Episode 19: Geological Surveys for Explorers and Society

Globally, the work of geological surveys supports mineral exploration, but also touches on many areas that are fundamental for human society. This week look at the different types of work at three surveys and see how they support exploration, but also wider society.

First up is ‘The Capacity Builder’, with Andrew Bloodworth (British Geological Survey) highlighting the work they do globally to support low- and middle-income countries. Much of this support comes in the form of providing digitization of important data records, but an important element is to exchange knowledge and skills between organizations. Andrew also leaves us with some thoughts and insights into the work of Afghan geologists.

The second segment, 'The Data Generator' focuses on the United States Geological Survey, a large, multi-disciplinary organization. We spoke to Anne McCafferty a research geophysicist to find out how her work fits within the critical minerals program and what the minerals systems approach is all about. She also gives a great geological tour of the mid-continent and explains why the mineral resources in the region are of interest to the USGS.

Much of geological survey work revolves around building accessible databases. In Quebec, however, they are taking an innovative approach to how their data is recorded and stored. In ‘The Data Provider’, Jean-Yves Labbe (Géologie Québec) tells us how they created search engine accessible data, SIGÉOM, and are continuing to add new types of information.

Lastly, in ‘Surveys and Society’ Murray Hitzman, director of iCrag, Dublin reminds us that the work of geological surveys is about much more than supporting mineral resource exploration and development.

Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds
eastwindsmusic.com