Proposal title: west virginia FY25 statemap project period: 12/15/2025 ? 12/14/2027 purpose: project 1: karst susceptibility maps for select west virginia counties: develop a methodology for…

The U.S. Geological Survey awarded a cooperative agreement totaling $252,503 to the West Virginia Geological Survey on December 15, 2025, under the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program (CFDA 15.810, STATEMAP component).

The award funds three geologic mapping and data development projects in West Virginia. Project 1 develops karst susceptibility maps for select West Virginia counties, accumulating previously mapped geology, sinkhole maps, dye traces, cave maps, and entrance location data; the project will perform new dye traces and generate new map layers, databases, and visualizations while protecting sensitive data such as cave entrance locations. Project 2 develops a geochronological database to address stratigraphic inconsistencies in the Mauch Chunk Group sandstones of southeastern West Virginia; work includes sampling previously mapped sandstones and contracting with a commercial laboratory for radiometric analysis, with results used to modify existing edge-matching issues. Project 3 creates an ESRI StoryMap and GIS resources documenting how geology along the Deckers Creek Rail Trail in Monongalia and Preston Counties influenced the area's cultural and industrial history, drawing on previously mapped geology, historical data, field work, and research to identify important sites.

Performance occurs in West Virginia from December 15, 2025, through December 14, 2027. Deliverables include karst susceptibility maps, geochronological map products, and GEMS Level 3 compliant databases for all mapping outputs.

Proposal title: west virginia FY25 statemap project period: 12/15/2025 ? 12/14/2027 purpose: project 1: karst susceptibility maps for select west virginia counties: develop a methodology for displaying karst data to the public while protecting any sensitive or proprietary data, such as entrance locations and maps. Project 2: geochronologic identifiers in the sandstone marker EDS of the mauch chunk group, southeastern, WV: develop a geochronological database to assist with stratigraphic inconsistencies and allow for previously mapped areas to be updated with more accurate correlation throughout. Project 3: geology of the deckers creek rail trail, monongalia, and preston counties, WV: develop an esri storymap and GIS resources relating how the geology along the deckers creek rail trail influenced the cultural and industrial history of the area. Activities: project 1: this project will require the accumulation of data, such as: previously mapped geology, sinkhole maps, DYE traces, cave maps, and entrance locations. Any new DYE traces will be performed, and other collected data will be integrated into this dataset. Once all the data has been assimilated, new layers, maps, and databases will be generated. Project 2: this project will utilize previously mapped sandstones in southeastern west virginia for sampling, and a commercial laboratory will be contracted to perform the radiometric analysis. The results will be interpreted and, if suitable, will be used to modify existing edge-matching issues. Project 3: utilize previously mapped geology and historical data as well as field work and research to identify important geological and industrial sites. Deliverables and outcomes: project 1: karst susceptibility maps will be developed for the three listed counties. Gems level 3 compliant databases for all mapping will be submitted under guidance criteria 5. Project 2: one map product will be produced as well as a gems level 3 database including the location of the geochronological samples, geochronological results, as well as the previous edge matching errors and proposed fixes. Project 3: an arcgis storymap and associated GIS files will be produced detailing the geology of the deckers creek rail trail and its influence on local industry, both past and present. Intended beneficiaries: project 1: city and regional planners, farmers and agricultural businesses/consultants, hydrogeologists, and scientists (cave/karst geologists, biologists, etc.). Project 2: field mappers, stratigraphers, geochronologists, the new river gorge national park (some of the edge matching issues are directly adjacent to the park). Project 3: the general public, including natural history, industrial history, and outdoor enthusiasts.