Project abstract summary project title: geologic mapping in the mafic-ultamafic mafic-siliciclastic CR-FE-CU-CU-ZN-NI deposits of the central maryland piedmont (potomac terrane focus area)project…

Project abstract summary project title: geologic mapping in the mafic-ultamafic mafic-siliciclastic CR-FE-CU-CU-ZN-NI deposits of the central maryland piedmont (potomac terrane focus area)project period: 12 15 2023 12 14 2026PURPOSE the objective is to produce six digital 1:24K quadrangles in the potomac terrane with georeferenced geochemical data from deposits of interest in the central maryland piedmont and the surrounding geologic formations. This updated, detailed geologic mapping will improve spatial accuracy of geologic contacts and resolve conflicts in formational nomenclature within maryland. The spatial occurrence and chemical content of these deposits will be better constrained through georeferenced mapping and geochemical sampling for additional trace element analyses by the USGS. Activities to be performedthis project will accelerate geospatial geologic mapping and integrate geochemical data in the potomac terrane focus area, a region of interest for minerals designated critical by the USGS including: chromium, cobalt, zinc, nickel, magnesium, and titanium, as well as non-critical commodities, copper and iron. Specifically, this will be accomplished through geologic mapping, geochemical analysis, and study of newly acquired aeromagnetic data.deliverables this project will generate six new 1:24K geologic maps, in digital format: five of these to the north of i-70 in maryland, and one to the south. These maps will advance the longer-term goal of compiling a digital 1:100K regional geologic map of marylands piedmont. Deliverables maps will be produced in gems standard digital format. Beneficiaries new mapping activities mapping will support critical minerals framework development in marylands piedmont. Geologic mapping, geochemical analysis, and study of newly acquired aeromagnetic data across the potomac terrane will be used to study the relations of geologic units within the focus area. Ultimately this will benefit MGS, partnering states, and the USGS earth MRI team at-large as this project advancesa better geologic framework for understanding the tectonic origin of ultramafic rocks in this region.