information, filter objects on the map based on chosen criteria, and efficiently perform analyses.
This map dataset is provided in Esri geodatabase and GeoPackage formats. Tables that define map sources and geologic unit definitions are provided in CSV format (files are titled "nsaunits" and "nsarefs"). The Esri geodatabase is the native format and is described here. The geodatabase contains 6 feature classes, 2 standalone geodatabase tables, and 7 relationship classes that store associations between fields in the feature classes and standalone tables. These include:
Feature classes:
ArcticSurficial_arc - Polyline feature class containing contacts, faults, and other geologic line types that define polygon boundaries.
ArcticSurficial_bluff - Polyline feature class containing terrace bluffs.
ArcticSurficial_fold - Polyline feature class depicting folds.
ArcticSurficial_lin - Polyline feature class containing lineaments.
ArcticSurficial_pnt - Point feature class containing pingos and broad-based mounds.
ArcticSurficial_poly - Polygon feature class of mapped geologic units.
Standalone tables:
nsarefs - Reference citation for source map used to build the dataset.
nsaunits - Contains name, relative age, descriptions, and rock class information for geologic units documented in sources listed in nsarefs.
Relationship classes:
Arc_To_NSAREFS - ArcticSurficial_arc is linked to table nsarefs by shared field SOURCE in a one-to-one relationship.
Bluff_To_NSAREFS - ArcticSurficial_bluff is linked to table nsarefs by shared field SOURCE in a one-to-one relationship.
Fold_To_NSAREFS - ArcticSurficial_fold is linked to table nsarefs by shared field SOURCE in a one-to-one relationship.
Lin_To_NSAREFS - ArcticSurficial_lin is linked to table nsarefs by shared field SOURCE in a one-to-one relationship.
Pnt_To_NSAREFS - ArcticSurficial_pnt is linked to table nsarefs by shared field SOURCE in a one-to-one relationship.
Poly_To_NSAREFS - ArcticSurficial_poly is linked to table nsarefs by shared field SOURCE in a one-to-one relationship.
Poly_To_NSAUNITS - ArcticSurficial_poly is linked to table nsaunits by shared field SOURCE_CLASS in a one-to-one relationship.
2024
publication date
None planned
-151.20
-144.00
70.75
69.75
USGS Metadata Identifier
USGS:66fb1398d34e6d68f514c890
ISO 19115 Topic Category
GeoscientificInformation
ImageryBaseMapsEarthCover
NASA GCMD Earth Science Keyword Thesaurus
Arctic
USGS Thesaurus
Geomorphology
Quaternary
Holocene
None
Surficial geology
Alluvial deposits
USGS Geographic Names Information System (GNIS)
Alaska
Harrison Bay
Beechey Point
Mt. Michelson
Flaxman Island
Colville River
Arctic coastal plains
Kuparuk River
Sagavanirktok River
Canning River
Hulahula River
No access constraints.
No use constraints. These data are marked with a Creative Commons Zero v1.0 (CC0-1.0) Universal public domain dedication. It is requested that this USGS data release be cited for any subsequent publications that reference or utilize these data. Users are advised to read the dataset's metadata thoroughly to understand appropriate use and data limitations.
U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center
Mailing and Physical
4210 University Drive
Anchorage
Alaska
99508
USA
907-786-7000
gs-ak_asc_datamanagers@usgs.gov
Environment as of Metadata Creation: ESRI ArcGIS Pro version 3.1.3
Sources include previously published maps and unpublished correspondence. Vector features were digitized on screen. Vectors and polygons were attributed and checked. Topology rules were checked.
The geologic data consists of attributed arcs, points, and polygons. Each polygon has a coded attribute designating the mapped geologic unit. Faults, scarps, lineations and other linear features are represented as arcs. When a scarp is also a contact, only a single arc is present. Dangling arcs may be present (fault, lineation, etc.).
The dataset consists of arc, point and polygon features depicting the surficial geology of the Arctic coastal plains.
Data is presented for use at a nominal scale of 1:63,360.
This dataset represents a digitized version of the Rawlinson 1993 surficial geologic map of the Flaxman Island and Beechey Point quadrangles, and portions of the Mount Michelson and Harrison Bay quadrangles at 1:63,360 scale. In this newly digitized version of the map, the original maps were scanned, georeferenced, and projected into GIS. Approximately 100-200 typographic and labelling errors from the paper version were corrected with inputs from the original author (corrections completed in 2024). However, this digitized product still adheres to the 1993 interpretation of the surficial geology. Original descriptions of the map units can be found with the 1993 publication (https://doi.org/10.14509/2484). The original 1993 map was generated via photointerpretation done manually on acetate sheets overlain on color infrared aerial photographs, aided by a stereoscope, and then manually transferred to a map base using a zoom-transfer scope. Only low-resolution 1:250,000-scale black-and-white Landsat imagery was available for reference in the 1980s when the mapping was completed. After photointerpretation, the surficial geology units and morphology information was field spot-checked, with extensive fieldwork occurring between 1981 and 1985. As part of the fieldwork, locations with exposure along coasts, rivers, and gravel pits were prioritized, with 464 stratigraphic sections measured and described, and 678 samples collected for analyses that included grain size, radiocarbon and thermoluminescence dating, amino acid analysis in mollusk shells and wood, identification of wood types, and microfossil and pollen contents. An important note of caution to users is that this digitized product represents the 1993 interpretation of surficial geology. Modifications to the 1993 product address typographic errors and do not consider re-interpretations of the surficial geological units since then, and more recent information about the regional surficial geology is available.
Unknown
The surficial geology for each of the six 1:63,360 scale map sheets was compiled from S.E. Rawlinson (1993). The arcs, points, and polygons were attributed, and topology was checked.
2019
Inputs from co-author S.E. Rawlinson in 2024 helped to address approximately 100-200 typographical and labelling errors from the original paper version. Linework was hand digitized from scanned copies of the 1993 maps. See the Abstract above for a description of the original mapping methodology, and see the cited report below (Rawlinson, 1993) for additional methods details.
2024
LITERATURE CITED:
Rawlinson, S.E., 1993, Surficial geology and morphology of the Alaskan central Arctic Coastal Plain: Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys Report of Investigation 93-1, 172 p., Sheets 1-6, scale 1:63,360 https://doi.org/10.14509/2484
Unknown
Vector
Albers Conical Equal Area (EPSG:3338; NAD83/Alaska Albers)
55.0
65.0
-154.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
coordinate pair
0.000256
0.000256
meters
North American Datum of 1983 (NAD83)
Geodetic Reference System of 1980 (GRS80)
6378137
298.257222101
ArcticSurficial_arc
Vector geospatial line feature class showing contacts, faults, and other geologic line types than define polygon boundaries within the mapped area. Presented in: an Esri geodatabase (ArcticSurficial.gdb.zip), Esri shapefiles (ArcticSurficial_shp.zip), and an open-source GeoPackage (ArcticSurficial.gpkg).
This dataset
OBJECTID
OBJECTID is a numeric short integer field in the attribute table, and is an internal field created by the software. Values are unique to each item.
This dataset
1
27418
LINE_TYPE
LINE_TYPE is a text field that describes the numeric value found in ARC_CODE.
This dataset
LINE_TYPE is a text field that describes the numeric value found in ARC_CODE. See definition for ARC_CODE below.
LINE_NAME
Descriptive name of fault system, region, or moraine
This dataset
Null for this dataset
LINEID
LINEID provides additional attributes for some faults and glacial moraines. For faults, LINEID identifies the fault system the feature belongs to. For moraines, LINEID identifies the moraine or glacial limit. LINEID is an 8 character alpha-numeric code following this naming convention. The first letter is 'f' if the feature is a fault, or 'm' if a moraine. The second and third characters are alpha abbreviations for the fault system, region, or glaciation. These abbreviations are defined below. The final 4 numbers in LINEID are identifiers which further subdivide the line's description.
This dataset
Null for this dataset
ARC_CODE
ARC_CODE is a numeric short integer field in the attribute table. Values range nonsequentially from 1 to 99. ARC_CODE identifies a stratigraphic boundary, fault, or other linear feature. The ARC_CODE is described by the item LINE_TYPE as listed below.
This dataset
1
Stratigraphic contact or intrusive contact, location certain
This dataset
3
Stratigraphic contact or intrusive contact, location inferred, queried
This dataset
7
Shoreline or riverbank
This dataset
71
Normal fault, location certain, having right lateral oblique slip
This dataset
97
Scratch lines, used where polygons were not closed on source map or limit of mapping
This dataset
99
Bounding line (neatline)
This dataset
ARC_PARA1
Used as a modifier for ARC_CODE
This dataset
0
Default value. Definition of ARC_CODE is not modified
This dataset
SOURCE
SOURCE is a text field in the attribute table. Values include BP001, BP004, BP006, BP007, BP008, FI001, FI005, FI006, FI007, FI008, HR001, HR004, HR005, ML001, ML014, ML018, ML019, ML020, and QUAD. SOURCE identifies the original source map a feature was digitized from. Field SOURCE is a key field that Links to field SOURCE in table nsarefs.
This dataset
nsarefs (provided as geodatabase table, GeoPackage table, and CSV file)
This dataset
Shape_Length
Shape_Length represents the length of the arc in meters as a numeric decimal field in the attribute table. Shape_Length is an internal field created by the software, and values range nonsequentially.
This dataset
0.01
99781
ArcticSurficial_poly
Vector geospatial polygon feature class showing the unique surficial geologic units within the mapped area. Presented in: an Esri geodatabase (ArcticSurficial.gdb.zip), Esri shapefiles (ArcticSurficial_shp.zip), and an open-source GeoPackage (ArcticSurficial.gpkg).
This dataset
OBJECTID
OBJECTID is a numeric short integer field in the attribute table, and is an internal field created by the software. Values are unique to each item.
This dataset
1
11134
SYMBOL
Symbol number used to identify color in style file wpgcmykg.
This dataset
10
694
UNIT_LABEL
UNIT_LABEL is a text field that holds the label of the geologic unit, with a corresponding descriptive UNIT_NAME and AGE_RANGE. See nsaunits table for additional descriptions of each geologic unit.
This dataset
Kp
Sandstone, siltstone, shale, and pyroclastic rocks (Cretaceous)
This dataset
Qaf
Alluvial-fan Deposit (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qai
Active Flood-Plain Deposits with aufeis (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qal
Alluvium with aufeis (Holocene - Late Pleistocene)
This dataset
Qat
Alluvial-Terrace Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qau
Undifferentiated Alluvium (Quaternary)
This dataset
Qb
Beach Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qc
Undifferentiated Colluvium (Quaternary)
This dataset
Qd
Active Delta Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qda
Abandoned Delta Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qdi
Inactive Delta Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qf
Active Flood-Plain Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qf/Qfi
Active Flood-Plain Deposits over Inactive Flood-Plain Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qfa
Abandoned Flood-Plain Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qfi
Inactive Flood-Plain Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qfi/Qfa
Inactive Flood-Plain Deposits over Abandoned Flood-Plain Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qgt3
Middle Pleistocene(?) Till (Quaternary, Middle Pleistocene (?))
This dataset
Qgt4
Early Pleistocene(?) Till (Quaternary)
This dataset
Qo
Outwash Gravel (Quaternary)
This dataset
Qrg
Retransported Granular Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qs
Sand Cover Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qsd
Sand Dune Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qsg
Alluvial-Plain Deposits (Quaternary)
This dataset
Qsgt3
Silt and Sand over Middle Pleistocene(?) Till (Quaternary)
This dataset
Qsgt4
Silt and Sand over Early Pleistocene(?) Till (Quaternary)
This dataset
Qsm
Salt-Marsh Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qso
Silt and Sand Over Outwash Gravel (Quaternary)
This dataset
Qt
Thaw-Lake Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
QtD
Alluvial terrace D Deposits (Quaternary)
This dataset
QtEF
Alluvial terrace EF Deposits (Quaternary)
This dataset
QtF
Alluvial terrace F Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qtf
Tidal-Flat Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
Qti
Ice-Rich Thaw-Lake Deposits (Quaternary, Holocene)
This dataset
QTg
Sand and gravel (Quaternary and Tertiary)
This dataset
QTg(‘)
Sand and gravel, prime (‘) indicates the most decent of these deposits (Quaternary and Tertiary)
This dataset
QTgm
Gravel over sand, silt, and clay (Quaternary and Tertiary)
This dataset
QTsg
Silt and sand over gravel, gravelly sand, and sand (Quaternary and Tertiary)
This dataset
QTtA
Alluvial and Marine-Terrace A Deposits (Quaternary and Tertiary)
This dataset
QTtAB
Alluvial and Marine-Terrace AB Deposits (Quaternary and Tertiary)
This dataset
QTtB
Alluvial and Marine-Terrace B Deposits (Quaternary and Tertiary)
This dataset
QTtC
Alluvial and Marine-Terrace C Deposits (Quaternary and Tertiary)
This dataset
Tg
Kuparuk Gravel (Tertiary)
This dataset
Tgs
Undifferentiated Gravelly Sand (Tertiary)
This dataset
Tmg
Muddy conglomerate (diamicton) (Tertiary)
This dataset
Ts
Undifferentiated siltstone, shale, and sandstone (Tertiary)
This dataset
Tsg
Undifferentiated sand, gravelly sand, conglomerate, and pebbly mud (Tertiary)
This dataset
Tsmg
Silt and muddy conglomerate (Quaternary)
This dataset
UNIT_NAME
UNIT_NAME is a text field used in the Description of Map Units (DMU) that corresponds to UNIT_LABEL
This dataset
See definition of UNIT_LABEL for values.
AGE_RANGE
Age range of the map unit in the Description of Map Units.
This dataset
Describes the geologic age interval of the geologic unit as used in the Description of Map Units (DMU). See definition of UNIT_LABEL for values.
CLASS
CLASS is a numeric long integer field in the attribute table. Values range nonsequentially from 102 to 1673. Identifies units from original source maps.
This dataset
102
1673
SOURCE
SOURCE is a text field in the attribute table. Values include BP001, BP004, BP006, BP007, BP008, FI001, FI005, FI006, FI007, FI008, HR001, HR004, HR005, ML001, ML014, ML018, ML019, and ML020. SOURCE identifies the original source map a feature was digitized from. Field SOURCE is a key field that Links to field SOURCE in table nsarefs.
This dataset
nsarefs (provided as geodatabase table, GeoPackage table, and CSV file)
This dataset
NSAMOD
NSAMOD is a text field in the polygon attribute table. NSAMOD describes additional characteristics of a NSACLASS unit if known. The same attribute can be assigned to multiple units. Values correspond to NSACLASS units only.
This dataset
Null for this dataset
SOURCE_CLASS
Concatenated field that uniquely identifies a given source map (SOURCE) and geologic unit (CLASS). Field SOURCE_CLASS is a key field that links to field SOURCE_CLASS in table nsaunits.
This dataset
nsaunits (provided as geodatabase table, GeoPackage table, and CSV file)
This dataset
Shape_Length
Shape_Length represents the length of the polygon outline in meters as a numeric decimal field in the attribute table. Shape_Length is an internal field created by the software, and values range nonsequentially.
This dataset
90
1402205
Shape_Area
Shape_Area represents the area of the polygon in square meters as a numeric decimal field in the attribute table. Shape_Area is an internal field created by the software, and values range nonsequentially.
This dataset
209
1352447655
ArcticSurficial_bluff
Vector geospatial line feature class showing terrace bluffs within the mapped area. Presented in: an Esri geodatabase (ArcticSurficial.gdb.zip), Esri shapefiles (ArcticSurficial_shp.zip), and an open-source GeoPackage (ArcticSurficial.gpkg).
This dataset
OBJECTID
OBJECTID is a numeric short integer field in the attribute table, and is an internal field created by the software. Values are unique to each item.
This dataset
1
184
LINE_TYPE
LINE_TYPE is a text field that describes the numeric value found in ARC_CODE.
This dataset
LINE_TYPE is a text field that describes the numeric value found in ARC_CODE. See definition for ARC_CODE below.
ARC_CODE
ARC_CODE is a numeric short integer field in the attribute table. Values range nonsequentially from 1 to 99. ARC_CODE identifies a stratigraphic boundary, fault, or other linear feature. The ARC_CODE is described by the item LINE_TYPE as listed below.
This dataset
34
Terrace, erosional, or wave-cut scarp, water on right from origin
This dataset
ARC_PARA1
Used as a modifier for ARC_CODE
This dataset
0
Default value. Definition of ARC_CODE is not modified
This dataset
SOURCE
SOURCE is a text field in the attribute table. Values include BP004, BP006, BP007, FI006, FI007, HR004, ML018, and ML019. SOURCE identifies the original source map a feature was digitized from. Field SOURCE is a key field that Links to field SOURCE in table nsarefs.
This dataset
nsarefs (provided as geodatabase table, GeoPackage table, and CSV file)
This dataset
Shape_Length
Shape_Length represents the length of the line in meters as a numeric decimal field in the attribute table. Shape_Length is an internal field created by the software, and values range nonsequentially.
This dataset
74
7818
ArcticSurficial_fold
Vector geospatial line feature class showing anticlines and synclines within the mapped area. Presented in: an Esri geodatabase (ArcticSurficial.gdb.zip), Esri shapefiles (ArcticSurficial_shp.zip), and an open-source GeoPackage (ArcticSurficial.gpkg).
This dataset
OBJECTID
OBJECTID is a numeric short integer field in the attribute table, and is an internal field created by the software. Values are unique to each item.
This dataset
1
5
LINE_TYPE
LINE_TYPE is a text field that describes the numeric value found in ARC_CODE.
This dataset
LINE_TYPE is a text field that describes the numeric value found in ARC_CODE. See definition for ARC_CODE below.
ARC_CODE
ARC_CODE is a numeric short integer field in the attribute table. Values range nonsequentially from 1 to 99. ARC_CODE identifies a stratigraphic boundary, fault, or other linear feature. The ARC_CODE is described by the item LINE_TYPE as listed below.
This dataset
21
Syncline, location certain
This dataset
24
Anticline, location certain. ARC_PARA1 = 1 when digitized in direction of plunge
This dataset
ARC_PARA1
Used as a modifier for ARC_CODE
This dataset
0
Default value. Definition of ARC_CODE is not modified
This dataset
1
Fold digitized in direction of plunge
This dataset
SOURCE
SOURCE is a text field in the attribute table. Values include ML014, ML018, and ML019. SOURCE identifies the original source map a feature was digitized from. Field SOURCE is a key field that Links to field SOURCE in table nsarefs.
This dataset
nsarefs (provided as geodatabase table, GeoPackage table, and CSV file)
This dataset
Shape_Length
Shape_Length represents the length of the line in meters as a numeric decimal field in the attribute table. Shape_Length is an internal field created by the software, and values range nonsequentially.
This dataset
5416
24947
ArcticSurficial_lin
Vector geospatial line feature class showing continuous or discontinuous linear or curvilinear features discernable on the aerial photos or imagery used for mapping. These lineaments are generally structural (fault or fold axes) and may depict surface landforms aligned by underlying structures. The lineaments exclude obvious floodplain and terrace scarps. Presented in: an Esri geodatabase (ArcticSurficial.gdb.zip), Esri shapefiles (ArcticSurficial_shp.zip), and an open-source GeoPackage (ArcticSurficial.gpkg).
This dataset
OBJECTID
OBJECTID is a numeric short integer field in the attribute table, and is an internal field created by the software. Values are unique to each item.
This dataset
1
10
LINE_TYPE
LINE_TYPE is a text field that describes the numeric value found in ARC_CODE.
This dataset
LINE_TYPE is a text field that describes the numeric value found in ARC_CODE. See definition for ARC_CODE below.
ARC_CODE
ARC_CODE is a numeric short integer field in the attribute table. Values range nonsequentially from 1 to 99. ARC_CODE identifies a stratigraphic boundary, fault, or other linear feature. The ARC_CODE is described by the item LINE_TYPE as listed below.
This dataset
93
Lineament
This dataset
ARC_PARA1
Used as a modifier for ARC_CODE
This dataset
0
Default value. Definition of ARC_CODE is not modified
This dataset
SOURCE
SOURCE is a text field in the attribute table. Values include BP004 and ML019. SOURCE identifies the original source map a feature was digitized from. Field SOURCE is a key field that Links to field SOURCE in table nsarefs.
This dataset
nsarefs (provided as geodatabase table, GeoPackage table, and CSV file)
This dataset
Shape_Length
Shape_Length represents the length of the line in meters as a numeric decimal field in the attribute table. Shape_Length is an internal field created by the software, and values range nonsequentially.
This dataset
616
6847
ArcticSurficial_pnt
Vector geospatial point feature class showing pingos and broad-based mounds within the mapped area. The definitions and characteristics of the pingos and broad-based mounds are those of Walker and others (1985). Pingos are small-diameter and steep-sided, and commonly occur within drained thaw-lake basins. Broad-based mounds occur outside of lake basins and have gentle slopes and a wider diameter. The mean diameter of the pingos is 72 m, mean slope of 8 degrees, and height ranging between 2 and 13 m. The mean diameter of the mounds is 242 m, mean slope of 3 degrees, and height ranging between 2 and 12 m. Each pingo and broad-based mound was generally mapped at its center point, and only those discernable on aerial photos were included. Presented in: an Esri geodatabase (ArcticSurficial.gdb.zip), Esri shapefiles (ArcticSurficial_shp.zip), and an open-source GeoPackage (ArcticSurficial.gpkg).
This dataset
OBJECTID
OBJECTID is a numeric short integer field in the attribute table, and is an internal field created by the software. Values are unique to each item.
This dataset
1
911
CLASS
CLASS is a numeric short integer field in the attribute table. Values are either 1 or 2, where 1 classifies pingos and 2 classifies broad-based mounds.
This dataset
1
Pingo
This dataset
2
Broad-based mound
This dataset
SOURCE
SOURCE is a text field in the attribute table. Values include BP004, BP006, BP007, HR004, and ML018. SOURCE identifies the original source map a feature was digitized from. Field SOURCE is a key field that Links to field SOURCE in table nsarefs.
This dataset
nsarefs (provided as geodatabase table, GeoPackage table, and CSV file)
This dataset
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION is a text field in the attribute table. Options include Pingo or Broad-based mound and correspond to values of 1 and 2 in the CLASS field, respectively.
This dataset
Pingo
A pingo represents an ice-cored hill that is steep-sided and has a smaller diameter (relative to broad-based mounds), and commonly occurs in a drained thaw-lake basin. The mean diameter of the pingos is 72 m, mean slope of 8 degrees, and height ranging between 2 and 13 m.
This dataset
Broad-based mound
A broad-based mound occurs outside of lake basins and represents a wider hill with a shallower slope (relative to pingos). The mean diameter of the mounds is 242 m, mean slope of 3 degrees, and height ranging between 2 and 12 m.
This dataset
nsarefs
Table with citations for source map and/or other source used to build the dataset. Presented in: a Comma Separated Value (CSV) formatted table, an Esri geodatabase (ArcticSurficial.gdb.zip), Esri shapefiles (ArcticSurficial_shp.zip), and an open-source GeoPackage (ArcticSurficial.gpkg).
This dataset
SOURCE
Unique code assigned to each source; uses the 2-letter 1:250,000 scale quadrangle code and a three digit number. By default, 001 is reserved for the topographic map or other source of hydrologic spatial data for each quadrangle. If a source map extends into multiple quadrangles, it has been assigned a source code for each quadrangle covered.
This dataset
BP001
U.S. Geological Survey, 1960, (limited revisions 1984), Beechey Point, Alaska: U.S. Geological Survey Alaska Topographic Series, scale 1:250,000.
This dataset
BP004
Rawlinson, S.E., 1993, Surficial geology and morphology of the Alaskan central Arctic Coastal Plain: Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys Report of Investigation 93-1, 172 p., 6 sheets, scale 1:63,360, sheet 2. https://doi.org/10.14509/2484
This dataset
BP006
Rawlinson, S.E., 1993, Surficial geology and morphology of the Alaskan central Arctic Coastal Plain: Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys Report of Investigation 93-1, 172 p., 6 sheets, scale 1:63,360, sheet 3. https://doi.org/10.14509/2484
This dataset
BP007
Rawlinson, S.E., 1993, Surficial geology and morphology of the Alaskan central Arctic Coastal Plain: Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys Report of Investigation 93-1, 172 p., 6 sheets, scale 1:63,360, sheet 4. https://doi.org/10.14509/2484
This dataset
BP008
Personal communication with S. Rawlinson, 2024
This dataset
FI001
U.S. Geological Survey, 1955, (limited revisions 1983), Flaxman Island, Alaska: U.S. Geological Survey Alaska Topographic Series, scale 1:250,000.
This dataset
FI005
Rawlinson, S.E., 1993, Surficial geology and morphology of the Alaskan central Arctic Coastal Plain: Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys Report of Investigation 93-1, 172 p., 6 sheets, scale 1:63,360, sheet 6. https://doi.org/10.14509/2484
This dataset
FI006
Rawlinson, S.E., 1993, Surficial geology and morphology of the Alaskan central Arctic Coastal Plain: Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys Report of Investigation 93-1, 172 p., 6 sheets, scale 1:63,360, sheet 5. https://doi.org/10.14509/2484
This dataset
FI007
Rawlinson, S.E., 1993, Surficial geology and morphology of the Alaskan central Arctic Coastal Plain: Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys Report of Investigation 93-1, 172 p., 6 sheets, scale 1:63,360, sheet 4. https://doi.org/10.14509/2484
This dataset
FI008
Personal communication with S. Rawlinson, 2024
This dataset
HR001
U.S. Geological Survey, 1955, (limited revisions 1984), Harrison Bay, Alaska: U.S. Geological Survey Alaska Topographic Series, scale 1:250,000.
This dataset
HR004
Rawlinson, S.E., 1993, Surficial geology and morphology of the Alaskan central Arctic Coastal Plain: Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys Report of Investigation 93-1, 172 p., 6 sheets, scale 1:63,360, sheet 1 https://doi.org/10.14509/2484
This dataset
HR005
Personal communication with S. Rawlinson, 2024
This dataset
ML001
U.S. Geological Survey, 1956, (limited revisions 1983), Mt. Michelson, Alaska: U.S. Geological Survey Alaska Topographic Series, scale 1:250,000.
This dataset
ML014
Rawlinson, S.E., 1993, Surficial geology and morphology of the Alaskan central Arctic Coastal Plain: Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys Report of Investigation 93-1, 172 p., 6 sheets, scale 1:63,360, sheet 6. https://doi.org/10.14509/2484
This dataset
ML018
Rawlinson, S.E., 1993, Surficial geology and morphology of the Alaskan central Arctic Coastal Plain: Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys Report of Investigation 93-1, 172 p., 6 sheets, scale 1:63,360, sheet 4. https://doi.org/10.14509/2484
This dataset
ML019
Rawlinson, S.E., 1993, Surficial geology and morphology of the Alaskan central Arctic Coastal Plain: Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys Report of Investigation 93-1, 172 p., 6 sheets, scale 1:63,360, sheet 5. https://doi.org/10.14509/2484
This dataset
ML020
Personal communication with S. Rawlinson, 2024
This dataset
QUAD
Quadrangle boundaries
This dataset
REFERENCE
Reference citation
This dataset
Reference citation written in USGS style. See nsarefs SOURCE entries for specific values.
nsaunits
Table with geologic unit information from each SOURCE map. NSA refers to National Surveys and Analysis project, which led to the 2015 Alaska state geologic map. Presented in: a Comma Separated Value (CSV) formatted table, an Esri geodatabase (ArcticSurficial.gdb.zip), Esri shapefiles (ArcticSurficial_shp.zip), and an open-source GeoPackage (ArcticSurficial.gpkg).
This dataset
QUADRANGLE
Name of 1:250,000 scale quadrangle.
This dataset
Beechey Point
Beechey Point
This dataset
Flaxman Island
Flaxman Island
This dataset
Harrison Bay
Harrison Bay
This dataset
Mount Michelson
Mount Michelson
This dataset
MAP_UNIT
Geologic unit label from the SOURCE map. See the "ArcticSurficial_poly" polygon feature class UNIT_LABEL entries for specific values.
This dataset
free text
UNIT_NAME
Map unit name from the SOURCE map. See "ArcticSurficial_poly" polygon feature class UNIT_NAME entries for specific values.
This dataset
free text
AGE
Geologic age of the unit as given on the SOURCE map. See "ArcticSurficial_poly" polygon feature class AGE_RANGE entries for specific values.
This dataset
free text
DESCRIPTION
Unit description from the SOURCE map.
This dataset
free text
FOSSIL
Brief notes on any fossil control mentioned on the SOURCE map.
This dataset
Null for this dataset
RADIOMETRIC_AGE
Brief notes on radiometric ages mentioned on the SOURCE map.
This dataset
Null for this dataset
ROCK_CLASS
General classification of geologic unit. For mixed units, the dominant category is given.
This dataset
Sedimentary
Sedimentary rocks
This dataset
Unconsolidated
Unconsolidated deposits
This dataset
SOURCE
Unique code assigned to each source; used the 2-letter code for 1:250,000 scale quadrangles, and a three digit number. By default, 001 is used for the topographic map or other source of hydrologic spatial data for each quadrangle. See table nsarefs for specific values.
This dataset
nsarefs (provided as geodatabase table, GeoPackage table, and CSV file)
This dataset
CLASS
Unique numeric code assigned to each geologic unit on a SOURCE map. Unique only within a given quadrangle and specific to each SOURCE.
This dataset
508
1673
SOURCE_CLASS
Concatenation of fields SOURCE and CLASS.
This dataset
free text
GIS_styles.zip
Folder containing files that can be used to symbolize the lines and polygons in ArcGIS Pro (.stylex) or QGIS (.xml).
AKgeologyAC - Display lines with the correct geologic symbols based on the ARC_CODE field
wpgcmykg - Color polygons based on the SYMBOL field
This dataset
U.S. Geological Survey
USGS ScienceBase Team
Mailing and Physical
Denver Federal Center, Building 810, Mail Stop 302
Denver
Colorado
80225
USA
1-888-275-8747
sciencebase@usgs.gov
The U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center is the authoritative source of these data, distributed by ScienceBase (a USGS Trusted Digital Repository).
Unless otherwise stated, all data, metadata and related materials are considered to satisfy the quality standards relative to the purpose for which the data were collected. Although these data and associated metadata have been reviewed for accuracy and completeness and approved for release by the U.S. Geological Survey, no warranty expressed or implied is made regarding the display or utility of the data for other purposes or on all computer systems, nor shall the act of distribution constitute any such warranty. Any use of trade, firm, or product names is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.
GDB, GPKG, SHP, CSV
Vector geospatial data in Esri geodatabase (GDB), Esri shapefiles (SHP), and open-source GeoPackage (GPKG) formats; tabular data in CSV format; FGDC metadata in XML and HTML formats.
https://doi.org/10.5066/P13VDAPA
None
20260305
U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center
Mailing and Physical
4210 University Drive
Anchorage
Alaska
99508
USA
907-786-7000
gs-ak_asc_datamanagers@usgs.gov
FGDC Content Standard for Digital Geospatial Metadata (CSDGM)
FGDC-STD-001-1998