Geospatial database: Compiled geologic mapping in the area of the proposed Susitna-Watana hydroelectric project, south-central Alaska
Dates
Publication Date
2015
Start Date
1963
End Date
2001
File Modification Date
2016-05-12 12:13:00
Citation
Stevens, D.S.P., Solie, D.N., Bachmann, E.N., and Wright, T.C., 2015, Geospatial database: Compiled geologic mapping in the area of the proposed Susitna-Watana hydroelectric project, south-central Alaska: Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, http://dx.doi.org/10.14509/29446.
Summary
In support of the proposed Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project, the Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys (DGGS) developed a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based geologic compilation of published and unpublished maps for twelve, inch-to-mile (1:63,360-scale) quadrangles encompassing the proposed hydroelectric project footprint, including the anticipated reservoir and surrounding area. DGGS geologists reviewed and analyzed existing geologic mapping for quality and completeness, and the maps were converted for use in GIS. The conversion process included scanning and georeferencing the original hard-copy map documents, creating a geodatabase, digitizing the geologic data, assigning attributes, and producing a digital [...]
Summary
In support of the proposed Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project, the Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys (DGGS) developed a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based geologic compilation of published and unpublished maps for twelve, inch-to-mile (1:63,360-scale) quadrangles encompassing the proposed hydroelectric project footprint, including the anticipated reservoir and surrounding area. DGGS geologists reviewed and analyzed existing geologic mapping for quality and completeness, and the maps were converted for use in GIS. The conversion process included scanning and georeferencing the original hard-copy map documents, creating a geodatabase, digitizing the geologic data, assigning attributes, and producing a digital data product for public release. The best available geologic mapping was synthesized into a single compilation data layer, and is packaged along with georeferenced scans and digitized vector files of the original geologic source maps. Bedrock geology was reviewed and revised by an independent contractor to ensure consistency with current geologic interpretations of the area. This geodatabase product will be a valuable reference resource for developers, planners, and scientists working on the hydroelectric project, as well as for any other projects in the area.
The Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) in 2010 was authorized by the State of Alaska to begin laying the groundwork to develop the Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project on the Susitna River, Alaska. The project was intended to help meet the future electrical needs of Alaska's Railbelt Region by providing clean, renewable energy at the lowest possible long-term cost. An accurate assessment of the site geology is important for dam location, design, and construction, as well as for other planning and land management decisions in the region. This geodatabase product will be a valuable reference resource for developers, planners, and scientists working on the hydroelectric project, as well as for any other projects in the area.
