USGS Releases Free National Geological Map — Explore the Rocks Under Your Feet

USGS Releases Free National Geological Map

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has launched the Cooperative National Geological Map, a free, easy-to-use web application that lets anyone examine the subsurface geology across the contiguous United States. Built from more than 100 regional geological maps, the tool provides layered views of the Earth’s near-surface and deep bedrock and is designed for educators, planners, researchers, industry, and the public.

What the Map Shows

The application organizes data into four primary map layers:

• Earth Surface — topmost deposits and landforms;
• Quaternary — recent sediments and deposits;
• Pre-Quaternary — older geologic formations;
• Precambrian — deep, ancient basement rocks often underlying Paleozoic units.

Each layer includes filters for material type, geologic age and specific features. A sidebar provides contextual metadata for selected map units, such as lithology (material), source maps and bibliographic references.

Access and Usability

The Cooperative National Geological Map is mobile- and desktop-friendly, requires no login or personal information, and is free to use. Users looking for additional resources or raw datasets can consult the USGS National Geological Map Database and the agency’s data catalog.

Why It Matters

Geological maps support a wide range of practical and scientific needs: disaster preparedness, land-use and infrastructure planning, water-resource management, mineral and energy exploration, and risk assessment for real estate and insurance. Automated tools allowed USGS staff to merge regional and state maps into a national product in about three years — a process that previously took decades. This automation also makes it faster to incorporate updates from partner organizations.

Economic and Scientific Impact

The USGS cites a recent American Geosciences Institute study that estimated geological maps produced from 1994–2019 returned roughly ten times their production cost in economic benefits. Project coordinator Christopher Swezey highlighted uses such as locating energy, mineral and water resources and assessing earthquake hazards and land-use decisions. Sam Johnstone, the project's lead developer, noted the expedited production and easier update cycle enabled by automated merging tools.

Future Plans and Use Cases

The USGS plans to extend coverage to Alaska, Hawaii and U.S. territories and expects partner organizations to continue contributing data. Whether used by students exploring Earth history, researchers locating new mineral deposits, or planners designing resilient infrastructure, the Cooperative National Geological Map is intended as a practical, updatable resource for a broad audience.

Try it: Visit the Cooperative National Geological Map on the USGS website and explore the geology beneath your feet.