Areal geology of the western Mojave Desert, California

Professional Paper 522
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Abstract

This report and map represent part of a geologic investigation by the U.S. Geological Survey of the known and potential deposits of borate minerals in the southern California desert regions. The primary purpose of this report and the geologic map (pl. 1) is to provide a geologic background for the exploration for possible concealed borate deposits in the western Mojave Desert, based upon (1) the geology of the known deposits of these minerals within the region, (2) the areal geology of the region, and (3) the subsurface geology as determined insofar as possible from logs of exploratory test holes, mine workings, and geophysical data. Available logs of test holes so used, including those drilled for petroleum and some for water, and of borate mine shafts are summarized in tabulated form (tables 2-4); the gravity geophysical data are published separately (Mabey, 1960).

The resulting geologic data are of use for many secondary purposes, such as exploration for other commodities, including petroleum and gas, and in evaluation of ground-water conditions.

The base for the geologic map was prepared by joining parts of the Bakersfield, Trona, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino quadrangles, as published by the U.S. Geological Survey at a scale of 1:250,000, and then enlarging the mosaicked map to a scale of 1:125,000. Although lacking in detail and accuracy, the base is the best that is available. Numerous maps at a scale of an inch to a mile or larger show the geology of most of the complex areas in greater detail.

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Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Areal geology of the western Mojave Desert, California
Series title Professional Paper
Series number 522
DOI 10.3133/pp522
Year Published 1967
Language English
Publisher U.S.Government Printing Office
Description Report: vii, 153 p.; 5 Plates: 40.26 x 48.24 inches or smaller
Country United States
State California
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