Summary
Through STATEMAP and Earth MRI, the Utah Geological Survey (UGS) is filling critical mapping gaps in the west desert, advancing mine waste assessments, and providing data actively used in legislative discussions on critical minerals and permitting.
STATEMAP
Problem: Western Utah has large areas with no modern, high-quality geologic maps — a barrier to critical mineral exploration.
- Solution: In partnership with USGS STATEMAP, UGS is completing new maps of the west desert.
- Outcome:
- Wildcat Mountain 30’×60′ quadrangle map (published June 2025; ~500 sq mi) now available link.
- Covers the Gold Hill area in western Tooele County, known for historic mineral production.
- Provides new regional and local geologic interpretations to guide exploration and future mineral assessments.
- Forms the foundation for mapping adjoining unexplored areas, aligning with UGS’s mission to cover all of Utah with intermediate-scale maps.
Earth MRI
- Tintic District (Burgin Mine tailings):
- UGS characterization of manganese-rich tailings was used by Osisko Development in a meeting with state legislators as they pursue commercial manganese production.
- Mine Waste Inventory:
- UGS’s Earth MRI-funded inventory is informing state legislative funding and permitting discussions for critical mineral initiatives.
- Highlights how Earth MRI data feeds directly into policy-level decision-making.
Impact for Utah:
- Provides modern geologic maps in resource-rich areas, lowering risk for critical mineral exploration.
- Positions Utah as a leader in mine waste re-use and secondary mineral recovery.
- Ensures mapping and data products are immediately useful to legislators and industry, bridging science and policy.