Wyoming

Summary

Through Earth MRI, STATEMAP, and NGGDPP, the Wyoming State Geological Survey (WSGS) delivers geologic data that supports industry exploration, hazard mitigation, and management of world-class mineral resources. Recent projects have been cited directly in company press releases, incorporated into local government planning, and applied in managing uranium, coal, natural gas, and trona assets.

Earth MRI

  • Airborne Geophysics:
    • New magnetic and geophysical surveys over the South Pass–Central Granite Mountains area are being used by exploration companies.
    • Relevant Gold highlighted survey results in multiple press releases (Mar 24, 2024; Aug 29, 2024; Jul 2, 2025).
    • Other companies, including Visionary, have also referenced these datasets as guidance for targeting new projects.
  • Impact: Demonstrates direct industry uptake of Earth MRI data, de-risking exploration and accelerating private-sector investment in Wyoming’s Precambrian terranes:

NGGDPP (Data Preservation)

  • Wyoming Precambrian Basement Map (WSGS OFR 2022-5, rev. 2023):
    • Modernized dataset of Wyoming’s deep structures.
    • Used by industries evaluating energy resources and critical mineral deposits.
  • Impact: Provides the structural framework for exploration and energy planning statewide:

STATEMAP

  • Hazards & Resources:
    • Firehole Canyon Quadrangle (WSGS OFR 2024-1): Identified landslide hazards along U.S. Highway 191; also informs development of trona, coal, and gas in the Greater Green River Basin.
    • Rawlins & Red Desert Basin Maps (WSGS MS-110 & 111, 2025): Support management of uranium, natural gas, and coal resources along the I-80 corridor.
  • Jackson & Jackson Lake Quadrangles (awards G15AC00514, G20AC00199, G21AC10538):
    • STATEMAP-funded surficial mapping formed the foundation for Teton County’s Landslide Susceptibility Map.
    • Quaternary units were used to build rock-strength inputs, while mapped landslides validated the model.
    • The susceptibility map has been formally adopted by Teton County and the Town of Jackson and is actively used in zoning and development decisions.
    • WSGS postponed the project until STATEMAP data was available — showing its essential role in hazard analysis.

Impact for Wyoming:

  • Provides exploration companies with Earth MRI geophysics that are directly shaping investment decisions.
  • Supplies authoritative hazard mapping now used by county and municipal governments to guide planning.
  • Supports management of uranium, coal, trona, and gas assets critical to Wyoming’s economy and U.S. energy security.
  • Demonstrates how federal investments yield immediate and practical outcomes for both industry and communities.