Earth MRI Western Kentucky Fluorspar District 3D Geological Modeling

Earth MRI Western Kentucky Fluorspar District 3D Geological Modeling PI: Georgina Lukoczki, PhD, Geologist III, Kentucky Geological Survey Co-PI: William Andrews, PhD, Section Head, Kentucky Geological Survey The objective of proposed activity, sponsored by the United States Geological Survey Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI) program through the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program, is to collect and organize available data to compile a digital three-dimensional (3D) geological model of the Western Kentucky Fluorspar District. The overarching goal is to provide a 3D geological framework that will serve as a basis for critical mineral resource assessment. The proposed activities include the development of a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based 3D database and visualization that will contain features such as stratigraphy, formation tops, faults, dikes, alteration and other structures. This GIS database will build on existing geophysical data including the newly acquired airborne geophysical data collected during Phase I Earth MRI activities. Geochemical data collected during Phase I and to be collected under the proposed activities will also be integrated into the GIS database along with lithofacies data obtained from core and thin section analysis. The location and extent of known mineral deposits will also be integrated. In addition to the mappable physical and chemical features, the driving forces, ligands, metal sources, transport media and pathways and trap characteristics will be determined and integrated into a mineral systems-based conceptual model. The major project deliverable is a 3D geological model of the Western Kentucky Fluorspar District.