Bedrock Geology Maps
Show the underlying rock formations, their approximate ages, and relationships between different geological units.
EXPLORE THE GEOLOGICAL RECORD
Geological Maps
and Research
Maps, scientific publications, and research resources for understanding the geology of Beaverhead County and southwest Montana.
A RESOURCE FOR EXPLORERS AND RESEARCHERS
Understanding the Land Through Science
Beaverhead County's geology has been studied by generations of geologists, researchers, educators, and students.
Geological maps reveal the distribution of rock formations, faults, and other features. Scientific publications help explain how these features formed and changed over time.
This page brings together resources for learning more about the county's geological history, from ancient seas to mountain building and mineral deposits.
READING THE LANDSCAPE
Geological Maps
A geological map shows the distribution of rock units and geological structures across a geographic area.
Different colors and symbols represent rock types, ages, faults, folds, and other geological information.
Fault and Structure Maps
Identify mapped faults, folds, and other structural features that help explain the development of mountains and valleys.
Topographic Maps
Illustrate elevation, terrain, rivers, and landforms using contour lines and other geographic information.
Mineral Resource Maps
Document known mineral occurrences, mining districts, and geological information relevant to mineral exploration and research.
How to Use a Geological Map
Start with the map legend. It explains the colors, patterns, and symbols used to identify rock units and geological features. The accompanying report may provide additional interpretation.
TRUSTED SCIENTIFIC SOURCES
Geological Research Organizations
Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology
Montana's state geological survey publishes geological maps, reports, mineral-resource information, and research about the state's geology and groundwater.
Visit MBMG ↗U.S. Geological Survey
The USGS provides geological maps, scientific publications, earthquake information, and other resources covering Montana and the United States.
Visit USGS ↗USGS Publications Warehouse
A searchable collection of scientific reports and publications, including studies related to Montana geology and mineral resources.
Search Publications ↗USGS National Geologic Map Database
A catalog of geological maps and related information that can help researchers locate mapping for Beaverhead County and surrounding areas.
Explore Geologic Maps ↗AREAS OF GEOLOGICAL STUDY
Research Topics in Beaverhead County
Southwest Montana provides opportunities to study a wide range of geological processes and features.
Beaverhead Impact Structure
Geological evidence interpreted as the remains of an ancient meteorite impact event.
Mountain Building
Studies of tectonic deformation, faulting, uplift, and erosion help explain the region's mountain-and-valley landscape.
Ancient Seas and Fossils
Sedimentary rocks preserve evidence of ancient marine environments and organisms that lived millions of years ago.
Minerals and Mining
Geological research documents mineral deposits and the processes that concentrated economically valuable resources.
GEOLOGY IN THE FIELD
From Maps to the Mountains
Geological fieldwork involves observing rock formations, measuring geological structures, collecting permitted samples, and documenting the landscape.
Field observations help researchers interpret geological history and refine geological maps.
Observing Rock Formations
Differences in rock type, color, texture, and layering can provide clues about ancient environments and geological processes.
Understanding Geological Structures
Faults, folds, fractures, and tilted rock layers can reveal how rocks responded to tectonic forces.
Documenting the Landscape
Photographs, field notes, maps, and location information help preserve observations and make them useful for future study.
Responsible Field Exploration
Respect private property and public-land regulations. Obtain any required permits before collecting rocks or fossils, and avoid disturbing protected geological or archaeological sites.
A GROWING LOCAL REFERENCE LIBRARY
Future Maps and Publications
As Beaverhead.com develops, this section can become a local reference library featuring selected geological maps, research publications, and historical documents relevant to Beaverhead County.
Planned additions include:
- Geological maps covering specific areas of the county
- Research publications about local formations and geological history
- Maps and records of historic mining districts
- Original photographs of geological features
- Educational explanations accompanying selected maps
- Links to publicly accessible scientific resources
Each resource can include its title, author, publication date, source, and a short explanation of its relevance to Beaverhead County.