3 Advances in Geologic Mapping, Databases, and Dissemination: Establishing fundamental resources for the earth science community

This session will highlight new geologic maps, innovations in mapping techniques, and related advances in data management, web accessibility, and applications. We welcome submissions with relevance to hazard assessments, natural resource evaluations, and water-land management.

Monday, 9 March 2026
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
RCC, 105

Building Interstate Stratigraphic Equivalency for Geologic Mapping in the Middle Atlantic Coastal Plain

Paper number: 3-3
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 9:45 AM – 10:05 AM

Authors

Abstract

Stratigraphic correlation of Coastal Plain formations and aquifers across state boundaries in the Middle Atlantic region is complicated by lateral facies changes, variable thickness, and the use of different lithostratigraphic and hydrostratigraphic frameworks. These differences create inconsistencies in geologic mapping and aquifer interpretation across the region.

The Middle Atlantic Stratigraphic Reconciliation Project (MAtStrat) addresses this problem by bringing together stratigraphic data and expert review across the Coastal Plain provinces of Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and New Jersey. Because no single regional nomenclature can replace the long-established state frameworks, which reflect both local geologic character and more than a century of independent stratigraphic work, the project strives to serve as a “Rosetta Stone” for stratigraphic units across state boundaries. Correlation is based on unit definitions, age, and lithology drawn from cores and published data. Documentation from more than 150 core sites has been assembled into a regional data archive that includes lithologic descriptions, geophysical logs, core photographs, and biostratigraphic data, allowing us to construct draft state stratigraphic charts and regional cross sections.

This effort is composed of three components. The original MAtStrat project focused on establishing regional equivalency through working group review of stratigraphic tables, correlation charts, and data from key research coreholes that serve as “golden spikes.” The second phase, referred to as MAtStrat II, examined the stratigraphically complex late Miocene to early Pleistocene section of coastal areas in greater detail to establish interstate correlations, including new wireline and split spoon cores in data-poor areas. Finally, the MAtStrat Data project organizes these work products into a shared framework for documentation to support access to the data and future regional synthesis.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 1

doi: 10.1130/abs/2026SE-411683

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