295 Geologic Maps and Their Derivatives (Posters)

This poster session will highlight new geologic maps, mapping programs, and innovations in geological mapping, including data management, web accessibility, 3D, and applications in water and land management.

Wednesday, 22 October 2025
8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
HBGCC, Hall 1

Curb Your Uncertainty: Quality Control for a Living Geologic Database

Paper number: 295-2
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 8:00 AM – 8:00 AM

Authors

Abstract

Consolidating geologic information from maps and field observations into a single geospatial database facilitates the use of all available data by front-loading the work of synthesizing multiple sources. This aggregation is contingent on robust data governance. Rigorous quality control allows for contributions from multiple users without introducing inconsistencies that compromise the reliability of analyses and professional interpretation. The City of Austin Watershed Protection Department is compiling a geospatial database of Austin, TX and the surrounding area, composed of features digitized from over a dozen published geologic maps dating back to 1980. These geologic data are adjusted by staff as new information becomes available (e.g., field observations, geotechnical borings, environmental site investigations, etc.). One of the obstacles we navigated in this process is the diversity of mapping styles between authors. Reconciling inconsistent nomenclature, varying levels of stratigraphic subdivision, and map scale differences was necessary to standardize data entry. Due to the long-term, continuous nature of this work, transparent documentation and standard operating procedures are essential to ensure data integrity as the database grows. We accomplish this by utilizing a custom ESRI Workflow in ArcGIS Pro that guides editors through the process of modifying or creating features in versioned copies of the database and provides a framework for reviewing edits through a quality assurance process before approval. By ensuring the health of this database, these data support a wide array of work including scientific studies, permit review, and inter-agency collaboration. We present a framework that may be applied in other localities to increase the accessibility and utility of disparate geologic repositories.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 57, No. 6

doi: 10.1130/abs/2025AM-411976

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