URANIUM LIBRARY and NURE DATA (National Uranium Resource Evaluation)data base (geochemistry of stream sediments in NM, geochemistry of water samples, radiometric data, magnetic data)
DATABASE Manager-Virginia T. McLemore

A regional geochemical (stream sediments and ground waters) and geophysical (magnetic and radiometric) database exists for the state of New Mexico. These data were generated from reconnaissance surveys as part of the National Uranium Resource Evaluation (NURE) program (1974-1984) and are available as maps and open-file reports through the GIC at the Bureau. Integration of NURE data with available geologic maps and other geologic reports can provide a better understanding of the geology and geochemistry of New Mexico. The main purposes of the NURE program were to provide an assessment of the nation’s uranium resources and to identify areas favorable for uranium mineralization. Elements of the NURE program include: geochemical surveys and maps, geologic maps, geophysical surveys, quadrangle assessments for uranium, miscellaneous geologic investigations, and drilling projects. A free pamphlet describing the acquisition of NURE data is available from the Bureau. The USGS has since acquired the NURE data and has released a CD-ROM (Hoffman, J.D. and Buttleman, K., 1994, National geochemical data base: National uranium resource evaluation data for the contiminous United States: USGS, Digital Data Series DDS-18-A).

In addition to the NURE data, the Uranium Library contains published (at the GIC) and unpublished reports (available upon request) on the uranium deposits in New Mexico. Numerous unpublished mine maps and reports from uranium companies and the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) are included in the collection. Additional data are always welcome.

For more information on uranium resources in New Mexico see the following publications

Mining districts that have uranium deposits and other areas favorable for uranium in New Mexico (modified from McLemore and Chenoweth, 1989). Each district is color-coded according to the predominant type of deposit; other types of uranium deposits are found in most districts.

Map showing distribution of NURE sediment samples.

Map showing distribution of NURE water samples.

Updated January 10, 2017