From providing information related to oil and mineral discoveries to helping after fatal landslides, Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys staff continue their dedicated efforts to stimulate our economy, and protect our residents. Investing in geologic information is necessary for the discovery and commercialization of the state's undiscovered oil, gas, coal, and mineral resources, and in protecting Alaskans from geologic hazards. It is an investment in future mines, oil and gas production, State revenue, jobs, and a sound economy.The Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Energy Resources Section generates new information about the geologic framework of frontier areas that may host undiscovered oil, gas, coal, or geothermal resources. Summary maps and reports illustrate the geology of the state's prospective energy basins and provide data relating to the location, type, and potential of the state's energy resources.
The Energy Resources Section seeks to improve the success of state-revenue-generating commercial oil and gas exploration and development and to identify local sources of energy for rural Alaska villages and enterprises. Under the overall administration of the Director's Office, the Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys is organized into five sections and the Geologic Materials Center. See each section's home page to learn more about DGGS projects and find helpful links to relevant information.
The Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Energy Resources Section generates new information about the geologic framework of frontier areas that may host undiscovered oil, gas, coal, or geothermal resources. Summary maps and reports illustrate the geology of the state's prospective energy basins and provide data relating to the location, type, and potential of the state's energy resources. The Energy Resources Section seeks to improve the success of state-revenue-generating commercial oil and gas exploration and development and to identify local sources of energy for rural Alaska villages and enterprises.
The Engineering Geology Section collects, analyzes, and compiles geologic data useful for engineering and hazard risk-mitigation purposes. Surficial-geologic maps portray the distribution of unconsolidated surficial-geologic materials and provide information on their engineering properties and potential as sources of construction materials and placer minerals. Studies of major geologic hazards such as earthquakes, active faults, and tsunamis result in reports outlining potential hazards in susceptible areas. The section advises other DNR divisions and state agencies regarding potential hazard risks to proposed developments and land disposals.
The Geologic Information Center publishes and delivers Division-generated geologic information to the public and maintains and improves public access to Alaska's geologic and earth science information. Advances in computer technology have resulted in faster preparation of maps and reports and a wider awareness of DGGS's available Alaska geologic resources. This section designs, implements, maintains, and improves a database for the Division's digital and map-based geological, geophysical, and geochemical data; a database for the Division's physical samples; interactive maps; and websites for the Division, the Alaska Seismic Hazards Safety Commission and the Alaska Geospatial Council.
The Alaska Geologic Materials Center (GMC) connects the state's largest geologic collections to research, industry and education communities for the purposes of greater geologic understanding, increased awareness of economic opportunities, and to stimulate public interest and understanding in Alaska's geologic history.
The Mineral Resources Section collects, analyzes, and makes available information on the geological and geophysical framework of Alaska as it pertains to the mineral resources of the state. Summary maps and reports illustrate the geology of the state's prospective mineral terranes and provide data on the location, type, and potential of the state's mineral resources. These data aid in the state's management of mineral development, and help to encourage mineral exploration in Alaska, which provides employment opportunities and revenue for Alaska's citizens.
Publications: https://dggs.alaska.gov/pubs/