revised: 05-Feb-2015

NMBGMR Draft Geologic Data Model - v. 1.0.4
LINES: Contacts

In the interests of standardization and interoperability, we are migrating our geologic maps into the USGS NCGMP09 data model. However, our well data model is still actively being used. Documentation for the NMBGMR geology data model is being provided for users with legacy data in this model. We also hope that it will provoke discussion in the ongoing effort to improve NCGMP09 and other models.


Geologic contacts define boundaries between polygons of mappable geologic units. Contacts are generally defined by lithologic differences, but they might also represent discontinuities between packages of rock or other distinctions between areas of earth material like mineralized/altered rock, metamorphic grade (isograds), textural or other properties (overlays), or boundaries between geomorphic surfaces.