7 Geologic mapping in the digital age: products, workflows, and methodologies (Posters)

This session will highlight geologic maps and their derivatives, showcasing products that leverage innovative digital methods and workflows, novel application of remote sensing data, and integration of advanced data processing techniques.

Sunday, 22 March 2026
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
CCC, Ballroom C

Surficial Geological Mapping of the Pocono Pines 7.5-Minute Quadrangle, Monroe County, Pennsylvania

Paper number: 7-9
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 8:00 AM – 8:00 AM

Authors

Abstract

Extensive 7.5-minute quadrangle scale surficial geological maps spanning the late-Wisconsinan terminal moraine in northeast Pennsylvania were developed in the 1970s through early 2000s, based in large part on 1:24,000 scale topographic maps, aerial photos, county soil surveys, and field observations. However, the existing maps 1) lack sufficient metadata regarding the confidence of individual mapped units; 2) do not show field check locations; and 3) were generated prior to the widespread availability of high-resolution topographic (lidar) datasets, which greatly enhance visualization of the landscape. Recent surficial mapping of the Blakeslee 7.5-minute quadrangle noted substantial differences in map unit boundaries and the accuracy of sand/gravel deposits, compared with previously published maps, and highlights the need for updating surficial geological maps in the region. In this mapping project, we focus on the Pocono Pines 7.5-minute quadrangle that straddles the terminal moraine complex of the late-Wisconsinan age advance. Quality level 2 lidar derived elevation data (and map derivatives), aerial photographs, county soil survey maps, and water well geologic data were used to update existing mapped surficial units. Select sites were field checked to confirm the validity of the surficial deposits and/or landforms, or to make re-interpretations and adjustments to mapped units. The map area contains evidence of two episodes of Laurentide Ice Sheet glaciation, including from the late-Wisconsinan or last ice age, and an older and more extensive episode of glaciation presumably related to the Illinoian. The surficial units include till moraine, till, outwash, ice-contact stratified drift, alluvium, colluvium, swamp/wetland/peat, open water, bedrock, landslides, and artificial fill. Radiometric dating of lake sediments and moraine boulders constrain the age of the terminal moraine complex. All data is compiled into a 1:24,000 scale surficial geologic map.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 2

doi: 10.1130/abs/2026NE-411336

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