I want maps! Where can I find them?
Maps are wonderful! And there are a number of excellent maps available in geology and geophysics. This list provides information on some of the major sources of maps. However, these maps all have limitations, and should not be used alone for the purpose of making decisions that involve risk to life or safety, or that have significant economic or other consequences.
The USGS is actively involved in a national mapping program. A wide variety of maps are available - in both paper and digital form. Their publications office may be reached at:
Of particular interest, the USGS is developing a National Geological Map Database, which is a searchable index of maps for the Unites States. Through a Web interfaces, you can select the type of map and the region of interest. A list of relevant materials is returned. The index contains information about USGS and non-USGS maps.
MSN is working with the USGS to make some of the topographic maps and aerial photographs available online. You can make maps for an area of interest at this siteA wonderful, general interest map is This Dynamic Planet: World Map of Volcanoes, Earthquakes, Impact Craters, and Plate Tectonics. It is an excellent map for illustrating the dynamic nature of the Earth and is well-suited for classroom use.
The USGS National Earthquake Information Center has a beautiful set of seismicity maps. Of particular interest are the maps of California and Nevada, Washington and Oregon, Utah, Hawaii, Alaska, and the United States.
On a more local scale, you can contact your state geological survey and/or your county geologist. The Association of American State Geologists has compiled a directory of state geological organizations, which provides addresses, telephone numbers, and staff.
In California, for example, the California Geological Survey (CGS) produces a number of interesting books and maps:
In particular, the CGS has produced a series of maps under the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Zoning Act, passed in 1972, in order to mitigate the hazard of surface faulting to structures in California.
CDMG also maintains a list of other state agencies which deal with geological hazards and resources, which may help you find materials of interest.
Some publications of interest in the San Francisco Bay Area are summarized in this list. The USGS Western Region Geological Information Server provides access to many publications related to the Western United States.
Finally, you can also refer to some of the recent seismic hazard maps.
